Maserati Grecale SUV unveiled; All-electric version expected next year

Maserati took the wraps off its new Grecale sports utility vehicle (SUV), marking another step in the promised expansion of the automaker's range as part of a turnaround strategy. Initially planned for November last year, the launch of the new model had been delayed due to a global chip shortage.Maserati, the luxury brand of Stellantis, said the Grecale would be available in the second half of this year in three versions, two 300- and 330-horse-powered four-cylinder mild hybrids, as well as a high-performance version with 530hp and a petrol V6 capable of a top speed of 285 kilometres per hour.Chief Executive Davide Grasso has said deliveries would start in the summer for the EMEA region and will follow right after in the United States. Furthermore, the Grecale SUV is available in three variants - Modena, Trofeo and GT.With a length of 4.859 meters and a starting selling price ranging from around 74,000 to 111,000 euros ($81,000-$122,000), the Grecale will compete with models including Porsche's Cayenne and Macan, Mercedes' GLE, BMW's X5 and Land Rover's Discovery.A full-electric version of the car will be available next year, widening the pool of potential competitors to Tesla.Taking its name from a particular type of wind, like its elder sister Maserati Levante, the Grecale will be produced in Stellantis' Cassino plant, in central Italy.Maserati aims to offer a so-called 'Folgore' full-electric version of each model - including the over 200,000 euro supersport car MC20 - by 2025 and to be entirely full-electric by 2030.Its first battery electric vehicle (BEV) will be the new GranTurismo, due to debut before the Grecale in 2023.