The 2023 Maserati MC20 Cielo: A Skyward Leap for Maserati’s Supercar Legacy
For over a century, Maserati has navigated a captivating, albeit sometimes turbulent, journey through the automotive landscape. From the roaring engines of its 1930s Grand Prix machines to the elegant GTs of the 1950s and the mid-2000s Ferrari-derived hypercars, the iconic trident has adorned vehicles representing a spectrum of automotive excellence. Now, as the storied Italian marque ushers in a new electrified chapter, the question lingers: what does the trident truly signify in the modern era? The answer, I believe, is unequivocally embodied by the sensational 2023 Maserati MC20 Cielo.
Having spent a decade immersed in the world of performance vehicles, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolution of automotive brands and their flagship models. The MC20 Cielo isn’t just a car; it’s a bold declaration of intent, a testament to Maserati’s revitalized spirit, and a compelling proposition for discerning enthusiasts. It arrives at precisely the opportune moment, poised to captivate a market eager for innovation, passion, and unadulterated driving exhilaration.
The resurgence of Maserati’s motorsport prowess is impossible to ignore. Gone are the days of merely referencing a glorious past; the trident is back on the track, actively participating in Formula E and GT2 racing, and producing exclusive, track-focused machines like the MCXtrema. While the Grecale SUV undoubtedly commands significant sales volume, it’s this renewed commitment to competitive racing and high-performance road cars that injects a vital spark of excitement back into the brand’s DNA.
Three years ago, the original MC20 coupe marked the inception of this ambitious shift. Developed in collaboration with the renowned racing engineering firm Dallara, its advanced carbon-fiber monocoque chassis proved remarkably adaptable, laying the groundwork for both coupe and spyder variants, and crucially, paving the way for future electrified iterations. More importantly, it delivered Maserati’s first true supercar in over a decade, and it was a resounding success.
Now, at the helm of its open-top counterpart, the 2023 Maserati MC20 Cielo, the experience is elevated to an entirely new echelon. While mechanically identical to the coupe, distinguished only by its retractable electrochromic glass roof, the Cielo transforms the driving encounter. It fosters an intimate connection with its characterful Nettuno V6 engine without compromising the dynamic prowess of its fixed-roof sibling, all while preserving the inherent elegance and sophistication synonymous with the Maserati brand. For those seeking the pinnacle of Italian supercar performance, the MC20 Cielo is not just a compelling contender; it’s a benchmark setter, perfectly positioned to define the future trajectory of this legendary marque.
The Cielo meticulously retains the coupe’s advanced carbon-fiber structure. However, to counteract the inherent reduction in torsional rigidity experienced by convertible variants, Maserati has strategically reinforced the chassis. This meticulous engineering results in a weight penalty of a mere 143 pounds, an impressively minimal figure when one considers the sophisticated mechanism that gracefully retracts the roof in a mere 12 seconds. This innovative roof system integrates a rigid metal framework with an electrochromic glass panel. The latter allows for instantaneous control over cabin illumination, transitioning from transparent to opaque at the press of a button, effectively managing sunlight and enhancing the open-air driving sensation.
Visually, the Cielo remains remarkably faithful to its coupe progenitor. The roofline seamlessly blends into the redesigned decklid, which features a subtle, small rearward-facing window. To accommodate the structural modifications, the intake vents for the mid-mounted engine have been artfully repositioned. Furthermore, Maserati offers a new “XX” style wheel design, rounding out the subtle yet impactful exterior enhancements.
The specific tester I experienced was cloaked in the mesmerizing Acquamarina paint. This hue is, without exaggeration, one of the most captivating finishes I’ve encountered in years. Initially presenting as a light blue, its pearlescent quality allows it to subtly shift and shimmer depending on the angle of light, revealing a spectrum of subtle color variations. This particular shade, however, was reserved for the exclusive Primaserie Launch Edition, limited to just 60 units, serving as a potent showcase for Maserati’s bespoke Fuoriserie customization program.
In an era where many luxury sports cars lean heavily on aggressive aerodynamic addenda and ostentatious styling cues, the MC20 Cielo opts for a more restrained, timeless aesthetic. While the temptation to embellish with carbon fiber components is ever-present, I found the car to be at its most compelling when presented in a simpler, unadorned form. It eschews superfluous detailing, allowing its inherent, elegant lines to command attention. While it may not possess the overtly flamboyant presence of a Lamborghini or the sculpted aggression of a Ferrari, the MC20 Cielo exudes a sophisticated charm that transcends fleeting trends, offering a more enduring appeal for those who appreciate understated automotive artistry.
The MC20’s introduction not only heralded Maserati’s return to the racing circuits but also debuted its groundbreaking Nettuno engine. This 3.0-liter, 90-degree twin-turbocharged V6 is a masterpiece of engineering, churning out an formidable 621 horsepower and 538 pound-feet of torque. In the Cielo, this potent powerplant propels the car from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering three seconds, with a top speed approaching a staggering 199 mph. Power is expertly managed and delivered to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, ensuring rapid and seamless gear changes.
In the context of contemporary high-performance vehicles, the MC20 Cielo’s twin-turbo V6 might appear, at first glance, somewhat conventional. Rivals such as the McLaren Artura and Ferrari 296 GTB also feature V6 configurations, but they adopt a more exotic 120-degree layout, aiming for a V12-like exhaust note, often complemented by hybrid powertrains. Even the considerably more accessible Chevrolet Corvette Z06 boasts a brand-new, high-revving, naturally aspirated V8. However, the Nettuno engine’s brilliance lies in its remarkable versatility; it also powers the Grecale Trofeo and GranTurismo Trofeo, demonstrating its adaptability across Maserati’s performance portfolio. While it may not boast the exotic architecture of some competitors, the Nettuno possesses an undeniable character. Its exhaust note diverges from the typical 90-degree V6 rumble, offering a more effervescent, less raucous tone. Yet, the intoxicating rush of its twin-turbochargers frequently becomes the dominant auditory experience.
