Maserati Grecale: A Comprehensive Overview

The Maserati Grecale, introduced in 2022, is a compact luxury crossover SUV that blends Italian design, exhilarating performance, and cutting-edge technology. As Maserati’s entry-level SUV positioned below the larger Levante, the Grecale (named after the Mediterranean wind, Gregale) combines style, practicality, and versatility to compete in the crowded luxury SUV market. Built on the Stellantis Giorgio platform, shared with the Alfa Romeo Stelvio and Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Grecale offers a range of powertrains, including mild-hybrid, petrol, and full-electric variants, catering to diverse driving preferences.

This article provides an in-depth look at the Maserati Grecale, covering its design, performance, technology, and more, along with frequently asked questions and useful links for further exploration.

Design and Styling

The Maserati Grecale stands out with its sleek, elegant design that embodies the brand’s signature Italian flair. Unlike traditional boxy SUVs, the Grecale features a flowing, curvy silhouette, resembling a tall wagon with a sporty, coupe-like aesthetic. Its front fascia sports the iconic Maserati grille, inspired by the MC20 supercar, complemented by ovoid headlamps and decorative triple portholes on the front fenders. The rear showcases boomerang-shaped taillights, reminiscent of the classic Maserati 3200 GT, designed by Italdesign Giugiaro.

The Grecale is larger than many competitors, measuring 4,859 mm in length and 1,948 mm in width, with an 83 mm longer wheelbase than the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, providing superior cabin space. Its exterior is customizable through Maserati’s Fuoriserie personalization program, allowing buyers to create a bespoke vehicle with unique colors, materials, and finishes at the Modena paint shop.

Inside, the Grecale offers a luxurious and modern cabin with high-quality materials like natural leather, carbon fiber, and wood. The interior features a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 12.3-inch HD touchscreen for the Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA), and an 8.8-inch secondary display for climate and vehicle settings. The optional Sonus Faber audio system, available in premium or high-premium configurations, delivers exceptional sound quality, with owners praising its crystal-clear bass and immersive 3D soundscape. However, some shared components with Stellantis models, such as window switches, may feel less premium.

Performance and Powertrains

The Grecale is available in multiple trims—GT, Modena, Trofeo, and the all-electric Folgore—each offering distinct performance characteristics:

• Grecale GT: Powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology (e-Booster), producing 296 horsepower. It accelerates from 0-62 mph in 5.6 seconds with a top speed of 149 mph.
• Grecale Modena: Uses the same 2.0-liter engine, tuned to 325 horsepower, achieving 0-62 mph in 5.3 seconds. It includes a limited-slip rear differential for enhanced handling.
• Grecale Trofeo: Features a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 “Nettuno” engine, derived from the MC20 supercar, delivering 523 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque. It sprints from 0-62 mph in 3.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 177 mph. The Trofeo includes an electronic locking rear differential and optional air suspension for superior dynamics.
• Grecale Folgore: Maserati’s first electric SUV, equipped with dual electric motors producing 550 horsepower. It achieves 0-62 mph in 4.1 seconds and has a top speed of 137 mph. The Folgore uses a 150 kWh T-shaped battery for a low driving position and extended range variants planned for 2025.

All models come with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, with the Trofeo featuring a rear-biased system for sportier handling. The Vehicle Dynamic Control Module (VDCM) enhances traction and performance, while optional air suspension (standard on Trofeo) offers six adjustable levels for road or off-road driving. Owners praise the Grecale’s agile handling, precise steering, and quiet cabin, though the base suspension on GT models may feel firm on rough roads.

Technology and Features

The Grecale is packed with advanced technology to enhance connectivity, safety, and driving pleasure:

• Maserati Connect: Allows remote control via smartphone, smartwatch, or virtual assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, enabling vehicle status checks, navigation updates, and in-car media streaming. The system supports an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot for up to eight devices.
• Infotainment: The MIA system, powered by Android Automotive OS, offers crisp graphics, navigation with real-time traffic, and smartphone mirroring (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto). However, some users note slight delays in touchscreen response.
• Safety: Standard features include frontal collision mitigation, parking sensors, and reverse automatic braking. The optional Driver Assistance package (standard on Modena) adds adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities.
• Interior Comfort: The Grecale boasts best-in-class cabin space, with ample head and legroom, a 570-liter cargo capacity, and a 6.5-inch rear touchscreen for three-zone climate control.

