By CarExpert, Automotive Expert | Published March 20, 2025

When you think of performance SUVs, Maserati might not be the first name that springs to mind. Historically, models like the Levante left enthusiasts lukewarm—odd diesel options and a disjointed identity didn’t help. But the 2025 Maserati Grecale Trofeo? This is a different beast entirely. It’s a lightning bolt of an SUV, blending supercar DNA with everyday practicality. I’ve spent quality time behind the wheel, and trust me—this isn’t just an SUV; it’s a mini supercar. Here’s my in-depth review, complete with 0-100 km/h times, braking stats, and everything you need to know.

Overview: A New Breed of Maserati SUV

The Grecale Trofeo sits atop Maserati’s compact SUV lineup, built on the Giorgio platform (shared with Alfa Romeo’s Stelvio and Giulia) rather than the Levante’s underpinnings. This top-spec Trofeo packs the twin-turbo 3.0L V6 from the MC20-inspired Gran Turismo, tuned here to deliver 390 kW (523 hp) and 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) of torque. Priced at just under AUD 190,000 (with the base four-cylinder starting at $120,000), it’s a hefty investment—but one that promises thrills few rivals can match.

Exterior Design: Menacing Elegance

The Grecale Trofeo looks the part. Finished in sinister black with carbon fiber accents (part of an optional package), it’s dripping with Italian flair. The massive open grille proudly displays the Maserati Trident, flanked by full LED headlights. Side profiles boast 21-inch alloy wheels with a machined matte finish and graphite inner, paired with cross-drilled rotors peeking through. The rear? Quad exhaust pipes and more carbon fiber scream performance.

It’s not just pretty—it’s functional. The Trofeo badge hints at what’s under the hood, while electronic door strikes (with manual backups) add a futuristic touch. At traffic lights, this SUV surprises onlookers who don’t expect a Maserati to pack this much punch.

Interior: A Cabin Worth the Price Tag

Step inside, and the Grecale Trofeo feels like a $200,000 car should. Exposed carbon fiber, multicolored leather, and soft-touch surfaces everywhere elevate it beyond the dreary Maseratis of old. The seats—racy yet supremely comfortable—feature electric adjustments, lumbar support, and the Trident embossed on the headrests. A metallic, leather-clad key with a proximity unlock adds a premium vibe.

The tech? Dual 12.3-inch displays dominate the dash—one for the driver, one for infotainment—plus a lower screen for climate controls. It’s a Stellantis-derived system (think Jeep), offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, inbuilt sat-nav, and a quirky “drag race mode” for timing 0-100 runs. The Sonus Faber sound system is solid but could use sharper treble.

Downsides? The infotainment lags slightly on startup, and the 360-degree camera disappoints with low-res, laggy visuals—especially at night. Still, this cabin’s customization and quality rival pricier competitors.

Performance: Supercar Soul in SUV Skin

Here’s where the Grecale Trofeo shines. That 3.0L twin-turbo V6—a detuned version of the Gran Turismo’s powerplant—delivers explosive performance. Paired with an 8-speed automatic (smooth, not dual-clutch) and a rear-biased AWD system with a limited-slip differential, it’s a driver’s delight.

0-100 km/h & Acceleration

Using launch control (engaged via Corsa mode), I clocked 0-100 km/h in 4.0 seconds—impressive for a 2-ton SUV. The 80-120 km/h sprint? A blistering 2.41 seconds. It’s ballistic off the line, though slight creep at launch might skew timings fractionally. The exhaust note? Pure Italian opera—growling and popping in Corsa mode.

Braking: Stopping Power That Bites

From 100 km/h to standstill, the Grecale Trofeo stops in 2.72 seconds over 35.81 meters. That’s elite for an SUV—anything between 35-40 meters is top-tier. Cross-drilled rotors and meaty 295-section rear tires ensure confidence under hard braking.

Handling & Drive Modes

Air suspension adjusts ride height and firmness across five modes: Comfort, GT, Off-Road, Corsa, and Sport. In Comfort, it glides over speed humps despite those 21-inch wheels. Switch to Corsa, lower the suspension, and it transforms into a corner-carving beast. It’s not as razor-sharp as a BMW X5 M, but the rear-wheel bias and playful dynamics make it a riot. Yes, you can kick the tail out with ESC off—messy, but fun.

Practicality: Family-Friendly Meets Supercar

Don’t let the supercar vibes fool you—this is a usable SUV. The second row offers ample knee and toe room (headroom’s tight for taller folks), heated outboard seats, and a third climate zone. Cargo space? Nearly 600L with the rear seats up, expandable with a flat-folding 40/20/40 split. No spare tire, but a repair kit and battery charger nook add utility.

Storage includes a deep center console, USB-C/A ports, a wireless charger, and cup holders. It’s thoughtful, though the glovebox is small, and there’s no sunglasses holder.

Fuel Economy & Running Costs

With great power comes… thirsty fuel consumption. I averaged 13L/100 km, even with highway stints—expect 500+ km per tank. It’s the trade-off for that V6 grunt. Compare that to hybrid rivals, and it’s a penalty, but one enthusiasts will shrug off.

Safety & Tech

The Grecale Trofeo packs modern safety: AEB with pedestrian/cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and radar cruise control with semi-autonomous steering. The lane-keeping system is disappointing, hugging lane edges rather than centering—and needs refinement. Front/rear sensors and that subpar 360-camera round it out.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Explosive 0-100 km/h in 4 seconds
• Stunning, customizable interior
• Playful handling with rear-wheel bias
• Practical for families

Cons

• Fuel economy lags rivals
• Laggy infotainment and camera
• Semi-autonomous tech underwhelms
• $190,000 price stings

verdict: Worth the Hype?

The Maserati Grecale Trofeo is a revelation. It’s not just a performance SUV—it’s a bargain supercar in disguise. For under $200,000, you’re getting an engine shared with a $400,000+ Gran Turismo, wrapped in a practical, head-turning package. It’s not perfect—fuel thirst and tech glitches hold it back—but the thrills are unmatched. BMW and Mercedes dominate this segment, but Maserati’s wildcard delivers where it counts.

About the Author: Paul Maric is an automotive journalist with over a decade of experience reviewing cars globally. His hands-on testing and technical insights have been featured on top platforms, making him a trusted voice in the industry.

What Do You Think?

Have you considered the Grecale Trofeo? Is $190,000 too steep, or does the performance justify it? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear if this mini supercar’s on your radar!