2023 Maserati MC20 Cielo Review

Entering 2023, the selection in Malaysia’s supercar market is no longer limited to traditional brands, and more and more consumers are looking forward to models that can satisfy both track passion and daily practicality. As Maserati’s first convertible supercar, the MC20 Cielo is marketed with the core selling point of “track DNA with an openable roof.” It not only continues the performance foundation of the hardtop MC20 but also expands its usability with an electric hardtop convertible design. The core purpose of this test drive is to verify whether this convertible supercar can balance the dual needs of being a “supercar” and “daily driver” in terms of performance, convertible practicality, and everyday driving experience.

The MC20 Cielo’s exterior design maintains the sleek lines of the hardtop version, but the convertible structure adds a touch of elegance. The front features Maserati's signature trapezoidal grille with a black honeycomb pattern inside, paired with sharp LED headlights on both sides, offering high recognition. The car’s side profile is compact, with dimensions identical to the hardtop version — a length of 4669mm, width of 2178mm, and height of 1224mm. The 20-inch wheels, paired with 245/35 R20 front tires and 305/30 R20 rear tires, enhance its sporty stance. The rear features a dual-exhaust layout that complements the LED taillights, delivering a design that retains the aggression of a supercar while adding a visual tension when in convertible mode.

Stepping inside, the interior is dominated by black, with extensive use of Alcantara materials and carbon fiber trim, creating a strong sporty atmosphere. The center console layout is simple, with a dual-screen setup consisting of a 10-inch touchscreen and a 10-inch fully digital instrument panel, presenting a clear operational logic and supporting CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The multifunctional steering wheel is manually adjustable but delivers a solid grip and integrates commonly used features, including ACC cruise control and volume adjustment. The seats are designed as sporty bucket seats with excellent support and wrapping, ensuring long driving sessions remain comfortable. In terms of storage space, the central armrest storage and door panel compartments can accommodate small items like phones and wallets. The trunk, while not very large, can fit two carry-on suitcases, sufficient for short trips.

In terms of power, the MC20 Cielo is equipped with a 3.0T V6 twin-turbocharged engine delivering a maximum output of 630PS and a maximum torque of 730N·m, paired with an 8-speed DCT transmission. When switched to Sport mode, the car offers rapid throttle response, with an official 0-100km/h acceleration time of just 2.9 seconds, providing continuous and strong thrust, making mid-range acceleration and overtaking effortless. In Comfort mode for daily driving, power delivery becomes more linear, and gear shifts are smooth, easily handling urban road conditions. In terms of handling, the steering is precise with very little play, and the suspension system provides solid support in Sport mode, controlling body roll effectively during corners; in Comfort mode, it absorbs most road bumps, balancing daily comfort. The braking system performs consistently, with stable body posture during full braking, short stopping distance, and a reassuring feel.

As a convertible model, the MC20 Cielo’s electric hardtop takes only 12 seconds to open and can be operated at speeds below 50km/h, offering strong practicality. When the roof is open, wind noise is well-controlled, and normal conversations are not significantly affected even at a speed of 100km/h. In terms of noise control, with the top closed, cabin insulation is close to the hardtop version, with tire and wind noise becoming slightly noticeable at high speeds, which is within the normal range for supercars. Fuel consumption is average, with an official combined figure of 11.6L/100km. Actual city driving results in about 14-15L/100km, while highway driving can achieve around 10L/100km, meeting expectations for a 3.0T supercar.

Overall, the core advantage of the Maserati MC20 Cielo lies in its "balance between performance and open-top driving." Compared to the convertible version of the Porsche 911 in the same segment, it has an edge in terms of power parameters, and Maserati's brand temperament is more distinctive. Compared to the Ferrari F8 Spider, its price is more affordable (RM 1,228,000), and it offers greater daily practicality. This car is suitable for performance enthusiasts who crave track excitement as well as high-end consumers who enjoy open-top driving and value brand sophistication. If you're looking for a supercar that can both deliver thrilling performance on the track and offer the joy of driving under the sun on weekends, the MC20 Cielo would be a great choice.