This isn't the first time our spy photographers have captured the upcoming Maserati Grecale Trofeo SUV out testing. It is, however, the first time we've seen it parked rather than in motion, allowing us to see some of its finer details up close. Set to debut in the spring, the Grecale Trofeo, like the standard Grecale, rides on the same platform underpinning the Alfa Romeo Stelvio.
Chances are, the Grecale Trofeo high-performance version will pack the Stelvio QV's 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 with 505 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. The other possible engine is the MC20's 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 with 621 hp. Whichever one it is (our money is on the former), the Grecale Trofeo will come equipped with big brakes featuring drilled discs and red calipers, things not seen on the standard Grecale prototypes.
Both the rear and front ends have slightly different designs as well, such as the unique exhaust pipes. The rest of the body continues to be wrapped though the name "Grecale" is printed throughout. Maserati is not trying to hide this test mule's true identity. The Grecale lineup will be facing off against some stiff competition, mainly the Porsche Macan and Macan GTS (the Macan Turbo is off the market for 2022).
Maserati has been gunning after Porsche for some time but isn't close to becoming a serious threat. The hope is that the Grecale and Grecale Trofeo will help change that.
The Levante program has not produced the desired results Maserati had hoped for, but the Grecale is smaller and sportier. Unfortunately, this prototype's interior remains mostly covered. We are able to see the steering wheel's basic design, premium-looking seats covered in red leather, and other fine detailing along the door panels. Notice that the driver and passenger side door sections have different colors and patterns.
Overall, the Grecale Trofeo sounds very promising but, truth be told, this is the luxury performance compact SUV Maserati needed to have on sale a few years ago. The Macan is currently the segment benchmark and a fully electrified version is due next year. Maserati will have to quickly respond to that in kind.