REPORT: Maserati GranTurismo Cabriolet headed for Geneva - in 2010 - S Automatic coming next week [*UPDATED]

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Corroborating what we've already known for some time is a new Motor Trend article that confirms a drophead version of Maserati's voluptuous GranTurismo coupe is on the way. However, what is news is that MT is reporting that the car will likely be dubbed "Cabriolet" and not "Spider," largely because the convertible is expected to keep its 2+2 seating, and the latter has been historically reserved for two-place models.

MT believes that the car will carry the 433-horsepower 4.7-liter V8 engine and six-speed ZF automatic gearbox sourced from the Quattroporte Sport GT S, as the GranTurismo S' automanual is considered to be too out-of-character for soft-top motoring. Regardless of what drivetrain arrives contained therein, MT recons the Maser Cabrio will probably debut at next year's Geneva Motor Show, a full year later than earlier reports indicated.

UPDATE: Maserati has just announced that it will bring its new GranTurismo S Automatic to the Geneva show next week. Press release after the jump.

[Source: Motor Trend]

PRESS RELEASE:

Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic to be unveiled at the Geneva Auto Show

Modena, February 23rd, 2009 – True to Maserati's commitment to introduce a new model at each international auto show, the GranTurismo S Automatic will have its première at the next Geneva Auto Show. The new Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic features a 4.7 V8 which develops 433 HP (SAE) (323kW) at 7000 rpm. The maximum torque is 361 lb-ft (490Nm) at 4,750 rpm.

The main feature is the combination of the automatic transmission with the most powerful wet sump Maserati V8 on the GranTurismo – until now offered as 4.2 l with automatic transmission and 4.7 l with an electro-actuated gearbox. Thanks to the combination of the 433 HP produced by the powerful 4.7l V8 engine and the smoothness of the ZF 6-speed automatic transmission, the Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic stresses the original granturismo concept while at the same time offering peak performance.

The Skyhook suspension system featuring continuously adjustable dampers provides great driving comfort. Passive safety engineering is further enhanced thanks to the introduction on the GranTurismo range of a new generation passenger air-bag with Low Risk Deployment functionality.

Consistently with the unmistakable design of all Maseratis, the Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic features some marked stylistic differences which make it immediately recognizable: the new under-door mini-skirts featuring a prominent shape, which enhances the dynamism of its profile and the new 20" wheel rims with "Trident" design, which recall the strength and elegance of the car.

A further enriched equipment package increases the on board pleasure for the driver and the three passengers, thanks to Bluetooth® Wireless Technology and Ipod® interface offered as standard, which enhances the Maserati Multi Media System.

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