Aussies are loopy for hi-po SUVs within the mid-size luxurious section, with at least six heritage manufacturers within the combine however solely the made-in-Italy 2024 Maserati Grecale Trofeo can boast a full-blown supercar engine below its bonnet and that oh-so-famous trident grille emblem.

Shoehorned deep into the engine bay is similar powerhouse 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged Nettuno V6 engine from Maserati’s MC20 mid-engined supercar, however for a few modifications higher suited to daily-driver duties.

Within the wickedly fast MC20 this engine makes use of a dry sump making  463kW at 7500rpm and 730Nm from 3000rpm to 5500rpm whereas within the Grecale Trofeo it’s detuned and will get a moist sump for a most output of 390kW at 6500rpm and 620Nm between 3000rpm and 5500rpm.

However, its efficiency out of blocks is on par with a number of of its rivals, which is to say it’s rattling fast; however I’d counsel that’s not the one cause some consumers will gravitate in direction of Maserati’s providing  over extra established high-performance nameplates.  

Take the man within the my very own avenue, and full-disclosure, he’s obtained an previous GranTurismo parked in his storage beside his Benz work van. He’s had a Grecale Trofeo on order from the second he noticed it within the steel at an early reveal in Sydney, and easily received’t be swayed by me or anybody else that may have posed a number of equally tasty high-powered choices to think about.

For some, the storied Maserati model with its iconic Trident badges and consummate luxurious fitouts elevate the top-shelf Grecale to a extra unique standing that tends to take a seat above its go-fast rivals, even the range-topping Porsche Macan GTS.

It’s not outright attractive just like the really gorgeous new-generation GranTurismo, however then not one of the luxurious go-fast SUVs actually are, given their high-riding, space-driven, daily-driver design necessities.

However, the grille, facet strakes and Trident badging is just about the identical as on the GT, although I can’t assist assume some gloss black cooling bonnet vents may need pointed extra straight in direction of its supercar powertrain and range-topping standing.

It’s obtained clean, inoffensive strains, and the exhaust notice, whereas not offensive, appears to incite a good few seems each time I climb behind the wheel of this family-friendly Maserati. You don’t get that form of consideration in your Mercedes-AMG GLC or Porsche Macan.

In contrast with the entry-level four-pot Grecale GT, which lists for $114,900 plus on-roads, the Trofeo asks large bucks from $175,000. And, whereas the majority of these {dollars} are for the Nettuno V6, in addition they purchase specialised {hardware} and software program designed to deal with extra masses it generates.

As an illustration, the Grecale Trofeo will get larger brakes, an digital rear differential and height-adjustable air suspension as customary fitment, versus price choices like on the four-cylinder variants.

Moreover, the less-powerful Grecales include three drive modes solely – Consolation, GT and Sport – however the Trofeo provides Corsa mode which sharpens up the throttle, transmission and braking responses, whereas on the identical time limiting traction and stability management for larger driver enter.

There’s a noticeable improve in damper charges going from Sport to Exhausting, and also you higher imagine it does precisely what it says – simply shy of rock exhausting. Maserati’s air suspension additionally permits for a dual-stage Off Highway drive mode that raises the trip top by as much as 30mm in 15mm increments.

How a lot does the Maserati Grecale Trofeo price?

The range-topping Maserati Grecale Trofeo prices $174,900 excluding on-road prices, whereas stepping all the way down to the mid-spec Grecale Modena will lighten your pockets to the tune of $135,900. Entry-level is the Grecale GT from $114,900 – all costs are earlier than on-road prices.

There’s additionally a fourth and all-electric model known as the Folgore that’s as a result of arrive within the first half of 2024 with supercar ranges of efficiency, although, pricing received’t be introduced till nearer to launch.

Our check automobile was additionally fitted with the next choices:

• Metallic Paint – Grigio Lava: $2150
• Black brake calipers: $650
• Tech Help Pack: $3290.00
  • Head-Up show
  • IR Safety Windshield
  • Wi-fi cellphone charging
• Sonus Faber 21-speaker sound system: $5950.00

Worth as examined: $186,940 excluding on-road prices.

