Overview
When Maserati launched the Grecale compact SUV, we did a double take. Did they really drop the twin-turbo V-6 from the MC20 for that matter? Yes, they do and it’s called the Grecale Trofeo. With all 523 horses running fast, this performance-oriented machine is capable of a 3.6-second sprint to 60 mph, Maserati says. The branded exterior and well-designed cabin are also ready for the runway, with attractively wrapped sheetmetal that makes rivals like the Audi SQ5 and BMW X3 M look brash by comparison. But the Grecale Trofeo’s performance and appeal come at a hefty price—six figures, to be exact—which makes it the most expensive performance SUV in its class.
What’s New for 2023?
The Grecale Trofeo is a brand new model for Maserati this year. It debuted alongside the standard Grecale (reviewed separately) and serves as the performance pinnacle for the brand’s compact crossover.
Price and Which One to Buy
The six-figure price tag puts the Grecale Trofeo at a disadvantage among other hi-po SUV rivals that cost much less. We’d tread carefully and avoid loading it with expensive options that only serve to drive the SUV’s price into the stratosphere. Fortunately, the Trofeo comes standard with most of the expected premium features, including a power sunroof, 21-inch tires on summer tires, 14-way power-adjustable front seats with heat, adaptive cruise control and genuine leather upholstery.
Engine, Transmission and Performance
The Grecale Trofeo is powered by a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 borrowed from the MC20 sports car but detuned to produce 523 horsepower. Maserati says that’s still enough to propel the SUV from zero to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds on its way to a 177-mph top speed. The Trofeo also comes standard with adaptive dampers and air suspension, the latter of which can be adjusted based on driving needs. In our experience, the Corsa’s driving mode overpowers things too much and makes for an uncomfortable ride over bumps in the road. Probably better to save it for spinning around the racetrack. When we get a chance to test drive the Grecale Trofeo in our backyard, we’ll take it to our test track and update this story with acceleration results and more driving impressions.
Real World Fuel Economy and MPG
According to the EPA, the Grecale Trofeo is rated for 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. When we get the chance, we’ll put the Grecale Trofeo through its paces our 75-mph highway fuel economy test route and report the results here. For more information on Grecale fuel economy, visit EPA website.
Interior, Comfort and Cargo
The Grecale Trofeo’s elegant interior design incorporates several high-tech luxuries. Along with rich materials throughout the cabin, the dash includes a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a pair of touchscreens on the center stack. The top unit measures 12.3 inches and handles the infotainment system while the bottom 8.8-inch screen contains HVAC and other controls. A three-zone climate system is standard. Passengers should have enough room to be comfortable as long as the passengers in the back are not too tall or riding three across. The Grecale Trofeo’s cargo area offers up to 20 cubic feet of space, and Maserati says the area behind the power-folding rear seats has a flat load floor with storage compartments underneath.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Like the standard Grecale, the Grecale Trofeo is equipped with Maserati’s latest Google-based infotainment system, which runs on a 12.3-inch touchscreen. There is another 8.8-inch touchscreen below the main screen on the dashboard that controls other functions. Every model comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; Wi-Fi hotspot is also included. Maserati has contracted with Sonus Faber for the Grecale Trofeo stereo system, which comes with 14 speakers as standard, but can be upgraded to a more powerful 21-speaker setup.
Safety Features and Driver Assistance
All Grecale Trofeo models are equipped with several models driver assistance features, including lane keeping assist and a driver monitoring system. For more information on Grecale crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) website. Key safety features should include:
- Standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking
- Standard blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert
- Adaptive cruise control is available
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Maserati provides a limited warranty and a competitive powertrain, compared to other luxury brands competing in this space. However, not like BMW and Jaguarthe company does not provide any free scheduled maintenance.
- The limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- No free scheduled maintenance