Maserati has unveiled only the second SUV in the luxury Italian brand’s 108-year history, a fully-electric version of which will arrive next year.
The Grecale is the second SUV to don the Trident badge since the larger Levante’s arrival in 2016, and, with the confirmed arrival of the all-electric ‘Folgore’ range, will simultaneously become Modena’s second fully-electric model. The first is set to be a 1,200 hp+ example of the GranTurismo, as outlined by Maserati last week.
Maserati GrecaleG T
Initially boasting a range of ICE powertrains when it goes on sale later this year, the Grecale sits atop the ‘Giorgio’ platform that underpins the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, albeit one that has been heavily updated for electric propulsion. Measuring 4,846 mm long (15.8 ft), 2,163 mm wide (7 ft) and standing 1,670 mm high (5.5 ft), and featuring as it does a 2,901 mm (9.5 ft) wheelbase, the Grecale will have the likes of BMW’s iX3 and Mercedes EQC in its crosshairs.
Visually, the Grecale evolves Maserati’s new design language that debuted with the MC20 sports car in 2020. The “low and imposing grille” is showcased in particular, as are the newly designed headlights, which contrast starkly with the Levante’s horizontal examples and reference the luxury Italian brand’s new ‘vertical’ design philosophy. At the rear, tribute is paid to the late ‘90’s / early ‘00s 3200 GT grand tourer courtesy of the ‘boomerang’-style taillamps.
Read more: Maserati’s EV range will start with the 1200hp+ GranTurismo
Larger wheels, wider rear tracks and other ‘dynamic’ accoutrements are expected to feature heavily on the higher-spec ‘Modena’ and ‘Trofeo’ packages, the latter of which will also feature active suspension as standard. A bespoke ‘Rame Folgore’ metallic paint and six-spoke wheels will be exclusively available for the EV.
Maserati Grecale Modena
Though the Folgore-specific interior has yet to be revealed, notable highlights of the overhauled ICE cabin include three new digital displays – a 12.3-inch infotainment screen (the largest yet on a Maserati), an 8.8-inch visualization for the driver, and a third for rear passengers – and a 14-speaker Sonus surround sound system, which can be optioned with 21 speakers. Seemingly foregoing the use of recycled materials in the cabin, something that’s rapidly becoming a staple of EV models, Maserati cites “extensive use of fine materials such as wood, carbon fibre and leather” in an effort to further make the Grecale “stands out in terms of spaciousness and comfort,” particularly given the competition.
Maserati GrecaleG T
Interestingly, Maserati’s traditional clockface on the dash is fully digital for the first time, allowing it to double-up as an “in-car concierge” complete with voice activation.
Maserati has yet to confirm technical specifications of the EV Grecale Folgore, but has stated the platform will be electrified to 400 volts. It’s anticipated the powertrain will feature a 105 kWh battery and a rear-driving electric motor – at least – capable of producing up to 540 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque, meaning EV alternatives to the ICE’s 3.8-second 0-100 km/h sprint time won’t be too short of the mark.
