The global premiere of the brand new Maserati Grecale was just completed in Modena, the “Everyday Exceptional” as they call it, a sports SUV that fits below the in-house Levante, and that will compete with models like the Porsche Macan and the BMW X4 M, and Maserati isn’t taking any chances with this new model, the list of engines is extensive, to say the least, the Grecale GT comes with a four-cylinder mild-hybrid engine delivering 300 hp, next step is the Grecale Modena with another four-cylinder engine, but this one pumps out 330 hp, while the current flagship model is the Grecale Trofeo which gets the new V6 engine based on their Nettuno, the engine found in the Maserati MC20, but for the Grecale detuned to ‘just’ 530 hp … next year we’ll even be getting a Grecale Folgore, an all-electric version with 400V technology.
The Maserati Grecale isn’t a full-size SUV like a G-Wagon or a Range Rover, with dimensions like a 4,846 mm length (191 inches), a wheelbase of 2,901 mm (114 inches), a height of 1,670 mm (66 inches), and a width of 2,163 mm (85 inches) that includes the wing mirrors, but this relatively smaller size also helps with performance, when you opt for the Maserati Grecale Trofeo you’ll be able to reach 100 km/h from a standstill in just 3.8 seconds and go all the way up to 285 km/h or 177 mph, impressive figures for an SUV.
On the outside, the new Maserati Grecale looks very ‘made in Italy’, with a massive front grille, complete with center-mounted Trident and large air intakes on either side while the headlights are nicely integrated into the fenders, that hold the famous trio of vents, almost a trademark for a Maserati, while the trim level is scripted above these vents, GT, Modena, or Trofeo. The side profile does look really dynamic, and while standard fitment is 19-inch wheels, there are optional 21-inch rims available, and let’s not forget the imposing Trident badge behind the side windows, another trademark for sure.
At the rear we get a set of taillights that took inspiration from the Giugiaro designed Maserati 3200 GT, with her unique boomerang design, and while the overall stance of the Maserati Grecale is already very sporty, once you opt for the Modena or Trofeo version, you’ll get a wider rear track that makes her look even more imposing, the design of the front grille remains the same for all versions, with chrome-plated lines in the GT and black in the Modena and Trofeo to bring out their sporty character.
Let’s take a closer look at the three different trim levels, which not only change the looks on the outside, but also for the interior, and the choice of color for each of these versions at launch has also been painstakingly deliberated:
The GT version embodies the brand’s most urban, minimal, and contemporary spirit. It is well suited to dynamic and curious global citizens who pay attention to fashion, yet have a refined style of their own. The interiors reflect this character: an environment that draws its inspiration less from the automotive sector than from interior design: sophisticated, unexpected, and unconventional. The cabin features a Saffiano leather dashboard insert, combined with burnished inserts on the central console and door panel. These are characterized by an unusual laser processing that re-interprets from a Maserati perspective the iconic Maglia Milano, a characteristic of the best jewelry and watchmaking.
For the GT version, the hues selected are warm and enveloping: as an alternative to the standard black trim, premium leather in a rich chocolate color, sophisticated greige or bold black with contrasting stitching is available as an option. The steering wheel is upholstered in leather, with fixed aluminum paddle shifters.
The Bronzo Opaco launch color is also the result of painstaking research: Bronzo, an enveloping bronze, with a matte and silky yet highly technical and minimal finish, is perfect for the forms of the Grecale; the contrast with the brushed chrome design cues makes it contemporary and sophisticated, enhancing its strong character. To complete the external look, the car features 19” alloy wheels (20” or 21” available as options), body-color bumpers and side skirts, window surrounds, and front grille inserts in brushed chrome and dual chrome-plated exhausts.
The Modena version is for those with an innate, timeless elegance, for fans of sport in the great outdoors. It is intended as a means to make the very best of your time and surroundings.
The interiors feature an embroidered and stitched graphic motif, which develops harmoniously across the dashboard, panels, and seats. Inspired by the recurring design in the architecture of Luigi Nervi, this motif enlivens and enhances the surfaces. The dialogue between sinuousness and formal rigor in the interior is also highlighted by the combination with gloss black inserts.
Multiple interior trims are available including a dark ash burl, an unusual, contemporary wood with a grey tone, and an open-pore finish, which enhances the tactile quality of the design cues.
The colors on offer are energetic and elegant: alongside the classic black leather, the other options available are a bold dark red or ice, a bright, fresh, and light shade.
The Grigio Cangiante launch color (which means “iridescent grey” is a light greyish blue) will not go unnoticed: an interposed three-layer color, it is the result of years of technological research on pigments and effects and is inspired by the freshness of summer light and the peace of mind that instills. The light, slightly amber background, paired with a cool mica tending towards blue, makes this color light and technical while remaining unaffected. The body features 20” alloy wheels, gloss black badging, front splitter, grille, window surrounds and inserts on the side skirts, and dark exhausts.
The Trofeo. The Trofeo embodies the most extreme aspect of Maserati, with the explicit focus on performance while never sacrificing comfort. This trim level is suited to sports enthusiasts who consider it in terms of performance and a constant personal challenge.
The Trofeo version expresses the coolness that can emanate from an object built around the disruptive force of the engine; the material research focuses on high-performance materials, such as the exposed, three-dimensional carbon fiber and perforated leather, paired with chevron motifs that emphasize the car’s dynamism. The contrasts become bolder: the black environments feature contrasting stitching, in yellow or red, but are also available in two-tone black/dark red and black/ice.
The Giallo Corse, launch color is highly assertive and tells of the unbreakable bond between Maserati and Modena: indeed, yellow combines the city’s two heraldic colors (yellow and blue), by mixing a yellow base with a blue mica, for a sporty, advanced look. Last but not least, the body features 21” alloy wheels, specific sport exhaust tips, and carbon fiber inserts on the front and rear bumpers, and on the side skirts.
Air suspension comes as standard on the Grecale Trofeo, and is an option on the Modena trim. The height of the air springs is closely related to the drive mode used. Six levels of suspension settings, are selectable by the user and related to drive modes. Total excursion 65 mm (3 inches). From normal mode, suspensions have a minimum of -35mm (-1.37 inches) in park mode and a maximum of +30mm (+1.18 inches) in OFF-ROAD mode. Last but not least, when the car is in PARKING mode, the height is adjusted to facilitate exit from the vehicle.
All it takes is a mere brush of the finger to access the technical features and shortcuts, so you now no longer need to take time to search for the controls you want. Two displays are included, the larger central 12.3” touchscreen and another 8.8” touchscreen for extra controls, both positioned ergonomically for the driver: easy to view, yet non-invasive. Rear passengers can also position the optional three-zone air conditioning to their liking, via a touchscreen in the rear seats.
Let’s take a look at some additional photos of the brand new Maserati Grecale:
