Maserati’s Philippine distributor Modena Motorsports Inc. has added another model in its ultra-premium lineup in the form of the Grecale – the newest SUV from the Italian luxury carmaker which slots below the Levante in terms of size, but above in terms of innovation.
Three variants, with two engine options of the Grecale are available: the GT, the Modena and the Trofeo, with the mild-hybrid GT version being highlighted at the launch event held at SM Aura in Taguig. The 2.0L four-cylinder is mated to a small electric motor, accounting for 330hp for the Modena trim and 300hp for the GT trim. The Trofeo utilizes the same 3.0L twin-turbo V6 from the MC20, producing 530hp and 600Nm of torque, and combine that with the Trofeo-exclusive Corsa driving mode, it makes for a more spirited drive.
A launch edition, dubbed the PrimaSerie, will also be available to Philippine customers with PrimaSerie exclusive trims and options.
“Grecale embodies a perfect blend of sportiness and sophistication,” said Takayuki Kimura, Head of Maserati Asia Pacific. “As the inaugural offering for a new segment of Maserati, we are very excited to bring Grecale to the Philippines to turn everyday journeys into extraordinary driving experiences.”
The design of the Grecale follows the new design language that started with the MC20, which is prevalent at the front facsia, especially the headlights, the imposing grille as well as the air inlets. The boomerang taillights, in which the lines continue to flow downward, are inspired by the 3200 GT, considered to be a modern classic.
The Modena and Trofeo versions accentuate their sporty character even more, with rear wheel track augmented by 34 mm compared to the GT model. This gives the Grecale a more dynamic aspect, further highlighted by certain chromatic details, the side skirts and the specially designed bumpers. The design of the grille remains the same for all versions, if with chrome-plated lines in the GT and black in the Modena and Trofeo to bring out their sporty character.
Greeting the driver is an opulent cabin, which now focuses more on the digital, such as the clock on the center console, now made digital, as well as a large 12.3” central screen, which is the largest ever seen in a Maserati, an 8.8” display for the extra controls, and a third for the passengers in the rear seats. As standard for every Maserati, Sonus faber speakers provide a rich entertainment experience.
The latest Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA) multimedia system comes with a 12.3” screen, the largest ever included in a Maserati, with a resolution of 15 million pixels in Ultra HD.
At the heart of MIA is the Android Auto operating system, offering speed, great operating performance and data processing similar to a tablet’s, as well as more memory, for a highly responsive user experience.
Providing each customer with a simple, intuitive and customisable user experience, MIA can be configured with multiple tab-based screens with your favourite functions or the most commonly used ones, to optimise quick access and enable operations with just one tap. Once inside a tab, you can quickly access information and icons.
The Android Auto operating system makes further customization possible by storing up to five different user profiles. Each customer can build their own profile with their personal details, including music preferences and vehicle operation functions. The system also links other vehicle settings to the driver’s profile, such as temperature and seat/mirror positioning. Switching from one user profile to another is extremely simple, with just one tap on the main menu.
Maserati’s Intelligent Assistant multimedia system lets the driver connect two smartphones at once via Bluetooth, providing the option to manage various priority functions such as phone calls, music selection and text messages. Passengers can use Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to use their smartphone apps quickly, easily and wirelessly. The car is also equipped with a new voice recognition system with software, microphone technology and natural voice functionality via “Hey Maserati” feature.
The Grecale’s generous 2,901-mm wheelbase has made it possible to achieve remarkable roominess in the rear, plus the space in the boot with a flat loading platform, a cargo box under the platform and rear seats that can be folded down by pressing a button in the boot.
Maserati also announced that the all-electric Folgore version will be added in the lineup starting next year, paving the way for the Italian carmaker’s journey into electrified luxury.
“As a product of tradition, innovation, and concrete vision, Grecale ushers in a luxurious new standard for its class,” said Sam Versoza, President of Modena Motorsports, Inc., the official Maserati importer, and dealer in the Philippines. “We at Modena Motorsports Inc. are beyond elated to deliver Grecale to our shores, and with it, a new driving experience that takes the elegance, style, and performance of a Maserati to a bold, new direction.”
