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The Ultimate Status Symbol: 2024 Maserati MC20 Cielo Review

As the ultra-rich navigate the treacherous waters of social media, they must constantly reinvent themselves to stay ahead of the curve. But how do you stand out from the crowd when everyone’s a social media influencer? The answer lies in the 2024 Maserati MC20 Cielo, a supercar that’s as much about making a statement as it is about delivering on performance.

A Unique Offering

Maserati is a weird brand because everyone knows its name, but few actually put their money down for one, especially over its Italian rivals. However, the MC20 Cielo proves that Maserati can make an incredibly compelling supercar. It’s the supercar for enthusiasts who want something different, something that stands out.

The Basics

Before the MC20, Maserati hadn’t made a proper mid-engine supercar since the rebodied Ferrari Enzo that is the MC12. There’s been some debate over how much of the MC20’s "100% Maserati" Nettuno V6 is truly exclusive to Maserati, but its carbon fiber chassis is unique, as is its styling.

A Rival in the Making

With the Audi R8 out of the picture and a drop-top Lamborghini Temerario still to-be-unveiled, the MC20 Cielo counts the Ferrari 296 GTS and McLaren’s Artura Spider as its most direct rivals. Those two use hybrid motors in addition to their V6s. The 690-hp Artura is fantastic, too, and starting at the same price as this Maserati, it’s likely better value on account of it having more sheer performance and tech. The Ferrari, however, goes for quite a bit more money, but that’s the price you pay for to drive a Prancing Horse around, I guess.

Value and Verdict

At $281,000 to start, the 2024 Maserati MC20 Cielo can be considered good value in precisely no universes. But Lambos, Ferraris, and McLarens aren’t any less expensive. The Maserati is an alternative that stands out from the crowd while delivering similar performance.

Specifications

• Base Price (as tested): $281,000 ($378,850)
• Powertrain: 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 | 8-speed dual-clutch automatic | rear-wheel drive
• Horsepower: 621 @ 7,500 rpm
• Torque: 538 lb-ft @ 3,000-5,500 rpm
• Seating Capacity: 2
• Cargo Volume: 3.5 cubic feet | 1.7 cubic feet frunk
• Curb Weight: 3,439 pounds
• 0-60 mph: 2.9 seconds
• Top Speed: 202 mph
• EPA Fuel Economy: 15 mpg city | 25 mpg highway | 18 mpg combined

The Verdict

The MC20 may not be top of mind when one thinks of supercars, but it’s not any less special than what Ferrari and Lamborghini offer. It feels every bit as deserving of the supercar title as they do, with stunning good looks and a thrilling drive. However, it’s also more interesting, as its soulful engine tickles the head as much as the heart. Anyone looking to spend three-bedroom house money on a supercar has great choices wherever they look. However, if you want to stand out from your rich neighbors, the MC20 Cielo will show them you have better, less predictable taste.