You will find the listing for the practical Maserati Grecale Trofeo under sports utility vehicle (SUV for short). But let’s be honest, named after a powerful Mediterranean wind and with a large Trident placed proudly on the front grill, this was never going to be just another SUV.
The Grecale we have borrowed is the Trofeo, which is fitted with a brilliant Nettuno V6 twin-turbo engine capable of producing 530 bhp, all delivered through a silky smooth 8-speed automatic gearbox. The lineup has two further options: a GT version with a four-cylinder mild hybrid producing 300 bhp and the Modena producing 330 bhp. A fully electric version using 400-volt technology will soon complete the Grecale range.
The Grecale is immediately recognisable as a Maserati, with design choices that nod to the brand’s long history. The triple-side air vents have been a recurring element since 1947. The boomerang-shaped taillights are reminiscent of the Giugiaro 3200 GT while blending seamlessly with the new Grecale’s clean, sculpted lines. This is a modern, cosmopolitan car that nonetheless retains an air of tradition, starting at around £100,000.
All the options for speed and sophistication
The Grecale Trofeo is strong, light, and spacious, perfectly balancing luxury and sportiness. Best in class for cabin space, the Grecale Trofeo boasts 6.5” rear controls for a 3-zone climate control system, merging comfort and exhilaration. The ability to reach 60 mph in a rapid 3.6 seconds with the kids and dog in tow means a trip to the park or the weekly shopping will never be the same – this is as close as it gets to a practical sports car. Should you find yourself running a little late, a top speed of 177 mph will easily make up for the lost time. Admittedly, this is not always recommended on run-of-mill grocery trips – you may spill the milk, and you definitely don’t want to do that when you have such a great-looking interior.
This top-of-the-range Trofeo is painted in Nero Tempesta complimented with amazing 21” Crio Matte alloy wheels priced at £ 98,000. Add to this a further £10,000 of personalisation and you have the car pictured in this article – yellow-painted brake callipers, carbon fibre twill, an extended climate package, and surround view camera are just a few options from a very tempting list of possibilities.
The Luxurious, Forward-Looking Interiors of the Grecale Trofeo
The interior design is a testament to avant-garde luxury. The seats are made of fine, hand-stitched leather, ventilated and heated for your comfort. Surfaces mix precious metals and aluminium elements for a uniquely delicate tactile experience, while the excellent Sonus Faber sound system takes advantage of bespoke subwoofer technology and excellent outside noise insulation to deliver a top-notch, 360º musical experience on every drive. Exceptionally, the sound system is connected to no less than 21 speakers and will have you listening to your favourite music in a way you have never experienced before.
The 60/40 split rear seat configuration and generous boot space with a flush-level boot sill for easy access allow you to bond very quickly with the car. Rear passengers are treated to two USB power supplies. Moving to the front there is a centre 2-piece glass touch screen with all the controls for the car, including satellite navigation, options for heating and cooling seats, and three choices of ambient lighting.
The wonderful dark Italian hide with contrasting yellow stitching covers all surfaces within the cabin, as though Maserati wants to remind you that “made in Italy” luxury is the driving force behind the quality of the materials being used. The front-mounted air vents and famous clock have been treated with chrome plating and exquisite attention to detail, while the use of carbon fibre detailing across the top of the door cards and the large centre storage compartment instantly lets you know you are in for something special. The panoramic roof helps to accentuate the feeling of space in a car which already has a best-in-class cabin size.
Technology
Meanwhile, a noticeable shift from analogue to innovative digital technology creates a distinctly futuristic atmosphere. The instrument cluster has gone digital with a 12.3’’ display you can customize – pick between Classic, Evolved, Relaxed, and Corsa configurations for an experience better tailored to your needs.
Drive modes, vehicle settings, and media can be accessed through the Central Display, while the Comfort Display lets you control seats, temperature, and lighting with a tap. Since the central panel isn’t cluttered with buttons and gear levers, this luxurious car incorporates a roomy armrest with cupholders instead, proving the benefits of digital minimalism.
The Grecale Trofeo boasts Level 2 Advanced Driving Assistance Systems – the highest level of support available on the market. Enjoy features like road signs and road works recognition, all of which can be projected thanks to a very clear heads-up display system allowing you to keep your eyes on the road. With the speedometer and rev counter supper imposed over the navigation map, there is very little else the driver needs. All of these commands are accessed through the buttons found on either side of the Trident adorning the centre of the steering boss.
The Grecale Tofeo is truly a car that embodies progress and looks to the future. Even the iconic Maserati mechanical clock has gone digital – and now doubles as an interactive voice assistant.
An Adaptable Driving Experience
The Grecale’s DNA becomes very apparent with outstanding road holding and a highly comfortable ride. This is partly down to the air ride system, which allows for no fewer than six height levels to be selected. The fit and finish of the body panels with tight shut lines are proof that Maserati has its sights firmly fixed on quality.
Switch between GT, Comfort, Off-Road, Sport and Corsa for a driving experience tailored to your circumstances. The GT is perfect for the open road, providing agile acceleration without sacrificing efficiency. Shifting is smooth and gradual, with moderate pedal sensitivity. Comfort mode was designed for city drives, with reduced engine boost and kickdown sensitivity. Efficiency is maximised, and driving feels effortless.
When you’re looking for a pulse-quickening ride, switch over to the Sport mode. Red lighting, always-open exhaust valves, and highly responsive pedals will have you roaring down the street. Your driving position will lower by 15mm to make the Grecale Trofeo more aerodynamic. The engine boost is great, and the acceleration will leave you breathless.
The experience only becomes more intense when you switch to Corsa mode. Responsiveness is maximised, and gear change is faster than ever. For the best experience, employ the Launch Control electronic aid to help you accelerate at full power from a standing start. The Grecale Trofeo’s top-class power-to-weight ratio and race-car-inspired engine will be noticeable as you accelerate to 177 mph. The exhaust valves are always open in Corsa mode, and the roar is deafening.
Final thoughts
Maybe the industry needs to add a new segment – Practical Sports Car? Cosmopolitan yet distinctly Italian, traditional but avant-garde, the Grecale Trofeo expertly balances different concepts, styles, and experiences. Its roomy, luxurious interior does nothing to undermine its sporty feel, or the power of its engine when it gets going. However, when you just want to drive through the city on the way to work, the Grecale Trofeo is capable of toning it down. Features such as the Comfort Mode and a vast array of smart-driving technology make it just as good at providing a simple, easy-going driving experience as it is at providing a heart-pounding ride.
To discover more, visit maserati.com
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Imagery courtesy of Top Gear and Maserati.