Maserati Grecale Folgore Review

Maserati has introduced an electric version of its Grecale SUV, joining the growing premium EV market with mixed results.

The Italian performance brand announced plans to offer EV versions of all its models by 2025 and become fully electric by 2028. Recent developments have cast doubt on this timeline, with the cancellation of the MC20 Folgore and suggestions of hybrid powertrains in future models.

Despite these shifts, Maserati remains ahead of some competitors with electric options across its three-car lineup – the GranTurismo Folgore, GranCabrio Folgore, and this Grecale Folgore, the brand’s first EV.

The Grecale Folgore enters a competitive segment alongside the Audi Q6 e-tron, Porsche Macan Electric and Genesis GV70, challenging Maserati’s claim of delivering the “exceptional every day.”

Design, Interior and Technology

The Grecale lacks the visual drama of other Maserati models. While the massive concave grille and traditional three-wing vents identify it as a Maserati, the overall design appears somewhat generic – particularly from the rear where it resembles many other sporty SUVs.

Inside, the cabin offers more distinctive character. A chrome-effect grille spans the dashboard, and an LCD analog clock sits above the infotainment screen. High-quality leather finishes adorn the doors, dash and seats, while the Folgore features a unique carbon/copper weave on the center console.

Our test car showed concerning quality control issues – a sharp copper wire protruded from the center console trim, an unacceptable flaw in a £100,000 vehicle.

The tech package includes a head-up display, 12.3-inch configurable digital instruments and wireless smartphone integration. While Apple and Android connectivity works well, Maserati’s own 12.3-inch infotainment system suffers from a sluggish, unattractive interface housed in a cheap-looking surround – a persistent weakness across the Maserati range.

The Grecale excels in practicality. At 4.8m long with a 2.9m wheelbase, it offers generous space for five passengers and 535 liters of cargo capacity behind the powered tailgate.

Performance and Driving Experience

The Grecale Folgore packs impressive numbers: a 105kWh battery powers two 205kW motors, delivering 550bhp and 605lb ft of torque. This translates to a 0-62mph time of 4.1 seconds.

While quick on paper, the Grecale doesn’t feel quite as potent in reality. Still, acceleration is immediate and both throttle and brake pedals offer reassuring linearity. The gear paddles from the V6 model remain, controlling variable regenerative braking that stays predictable across all settings.

The driving experience is direct but somewhat numb. Steering responds quickly without feeling twitchy, but provides little feedback. You can push the car with confidence knowing it will respond predictably, but there’s minimal communication from the road.

The Grecale’s 2.5-tonne weight is always apparent, making it feel more planted than agile between corners. The ride quality in Sport mode is particularly problematic – jittery and harsh at any speed. Fortunately, you can deactivate the sport suspension while keeping the sharper throttle and steering responses.

Despite its power, the Grecale achieves an official range of 310 miles – adequate for most uses but behind key rivals that claim 350+ miles. Charging capabilities reach 150kW DC, enabling a 20-80% charge in approximately 30 minutes.

Price and Specification

Unlike the V6 Grecale with its multiple trim levels, the electric version comes in just one specification – the Grecale Folgore – priced from £99,175.

Standard equipment includes 20-inch alloys, painted brake calipers, full LED lighting and air suspension. Inside, you’ll find heated and ventilated leather seats, three-zone climate control and a Sonos Faber premium sound system. Keyless entry, adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree parking camera are also included.

Our test car featured numerous options, including £3,240 for the copper/carbon trim and £1,755 for a tech pack bundling the head-up display, IR-protected windshield, wearable key and hands-free tailgate. These additions pushed the final price to approximately £106,500.

Competitors are similarly priced – the Audi SQ6 starts at £93,000 and the Porsche Macan Electric Turbo at £96,000 – but the Grecale’s options structure seems confusing. Several features that would be standard in much less expensive vehicles require additional payment.

Verdict

While Maserati’s GranTurismo Folgore serves as an impressive flagship for the brand’s electric ambitions, the Grecale Folgore falls short of expectations. It’s not a bad vehicle, but lacks the special qualities needed to justify its six-figure price tag.

For comparison, a fully-equipped Genesis GV70 costs nearly £29,000 less while offering similar acceleration, better build quality and superior comfort. The Maserati counters with stronger brand prestige, better handling and longer range – but these advantages may not justify the substantial premium.