2026 Maserati Grecale Review: Why the V6 Modena Still Feels Special
The 2026 Maserati Grecale doubles down on character by making V6 power the heart of the range. It’s expensive, not especially practical, and still carries ownership concerns but few compact luxury SUVs deliver the same blend of style, sound, and Italian drama.
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 Maserati Grecale drops its four-cylinder and makes V6 power standard.
- The Modena trim now serves as the entry point and offers a 385-hp twin-turbo Nettuno V6.
- The cabin feels upscale and sporty, but practicality trails key rivals.
- Ride and handling are helped by standard adaptive air suspension.
- Pricing is steep, and leasing may be the smarter route for cautious buyers.
2026 Maserati Grecale at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Tested | 2026 Maserati Grecale Modena |
| Engine | 3.0-liter twin-turbo Nettuno V6 |
| Output | 385 hp in Modena / 523 hp in Trofeo |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive |
| 0-100 km/h | 5.1 seconds (Modena), about 3.8 seconds (Trofeo) |
| Starting Price | $95,300 CAD plus destination |
The Big Change for 2026: V6 Power Only
The biggest story in this 2026 Maserati Grecale review is simple: Maserati has removed the four-cylinder engine and its former entry-level trim. That means every gasoline Grecale now leans harder into the brand’s performance identity.
The Modena becomes the new starting point, and unlike many “base” luxury SUVs, it doesn’t feel stripped down. Instead, it gets a specially tuned version of Maserati’s twin-turbocharged Nettuno V6, giving the Grecale a far more exotic personality than most rivals in the compact luxury SUV class.
For shoppers who think many modern performance SUVs have become too clinical, this is exactly the sort of change that keeps the Grecale interesting.
Exterior Design: Stylish, Curvy, and Still Distinctive
Maserati may have lost some momentum as a brand, but the Trident still carries cachet. The Grecale helps by looking genuinely upscale and unmistakably Italian. Its proportions are sleek for an SUV, and the bodywork has a fluid, athletic look that stands apart from more conservative German competitors.
That said, not every detail is equally memorable. The front end on the Modena is elegant, but some buyers may prefer the more aggressive lower fascia of the Grecale Trofeo. The headlights also lack some of the drama you might expect at this price.
Where the Grecale really shines is personalization. Wheel designs, body colors, brake calipers, and Maserati’s Fuoriserie options give buyers room to create something far less generic than the average luxury crossover.
Interior Quality: Premium Feel, Mild Frustrations
Inside, the Grecale delivers the kind of atmosphere buyers expect from a premium Italian SUV. Materials are rich, the front seats are comfortable, and the driving position feels properly sporting. Optional sport bucket seats add extra support for enthusiastic drivers.
The steering wheel deserves praise, too. It feels great in hand, and the drive-mode button placement is intuitive. By contrast, the oversized paddle shifters may look dramatic, but they can interfere with other stalk-mounted controls.
Tech is a mixed story. The digital displays are crisp, and the infotainment system—built around Uconnect 5—is responsive and easy enough to use. However, the transmission buttons and lower HVAC controls are less intuitive. They demand more attention than they should, which isn’t ideal in a vehicle that is supposed to feel luxurious and effortless.
Practicality: Good Enough for Four, Not a Class Leader
If you’re buying the Grecale for space alone, there are better choices. Passenger room is decent, but this is really a four-person luxury SUV. A fifth passenger in the rear will notice the tight middle position and the intrusion of the transmission tunnel.
Cargo space is usable, but not exceptional. The rear area is fairly deep, yet it’s not especially wide, and overall capacity trails what some buyers may expect in this segment.
Practical highlights
- Comfortable front seating
- Rear space works best for four adults total
- 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat adds flexibility
- Storage solutions are merely average for the class
Performance: The Nettuno V6 Is the Star
Here’s where the Grecale truly earns its place. The 3.0-liter twin-turbo Nettuno V6 is one of the most compelling engines in the segment. In Modena trim, it produces 385 horsepower, giving the SUV a strong and refined personality that feels special even at everyday speeds.
It may not beat every rival on paper, but the appeal goes beyond raw acceleration. The Grecale’s V6 sounds authentic, responds quickly, and gives the SUV an emotional edge that many electrified or downsized competitors simply don’t match.
Step up to the Trofeo, and output rises to 523 horsepower. At that point, the Grecale becomes genuinely ferocious, with performance that places it among the fastest and most exciting SUVs in its size class.
