Maserati updates the GranTurismo and GranCabrio

Maserati has gone the BMW way with the 2018 model year update of the GranTurismo and GranCabrio. Both the updated duo gets minor blink-and-miss aesthetic tweaks apart from updated cabin technology.

The most prominent exterior update is the reworked front fascia with inspiration taken from the Maserati Alfieri concept from 2014. The iconic grille is now more hexagonal, similar to the Alfieri concept and is now flanked by large air intakes on either side. The splitter lip beneath it adds character. However, the Italian carmaker claims that these tweaks were able to reduce the aerodynamic drag from 0.33 to 0.32. 

Changes to the rear include a redesigned bumper and exhaust tips to keep the ten-year-old car looking fresh for another year. The biggest update comes inside the cabin which now features a new FCA’s In-Connect 8.4-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support while the Harman Kardon Premium sound system comes as standard. Other changes include repositioning of controls for driving modes which are now placed on the lower centre console. The upholstery can be had with Poltrona Frau leather or with a combination of Alcantara and leather upholstery.

Since Maserati dropped the entry-level GranTurismo from the range, the grand tourer can now be had the Sport or the more aggressive MC specification only. No mechanical changes means that the duo continues to be powered by the Ferrari-derived 4.7-liter V8 producing 460bhp and 520Nm sending power to rear wheels via a six-speed transmission.

The Modena-based carmaker has no plans of bringing a replacement for the highly successful yet ageing GranTurismo anytime soon. The production version of the Alfieri is the priority, after which the carmaker will shift focus to the next generation Gran Turismo and the GranCabrio. Until then we’ll keep seeing minor tweaks and limited editions of the Trident duo.