Seen here is Maserati’s upcoming cabriolet drop-top prototype based on the Trident’s venerable GranTurismo. Our trusty spy photographers spotted the convertible at the Nurburgring in Germany undergoing what was likely handling and performance fine tuning.
As expected, it’s thoroughly covered in camouflage, with only its distinct dark grey trident alloys, rear under tray, and exposed raked A-pillar giving it away. The nose, as well as the entire rear section, is draped in tarp indicating possible minor styling revisions to the handsome Pininfarina design.
It’ll receive a retractable aluminum hard top much like its cousin, the 2010 Ferrari California. As such, beyond the B-pillars resides the Italian two-door’s most touchy styling section. Chances are the car’s final design is already penned, but for supreme secrecy, is bundled up until its rumored debut at next year’s Geneva show. Also, at this point it is uncertain if the car will maintain its 2+2 configuration or if it’ll drop its two rear “seats” for a more appropriate “Spyder” designation.We're guessing the rear seats will remain.
Providing grunt is expected to be the Quattroporte GT S’s 433-hp 4.7L V-8, though the GranTurismo’s engine pair – the 405-hp 4.2L V-8 and 440-hp 4.7L V-8 – have been thrown around as possibilities as well. Mated to the engine will reportedly be the newly debuted ZF-built six-speed automatic transmission found in the current GranTurismo S.