2018 Maserati GranTurismo Facelift: Complete Review & Specs

The 2018 Maserati GranTurismo facelift represents a careful evolution of an iconic grand tourer, blending heritage design with targeted updates to keep it relevant in a fast-changing automotive landscape. Available as a coupe or convertible (GranCabrio), this model retains its Ferrari-engineered 4.7-liter V8 heart while introducing aesthetic tweaks and advanced infotainment. It’s a car that prioritizes sensory delight over outright speed, appealing to enthusiasts who value style, sound, and long-distance comfort.

Design Evolution: Subtle Yet Striking Updates

Maserati’s designers approached the 2018 facelift with restraint, enhancing the Pininfarina-penned silhouette without altering its core beauty. The front end sees the most noticeable changes: a deeper, hexagonal grille inspired by the Alfieri concept replaces the previous oval shape, paired with reshaped triangular lower air intakes that reduce visual bulk and improve aerodynamics. New headlight internals maintain the signature triple-claw daytime running lights, while the rear bumper gains subtle diffuser refinements for better airflow.

Two variants distinguish themselves externally: the comfort-focused Sport and the track-inspired MC (Maserati Corse). The MC adds a carbon-fiber bonnet with functional vents, unique grille trim, and sportier wheel options, emphasizing performance intent. Both body styles boast improved drag coefficients, enabling top speeds approaching 186 mph in optimal configurations. The coupe’s elongated proportions and the convertible’s elegant lines continue to turn heads, underscoring why this design from the late 2000s remains one of the era’s most handsome.

• Front grille: Deeper, hexagonal design for bolder presence and aero gains.
• Headlights: Updated units with adaptive bi-xenon tech.
• MC-specific: Carbon bonnet vents and aggressive styling cues.
• Rear: Revised bumper and exhaust tips for refined tail aesthetics.

Powertrain: The Immortal Ferrari V8

At the core of the GranTurismo’s allure is its naturally aspirated 4.7-liter V8, hand-built by Ferrari in Maranello. Producing 454-460 horsepower and 384-520 Nm of torque (depending on variant), it pairs with a six-speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels via a mechanical limited-slip differential. This cross-plane crank engine delivers a symphonic exhaust note—mellifluous in Normal mode, ferociously raw in Sport or MC Strada settings—evoking the golden age of Italian exotica.

Performance figures reflect its grand touring ethos rather than supercar aggression: 0-60 mph in about 4.7 seconds for the Sport, dipping under 4.5 for the MC, with top speeds over 185 mph. Fuel economy lags at 13-21 mpg combined, unchanged by aero tweaks, prioritizing character over efficiency. The engine’s naturally aspirated purity contrasts with turbocharged rivals, offering linear power delivery and throttle response that feels alive and unfiltered.

Interior Craftsmanship: Luxury Without Compromise

Step inside, and the GranTurismo envelops you in Poltrona Frau leather, impeccably stitched across dashboards, seats, and even rear parcelshelves. Unlike newer Maseratis with shared FCA components, this model exudes bespoke quality—no Jeep switches here. Analog gauges flank a new 8.4-inch touchscreen, with physical knobs for climate control adding tactile satisfaction. Rear seats, while tight for adults, accommodate children or extra luggage, true to its 2+2 formula.

Customization abounds: walnut veneers, carbon fiber, or Alcantara trims, plus heated/cooled seats. Trunk space measures 260 liters in the coupe, expandable with folded rears. The traditional key ignition ritual enhances the vintage charm, starting the V8 with a mechanical twist.

Technology Leap: Infotainment Finally Catches Up

The standout upgrade is the Maserati Touch Control Plus (MTC+) system: an 8.4-inch high-res display supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and Harman Kardon audio. Intuitive menus and a rear-view camera address previous tech shortcomings, though storage pockets remain sparse. Driver aids are minimal—no adaptive cruise or AEB—to preserve ‘purity,’ aligning with rivals like Aston Martin.

Driving Dynamics: Balance of Comfort and Poise

Behind the wheel, the GranTurismo shines on sweeping roads. Hydraulic power steering delivers creamy weighting and feedback, improved over predecessors. Skyhook adaptive dampers (standard) absorb imperfections in Normal mode, firming up in Sport without harshness. Brembo brakes offer strong stopping power, though initial bite could be sharper; new Pirelli P Zero tires enhance grip.

At 1,883 kg, it’s hefty, yet the rear-drive layout and limited-slip diff enable playful handling. Ride quality suits cross-country hauls, with wind/road isolation exemplary in the GranCabrio (roof up). It’s not the quickest in class—Porsche 911s outpace it—but its emotional engagement trumps stopwatches.

Rivals and Value Proposition

In a segment dominated by Porsche 911, Jaguar F-Type, BMW M8, and Aston Martin DB11, the GranTurismo stands out for soulful V8 drama and Italian flair. Base prices started around $150,000, escalating with options. It lags in tech/safety but excels in artistry and aural theater, ideal for those prioritizing passion over pragmatism.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

• Pros: Enchanting V8 soundtrack, exquisite interior materials, grand touring comfort, timeless styling, modern infotainment.
• Cons: Dated power vs. rivals, limited safety tech, heavy weight, modest fuel economy, tight rear space.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2018 GranTurismo reliable?

Expect typical Italian maintenance needs; Ferrari V8 is robust but parts/servicing command premiums. Warranties cover basics.

Coupe or Convertible—which to choose?

Coupe for superior rigidity/top speed; GranCabrio for open-air drama, with minimal performance trade-offs.

Does it have Apple CarPlay?

Yes, standard via the new MTC+ system.

How does the MC version differ?

Firmer suspension, carbon bits, extra power tweaks for racier dynamics.

What’s the top speed?

Up to 187 mph for MC coupe, aided by aero updates.

Final Verdict: A Swan Song Worth Savoring

The 2018 Maserati GranTurismo facelift is a love letter to analog grand touring—beautiful, sonorous, and unapologetically indulgent. While newer models loom, this iteration captures Maserati’s essence: emotion over efficiency, style over specs. For open-road romantics, it’s peerless.