When we think of Maserati, images of large sedans and coupes with inspiring designs come to mind. The Italian brand, which has had an exciting and eventful existence, has always put forward these classic luxury standards, which has undoubtedly contributed to the stagnation of its range. The automaker now wants to start afresh with its MC20 supercar and a rather pressing desire for electrification. The new Grecale compact SUV encapsulates everything in a design of democratization.
Posted at 11:45 a.m.
Presented last week to observers and players in the automotive world, this newcomer will become, when it is launched on our market in the fall, the second Maserati SUV offered in Canada. Built on the solid reworked foundation of a cousin, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, it has a slightly longer wheelbase than the latter, which obviously accentuates its overall length. The rest of the measurement points are comparable to the Stelvio.
In terms of design, the Grecale – the name of a wind from the northeast of the Mediterranean – is resolutely Maserati with its front headlights placed high on the fenders, its grille with vertical strips and its triple side gills.
Hybrid, petrol and electric
To rake as wide as possible, this new model will deploy a rather extensive version notebook. As an introduction, the buyer will be offered a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder supported by an alternator-starter and an electronic compressor that compensates for the turbocharger’s response lag at low revs. Maximum power sits at 300 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque is constant from 2000 to 4000 rpm for smoothness. There is a gain of 25 hp for the intermediate Modena livery equipped with this same engine.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY MASERATI
The Grecale will stand out for the use of an optional air suspension and greater attention to soundproofing of vibrations and noise.
The most powerful variant, which will be named Trofeo like the other sports versions of the family, features mechanics derived from that of the MC20. The 3.0L biturbo V6 obviously loses horsepower along the way, but the 523 hp cavalry is nothing short of frail, ensuring a 0-100 km/h in 3.8 s. All the mechanics are bolted to an eight-speed ZF transmission, a safe bet.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY MASERATI
The Maserati Grecale relies mainly on touch keys for the usual controls, a major trend in the industry.
Eventually, Maserati will offer an all-electric Grecale. The Grecale Folgore is powered by a big 105 kWh battery and pumps out 590 lb-ft of torque to pack the initial punch. Its release is scheduled for 2023. These are the only details communicated by Maserati on this version for the moment.
From the rest, the Grecale will stand out for the use of an optional air suspension and greater attention to soundproofing of vibrations and noise.
The SUV will be offered with a starting bill of $75,200, which puts it at the high end of luxury compact SUVs. A Limited Edition livery, which will be offered only on the trident brand’s website, will be available at $90,850.