Maserati updates Grecale and GT models ahead of coming major brand reset

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The next generation of Maserati models will not simply bring more of the same, key executives have told Chasing Cars, with the Italian marque promising surprising new models as it prepares a wider reset intended to make the Trident brand more competitive.

Speaking at the reveal of updated versions of the GranTurismo, GranCabrio and Grecale, Maserati chief operating officer Santo Ficili confirmed the brand was already working beyond its current range, with the new direction expected to be revealed after this year.

Asked by Chasing Cars whether Maserati’s future would be surprising or merely an extension of today’s lineup, Ficili said: “We will keep the range we have today that is still fantastic.

“Of course, we will surprise you with new models. Not only for the design…not only engineering…not only referring to the marketing activity.

“We need to launch (the new models) in the market in the best possible way…so there is a plan that is going ahead, the team is working, and then you will see what we are anticipating today to you very, very soon.”

That gives the updated GranTurismo coupe, GranCabrio convertible and Grecale SUV a more important role than a routine facelift.

They are the first signs of a brand trying to sharpen its identity after a difficult period that saw Maserati discontinue the Ghibli, Quattroporte and Levante without immediate replacements.

Maserati has not confirmed Australian pricing for the updated range, but the changes are expected to be relevant to local buyers because the brand is continuing to develop petrol and electric versions in parallel, rather than pushing every customer into an EV.

Design and powertrain changes

The GranTurismo and GranCabrio now receive a harder-edged front-end design, clearer lighting signatures, new interior controls, a new steering wheel, updated digital clock, fresh colour and trim choices, and a revised 3.0-litre Nettuno twin-turbo V6.

The big mechanical news is the Trofeo’s increase to 440kW, which is up 30kW. Engineering chief Davide Danesin said Maserati did not need to heavily rework the engine to find the extra performance.

“We actually added only a minor modification on the distribution and then all the rest came out from the new calibration,” he said. “We took the turbo performance to higher revs.”

The updated GranTurismo Folgore and GranCabrio Folgore electric models continue with an 800-volt three-motor layout, but Maserati has added an AWD disconnect system to improve range.

The GranTurismo Folgore is now listed at up to 540km WLTP range, while the GranCabrio Folgore reaches 508km.

Maserati’s key Grecale midsize SUV, a Porsche Macan rival, has also been revised, gaining new front-end styling, an updated cabin interface and a broader engine range overseas, including a new 286kW V6 version sitting below the high-output 395kW Trofeo.

But the more interesting signal is what Maserati is not ruling out.

A hybrid future?

Asked whether hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains could form part of the future plan, Ficili said Maserati was studying the “possible evolution” of the Nettuno V6.

Danesin went further, saying hybridisation was “becoming more and more a standard” under emissions pressure, while also offering possible performance benefits.

“V6 is…where we see that application has potential,” he said. “So, this is something we could consider in the future.”

That does not confirm a hybrid Maserati V6, let alone a return of V8 power or a manual gearbox, but it does suggest Maserati’s next chapter will not be electric-only.

Instead, the brand appears to be moving toward a more flexible powertrain approach that could include better EVs, evolved combustion engines and, potentially, hybrid performance models, helping it to achieve European and Australian emissions requirements.

Expanded lineup

Ficili also confirmed Maserati must return to market segments it has left behind.

“Now we are working to build the other pillar that is part of our story, meaning the Quattroporte, that is not only the sedan,” he said.

“When we look at the Quattroporte, we can imagine also a car in the E-SUV segment, the previous Levante, to be super clear with you…so we need to come back to these parts of the market, and that’s the direction we are following this time.”

Parent company Stellantis has already confirmed Maserati will receive two new E-segment models, with a fuller roadmap due in December 2026. Ficili said partnerships would be considered, including around electronic architecture, but insisted Maserati had to remain Maserati.

“What is important is to keep the soul of Maserati, meaning the proportion of the design, the performance, the material, the craftsmanship, the interior of the car,” he said.