Ride and Handling: Firm but Planted
The Grecale is not as nimble as the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, but it still feels poised and confident. Large 21-inch wheels help create an assertive stance, though they can also compromise comfort on rough pavement.
One major improvement for 2026 is that adaptive air suspension comes standard. That matters, because it broadens the Grecale’s range considerably. It can feel composed and comfortable on normal roads, then tighten up when the drive turns more spirited.
The adjustable ride height also brings extra versatility, and there’s even an Off-Road mode for owners who want more than pavement-only flexibility.
Modena vs Trofeo: Which Grecale Makes More Sense?
| Trim | Why Buy It | Potential Drawback |
|---|---|---|
| Modena | Best balance of performance, luxury, and price in the lineup | Still expensive for the space offered |
| Trofeo | Superb power, sharper attitude, more visual drama | Very high price and narrower buyer appeal |
For most buyers, the Maserati Grecale Modena is the sweet spot. It captures the sound, speed, and exclusivity that make the vehicle desirable without going all the way into Trofeo territory.
Should You Wait for the 2027 Maserati Grecale?
Maserati has already confirmed several updates for the 2027 Grecale, including mild exterior revisions, new wheels and colors, improved interior touchpoints, and the return of a lower-priced trim.
That could make waiting worthwhile if:
- You want a more affordable entry point
- You prefer the latest styling tweaks
- You are not in a rush to buy
On the other hand, if what matters most is getting the V6-powered Grecale experience now, the 2026 Modena already delivers the heart of the story.
Ownership Considerations: Price, Value, and Reliability
The 2026 Grecale starts at a premium price, and options can push it much higher. That alone makes it a niche product, especially when strong alternatives exist from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche.
There is also the issue of long-term confidence. Maserati’s reliability reputation remains a concern for some buyers, which means leasing may be the safer play—particularly if you want to stay within the brand’s warranty period and reduce long-term repair exposure.
Buyers should also remember that insurance and maintenance costs for exotic-branded performance SUVs can run higher than mainstream luxury competitors.
For broader SUV shopping research, you can explore more luxury SUV reviews and browse additional SUV buying content.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Outstanding twin-turbo V6 character
- Distinctive Italian styling
- Luxurious, sporty front cabin
- Standard adaptive air suspension
- Modena trim offers a strong balance of features and performance
Cons
- Very expensive for a compact SUV
- Not as practical as several rivals
- Some controls are unintuitive
- Large wheels can hurt ride comfort
- Reliability concerns may deter long-term ownership
Video: 2026 Maserati Grecale Review
Want to hear the V6 and see the Grecale in motion? This video review offers a closer look at the Trofeo and the SUV’s overall character.
Image Gallery
FAQ: 2026 Maserati Grecale Review
What engine does the 2026 Maserati Grecale use?
The 2026 Maserati Grecale uses a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter Nettuno V6 in its gasoline lineup. The Modena makes 385 horsepower, while the Trofeo produces 523 horsepower.
Is the 2026 Maserati Grecale fast?
Yes. The Grecale Modena can reach 100 km/h in about 5.1 seconds, while the Trofeo can do it in around 3.8 seconds with launch control.
What is the difference between Grecale Modena and Trofeo?
The Modena focuses on balancing luxury, performance, and price with a 385-hp V6. The Trofeo is the high-performance version, adding a 523-hp V6, more aggressive styling, and stronger acceleration.
Is the Maserati Grecale practical?
It is practical enough for daily use, but it is not a segment leader for rear-seat comfort or cargo space. It works best for buyers who prioritize style and driving character over maximum utility.
Should you lease or buy a Maserati Grecale?
For many buyers, leasing may be the smarter option because it helps limit long-term exposure to depreciation and possible reliability concerns once the factory warranty expires.
Should buyers wait for the 2027 Maserati Grecale?
Waiting could make sense if you want a lower-priced trim or the latest design and interior updates. If you want the V6 Grecale experience now, the 2026 model already delivers the core appeal.
Final Verdict
The 2026 Maserati Grecale is not the rational choice in the compact luxury SUV segment—and that is exactly why it still matters. It offers a sense of occasion, a genuinely charismatic V6, and design flair that many rivals simply cannot match.
The Modena is the trim most shoppers should target, because it captures the Grecale’s personality without stretching into full Trofeo excess. Yes, the price is high. Yes, practicality is average. And yes, long-term ownership questions remain. But if you want a luxury SUV with emotion, sound, and unmistakable Italian identity, the Grecale remains a compelling alternative to the usual German choices.
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