The 2024 Maserati MC20 Cielo: A Breath of Fresh Air in the Supercar Landscape
For over a century, Maserati has navigated the automotive world through a kaleidoscope of eras, each defined by ownership, innovation, and evolving design philosophies. From its roaring Grand Prix triumphs in the 1930s to the elegant GTs of the 1950s and even a daring hypercar derived from the Ferrari Enzo in 2004, the iconic Trident badge has signified a multitude of automotive aspirations. Today, as Maserati embarks on its ambitious electrified future, the pertinent question is: what does this esteemed symbol of Italian performance truly represent in the contemporary market?
This inquiry gains particular resonance when we consider Maserati’s resurgent commitment to motorsport. While past endeavors often leaned on historical inspiration, the Trident has made a decisive return to the racing circuits, actively participating in Formula E and GT2 racing, and producing exclusive, track-focused machines like the MCXtrema. Although the Grecale SUV remains the marque’s volume driver, this rekindled passion for competition serves as a potent catalyst for injecting fresh excitement and prestige back into the brand.
The MC20, a nameplate that encapsulates Maserati Corse 2020, heralded this transformative shift three years ago. Developed in collaboration with the esteemed racing engineering firm Dallara, its carbon-fiber monocoque chassis was ingeniously designed for adaptability, accommodating coupe, spyder, and future battery-electric configurations. More significantly, this platform underpinned Maserati’s first supercar in over a decade and a half, proving to be an exceptionally accomplished debut.
Now, taking the reins of the drop-top variant, the 2024 Maserati MC20 Cielo, offers a profound, almost visceral connection to the machine. While mechanically identical to its coupe sibling, differentiated solely by its ingenious retractable hardtop, the Cielo introduces an entirely new sensory dimension to the driving experience. It allows the driver to intimately connect with the characterful V6 engine without compromising dynamic prowess, all while preserving the coupe’s inherent style and elegance. The MC20 Cielo stands as a perfectly timed contender in a burgeoning supercar segment and a compelling statement of Maserati’s future direction.
While the Cielo leverages the coupe’s carbon fiber architecture, Maserati has judiciously reinforced the structure to counteract any potential rigidity compromises inherent in a convertible design. The Cielo tips the scales at a mere 143 pounds more than the coupe, a remarkably low figure considering the inclusion of a sophisticated electro-mechanical roof mechanism that retracts in a mere 12 seconds. This innovative roof comprises a metal framework integrated with an electrochromic glass panel. This glass can be dimmed on command, allowing for precise control over cabin illumination and enhancing the open-air sensation.
Visually, the distinctions between the Cielo and its coupe predecessor are subtle. The roofline remains almost identical, with the primary visual changes concentrated on a redesigned rear decklid and a small, integrated rear window. To accommodate the under-the-skin mechanical adjustments required by the folding roof, Maserati has thoughtfully repositioned the engine air intakes. Additionally, a new “XX” style wheel design has been introduced to the options list, rounding out the concise list of exterior refinements.
The specific Acquamarina paint adorning my test vehicle is, quite simply, one of the most captivating finishes I’ve encountered in years. Initially appearing as a sophisticated light blue, its pearlescent qualities cause it to shift and shimmer dramatically under varying light conditions, imbuing the car with a remarkable visual depth and dynamism. This exquisite hue, however, is exclusively reserved for the Primaserie Launch Edition, a limited series of just 60 vehicles designed to showcase Maserati’s bespoke Fuoriserie customization program.
In line with contemporary supercar trends, the MC20 Cielo offers extensive carbon fiber customization options. Yet, my personal preference leans towards experiencing Maserati’s supercars in their more restrained, unadorned configurations. By eschewing ostentatious aerodynamic appendages and superfluous styling embellishments, the MC20 Cielo projects an image of refined simplicity and timeless elegance, a vehicle that captivates without the need for aggressive add-ons. While it may not possess the overt visual drama of a comparable Lamborghini or Ferrari, its aesthetic possesses a more enduring, classic appeal.
The MC20’s debut not only signaled Maserati’s return to motorsport but also introduced the groundbreaking Nettuno engine. This 90-degree, twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 delivers a formidable 621 horsepower and 538 pound-feet of torque. In the Cielo, this powertrain propels the car from 0 to 60 mph in a swift three seconds, with a theoretical top speed of 199 mph. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Within the context of today’s hypercar offerings, the Maserati MC20 Cielo’s twin-turbo V6 engine configuration can be considered somewhat conventional. Competitors such as the McLaren Artura and Ferrari 296 GTB also employ V6 architectures but opt for a more exotic 120-degree configuration, which often contributes to a more V12-like exhaust note, further enhanced by the integration of electric motors. Even the significantly more affordable Chevrolet Corvette Z06 boasts a brand-new, high-revving, naturally aspirated V8.
However, the Nettuno engine’s inherent versatility is a key differentiator, as it also finds its way into the Grecale Trofeo and GranTurismo Trofeo. While not the most exotic powertrain on the market, it possesses an abundance of character. Its exhaust note deviates from the typical 90-degree V6 timbre, presenting a more effervescent, less overtly aggressive tone. In truth, the characteristic whoosh of its twin-turbochargers often masks much of the engine’s subtler acoustic nuances, making the turbine sounds a dominant and engaging element.
