After what seemed like the longest wait, the Maserati Grecale is finally here, and I couldn’t be more excited. Now, this is an exciting new model for the Modena-based automaker. Why?

Because Maserati’s new Grecale isn’t just another D-segment competitor. The SUV also debuts the Trident brand's first-ever all-electric vehicle, the 2024 Maserati Grecale Folgore. The Folgore (which translates to ‘lightning’ in Italian) nameplate refers to all-electric models from the Trident brand, with the compete model roll-out by 2025.

Overview

The Grecale will also be offered a zero-emission powertrain. Like the Grecale SUV, the Folgore, too, is designed for everyday use with the Maserati performance that one expects, but with zero emissions. Instead of using Stelantis’ new electric platform. The Grecale is underpinned by a modified version of the Giorgio platform} that underpins models like the Alfa Romeo Stelvio. Visually, there are obviously some key differences to the gas-powered Grecale, as highlighted in these spyshots.

Exterior Design

I guess Maserati has played it safe with the exterior design of the Folgore, which is no bad thing. The overall general form has been carried over from the gas car. However the Folgore, with its all-electric powertrain, features a concave closed-off grille - which Maserati likes to refer to as a frame - and different designed air intakes on the bumper accented by a glossy black decorative decal. While the design is extremely subjective, the overall aesthetic of Maserati's baby SUV is far more appealing in my opinion.

The Folgore badge proudly sits atop the fenders, while a new trident logo, that first debuted on the MC20 supercar, now sits on the rear pillar. The alloy wheels are of the turbo type, highly aerodynamic, and almost completely enclosed.

One way to identify an electric Grecale on the road is with the "Copper Rame Folgore" matte paint, exclusive to the EV. This paint contains iridescent pigments which dance between copper and blueish grey hues, inspired from the façade of the Guggenheim in Bilbao.

A Stustainable Cabin

Now, Maserati hasn’t shared images of the Grecale Folgore’s cabin but expect the interior to remain largely unchanged, retaining the digital dashboard, center console. MIA or Maserati Intelligent Assistant should be carried over as well.

What the Italian marque did highlight was the sustainability aspect of the new Grecale Folgore. This is thanks to its use of a new eco-friendly material called "Econyl", nylon recycled made out of fishing nets recovered from the sea.

The Powertrain

No details were given on the range or performance, but it is safe to assume that two electric motors could offer about 500 kW (250 kW on each axle) or 680 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. One motor, presumably, the front one could be disabled to save energy, making the SUV fully two-wheel drive. 0-62 mph should come up in the region of three seconds, give or take. Four-wheel-drive comes as standard.

The Folgore will feature a 105 kWh battery (the brand is yet to confirm if that’s the net capacity or usable capacity). A 400-volt battery pack means charging won’t be as quick as the upcoming Macan Electric’s 800-volts. This battery should provide enough juice for up to 434 miles, on a single charge.

Conclusion

While the gas-powered Grecale GT, Modena, and Trofeo models should make it to market by 2023, the Grecale Folgore won’t hit U.S. shores until 2024. If the Grecale indeed ends up with 500 kW, it will climb to the top of the mid-size luxury electric SUV category, ahead of the Audi E-Tron S (370 kW), the Mercedes-Benz EQC400 (300 kW), and the Tesla Model Y Performance (393 kW).

As for pricing, with the regular Grecale coming in at $65,000, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Folgore costs about 10 grand more.