Rival makes and fashions embrace the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio Anniversario ($175,200) BMW X3 M Competitors ($178,000), Jaguar F-Tempo SVR ($153,700 – discount), and Porsche Macan GTS: $143,200 – costs exclude on-road prices

2023 Maserati Grecale pricing:

• Maserati Grecale GT: $114,900
• Maserati Grecale Modena: $135,900
• Maserati Grecale Trofeo: $174,900

Costs exclude on-road prices

What’s the Maserati Grecale Trofeo like on the within?

There’s nothing extra engaging that Rosso leather-based upholstery in opposition to the Grigio Lava paintwork.

It stretches from high to backside, at the very least from the sprint to simply beneath eye degree, and is each fantastically luxurious, but equally supporting in all the proper locations.

That’s to not say its rivals don’t all feel and look premium inside, however none supply the Italian aptitude or beautiful atmosphere of the Maserati – and that’s throughout all variants. There’s simply one thing extra particular about Grecale, whether or not that’s the standard of the conceal, the seamless mix of high-end supplies and even the embossed trident on the headrests.

Fortunately, Maserati additionally measures up within the tech division too, with at least 4 crystal-clear screens incorporating the total spectrum of infotainment and driver configurability.

There’s a big driver’s show that provides loads of customisation by way of structure and knowledge, but in addition going from one drive mode to a different can routinely change the show – particularly so in the event you select ‘Corsa’ (race), which gives up a horizontal rev counter in addition to a supersized gear place indicator.

Ahead of the centre console are successfully two touchscreens in a single, with the highest unit dedicated to infotainment reminiscent of car settings, cellphone, navigation and audio controls; whereas the decrease show handles all issues local weather together with seat heating and cooling, in addition to a sliding quantity management.

There’s no gear shifter, not even a small one like Porsche has adopted. As an alternative, there’s a row of haptic buttons for the transmission modes, and whereas it positively frees up extra cupboard space, it’s additionally a bit annoying till you’re employed out the exact degree of finger strain required to activate it – let’s simply say you’ll want a agency contact.

In the event you could be bothered, there’s a fourth display mounted on the high of the sprint that doubles as a traditional Maserati analogue clock, however it will also be configured to show a few digital variations, in addition to exhibiting efficiency information together with G-forces and brake masses. The factor is, I’ve already forgotten entry it.

I’m additionally a fan of Maserati’s comparatively compact leather-based steering wheel, full with begin/cease and drive mode dials. It’s completely Porsche-like in thickness in addition to incorporating an array of haptic buttons for cellphone, audio and adaptive cruise features.

That luxurious atmosphere so prevalent up entrance can also be felt within the second row, due to that very same Rosso leather-based trim that wraps the whole lot from the map pockets to the air-con vents housing.

There’s loads of carbon-fibre trim bits, too, solely these are three-dimensional and with out lacquer – the real-deal if you’ll. The Sonus Faber speaker grilles are laser-cut steel, whereas the electrical door opener buttons are additionally knurled like every dial on the sprint – even the vent controls.  

It’s the Grecale that wins the house race, too, given its prolonged dimensions and class-leading 2901mm wheelbase, making it 94mm longer than that of the Macan, 83mm longer than the Stelvio and even 27mm longer than the F-Tempo.

All of that’s instantly apparent from the appreciable rear legroom alone, although it’s a bit tighter within the center seat given the transmission tunnel hump and decreased under-thigh help.

However, there’s good air flow again there and rear-seat passengers additionally get entry to local weather management in addition to heated seats, dual-USB charging ports (bot -A and -C-type) and centre armrest with cupholders.

The 60/40 split-fold seats could be lowered utilizing levers in both the boot or from every outer seat, making issues simpler for weekend getaways when load house guidelines.

There’s good boot house too, with at least 570L behind the second row together with some underfloor storage within the Grecale Trofeo. No spare tyre although, as is the case with so many luxurious automobiles as of late, which merely present a can of goo to get you residence or to the closest tyre restore centre.

What’s below the bonnet?

The Grecale Trofeo packs a detuned, wet-sump model of the Maserati MC20 supercar’s 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged Nettuno V6 below its bonnet.

