2024 Maserati Grecale Expert Review
Reviewed by Alex Leanse
Following the Levante as Maserati's second SUV model, the Grecale was introduced for 2023. Named after a wind that blows through the Mediterranean region, the Grecale compact luxury SUV shares its architecture with the Alfa Romeo Stelvio. Currently the Grecale is offered with turbocharged engines, but an all-electric version is in the works. Competitors include the Porsche Macan, BMW X4, and Polestar 3.
What's New
- Updated steering wheel on all trim levels
- Modena trim rolls on new wheel style
- Trofeo model gets standard adaptive headlights
- Fuoriserie program offers deep personalization potential
What We Think
In a segment full of compelling options, the 2024 Maserati Grecale is distinguished by Italian idiosyncrasies. Those aspects appeal to emotion but limit the SUV's success as a daily driver.
Style is a strong suit of the Grecale, but that sporty design isn't all for show—the Grecale drives with Maserati moves. Even with the base I-4 engine it accelerates well and has responsive steering, attributes that are enhanced in the V-6-powered Trofeo model. Although there's good ride compliance with the standard suspension, the Trofeo's air springs are rather stiff.
Despite its enthusiastic spirit, the Grecale is still practical thanks to its spacious cabin and cargo area. Tech features abound—the reconfigurable digital clock is a nice touch—but Maserati's user interface isn't the easiest to navigate. Furthermore, the Grecale's propensity to honk in response to functions so simple as opening the door becomes tiresome. Also, its big, gorgeous paddle shifters get in the way of using buttons on and around the steering wheel.
With a price tag that can surpass six figures when fully loaded, the Grecale needs to be fantastic to be a genuine rival to its continental competitors. We can't say it's ultimately the best executed luxury SUV out there, but its looks and performance may so enamor some drivers that they'll spend big to put a Grecale in their driveway.
Performance and MPGs
Regardless of which engine is selected, every 2024 Grecale uses an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD.
The entry-level Grecale GT uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 engine that makes 296 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. Maserati claims a 0-60-mph time of 5.3 seconds for the Grecale GT. Fuel economy is EPA-rated at 22/29 mpg city/highway.
The midrange Grecale Modena also uses the turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4, but it's upgraded to produce 325 hp; torque remains 332 lb-ft. According to Maserati, this model can hit 60 mph in 5.0 seconds, but our test team measured a best run of 5.3 seconds. Fuel economy also rates at 22/29 mpg.
For more performance, the Grecale Trofeo packs a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine with 523 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque. That engine is called Nettuno, a high-tech mill also found in the MC20 supercar. In MotorTrend testing, the Grecale Trofeo launched to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. For that extra power and speed, fuel economy drops to 18/25 mpg.
Hybrid and All-Electric Grecale?
In Maserati's transition to becoming an entirely electric automaker, it's skipping over hybrids and going straight to full EVs. Thus, there won't be a Grecale hybrid, but an all-electric Grecale is in the works. Known as the Grecale Folgore, it'll be the most powerful and quickest version in the lineup, packing up to 590 lb-ft of torque. With a 105-kWh battery and advanced electrical architecture, the Grecale Folgore could charge quickly, moving from 10 to 80 percent in about 20 minutes. Subtle styling cues and unusual wheel designs visually distinguish the Folgore from other Grecale models.
Safety Features
Few driver assist or active safety features are included as standard on the 2024 Grecale. Most of these features are contained within the optional Driver Assistance Plus package, which brings adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, intersection collision mitigation, road sign recognition, and more.
Technology
Every Grecale comes with multiple digital displays. Ahead of the driver is a 12.3-inch gauge cluster display, and beside it on the dashboard is a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen; Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity is standard. Further down is an 8.8-inch touchscreen used for various climate and vehicle functions. What looks like a round analog clock on the dashboard is also another small reconfigurable display.
Maserati offers 21-speaker Sonus Faber audio for those who want to elevate above the standard 14-speaker audio system. Other premium tech features include a head-up display, rear-seat touchscreen, and surround-view camera system.
What Is Maserati Fuoriserie?
Like BMW has its Individual program and Mercedes-Benz has Manufaktur, Maserati has Fuoriserie. That's Italian for "custom-built," a fitting name given the special paint, upholstery, brake caliper, and wheel choices offered by Fuoriserie. The Grecale can now be ordered with Fuoriserie options, showcased by a GT model created in collaboration with soccer star David Beckham. This vehicle wears fetching green paint and brown leather upholstery, each part of the Fuoriserie collection.
Recommended Trim
The midrange Grecale Modena trim seems like the best choice. The SUV comes with more power and features than the entry-level GT trim, while being less expensive and more comfortable than the high-end Trofeo version. The 2024 Grecale Modena starts at approximately $80,000.
