Maserati Grecale SUV finally broke cover, packs V6 mill

KUALA LUMPUR: Maserati has finally given relief to the sore eyes waiting for the Grecale debut for a long time. Carrying “The Everyday Exceptional” tag, the Grecale is the brand’s second SUV after Levante and will be on offer in three variants: GT, Modena, and Trofeo in the global markets. 

The automaker has engineered the SUV to accommodate all sorts of drivetrains, be it internal combustion, hybrid, or fully electric drivetrains. With this level of flexibility, the Italian SUV stands head-to-head against the Porsche Macan, which itself is ready to get a pure-EV version next year. It is important to note that Grecale Folgore will be Maserati’s full-electric SUV.

As of now, the available powertrain choices for the new Maserati Grecale comprises - a 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine delivering 530 PS of power and 620 Nm of peak torque. It is a re-tuned version of the ‘Nettuno’ mill first introduced with the MC20 supercar. The Grecale Trofeo packed with it runs from zero to 100 kmph in 3.8 seconds and clocks a top speed of 285 kmph.

The other power mills available for the GT and Modena trims are a 300PS mild-hybrid petrol, and a 330PS mild-hybrid petrol, respectively.

As for the transmission, all engines are coupled with an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox sending power to both axles. Also part of the kit is a self-locking limited-slip differential that is optional on the GT.

Ensuring great handling is a Vehicle Dynamics Control Module (VDCM) that features four driving modes - Comfort, GT, Sport, and Off-road. An additional Corsa mode is also on offer with the Trofeo variant which might be included for track use.

Coming to the styling quotient of Maserati’s new SUV, here we find a close match to the bigger Levante, although the influence of the MC20 is also apparent on the low and imposing grille and silhouette. At the rear, new boomerang-shaped tail lights inspired by the 3200 GT sports and a new-look exhaust steal the show. Differentiating the performance-focused Trofeo is a wider rear track, bespoke bumpers, and chrome details.

The signature paint shades available for the different Grecale variants are - 

• Bronzo Opaco (matte bronze) - Grecale GT
• Grigio Cangiante (metallic white) - Grecale Modena
• Giallo Corse (yellow) - Grecale  Trofeo

Against the measuring tape, the Grecale measures 4,846 mm in length, 1,670 mm in height, and 2,163 mm in width. The wheelbase measures 2,901 mm.

Now, it’s time to move inside the new Maserati Grecale. Here, the broader look clearly tells us that the latest SUV is much different from the brand’s existing models. The cabin benefits from a new four-screen set-up adding enhanced digital functionality, which also enables a minimalist, switchgear-light design. Included in the four screens are - a 12.3-inch infotainment unit built upon Google’s Android Automotive OS, a digital driver display, an 8.8-inch touchpad for HVAC controls, and a new digital clock positioned at the top of the dash. 

Also part of the kit is a 21-speaker sound system, Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, Maserati Connect telematics system, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems such as active cruise control, and autonomous emergency braking. Maserati also offers plenty of leather and premium materials that vary according to the variant.

The Maserati Grecale will go on sale in the Old Continent this year, with the electric Folgore trim following a year later.

Also read: Maserati teased its first fully-electric car, the GranTurismo Folgore