(March 23, 2022) MILAN — Maserati is set to challenge such popular SUVs as the Porsche Macan and BMW X3 with the Grecale midsize SUV. It is Maserati's second SUV after the larger Levante. It will arrive in European dealerships in the third quarter and in the U.S. by the end of 2022, and it will be come with a regular gasoline engine and two mild-hybrid versions. An EV will launch in 2024.

The Grecale sits on a Maserati-reworked version of the Giorgio platform that underpins the Alfa Romeo Stelvio midsize SUV. It will be built alongside the Stelvio in a Stellantis plant in Cassino, Italy. The Grecale is named after a northeasterly Mediterranean wind, following a long-standing Maserati tradition.  

Three versions will be rolled out at launch — GT, powered by a four-cylinder mild hybrid engine capable of delivering 300 hp; Modena, with a four-cylinder 330-hp mild hybrid engine; and the powerful Trofeo, equipped with a high-performance twin-turbocharged 3.0L 523-hp gas V6 based on the Nettuno engine fitted to the MC20.  To complete the range, the Grecale Folgore, the 100% electric version with 400V technology, will will feature a 105-kilowatt-hour battery.

The new SUV stands out in terms of spaciousness and comfort, boasting an impressive set of “best-in-class” features. Maserati says it is best-in-class in terms of interior space, drivability, handling, acceleration — 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds on the Trofeo and top speed 177 mph on the Trofeo — sound quality and extensive use of fine materials such as wood, carbon fibre and leather. All three versions of the Grecale are four-wheel drive.

The design of Grecale embraces Maserati’s new visual symbol, which distinguishes every new model since the MC20. The front features a low and imposing grille. The profile is notable for its contrast between purity and technique, with a highly fluid body featuring meandering, visual forms and its technical components highlighted by the use of carbon fibre. In the rear, the boomerang taillights are inspired by the Giugiaro 3200 GT and fit in with the trapezoidal line, made even more striking by the coupé effect of the cabin and its finish like a sports car's.

The interior has a classic instrument cluster with a central 12.3-inch panel plus a smaller 8.8-inch comfort panel. Most functions are operated by touch control.

Maserati said this month it will launch only battery-electric vehicles from 2024 while continuing to sell existing combustion engine variants. By 2030, it aims to sell only full-electric vehicles.

Next year Maserati will launch the GranTurismo coupe and GranCabrio convertible with full-electric and gasoline drivetrains. By 2025, Maserati will unveil successors to the Quattroporte large sedan and Levante large SUV. Both will come as EVs only.  A full-electric version of the MC20 will also be launched by 2025.