Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)

Maserati Grecale an opulent SUV with up to 395kW

- WILLEM VAN DE PUTTE willem.vdputte@inl.co.za

BECAUSE the world just can’t get enough SUVs, Maserati has just pulled the covers off its second high-riding model. Meet the Maserati Grecale.

It might be smaller than the Levante, but with an overall length of 4.84 metres, making it a shade shorter than a BMW X5, the Maserati Grecale is still quite a substantia­l SUV.

Maserati will eventually offer it with three distinct powertrain types – internal combustion, hybrid and fully-electric – but the initial line-up will comprise three petrol-powered options. These include a pair of mild-hybrid 2.0-litre turbopetro­l models in 224kW and 246kW guises, while the range-topping Trofeo is fitted with a 395kW version of the new 3.0-litre V6 Nettuno engine that first debuted in the MC20 sports car. Expect this one to dart from 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 285km/h.

The new Maserati also takes some design flavour from the MC20 with its swept-back headlights and large grille, while the back end is distinguis­hed by ‘boomerang’ tail lights inspired by the 3200 GT of the late 1990s.

Inside, the newcomer honours tradition with a traditiona­l Maserati clock face, albeit one that is now digitised and which doubles as a voice-activated in-car concierge.

You’ll also find more digital screens than in any other previous Maserati model, including a 12.3-inch central infotainme­nt system, a smaller 8.8inch display for the extra controls and an additional screen for the rear seat passengers. Immersive surround sound is provided by a Sonus Faber 3D sound system with up to 21 speakers.

“Grecale strikes the right balance between versatilit­y, elegance, performanc­e and innovation, guaranteei­ng performanc­e, comfort and safety, all at the same time,” Maserati says.

“These features are combined with off-road capabiliti­es and uncompromi­sing driving pleasure.”

 ?? ?? MASERATI reveals its new SUV, the Grecale.
MASERATI reveals its new SUV, the Grecale.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from South Africa