The Maserati GranCabrio I (facelift 2018) Sport 4.7 V8 Automatic represents the culmination of the first generation GranCabrio, offering a blend of Italian luxury, high performance, and open-air driving pleasure. Produced from 2018 to 2020, this variant sat at the top of the GranCabrio range, distinguished by its potent 460 horsepower V8 engine and sophisticated automatic transmission. It was positioned as a direct competitor to high-end convertible grand tourers from brands like Porsche and Aston Martin, appealing to buyers seeking a distinctive and exhilarating driving experience. The facelift brought subtle styling updates and refinements to the interior, enhancing the overall appeal of the already elegant GranCabrio.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Maserati |
| Model | GranCabrio |
| Generation | GranCabrio I (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | Sport 4.7 V8 (460 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 22.5 l/100 km (10.5 US mpg, 12.6 UK mpg, 4.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 14.5 l/100 km (16.2 US mpg, 19.5 UK mpg, 6.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 337 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 288 km/h (178.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.1 kg/Hp, 244.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 276.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 460 Hp @ 7000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 98.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 520 Nm @ 4750 rpm (383.53 lb.-ft. @ 4750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M145B |
| Engine displacement | 4691 cm3 (286.26 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.25:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13 l (13.74 US qt | 11.44 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 173 l (6.11 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 4910 mm (193.31 in.) |
| Width | 1915 mm (75.39 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2056 mm (80.94 in.) |
| Height | 1380 mm (54.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2942 mm (115.83 in.) |
| Front track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Front overhang | 904 mm (35.59 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1064 mm (41.89 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/35 ZR20; 285/35 ZR20 |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the GranCabrio Sport 4.7 V8 lies Maserati’s naturally aspirated 4.7-liter V8 engine, designated the M145B. This engine is a direct descendant of the powerplant developed with Ferrari, showcasing a robust architecture with a 90-degree V-angle. It features four valves per cylinder, double overhead camshafts, and a sophisticated direct fuel injection system. The direct injection system optimizes combustion efficiency and contributes to the engine’s responsive throttle characteristics. Producing 460 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4,750 rpm, the engine delivers a thrilling driving experience. The engine’s sound is a key element of the GranCabrio’s appeal, offering a classic V8 rumble. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, is tuned for smooth and relatively quick shifts. While not as rapid as some dual-clutch transmissions, it provides a comfortable and refined driving experience suitable for long-distance grand touring.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 460 hp V8 and the six-speed automatic transmission results in a GranCabrio that feels powerful and capable. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 4.8 seconds, and the car can reach a top speed of 179 mph. The automatic transmission is programmed with a Sport mode that holds gears longer and downshifts more aggressively, enhancing the driving experience. However, compared to the manual transmission versions of the GranCabrio, the automatic feels slightly less engaging. The gear ratios are well-chosen for both cruising and spirited driving, providing ample torque for overtaking maneuvers. The weight distribution is reasonably balanced, contributing to predictable handling, although the GranCabrio’s considerable weight (around 4,145 lbs) is noticeable in corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GranCabrio Sport 4.7 V8 Automatic came generously equipped as standard. Key features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable and heated front seats, a premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, and bi-xenon headlights. The “Sport” designation added specific aesthetic touches, such as a sport steering wheel, aluminum pedals, and unique exterior trim. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather options, a rear-seat entertainment system, and various customization options through Maserati’s “Fuoriserie” program. The interior design emphasized luxury and craftsmanship, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail.
Chassis & Braking
The GranCabrio’s chassis is based on a shortened version of the Maserati Quattroporte platform. It features a double-wishbone suspension setup at all four corners, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The Sport variant typically included stiffer springs and dampers for a more dynamic driving experience. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four wheels, equipped with ABS and electronic brake-force distribution. While the braking performance is adequate for the car’s weight and performance, it doesn’t quite match the stopping power of some competitors.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Maserati GranCabrio Sport 4.7 V8 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its elegant styling, luxurious interior, and exhilarating V8 engine. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission wasn’t as engaging as the manual option, and the car’s weight could be felt during spirited driving. Compared to the base GranCabrio models, the Sport variant offered a noticeable performance upgrade and a more focused driving experience. Fuel economy, as expected for a high-performance V8 convertible, was relatively poor, averaging around 16 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally considered average for an Italian luxury car, with some owners reporting minor electrical issues.
Legacy
The Maserati GranCabrio I (facelift 2018) Sport 4.7 V8 Automatic remains a desirable grand tourer in the used car market. Its combination of Italian style, powerful V8 engine, and open-air driving experience continues to appeal to enthusiasts. The naturally aspirated V8 engine is particularly valued, as it offers a unique driving experience that is increasingly rare in modern cars. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of some competitors, the GranCabrio’s timeless design and exhilarating performance ensure its continued appeal for years to come. The M145B engine, while thirsty, is considered a robust and relatively reliable powerplant when properly maintained, making this variant a compelling choice for those seeking a classic Italian grand tourer.
