ONE OF LAST year’s driving highlights was getting to sample the open-top Cielo version of Maserati’s supercar. Great fun for an hour or two, but it left me wondering: how well does a car like this actually function in the real world? You expect everyday usability when you drive something like an R8 or a 911, yet the MC20 feels considerably more bespoke, lightweight and raw in character. Cue a few days with this stunning Giallo Genio example, thankfully still on its winter wheel/tyre combo while the British climate continued to delay spring.
A quick glance at the spec sheet confirmed that the ground-kissing carbon front splitter is part of a £36,240 exterior carbon pack. Yikes! Thankfully the car was specified with a front lift kit, which I was careful to deploy over local speedbumps. Then the drizzle turned torrential. Maybe not ideal conditions…
Despite the twin-turbo V6 engine’s 622bhp being funnelled directly to the rear wheels, there was never any hint of unpredictability or scariness. That was surprise number one, though in all honesty the winter tyres were earning their keep. The next surprise was the MC20’s civility. Once you’re sitting in the low bucket seats, they’re genuinely comfortable and in GT mode the ride quality is outstanding for a car of this type. There isn’t an overload of tech in the cabin, but that really works in its favour: this remains a driver’s car above all else. The perfectly judged steering feels almost Lotus-like, while the throttle mapping and confidence-inspiring brakes make it all seem rather easy.
Anyway, back to the matter in hand: a shopping trip. Admittedly the boot is relatively short in length, but it’s deep enough to swallow a couple of grocery bags with ease. Passing back through town on the way home, I noticed a l
