2023 Maserati Grecale GT launched In Malaysia - 2.0-litre engine, 300hp, 0-100 in 5.6secs

Naza Italia, the official distributor of Maserati here in Malaysia, has unveiled the brand's latest model offering, the 2023 Maserati Grecale GT, after previewing the model back in June. Priced from RM598k including local duties and taxes, the Maserati Grecale GT is the entry-level variant for the Grecale lineup, but there's definitely nothing entry-level about the SUV.

With that being said, here is the lowdown on the new 2023 Maserati Grecale.

Powertrain

Naza Italia calls the Grecale GT a hybrid variant of the Grecale lineup. The GT is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder mild hybrid engine that is capable of delivering 300 hp and 450Nm of torque. The engine is mated to an 8-speed transmission, which together helps the car go from 0-100km/h in just 5.6 seconds.

It has a top speed of 240km/h and four-wheel drive system with an open mechanical rear differential, which helps anchor the SUV to the road.

Exterior Design

Embracing Maserati's new design language and visual symbol, the Grecale SUV carries a lot of design inspirations and elements from the brand's highly-regarded supercar, the MC20, but with more everyday usability as well as practicality. But that doesn't mean that they can't make the Grecale look sexy.

The front end features a low-hanging and concaved grille that's also inspired by the MC20. Smooth line and fluidity from front to rear showcase the brand's designing skills that feels more like an MC20 that transformed into an SUV rather than an SUV that was heavily inspired by the MC20, if that makes any sense.

The GT rides on a set of 19-inch wheels, which probably makes it one of the more comfort-oriented models, as the higher spec brothers are equipped with larger wheels. Body-coloured bumpers and side skirts and front grille insert in brushed chrome and dual chrome-plated exhausts complete the GT's looks.

Interior design and features

For the GT variant, the interior is themed under a warm and enveloping setup. As an alternative to Black Leather, the GT can be had 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.

Inside the cabin, the standout tech specs include the traditional Maserati clockface which is now digitised which gives it more features. Digital for the first time, it transforms into a veritable in-car concierge, courtesy of voice control.

The Grecale's interior is headlined by all of the screens around the dashboard area. The technology is controlled from the displays: the large 12.3” central screen, the largest ever seen in a Maserati, another 8.8” display for the extra controls and a third for the passengers in the rear seats. An optional state-of-the-art heads-up display is available, taking its place among the best currently available in terms of brightness, contrast and viewing angles.

It can go offroad

Despite looking like a modern-day city-dwelling Italian beauty with its huge screens and digitised analogue clock (a first in Maserati), the Grecale can actually handle minor off-road driving situations. All Grecals have four different driving modes - Comfort, GT, Sport, and Offroad.

Colours 

The Grecale GT is offered in Blu Intenso (metallic blue), Bianco Astro (metallic grey) and Bianco (white solid) at the Malaysia launch.