With the top retracted, the turbochargers exhibit a delightful flutter upon throttle release and emit a distinct whistle as you reapply power. While the Cielo is not excessively loud in its overall decibel output, its surge of power arrives with a captivating ferocity after a brief, charming moment of turbo lag. This characteristic provides a sense of old-school engagement, a stark contrast to the instant immediacy of some modern rivals, rewarding the driver with exhilarating acceleration once the turbos spool up.
Fortunately, thanks to its closely rationed gear ratios, the MC20 effectively maintains its boost pressure as you shift through the gears. While 621 horsepower might seem modest as more hybrid powertrains enter the market, the Cielo consistently feels quicker on the road than its objective performance figures might initially suggest. This is a testament to the effective delivery of its power and the engaging nature of its powertrain.
Distinguishing the Cielo from its coupe counterpart on winding roads is a challenging endeavor. The chassis incorporates a sophisticated double-wishbone suspension system at both the front and rear, coupled with adaptive dampers. This setup allows for a significant firming of the suspension in the sportier Sport and Corsa modes, while retaining a comfortable GT setting suitable for everyday driving and longer journeys.
While the suspension may not offer the same level of initial plushness as found in a McLaren Artura, it provides a more than adequate level of comfort for daily commuting or extended touring. Furthermore, despite its advanced carbon fiber construction and distinctive butterfly doors, the relatively low sill height of the doors facilitates remarkably easy ingress and egress, enhancing the vehicle’s overall usability.
The Maserati MC20 Cielo’s inherent versatility allows it to conquer Southern California’s sinuous canyon roads with remarkable composure. It exhibits excellent balance through tight sequences of corners, confidently deploying its substantial power on corner exits. While the steering might not be the most overtly communicative, it is commendably quick and direct. When combined with an agile and exceptionally grippy front end, the result is a car that feels significantly lighter and more nimble than its physical dimensions might suggest.
The optional $10,000 carbon-ceramic brakes offer racecar-like stopping power, requiring a substantial pedal effort to engage effectively. While this is perfectly suited for spirited canyon driving, it demands a period of adaptation for more relaxed city street maneuvers. 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, further enhancing its dynamic capabilities.
The interior of the Cielo builds upon the significant quality enhancements introduced with the original MC20. My tester featured a sophisticated two-tone Ice/Grey finish, accented with distinctive triangular stitching on the seat cushions and backrests. The dashboard artfully blends carbon fiber and suede trim, housing two 10-inch screens dedicated to digital instrumentation and infotainment duties respectively.
Similar to its exterior, the MC20 Cielo’s interior design is characterized by a sense of purposeful simplicity. The majority of vehicle controls are integrated within the central touchscreen interface. The prominent center console, presented in exposed carbon fiber, houses an updated drive mode selector and a selection of essential physical buttons.
While the interior is undeniably functional and presents a high-quality finish, its overall design leans towards the conventional. The freestanding infotainment screen positioned to the right of the steering wheel, while offering clear visibility, feels somewhat detached from the rest of the cabin’s integrated design. Unlike the enduring aesthetic of the car’s exterior and core mechanicals, the MC20’s interior technology is perhaps the element most likely to show its age over time.
The 2024 Maserati MC20 Cielo commences its pricing at $262,695, inclusive of a $1,495 destination fee. However, the inclusion of significant optional upgrades, such as the $39,000 exterior carbon pack, the $10,000 carbon-ceramic brakes, and the $7,000 interior carbon fiber package, pushed the as-tested price of my vehicle to a considerable $339,700. Considering that a Lamborghini Huracan Tecnica Spyder starts at a more accessible $239,000 and typically tops out below the $300,000 mark, the Cielo’s elevated price point could present a notable challenge as it strives to establish a firm foothold within the competitive supercar segment.
When viewed in its entirety, however, the MC20 Cielo emerges as a formidable and compelling entrant into the supercar arena. It excels in its core attributes: striking aesthetics, potent performance, and an exhilarating driving experience, effectively ticking all the essential boxes. Nevertheless, given its substantial asking price, the relatively conventional nature of its V6 powertrain becomes a more pronounced point of consideration, especially when contrasted with competitors pushing the boundaries of innovation with advanced hybrid powertrains. Furthermore, certain aspects of the interior technology integration do not quite match the seamlessness found in some of its direct rivals.
Despite these minor reservations, the MC20 represents precisely the kind of halo vehicle Maserati should be championing. Six-figure machines like the MC20 Cielo and the GranTurismo provide the Italian marque with a vital platform to showcase its engineering prowess and establish its brand’s pinnacle. Fortunately, Maserati has embraced this opportunity, leaving behind less impactful ventures and reasserting its identity with captivating machinery. Maserati is undeniably entering a new and exciting era, and thrilling vehicles like the MC20 Cielo reaffirm the Italian brand’s status as a truly significant player in the automotive landscape.
Are you ready to experience the future of Italian supercar performance firsthand? Discover the exceptional driving dynamics and sophisticated design of the Maserati MC20 Cielo by scheduling your exclusive test drive at your nearest authorized Maserati dealership today.
