The 2023 Maserati MC20 Cielo: A Bold Statement for the Future of Italian Supercars
For over a century, Maserati has navigated a kaleidoscope of identities. From its roaring Grand Prix victories in the 1930s to the elegant GTs of the 1950s and the limited-run hypercars born from collaborations, the iconic trident has symbolized myriad automotive ideals. Yet, as the marque embarks on its electrifying future, a pivotal question arises: what does the Maserati badge truly represent in the contemporary landscape?
Our recent immersion with the 2023 Maserati MC20 Cielo offers a compelling answer, positioning this convertible marvel not just as a desirable supercar, but as a potent harbinger of Maserati’s revitalized ethos. This isn’t merely a performance vehicle; it’s a statement of intent, a meticulous blend of heritage and innovation designed to captivate discerning drivers and solidify Maserati’s return to automotive prominence.
The specter of motorsport, once a nostalgic whisper, has roared back to life within Maserati’s halls. No longer content to merely pay homage to its racing lineage, the Trident is actively re-engaging at the highest levels. From its participation in Formula E and GT2 racing to the development of exclusive, track-focused machines like the MCXtrema, Maserati’s competitive spirit is palpable. While the Grecale SUV may continue to anchor its sales figures, it’s this resurgence on the tarmac that injects a much-needed surge of excitement and aspirational appeal into the brand.
This renewed focus on performance found its tangible expression three years ago with the debut of the MC20, an acronym signifying Maserati Corse 2020. Developed in collaboration with the renowned engineering firm Dallara, the MC20’s advanced carbon fiber monocoque chassis proved remarkably adaptable, laying the groundwork for both coupe and convertible variants, and crucially, a future all-electric iteration. More importantly, this platform yielded Maserati’s first truly exceptional supercar in over a decade and a half.
Now, sliding into the driver’s seat of the 2023 Maserati MC20 Cielo, its open-top sibling, reveals an entirely new dimension. While mechanically identical to its coupe counterpart, differentiated primarily by its sophisticated retractable hardtop, the Cielo amplifies the sensory engagement with its potent powerplant. This evolution allows for an even deeper connection with the car’s characterful V6 engine, all while preserving the coupe’s inherent elegance and avoiding any compromise in dynamic prowess. The MC20 Cielo arrives at a propitious moment, perfectly poised to thrive in the burgeoning exotic car market and to unequivocally define Maserati’s forward-looking identity.
While the Cielo inherits the coupe’s robust carbon fiber structure, Maserati has meticulously reinforced it to counteract the inherent reduction in rigidity associated with a convertible configuration. This engineering foresight results in a weight penalty of a mere 143 pounds. This surprisingly modest increase is a testament to the clever integration of its advanced electrochromic glass and metal folding roof mechanism, which astonishingly retracts in just 12 seconds. The electrochromic glass, a standout feature, allows for instant control over cabin ambiance, modulating the intensity of natural light with a simple command, seamlessly transitioning from an open-air experience to a shaded sanctuary.
Visually, the Cielo retains the MC20 coupe’s arresting silhouette. The roofline remains remarkably cohesive, with the primary divergence found in a subtly redesigned rear decklid and a small, integrated rear-facing window. To accommodate the necessary mechanical modifications for the retractable top, Maserati strategically repositioned the engine air intakes, a subtle yet significant alteration. The introduction of new “XX” style wheels further complements the minimal, yet impactful, exterior refinements, reinforcing the car’s purposeful aesthetic.
The particular tester I experienced was finished in an exquisite “Acquamarina” paint, a hue that immediately captivated. Appearing as a sophisticated light blue from one perspective, its pearlescent finish allows it to transform and shimmer under varying light conditions, imbuing the vehicle with a dynamic and captivating visual depth. This stunning color, however, is currently exclusive to the limited-production Primaserie Launch Edition, a special series of just 60 units designed to showcase Maserati’s bespoke Fuoriserie customization program, underscoring the exclusivity and artisanal nature of this exceptional automobile.
