2023 Maserati Grecale

Given the success of Maserati's first SUV, the Levante, it's no surprise the Italian automaker fast-tracked a smaller crossover to shore up its SUV portfolio. The 2023 Maserati Grecale — named after a strong, cold Mediterranean wind — is a fitting effort, offering a standard four-cylinder in two states of tune and a range-topping ferocious twin-turbo V6.

The base GT trim uses a twin-turbo four-cylinder paired to a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The Grecale isn't a traditional hybrid, however. Instead, it uses a small electric motor to reduce the load on the gas engine, and, depending on your driving mode and style, it helps improve fuel efficiency or provide extra power. The GT makes a robust amount of low-end power — 332 lb-ft of torque — for the class, edging out the mechanically related Alfa Romeo Stelvio and four-cylinder Porsche Macan.

The Grecale Modena trim makes more power and adds a few upgrades, while the high-performance Trofeo gives full commitment with a 523-hp turbo V6 engine. Maserati plans to introduce a fully electric Grecale variant next year — the Folgore — to broaden the SUV's appeal. With nearly 600 lb-ft of torque expected, it won't have much problem finding takers.

Inside, the Grecale is a cleverly masked assembly of parent company Stellantis' parts bin. The familiar steering wheel comes from the Stelvio, and the infotainment interface recalls a similar concept in the Jeep Grand Wagoneer. It's not a bad thing — similar complaints dogged the Maserati Ghibli many years earlier — but it will cause some to grumble, especially as the price crests six figures with the Trofeo trim. But even if that sounds lofty, the Grecale's prices align with its primary intended target, the Porsche Macan. While Audi, BMW and Mercedes all have small performance SUVs, the Macan is the best execution of speed, handling and luxury in the class. The 2023 Maserati Grecale may soon change that.