Maserati is a name to conjure with: A name indelibly embedded in Italian automotive folklore. Now there’s a new sport utility vehicle (SUV) model; the Grecale and it is beautiful. The Grecale is available in three versions: the GT, powered by a four-cylinder mild hybrid engine capable of delivering 300 bhp. Modena, with a four-cylinder 330bhp mild hybrid engine; and Trofeo, powered by a high-performance 530bhp petrol V6 power-plant with all three versions driving through an eight-speed auto gearbox. In the fullness of time, the Grecale range will be completed with the inevitable debut of a fully electric version, using 400V technology.
On The Outside
The design of the Maserati Grecale embraces the Italian marque’s tradition of that which distinguishes every new model, the low and imposing trident-badged grille. The profile is notable for its contrast between purity of design and practical needs, this being a mid-sized SUV. The body overall is fluid by design, featuring meandering, visual forms and the technical use of carbon fibre technology. At the back, the boomerang-shaped tail-lights are inspired by the earlier Giugiaro 3200 GT and fit in with the trapezoidal line of the body, made even more striking by the coupé effect of the cabin shape.
On The Inside
This fine new SUV offers impressive spaciousness and comfort, with best-in-class interior space, sound-deadening quality and extensive use of fine materials such as wood, carbon fibre and leather.
Within the cabin, the standout tech specs include the traditional jewel-like clock face, only now it’s digital for the first time, and of course there’s voice control. As would be expected, everything now is touch-based and the technology is controlled from the displays: A large 12.3” central screen, the biggest yet in a Maserati, plus there’s another 8.8” display for the extra controls and, yes, a third for the passengers in the rear seats.
The in-car experience is managed from the Maserati ‘Intelligent Assistant Multimedia’ system, incorporating state-of-the-art infotainment with surround-sound thanks to an immersive Sonus Faber 3D sound system. At Premium level this includes 14 speakers, or 21 speakers on demand at High Premium level. Maserati Connect joins all the dots for the very latest in connectivity.
On The Road
The buzz-word here is ‘drive-ability’. It’s a Maserati, so that’s clearly obvious with the required impeccable handling and vivid acceleration. The traffic light sprint from 0 to 62mph (100 km/h) is over in a scant 3.8 seconds before rushing on to a top speed of 177mph (285 km/h) on the Trofeo variant. The aforementioned extraordinary handling is delivered by the new ‘Vehicle Dynamic Control Module’ system and the all-wheel drive. There are five drive modes to choose from : Comfort, GT, Sport, Corsa (Trofeo only and not for the faint-hearted) and off road.
It’s easy to say that this is just another SUV among very many, but the pedigree makes all the difference. Early test drives of this new model indicate that the car offers decent steering that is accurate and well-weighted, augmented by powerful brakes.
The Grecale, smaller sibling of the big Levante, is handsomely styled and desirably outfitted. The modern mild-hybrid engines deliver the goods on both performance and reasonable economy for a Maserati. If you want all of the thrills then opt for the blisteringly quick Trofeo. Contact us here at MHH Japanese Cars for more details on the fabulous vehicle which will be on sale later in 2022.
