Meet Maserati's new SUV Grecale

The new Maserati Grecale is finally here and as your eyes would lead you to believe, it is a smaller version of the Levante SUV. So, this in essence is Maserati’s answer to models like the Porsche Macan and its ilk.

In standard form the new Grecale is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged Alfa Romeo engine that’s been upgraded by Maserati to develop 300 and 330 horsepower in various states of tune. The drivetrain is essentially a mild hybrid, which makes the car cleaner and keeps CO2 emissions under 200g/km.

At the top of the model line-up sits the Trofeo, which features the brand’s own V6 engine. Debuting on the Maserati MC20, the engine makes 530 horsepower in the Grecale, which is enough to propel the crossover from standstill to 100km/h in a scant 3.7 seconds, according to official figures. All-wheel drive is standard on all models.

Maserati promises that it will offer a fully-electric version of the Grecale as early as 2024, making it a vital part of the Trident brand’s electrification strategy and its promise to offer EV versions of all its vehicles by 2025. Badged Folgore, the car is expected to run a 105kWh battery and should provide a reasonable driving range.

Inside, the Grecale features a new infotainment system, which boasts several screens, including the optional head-up display. There also a clock in the dash that doubles up as a G-meter when required.

The latter is an indicator of the fact that Maserati has given driving dynamics priority, including in the rough stuff. Equipped with the optional air suspension, the Grecale can self-level, has all the tricks a big boy SUV can muster.

Expect to see many in your mall parking lots.