T his is the Grecale, Maserati’s answer to increasing profits and clawing back market share from the glut of luxury SUVs available nowadays. Given its smaller proportions and variety of spec iterations, including some beautiful colour combinations and Maserati’s trident-inspired wheel designs, the Grecale has a strong eye on bringing more women buyers into the stable. The intention is clear.
While it is a new model in the Maserati South Africa line-up, there is no doubt the Grecale will become a bestseller within the next few months. That’s the very point of its existence — to bring new buyers to the brand and keep them there. Some criticisms have been levelled at its design, specifically its gaping grille, which some say bears a close resemblance to that of the Ford Puma, which was launched in Mzansi recently.
While I see it, I certainly don’t think the Grecale is as offensive or as similar in the metal. It’s a comprehensively designed vehicle with a focus on keeping Maserati details intact. The trident badges on the C-pillars as well as the trio of side air vents finish the design, while the 21-inch Crio Matte aluminium wheels give it stance and presence.
The Grecale’s newly designed interior is the real showstopper. It leaves you with the impression of a truly modern and high-tech vehicle. The centre piece is a dual-screen layout powered by Google, a double-combo of 12.
3-inch above 8.8-inch LEDs. These screens house most of the switchgear and cabin controls, .
