12 Apr 2022

Maserati’s Everyday Exceptional Compact SUV

As is tradition, Maserati’s new Grecale is named after a wind, a strong north-easterly that blows through Malta and the Western Mediterranean, and now bringing a new wave of technology, performance and design in the marque’s second SUV following the Levante.

Embodying Maserati’s all-Italian audacity in making luxury and exceptional performance part of the daily routine, the Grecale’s sculpted lines meld iconic design elements that are accented by the extensive use of wood, carbon fibre and leather.

Developed at the Maserati Innovation Lab in Modena, the all-wheel drive Grecale combines off-road capabilities with driving pleasure. Engines range from the conventional internal combustion to hybrid and, in a year’s time, the Grecale Folgore will be the first electric SUV in Maserati history.

An eight-speed automatic, both the 300 hp GT and 330 hp Modena versions of the Grecale are powered by the same four-cylinder mild hybrid engine, while the high-performance Trofeo’s 3.0L 530 hp petrol V6 is derived from the Nettuno engine fitted to Maserati’s top-end MC20 supercar.

Fitted with adaptive dampers and a height adjustable air suspension (optional on the four-cylinder models), the Trofeo edition sprints exhilaratingly from 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and tops out at 285 km/h if the foot is kept mashed to the floor.

The Maserati Vehicle Dynamic Control Module (VDCM) manages complete vehicular control to define Grecale’s comfort, driving dynamics and precision handling. For an even more immediate driving experience, the five configurable drive modes include Comfort, GT, Sport, Corsa (Trofeo only) and Off-Road. Corsa mode offers up the most extreme experience without any compromises, with traction control at a minimum and launch control switched on.

Embracing a new visual language first determined by the MC20, the Grecale’s low and imposing signature grille framing the Maserati Trident is complemented by the angular led headlights that flow into a more vertical body shape. The sleek and fluid profile contrasts visual forms with technical components highlighted by carbon fibre, flush door handles, and the design of the Trident-inspired alloy wheels. Inspired by the Giugiaro 3200 GT, the boomerang taillights integrate seamlessly with the trapezoidal line, made even more striking by the coupé-like cabin and finish, as well as the new exhaust design that visually describes the roar of a Maserati. The Trofeo edition is further differentiated by quad-tailpipes, rear diffuser, and a subtle boot spoiler.

Long a distinctive Maserati design feature, the clock, while still sporting a classic analog look, is now a digital interface with customisable themes. The dashboard is bare of switches and dials, with two large touch control screens ergonomically positioned towards the driver. By saying “Hey Maserati” voice control also transforms the Grecale into a veritable in-car concierge.

The Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA) Multimedia system manages an all-round sound experience ensured by the sonorous Maserati roar and the immersive Sonus faber 3D stereo which is upgradeable from 14 to 21-speakers and 1285-watts.