In line with the current trend among modern supercars, the MC20 Cielo offers an extensive array of optional carbon fiber embellishments. However, my personal preference leans towards a more restrained application, allowing the car’s inherent design language to speak for itself. By eschewing ostentatious aerodynamic appendages or superfluous styling flourishes, the MC20 Cielo presents itself as a masterpiece of understated elegance. It projects a timeless sophistication that requires no artificial enhancements to command attention, distinguishing itself from the more overtly flamboyant aesthetics often associated with competitors like Lamborghini and Ferrari.
The MC20’s very genesis marked Maserati’s strategic re-entry into the world of competitive motorsport. Coinciding with this resurgence was the unveiling of the revolutionary “Nettuno” engine. This 3.0-liter, 90-degree twin-turbocharged V6 is a marvel of engineering, producing a formidable 621 horsepower and 538 pound-feet of torque. In the Cielo, this potent powerplant propels the convertible from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk three seconds, with a top speed that crests a breathtaking 199 mph. Power is delivered exclusively to the rear wheels via an exceptionally responsive eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
When viewed within the current panorama of exotic automobiles, the Maserati MC20 Cielo’s twin-turbo V6 configuration, while potent, might appear somewhat conventional. Many rivals, such as the McLaren Artura and the Ferrari 296 GTB, also employ V6 architectures but often in more exotic 120-degree layouts, contributing to a more V12-esque exhaust note and frequently incorporating hybrid powertrains. Even the significantly more accessible Chevrolet Corvette Z06 boasts a cutting-edge, naturally aspirated V8 designed for high-revving performance.
However, the Nettuno engine’s brilliance lies in its remarkable versatility. It serves as the heart not only of the MC20 but also of the more accessible Grecale Trofeo and GranTurismo Trofeo models, demonstrating its adaptability across Maserati’s burgeoning lineup. While it may not possess the exotic pedigree of some contemporary alternatives, it delivers an abundance of character. Its exhaust note deviates from the typical timbre of a 90-degree V6, offering a more effervescent, less aggressive tone. Ultimately, the intoxicating rush of its twin-turbochargers largely eclipses the subtle nuances of its engine note.
With the roof retracted, the symphony of the turbos becomes an integral part of the driving experience. The distinctive flutter upon decelerating and the pronounced whistle as boost is reapplied create an engaging acoustic backdrop. While the Cielo isn’t excessively loud, its power delivery is immediate and exhilarating, punctuated by a pleasing degree of palpable turbo lag. This characteristic, while perhaps a departure from the instant-on response of some modern rivals, imparts a charmingly old-school feel and rewards the driver with a dramatic surge of acceleration once the turbos are fully engaged.
Fortunately, thanks to the meticulously calibrated, closely spaced gear ratios, the MC20 effectively maintains its boost pressure as the driver progresses through the gears. Even as the 621-horsepower output begins to feel relatively modest in the face of increasingly hybridized powertrains entering the market, the Cielo’s on-road urgency far exceeds its statistical performance figures, creating a sensation of relentless forward momentum.
In the dynamic realm of cornering, distinguishing the Cielo from its coupe progenitor is an almost impossible task. The chassis, employing a sophisticated double-wishbone suspension setup at both the front and rear, is augmented by adaptive dampers. This advanced system allows for a significant firming of the suspension in the aggressive Sport and Corsa modes, while the more comfort-oriented GT setting provides a level of refinement suitable for daily commuting or extended journeys.
While the suspension might not offer the same plushness as that found in a McLaren Artura, it remains remarkably compliant for everyday use and long-distance touring. Furthermore, despite its advanced carbon fiber construction and dramatic butterfly doors, the MC20 Cielo features relatively low sill heights, greatly simplifying ingress and egress and contributing to its surprising practicality.
The Maserati MC20 Cielo’s inherent versatility makes it an exceptionally capable performer on the challenging, winding canyon roads often found in regions like Southern California. It exhibits a beautiful balance through tight turns, confidently deploying its considerable power upon exiting corners. Although the steering might not be the most communicative in its class, it is undeniably quick and direct. Combined with an agile and tenaciously gripping front end, this results in a vehicle that feels significantly lighter and more nimble than its specifications might suggest.
The optional carbon-ceramic brakes, a substantial $10,000 upgrade, perform with a racecar-like ferocity, requiring a significant amount of pedal force to achieve maximum deceleration. While this characteristic is perfectly suited for spirited driving on open roads, it necessitates a period of acclimatization for more sedate city driving. My specific tester also featured an optional $2,300 electronic limited-slip differential and a $5,500 set of lightweight 20-inch forged wheels, further enhancing its performance envelope.
The interior of the MC20 Cielo builds upon the significant quality enhancements introduced with the original MC20. My test vehicle featured a sophisticated two-tone “Ice/Grey” finish, accented with distinctive triangular stitching on the seat cushions and backrests. The dashboard masterfully blends carbon fiber and suede trim, and prominently displays two 10-inch screens, dedicated to serving the functions of digital instrumentation and infotainment.
Mirroring its exterior design philosophy, the MC20 Cielo’s interior is characterized by a purposeful simplicity. The majority of vehicle controls are integrated within the central touchscreen interface. The center console, an exposed piece of carbon fiber artistry, houses the updated drive mode selector and a curated selection of essential physical buttons, providing tactile feedback where it matters most.
While the interior is undeniably functional, it leans towards a more conventional design aesthetic. The “floating” infotainment screen positioned to the right of the steering wheel, while visually appealing, can feel somewhat like an afterthought in the overall cohesive design. In contrast to the enduring elegance of the car’s exterior and powertrain, the technology suite within the MC20 might be the element that ages less gracefully over time.
The 2023 Maserati MC20 Cielo commences its pricing journey at $262,695, inclusive of a mandatory $1,495 destination fee. However, as is often the case with bespoke supercars, the addition of desirable optional extras can substantially elevate the final price. In the case of my meticulously appointed tester, the inclusion of a $39,000 exterior carbon fiber package, the aforementioned $10,000 carbon-ceramic brakes, and a $7,000 interior carbon fiber ensemble pushed the grand total to a considerable $339,700. Given that a Lamborghini Huracan Tecnica Spyder begins at a comparatively lower $239,000 and typically tops out below the $300,000 mark, the MC20 Cielo’s elevated price point presents a significant consideration as it seeks to establish its unique niche within the fiercely competitive supercar arena.
When viewed in its entirety, however, the MC20 Cielo stands as a formidable and compelling entrant into the rarefied world of supercars. It effortlessly ticks all the essential boxes: striking aesthetics, exhilarating performance, and an utterly thrilling driving experience. Yet, its considerable price tag does amplify scrutiny, particularly concerning its conventional V6 powertrain, especially when juxtaposed with competitors who are pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation with advanced hybrid and electric propulsion systems. Furthermore, certain aspects of its interior technology integration, while functional, may not feel as seamlessly executed as those found in some of its closest rivals.
Despite these minor reservations, the MC20 represents precisely the kind of automotive masterpiece that Maserati should be championing. Six-figure vehicles such as the MC20 Cielo and the GranTurismo provide the Italian marque with an invaluable platform to showcase its formidable engineering prowess and design acumen. Fortunately, Maserati appears to have definitively moved beyond the missteps of mass-market compromises, such as the Ghibli. The brand is unequivocally forging ahead into a new era, and the electrifying allure of cars like the MC20 Cielo reasserts Maserati’s legitimate claim as a distinguished and vital player in the global supercar landscape.
Discover the future of Italian performance. Explore the Maserati MC20 Cielo and experience the renewed spirit of the Trident. Contact your nearest Maserati dealer today to schedule a private viewing and test drive.