The 2023 Maserati Grecale joins the group as the Italian brand’s second SUV and offers multiple powertrain options when it goes on sale later this year. The 2023 Grecale will be available with ICE and hybrid options, while an all-electric “Folgore” version will join the range later.
It’s important to note that the Grecale is targeting models like the Porsche Macan, Jaguar F-Pace and BMW X3, located below the larger Levante in the Italian brand’s lineup. It measures 4,859 mm (191 inches) long, 1,979 mm (78 in) wide and 1,659 mm (65 inches) high, and has a wheelbase of 2,901 mm (114 inches). The Grecale introduces Maserati’s VDCM (Vehicle Dynamic Control Module), an evolution of the MC20. The system predictively controls vehicle dynamics (vertical, longitudinal, lateral), working in conjunction with selectable driving modes to deliver a more personalized driving experience. An eight-speed automatic gearbox from ZF and all-wheel drive are also standard across the range.
The 4-cylinder and 2.0-liter models
The new Grecale 2023 will be available at the end of 2022 in four equipment variants, namely GT, Modena and Trofeo, in addition to a limited launch edition “PrimaSerie”. Both the GT and Modena feature a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder semi-hybrid powertrain, in two different states of tuning: the most powerful Modena offers 325 horsepower (330 PS), 30 additional horsepower to the GT’s 296 HP (300PS). Both produce the same maximum torque figure spanning about 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) from 2000 to 5000 rpm. The Grecale hybrid’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine features a classic turbocharger and electric compressor, as well as a belt-start generator and a 48-volt battery.
F1-inspired Trophy Edition
The Trofeo will be Grecale’s top-notch performance-oriented variant, reaching 100 kilometres per hour in 3.8 seconds, and 200 kilometres per hour in 13.8 seconds and a top speed of 177 mph (285 km/h). The engine, a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 with 523 horsepower (530 PS) and 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) of peak torque between 3000 and 5500 rpm, is said to be heavily inspired by Formula One and is a development of the Nettuno engine found in the MC20.
Key differences include a wet crankcase, unlike the MC20’s dry sump, and cylinder deactivation, allowing the V6’s right bank to turn off completely. It retains the Maserati Twin Combustion (MTC) technology that made its debut on the Nettuno. Both the Modena and Trofeo get a 34mm wider rear track, while the latter has a more aggressive bodywork, with the grille shifted forward and a split exhaust system.
The brake system
Stop the Trophy is a set of six-piston Brembo calipers at the front, with four-piston units at the rear. A separate “Corsa” drive mode is available with the Trofeo, sharing throttle response and transmission shift speeds. Traction control has also been adjusted to allow for more slippage, in addition to launch control. Air suspension is standard on the high-specification Trofeo and optional on the rest of the model range. Air suspension versions come with height-adjustable, with six preset modes, including a 30mm lift in off-road mode and a 30mm drop in parking mode to help get in and out.
Part of its aesthetic
The main feature is the grille, with Maserati stating that they sought to make it imposing, without being excessive. However, seen in profile, the new Italian SUV becomes somewhat less distinctive. The soft lines become less distinctive, but maserati’s traditional gills and trident on the C-pillar redeem things.
Moving backwards, the Grecale features thinner boomerang taillights inspired by the Giugiaro 3200 GT. It is described that the sloping rear window gives a “coupe effect” to the cabin, but in reality, the result is clean and measured, without crossing the currents of different body styles as evidenced by some rivals.
Modern technology and elegant style inside the cabin
The Grecale’s cabin appears to be a key area of progress for Maserati. Previous models, including the Levante, have fallen short when it comes to interior design, with the traditional design looking likeand older versus rival offerings from Audi and Mercedes. The Levante, on the other hand, adopts a split double screen in the center, similar in concept to what was pioneered with the Range Rover Velar. The top center screen is a 12.3-inch panel, complemented by an 8.8-inch unit below, dubbed the “comfort panel.”
The downside is that the new design sacrifices a lot of physical buttons, leading the driver to interact with touchscreen inputs for essential functions. Maserati claims there are four screens inside, but aside from the two central displays and the gauge cluster, you might be wondering where the number four is. That’s until you realize it, one of them is counted as the digital clock, also known as the digital smartwatch, which sits on top of the dashboard. It is a novelty for Maserati and can be used as a compass or G-force meter.
Premieres sound system
The Grecale comes with two new Sonus Faber sound systems, the highest-end option consisting of 21 speakers and 3D sound with a power of up to 1200 W. There are wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which run through Maserati’s Intelligent Assistant multimedia system. MIA itself is based on Andriod Auto and is said to offer a tablet-like user experience.
Grecale Folgore all-electric launches next year
An all-electric Grecale Folgore is gearing up for production next year. The first all-electric Maserati will feature 400V technology, giving the car a disadvantage for competitors who have been confirmed to use the faster charging 800V architecture, such as the upcoming Macan. Unlike other Stellantis models, the Grecale will not be mounted on a dedicated SLTA EV platform, but will use modified ICE-based bases.
Although specific outputs have yet to be revealed, the Grecale BEV will be equipped with a 105 kWh battery and will offer up to 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque. The Grecale Folgore will also feature a unique color palette for the rest of the lineup, created based on the Northern Lights.
