As Maserati heads towards a fully electric model range by the end of the decade, it is passing through a transitional stage of electrification where hybrid powertrains will be offered. The first hybrid model was the Ghibli saloon in 2020, followed by the Levante and then the Grecale GT Hybrid.
Following the launch of the Grecale in Malaysia last year, Naza Italia has now added the GT Hybrid version to the range with a price of RM598,000 (inclusive of duties but excluding insurance). The price includes 3 years warranty coverage with no mileage restriction.
While using the same Giorgio platform as the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, the Grecale’s design uses elements from the MC20 sportscar, with a more ‘vertical’ design language more appropriate for the SUV form that is 1670 mm tall. The body has meandering, visual forms and its technical components are highlighted by the use of carbonfibre. In the rear, the boomerang taillights are inspired by the Giugiaro 3200 GT and fit in with the trapezoidal line, made even more striking by the coupe effect of the profile.
Maserati’s designers have been thoughtful about the colours to offer with the model and the Bronzo Opaco global launch colour is the result of painstaking research. It is an enveloping bronze, with a matte and silky yet highly technical and minimal finish, contrasting with the brushed chrome design cues to give a sophisticated and strong character.
Customers can also order the SUV in other colours which are Blu Intenso (metallic), Bianco Astro (metallic) and Bianco (white solid). 19-inch or 20-inch alloy wheels are available with body-colour bumpers and side skirts. The front grille insert is finished in brushed chrome and dual chrome-plated exhausts.
The powertrain of the Grecale GT Hybrid has a 2-litre 4-cylinder engine as part of a mild hybrid 48V system with a Belt Starter Generator (BSG). The BSG acts as an alternator, charging the battery located in the boot, which in turn powers the e-Booster fitted to the engine. The engine has a turbocharger, where the internal combustion component is combined with the e-Booster, powered by either the BSG or the battery. An electric compressor has been included in the car to compensate for the lack of a conventional turbocharger in the early engine cycles, when the electric motor comes into play.
In the Grecale’s class – as a hybrid SUV with a BSG and a booster – it is unique, given that the hybrid powertrain is usually used to reduce consumption. Conversely, this solution gives a further boost even when the engine is running at full capacity in Sport mode, when all the benefits of performance can be exploited. In Normal mode, it is used to balance consumption and performance.
Maximum power output of the powertrain is 300 bhp/450 Nm which gives the SUV a claimed 0 to 100 km/h capability of 5.6 seconds with an 8-speed Gen2.5 8HP50 automatic transmission. Taken to the limit, it is said to be able to top out at 240 km/h.
The sporty character of the SUV is provided by the new 100% Maserati Vehicle Dynamic Control Module (VDCM) system and the 360° control it offers over the car. The driver has the ability to choose different dynamic characteristics to suit personal preference or driving conditions. These are programmed into the DRIVE MODES for COMFORT, GT, SPORT, and OFF-ROAD.
The cabin has been inspired more by interior design philosophy rather than conventional automotive philosophy. This gives it a more sophisticated and luxurious ambience with the Saffiano leatherwork-inspired leather dashboard insert, combined with burnished inserts on the central console and door panel. These are characterized by an unusual laser processing that re-interprets from a Maserati perspective the iconic Maglia Milano, a characteristic of the best jewelry and watchmaking.
For the GT version, the hues selected are warm and enveloping. As an alternative to Black Leather, premium leather in a rich chocolate colour, and sophisticated greige or bold black with contrasting stitching is available as an option. The steering wheel is upholstered in leather, with aluminium fixed shift paddles.
While presenting traditional luxury, the Grecale GT Hybrid also has advanced technical specifications with everything being touch-based, resulting in extreme aesthetic cleanliness. Even the traditional Maserati clockface is digital (for the first time), and the central display, at 12.3 inches, is the largest ever seen in a Maserati. It is complemented by the 8.8-inch display for the extra functions and a third panel for passengers in the rear seats.
The SUV remains connected at all times, enabling monitoring of the vehicle’s ‘health’. The Maserati Connect system will alert the driver when a scheduled service is due, adding convenience to the ownership experience. With a smartphone or smartwatch, the driver can stay in contact with the vehicle via the Maserati Connect App (also possible via the virtual personal assistant with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant).
Superior sound quality is by an all-round sound experience the immersive Sonus Faber 3D sound system, up to 21 speakers. Needless to say, there is also the other ‘music’ emanating from the outside which is the typical Maserati roar.