2023 Maserati Grecale Trofeo
Have you ever wondered what influences automakers to choose the names for their different vehicles? In Maserati’s case, many of their creations are inspired by wind. For example, their newest sport utility vehicle is named Grecale and refers to a strong, cool, northeasterly Mediterranean wind that blows off the coast of southern Malta. What’s in a name, you ask? It turns out there is a lot more than many of us think.
Story Jeff Voth
Photography Iain Crawford
The 2023 Maserati Grecale Trofeo is designed to deliver dynamic performance while at the same time offer a spacious and relaxed cabin experience for up to five occupants. The luxury SUV market gets more crowded with each new model year, so staying ahead, not just getting in the game, is extremely important.
Step inside and you are immediately aware this is no ordinary utility ride. It feels luxurious, rich in fact, with gracefully appointed leather sport seats, a flat-bottom sport steering and just enough satin metal, carbon and piano black accents to stand the test of time. The bright yellow stitching featured in our test vehicle is further evidence to the craftsmanship delivered in the Grecale; it really stands out!
No Maserati is worth its weight in aluminum and carbon fiber if it can’t perform at a level that resonates with their trident moniker. And resonate is something the Grecale does with ease.
A twin-turbo 3.0 L V6 cranks out 523 horsepower and enough torque (though Maserati doesn’t officially list how much) to pull the Macan-sized SUV from 0-62mph/0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds. Top speed is rated at 177mph/285 km/h.
This is the same engine that powers the uber-exclusive Maserati MC20 (detuned slightly in the Grecale) so you know the Bologna-based automaker is serious about delivering a powerful drive. Pop the drive selector into Corsa, drop a gear or two, then paddle-shift up at redline and you will hear the glorious sounds of a Maserati V6 engine doing its thing. And as anyone who knows fine Italian sports cars will tell you, its “thing” is glorious! Cornering, braking, cruising and parking at shopping malls are all within easy reach of the Grecale.
Maserati understands that the bulk of those buying a midsize sport utility vehicle -- even one with the emphasis on “sport” -- are still more likely to spend their time picking up the kids and driving to appointments or the mall for supplies. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun when the road ahead inspires and the schedule says GO! The front seats are some of the best I have ever sat in; they coddle and embrace my legs and back in a way that only Italian automobiles seem to.
The dash layout is graceful and purposeful and while the center console with its push button gearshift instead of a traditional gearlever is maybe a little unconventional for a serious sports vehicle, it does provide some added storage. The Grecale seems to have found its happy place with balance, performance and style in perfect harmony.