Within the MC20 this engine produces 463kW at 7500rpm and 730Nm. Within the Grecale Trofeo it makes a nonetheless spectacular 390kW at 6500rpm and 620Nm between 3000rpm and 5500rpm. Maserati claims the Grecale Trofeo will hit 100km/h in 3.8 seconds on the way in which to a high velocity of 285km/h.

Rivals to Grecale which additionally declare the identical 3.8-second 0-100km/h  dash time, embrace the outgoing Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S, BMW X3 M Competitors and Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio. The Macan GTS claims a time of 4.3 seconds, whereas the F-Tempo wants 4.0 seconds to finish the identical standing-start sprint.

The Grecale solely will get a 64L gasoline tank, and gasoline consumption is a claimed 11.2L/100km on the mixed cycle, whereas round city solely, it’s nearer to 17.4L/100km.

At instances when feathering the throttle to and from work I noticed low 10’s, however the second you begin having a bit enjoyable in Corsa and also you’re not going to see any much less 18L/100km, and admittedly, I used to be anticipating worse. Nevertheless it all will depend on driving fashion and visitors situations.

How does the Maserati Grecale Trofeo drive?

The left-hand button on the steering requires a agency press to fireplace up the Nettuno V6 below the bonnet, however even within the default GT mode, it sounds unique at coronary heart.

There’s a Consolation mode that soaks up a lot of the bumps, however if you would like extra noise then Sport dials up the exhaust decibels, however by no means to an offensive degree. Even in its most aggressive ‘Corsa’ setting, which emits a number of well-chosen pops and crackles on carry off, it’s nonetheless much more nicely behaved in comparison with the present V8-powered AMG GLC 63 S.

The steering wheel-mounted drive mode dial makes it simple to change forwards and backwards between modes, and to trustworthy I spent a great deal of my time behind the wheel of the Grecale Trofeo in Corsa – not only for the louder noise, however for the sharper throttle, transmission and brake pedal really feel you get with it.

Finest you put it aside for smoother sections of highway although, as a result of it additionally places the dampers into ‘rock-hard’ mode, which is okay even over coarse-chip surfaces, however bone-jarring over sharper-edged imperfections on its 21-inch alloys shod with low-profile Bridgestone Potenza rubber.

Until you’re driving on Sydney’s worst roads – and there are a number of of these – GT is nicely calibrated for the every day drive, together with the occasional punch of the throttle throughout fast lane modifications and the like.

Dialling up Sport additionally provides you a extra boisterous notice, however merely with a press of the secondary button within the centre of the drive mode dial you may simply change between the ‘exhausting’ and ‘gentle’ damper settings.

There’s an preliminary tip-in of the physique however then it settles properly. It’s nicely balanced and feels gentle on its ft no matter which mode you’re in. Solely in Sport it’s instantly prepped for some correctly spirited driving, but nonetheless gives an acceptable degree of compliance within the damper charges.

It’s solely in Corsa do you begin to really feel a few of its Supercar DNA. It’s extraordinarily fast from anyplace within the rev vary and will get off the mark in typical supercar trend. Nevertheless it’s the sharper steering and cat-like entrance finish response that you simply’ll marvel at most – it feels track-capable on this setting.

Having mentioned that, even in Consolation you may give it the beans and its character modifications immediately together with the exhaust notice. Briefly, it comes alive as soon as the revs construct.

Curiously, the Nettuno engine by no means actually feels or sounds overworked, even while you’re correctly pushing. Round city, it’s more than pleased to take a seat in fifth all-day lengthy; however as quickly as you dab your proper foot on the throttle it’ll drop three gears and – growth.

Thoughts, it’s not as explosive because the untamed model within the MC20 – which I charge as one of many quickest mid-engine supercars I’ve ever pushed – however there’s additionally a great deal of flexibility within the Grecale with its detuned motor.

The identical goes for Trofeo’s eight-speed automated, which understandably, by no means feels as responsive because the MC20’s eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. You discover it extra when peddling alongside manually.

Within the MC20 it’s like rifle hearth as you bang up and down the gear ratios, with every shift accompanied by a critical thump within the again.

Within the Grecale Trofeo, its greatest to let the transmission do its personal factor in both Sport or Corsa. You’ll positively really feel every shift, however it’s under no circumstances brutal.

