2023 Maserati Grecale: An Adept Competitor to Porsche With All-Wheel Drive, Up to 523 Horsepower

The Grecale debuts with three distinct trims: GT, Modena, and Trofeo. Performance escalates progressively with each variant, with the base powerplant being a 296 hp mild-hybrid 2.0-liter four-cylinder. The Modena trim boosts the output to 325 hp, retaining the same basic power unit as the GT. However, the Trofeo takes a significant leap by utilizing a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6, generating 523 hp and 457 pound-feet of torque. This surpasses the Porsche Macan Turbo’s 434 hp by a substantial margin and even outperforms the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio’s 505 hp.

It’s worth noting that the V6 in the Grecale Trofeo differs from the aforementioned MC20’s powerplant. While it does feature pre-chamber ignition like the Nettuno engine, it utilizes a wet-sump lubrication system instead of a dry sump. Additionally, the Trofeo is equipped with cylinder deactivation for enhanced fuel efficiency, allowing it to deactivate a complete bank of cylinders during highway cruising. These features do not detract from the impressive power output, but it wouldn’t be accurate to classify it as a supercar engine.

All-wheel drive is standard on every Grecale, with the option of air suspension available for any trim, while the Trofeo already comes equipped with it.

The performance metrics for the top-tier Trofeo are remarkable, achieving 60 mph in 3.6 seconds and reaching a top speed of 177 mph. While we’re primarily discussing the most capable Grecale variant, that’s clearly Maserati’s current focus. However, this will likely shift with the arrival of the Grecale Folgore in 2023.

Last week, Maserati announced that all its future vehicles will be offered as electric models by 2025. The Grecale will undoubtedly be a part of this transition and will mark Maserati’s debut in the electric SUV segment, preceding even the larger Levante. It has the potential to become the flagship Grecale model, providing the same luxurious experience as its internal combustion engine counterparts.

Inside the Maserati, you’ll find the usual components such as leather, accent lighting, and indeed, touchscreens in 2022. The primary infotainment screen boasts a 12.3-inch size and houses 15 million pixels, a record for Maserati. Additionally, there’s a smaller 8.8-inch screen for managing the HVAC system; if you prefer physical controls, we apologize. Lastly, the digital instrument cluster offers extensive customization options and spans 12.3 inches too.

As standard, the Grecale features a Sonus Faber sound setup with 14 speakers, but for a more deluxe experience, an optional package can equip the Grecale with 21 speakers. Judging the quality without hearing it firsthand is challenging, but you can be certain that you’ll enjoy listening to Luciano Pavarotti at impressive volumes.

The Grecale is set for release this summer, starting at slightly above $65,000 for the GT variant. Although Maserati hasn’t disclosed the pricing for the Trofeo, it’s expected to exceed $80,000.

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