With the roof retracted, the subtle flutter of the turbos upon throttle lift-off and their enthusiastic whistle during acceleration create an engaging soundtrack. While the Cielo isn’t excessively loud, its power delivery is potent, following a brief, charming initial hesitation – a characteristic reminiscent of classic performance cars. This slight delay, while perhaps lacking the immediate immediacy of some modern rivals, rewards the driver with a dramatic surge of acceleration once the boost threshold is breached. This engaging characteristic is a deliberate choice, injecting a delightful sense of old-school drama into the driving experience.
The intelligent calibration of the closely stacked gear ratios ensures the engine remains firmly within its optimal power band as you shift through the gears. Even as the landscape of performance car technology evolves with the proliferation of hybrid powertrains, the 621 horsepower on offer in the MC20 Cielo feels remarkably potent, translating to a driving sensation that often feels even quicker than its impressive statistical figures suggest.
On winding roads, the Cielo feels virtually indistinguishable from its coupe counterpart. Its sophisticated double-wishbone suspension, front and rear, coupled with adaptive dampers, allows for a remarkable duality. In the more aggressive Sport and Corsa modes, the suspension firms up significantly, providing razor-sharp handling. Yet, in the more comfort-oriented GT setting, it retains a surprising degree of compliance, making it remarkably adept for daily driving and longer journeys.
While the ride quality might not achieve the silken smoothness of a McLaren Artura, the MC20 Cielo offers a commendable balance of engagement and comfort. Crucially, despite its exotic carbon-fiber construction and distinctive butterfly doors, the relatively low sill height ensures that ingress and egress are surprisingly straightforward, further enhancing its practicality as a supercar for everyday use.
This inherent versatility allows the Maserati MC20 Cielo to tackle challenging, undulating canyon roads with effortless grace. It exhibits exceptional balance through tight, technical sections, confidently deploying its substantial power on corner exits. The steering, while not overwhelmingly communicative, is commendably quick and direct. Combined with an agile and grippy front end, this setup imbues the car with a sensation of being significantly lighter than its actual weight might suggest.
The optional carbon-ceramic brakes, a $10,000 proposition, offer race-car-like stopping power. They require a substantial pedal force to engage fully, a trait that is exhilarating on a spirited drive but demands a period of acclimatization when navigating slower city traffic. My test vehicle was also equipped with a $2,300 electronic limited-slip differential and a $5,500 set of lightweight 20-inch forged wheels, options that further enhance its dynamic capabilities.
The interior of the MC20 Cielo builds upon the significant quality improvements seen in the original MC20. My tester featured a sophisticated two-tone Ice/Grey finish, accented by striking triangular patterns on the seat cushions and backrests. The dashboard artfully blends carbon fiber and suede trim, housing two prominent 10-inch screens that serve as the digital instrument cluster and infotainment interface.
Much like its exterior, the MC20 Cielo’s interior prioritizes a clean, uncluttered design. The majority of the vehicle’s controls are integrated within the central touchscreen. The center console, crafted from exposed carbon fiber, houses the updated drive mode selector and a select few essential physical buttons, maintaining a focused and driver-centric environment.
While the cabin is undeniably functional and aesthetically pleasing, it leans towards a more conventional supercar interior design. The floating digital display positioned to the right of the steering wheel, while effective, can feel somewhat like an afterthought when viewed in isolation. Unlike the timeless elegance of the car’s exterior and mechanicals, I suspect that some of the integrated technology within the MC20 might not age as gracefully as the vehicle’s core attributes.
The 2023 Maserati MC20 Cielo commands a starting price of $262,695, inclusive of a $1,495 destination fee. However, with the addition of desirable, albeit costly, options such as the $39,000 exterior carbon pack, the aforementioned $10,000 carbon-ceramic brakes, and a $7,000 interior carbon-fiber package, my thoroughly specified tester arrived with a substantial $339,700 MSRP. When considered against competitors like the Lamborghini Huracan Tecnica Spyder, which starts at $239,000 and can be equipped to a high level without exceeding $300,000, the MC20 Cielo’s elevated price point presents a notable consideration as it seeks to establish its presence within the highly competitive supercar market.
However, to focus solely on the price would be to overlook the MC20 Cielo’s profound strengths. As a complete package, it stands as a formidable entrant in the supercar arena. It is undeniably stylish, exhilarating to drive, and possesses a mechanical soul that resonates with automotive passion. Yet, given its premium pricing, the adoption of a more conventional V6 powertrain, when competitors are pushing the boundaries with innovative hybrid and electric technologies, does present a more challenging value proposition for some. Furthermore, certain aspects of its interior technology, while functional, may not quite match the seamless integration found in some of its closest rivals.
Despite these minor reservations, the MC20 represents precisely the kind of halo vehicle that Maserati should champion. Flagship models like the MC20 and the new GranTurismo provide the Italian brand with a vital platform to showcase its engineering prowess and reaffirm its position at the forefront of automotive luxury and performance. Thankfully, Maserati appears to have decisively moved beyond its more utilitarian or less celebrated past endeavors, focusing its energies on creating cars that embody its rich heritage and future ambitions. The 2023 Maserati MC20 Cielo, with its blend of stunning design, exhilarating performance, and open-top freedom, is more than just a car; it’s a confident statement that the trident brand is once again a dominant and respected player in the world of exclusive automobiles.
If you’re captivated by the prospect of experiencing the pinnacle of Italian open-top supercar performance, we invite you to connect with your local Maserati dealership to explore the exceptional MC20 Cielo and begin your journey towards owning a piece of automotive artistry.
