Maserati’s Entry into the Accessible Luxury SUV Market Draws on Supercar Engineering

While luxury carmakers in Italy’s “Motor Valley” often focus on highly exclusive, multi-million dollar models, Maserati has recently pivoted towards a more mainstream presence. This strategic shift, while expanding reach, has sometimes impacted the brand’s image of rarity and high performance. Now, bolstered by its position within the Stellantis group, Maserati is attempting to regain its prestigious standing. This involves launching its high-performance MC20 supercar, priced around $210,000, while simultaneously integrating technology derived from that supercar into a more accessible vehicle. The result is the 2023 Maserati Grecale, a compact mid-size SUV designed to compete with German rivals at a starting price of $63,500. This move represents Maserati’s ambition to offer aspects of its supercar pedigree within a more achievable, Maserati Entry Level Supercar-adjacent segment.

The Strategy: Why an Entry-Level SUV?

Speaking at a preview event in West Hollywood, Bill Peffer, Maserati’s CEO of North America, addressed how the new entry-level Grecale aims to enhance brand desirability. Peffer noted, “Following mass market, the luxury space has gravitated towards SUVs, and we’ve had a very good offering [the Levante] since 2017.” He explained that having only one SUV limited their consideration among potential buyers compared to competitors with broader SUV lineups. The Grecale, therefore, “actually helps legitimize Maserati further as a choice for performance luxury SUV.”

Supercar DNA: The Nettuno Engine Connection

A key element linking the Grecale to Maserati’s high-performance roots is the inclusion of a detuned version of the MC20’s 3.0-liter twin-turbo Nettuno V-6 engine in the top-tier Grecale Trofeo variant. This powerplant incorporates the same Formula 1-derived twin-spark-plug, pre-chamber combustion system found in the MC20’s engine – a technology Peffer highlighted for its ability to produce “massive power from a relatively small displacement.” While the MC20 boasts 630 hp, the Grecale Trofeo delivers a robust 523 hp and over 457 ft-lbs of torque. The Trofeo variant also features an adaptive air suspension, an electronic limited-slip differential, and high-performance Brembo brakes capable of stopping the SUV from 62 mph in under 131 feet. Providing information on luxury cars and performance vehicles can be helpful for those exploring their options, perhaps looking for a [list of all supercars].

Derived from the Maserati MC20’s Nettuno engine, the Grecale Trofeo’s 3.0-liter, twin-turbo V-6 delivers 457 ft lbs of torque.
Close-up view of the 3.0-liter twin-turbo Nettuno V6 engine in the Maserati Grecale Trofeo.

Peffer emphasized the significance of the Nettuno engine, stating, “As you know, in the past, a lot of our power plants have been sourced from Ferrari… The one in the MC20 is Maserati designed, Maserati built and exclusive to Maserati. This doesn’t get shared anywhere else.” This exclusivity is crucial for reinforcing Maserati’s distinct identity. Potential buyers exploring high-performance options might also be interested in finding [best supercars under 250k].

Platform Sharing and Model Variants

While the engine highlights Maserati’s unique engineering, the Grecale’s architectural platform is shared within the Stellantis group. Though specifics were not confirmed, Peffer did not deny a suggestion that the Alfa Romeo Stelvio shares the same underpinnings, while stressing that the Grecale remains a distinct offering.

The Grecale lineup includes two additional trim levels below the Trofeo, both equipped with mild-hybrid four-cylinder powertrains and an eight-speed transmission. The base Grecale GT offers 296 hp and nearly 332 ft-lbs of torque, while the mid-level Grecale Modena ups the output to 325 hp. Even without the Nettuno engine, all Grecale variants share styling cues from the MC20, including the grille and headlamps, along with taillights that pay tribute to the 1998 Maserati 3200 GT designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro. For those interested in performance vehicles across different fuel types, exploring [hybrid supercars 2022] offers another perspective on integrating different power sources.

Drive Modes and Performance

All three Grecale options feature four standard drive modes: Comfort, GT, Sport, and Off-Road. The Trofeo variant adds an exclusive Corsa (Race) mode. Performance metrics vary across the lineup: the Trofeo achieves 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 3.6 seconds, the Modena in 5.0 seconds, and the GT in 5.3 seconds. Top speeds are 177 mph for the Trofeo and 149 mph for the GT and Modena.

Cabin Features and Technology

Inside the cabin, the Grecale boasts impressive technology and luxury touches. A standard 14-speaker Sonus faber sound system is included, with an optional upgrade to a 21-speaker, 1,000-watt setup from the Italian audio specialist. The Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA) infotainment system takes center stage, featuring a 12.3-inch display – the largest ever offered by Maserati – positioned above an 8.8-inch control screen.

Maserati Grecale interior infotainment screens: 12.3-inch main display and 8.8-inch control screen.
Maserati Grecale interior infotainment screens: 12.3-inch main display and 8.8-inch control screen.

The MIA platform supports voice commands, responding to “Hey, Maserati,” akin to systems in rival vehicles. Another notable feature is a wearable key, designed to resemble a stylish timepiece.

The Electric Future: Grecale Folgore

Looking ahead, Maserati has announced a fully electric version, the Grecale Folgore. Peffer explained the brand’s decision to invest directly in full electrification rather than focusing on plug-in hybrid technology, which they view as transitional for the US market. The Grecale Folgore, expected about a year after the initial launch, will feature a 105 kWh battery and project 590 ft-lbs of torque, aligning with the growing trend towards [electric supercars for sale] and high-performance EVs.

Exterior view of the all-electric Maserati Grecale Folgore SUV.
Exterior view of the all-electric Maserati Grecale Folgore SUV.

Limited Edition Launch

Currently available for a limited time is a special launch edition of the Grecale Modena. This version comes with select premium upgrades, including adaptive air suspension, 21-inch wheels, and a dual-paned panoramic sunroof. Available exclusively through Maserati’s online reservation site for the US and Canada, this presale offers early customers priority production, with initial deliveries anticipated in the fall.

Conclusion

The introduction of the Grecale, alongside the MC20 supercar, positions Maserati on a strategic tightrope, aiming to capture market share with a more accessible model while preserving its high-performance luxury image. By infusing the entry-level Grecale with engineering DNA from the MC20 supercar, Maserati seeks to offer a compelling blend of accessibility, practicality, and authentic performance heritage to English-speaking readers interested in premium automotive news. Successfully navigating this balance will be key to redefining Maserati’s place in the modern luxury automotive landscape.