In truth, if left within the default GT drive mode, you’ll barely discover the gear shifts when pottering across the burbs till you actually must lean on it, then it shortly modifications its tune and will get extra vocal.

Measuring 360mm up entrance with six-piston calipers (and 350mm rear), the Trofeo’s brakes aren’t large however its stopping energy and pedal really feel is sure-footed and confidence inspiring.

What do you get?

Grecale GT highlights:

• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Wi-fi Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
• 14-speaker Sonus Faber premium sound system
• 8.8-inch decrease show
• Leather-based upholstery with distinction stitching
• Maglia Milano inside trim
• Electrically adjustable steering column
• DAB+ digital radio
• Aluminium door sills
• Twin-zone local weather management with humidity sensor
• Powered tailgate with kick sensor
• Entrance, rear parking sensors
• Reversing digital camera
• Wearable key

Grecale Modena provides:

• 20-inch alloy wheels
• Mechanical rear limited-slip differential
• Energetic shocks

Grecale Trofeo provides:

• Digital rear limited-slip differential
• Air suspension
• 21-inch alloy wheels
• Brembo brakes
• Corsa drive mode

ADAS Package L2 ($7050) provides:

• Clever Pace Help
  • Pace limiter
  • Visitors signal recognition
• Energetic Driving Help
• Intersection Collision Help

I’d argue, with adaptive cruise management together with Cease/Go as a part of the usual Driver Help L1 Pack – it doesn’t make an entire lot of sense to drop one other $7000.

Obtainable colors for Grecale embrace:

• Rosso Granturismo – Fuoriserie
• Grigio Cangiante – Fuoriserie
• Giallo Corse
• Grigio Lava
• Grigio Lava opaco
• Blu Intenso
• Blu Nobile
• Nero Tempesta
• Bianco
• Bianco Astro

Maserati additionally gives customisation of exterior and inside trim colors by means of its bespoke Fuoriserie program.

Is the Maserati Grecale Trofeo protected?

The Maserati Grecale has but to be rated by ANCAP or Euro NCAP.

Commonplace security tools consists of:

• AEB incl. Pedestrian, Bicycle owner detection
• Adaptive Cruise Management
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Energetic Lane Administration
  • Blind Spot Help
  • Lane Preserve Help + Warning
• Drowsy Driver Detection

Non-compulsory lively security options embrace:

• Clever Pace Help
• Visitors signal recognition
• Intersection collision Help
• Energetic Driving Help
  • “an extension of the Energetic Freeway Help. Totally different from Freeway Help which operates on restricted entry freeways solely, this new system is supported on each highway situation. The driving force continues to be required to remain in management”

How a lot does the Maserati Grecale Trofeo price to run?

Maserati covers all its fashions with a three-year, unlimited-kilometre guarantee, which is similar as what Porsche gives for its vary, however lower than Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz – all of which supply five-years.

The Grecale requires servicing each 12 months or 20,000km, whichever comes first.

Service pack pricing (3 years):

• Grecale MHEV: $3175
• Grecale Trofeo: $3361

CarExpert’s Tackle the Maserati Grecale Trofeo

It’s not fairly the most costly within the section – each the Benz and BMW go-fast household haulers price extra, however I’d argue the Maserati Grecale Trofeo is by far probably the most unique, if not probably the most luxurious of the bunch.

It additionally gives a real high-performance various to the Porsche Macan GTS, however with the added big-ticket bragging rights of a real supercar engine sitting below its bonnet.

Thoughts, whereas the Grecale by no means feels fairly as planted, nor as completely compliant because the Macan by way of damping precision, it’s the dealing with – particularly on turn-in – that’s extra deft within the Maserati.

It’s not doable to totally exploit the Grecale’s breadth of efficiency on public roads, however even placing it by means of some actually twisty stuff at respectable clip, it’s the Italian that additionally feels lighter on its ft.  

It’s additionally obtained class-leading inside house as well, additional enhanced by a shocking mix of high-end supplies together with Maserati’s newest know-how, although not at all times probably the most intuitive, nor with the quickest response charges – I’m speaking about these push-button transmission controls.

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