Driving Experience

The Grecale is designed to balance everyday practicality with sporty performance. Owners describe it as engaging and fun to drive, with the Trofeo standing out for its raucous V6 engine and addictive exhaust note. The GT and Modena offer sufficient power for most drivers, with the mild-hybrid system improving efficiency (EPA estimates: 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway). The Trofeo, while less efficient, delivers supercar-like acceleration and handling, rivaling the Porsche Macan. The Folgore provides a quieter, yet powerful, electric alternative, though it’s slightly slower than the Trofeo.

However, some owners report issues, such as unreliable lane assist or software glitches requiring frequent dealer visits. The air suspension is recommended for a smoother ride, especially with larger 20- or 21-inch wheels.

Pricing and Competitors

The 2025 Maserati Grecale starts at $71,395 for the base model, with the Modena around $75,000, the Trofeo near $100,000, and the Folgore at $110,495. Kelley Blue Book suggests potential discounts of $4,998–$7,588 below MSRP. Compared to rivals like the Porsche Macan ($60,000–$80,000), BMW X3 ($50,000+), Mercedes-Benz GLC ($50,000+), and Alfa Romeo Stelvio ($50,000+), the Grecale’s price is higher, justified by its exclusivity, design, and Maserati badge. However, resale values are lower than competitors, and annual maintenance costs around $800–$900, with no free maintenance program.

Owner Impressions

Owners praise the Grecale for its stunning design, luxurious interior, and engaging driving dynamics. One Modena owner called it “the most beautiful SUV on the market,” highlighting its comfortable seats, high-quality materials, and exceptional Sonus Faber audio. Trofeo owners describe it as “fast and fun,” with a significant discount on used models (up to 50% off original sticker price). However, reliability concerns, such as battery issues or software glitches, have been noted, and some owners find the lack of free maintenance a drawback compared to competitors like BMW or Jaguar.

FAQs

Q: What are the engine options for the Maserati Grecale?
A: The Grecale offers a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder mild-hybrid engine (296 hp in GT, 325 hp in Modena), a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 (523 hp in Trofeo), and a dual-motor electric powertrain (550 hp in Folgore).

Q: What is the price range of the Maserati Grecale?
A: Prices start at $71,395 for the base model, $75,000 for Modena, $100,000 for Trofeo, and $110,495 for Folgore. Discounts may be available.

Q: What is the fuel tank and cargo capacity?
A: The Grecale has a 64-liter fuel tank and 570 liters of cargo space.

Q: What safety features are included?
A: Standard features include automated emergency braking, parking sensors, and reverse braking. Optional features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and Level 2 autonomous driving.

Q: How does the Grecale compare to the Porsche Macan?
A: The Grecale offers comparable handling and more distinctive styling but is pricier. The Macan S has a V6 option at a lower price, but the Grecale Trofeo outperforms it in power and acceleration.

Q: Is the Grecale reliable?
A: Owner reviews are mixed, with some reporting software and lane-assist issues. Check Edmunds or Grecale Forum for real owner feedback before buying.

Q: What are the color options for the Grecale?
A: Colors vary by market, but options include Blu Atmosfera, Nero, Grigio Lava, and more. The Fuoriserie program offers custom colors. Check Maserati’s official configurator for details.

Q: Is there an electric version of the Grecale?
A: Yes, the Grecale Folgore is a full-electric SUV with 550 hp and an extended range variant planned for 2025.

Useful Links

• Maserati Official Website – Grecale – Configure your Grecale, check pricing, and explore trims.
• Maserati Grecale Forum – Join discussions, read owner reviews, and share experiences.
• Car and Driver – 2025 Maserati Grecale Review – Detailed specs, performance, and comparisons.
• Edmunds – 2025 Maserati Grecale – Expert reviews, pricing, and consumer feedback.
• Kelley Blue Book – Grecale Pricing – Current pricing and fair purchase price data.
• Top Gear – Maserati Grecale Review – In-depth driving impressions and comparisons.
• Autocar – Grecale Folgore Review – Insights on the electric Grecale.
• Maserati Connect – Learn about connectivity features and smart integration.

Conclusion

The Maserati Grecale is a compelling choice for buyers seeking a luxurious, stylish, and performance-oriented compact SUV. Its blend of Italian design, versatile powertrains, and advanced technology makes it a standout, though its premium price and mixed reliability feedback warrant careful consideration. Whether you opt for the efficient GT, powerful Trofeo, or eco-friendly Folgore, the Grecale delivers an “everyday exceptional” experience that lives up to Maserati’s legacy.

For prospective buyers, test-driving the Grecale and researching owner experiences on forums like grecaleforum.com are recommended to ensure it meets your needs. With its unique blend of exclusivity and performance, the Grecale is a worthy contender in the luxury SUV segment.