The Grecale Essenza , announced by Maserati Japan in August 2025 , is a mid-size SUV that embodies the brand’s innovative pricing strategy. With a strategic price tag of 9.9 million yen, it is a commemorative model that opens the door to Maserati for many users who have previously been barred from buying one by the 10 million yen barrier.
What is Maserati’s new strategic model “Grecale Essenza”?
“Essenza” means “essence” in Italian , and as its name suggests, it is positioned as a new entry-level grade that condenses the charm of the Grecale.
Grecale Essenza’s attractive pricing and cost performance
maserati essenza
Strategic pricing of 9.9 million yen
The biggest feature of the Grecale Essenza is its price tag of just 9.9 million yen (tax included), which is less than 10 million yen. It is noteworthy that, despite being in this price range, it offers the quality and design that Maserati is proud of without compromise.
The following equipment has been inherited from the previous entry-level model, making it a truly cost-effective option:
- Full premium leather seats
- Seat heater function
- Ambient Light
- Traditional Maserati craftsmanship
maserati essenza
Price comparison with competitors
Compared to imported premium SUVs in the same class, the Grecale Essenza’s price competitiveness is clear. Considering the value of the Maserati brand, it is priced very attractively against major rivals such as the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Audi Q5.
Full engine specs and driving performance
The power of the 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder turbo engine
The Grecale Essenza is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-four turbo engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering the following performance:
Engine spec details
- Maximum output: 300PS/5750rpm
- Maximum torque: 450Nm (45.9kg-m) at 2000rpm
- 0-100km/h acceleration: 5.6 seconds
- Maximum speed: 240km/h
Adoption of a mild hybrid system
The engine is fitted with a mild hybrid system that combines with a 48V battery, improving fuel efficiency while also delivering powerful torque from low rpm ranges.
Four-wheel drive system “Q4”
The Grecale Essenza comes standard with Maserati’s unique four-wheel drive system, the Q4. Under normal circumstances, the car runs in rear-wheel drive (0:100) and automatically adjusts the front/rear drive force distribution up to 50:50 depending on road conditions. This technology ensures stable driving performance on all road conditions.
Refined exterior design
The essence of Italian design
The Grecale Essenza inherits Maserati’s traditional design language while beautifully blending it with a modern SUV style. The iconic trident emblem on the front grille gives it a presence that is instantly recognizable as a Maserati.
Body size and proportions
Main body size
- Total length: 4,845mm
- Overall width: 1,950mm (excluding door mirrors) / 2,163mm (including door mirrors)
- Overall height: 1,670mm
- Wheelbase: 2,900mm
- Minimum turning radius: 6.2m
This size is well suited to Japanese road conditions and is easy to handle in urban areas.
Selectable body colors
The Grecale Essenza is available in the following exterior colours:
Standard Color
- Bianco (solid paint)
Optional colors (210,000 yen each)
- Grigio Lava (metallic paint)
- Bianco Astro (metallic paint)
- Nero Tempesta (metallic paint)
These simple yet sophisticated color choices highlight the elegant appearance of the Grecale Essenza.
Premium interior and comfort features
An interior space that breathes Italian craftsmanship
The interior of the Grecale Essenza is a modern interpretation of traditional Maserati craftsmanship, with seats fully upholstered in premium leather for a luxurious feel and durability.
Fully equipped for comfort
Despite its low price, it comes standard with the following comfort features:
- Heated seats
- Ambient Light
- Air conditioning
- Infotainment System
Practical storage space
- Trunk capacity : 535L
- Fuel tank capacity : 64L
It has ample loading capacity and can be used for a wide range of purposes, from everyday use to leisure.
Positioning in the Grecale series as a whole
“Every day Exceptional” concept
The Essenza faithfully embodies the concept of the entire Grecale series, “The Every Day Exceptional.” It embodies Maserati’s unique philosophy of providing an exceptional experience while still being suitable for everyday use.
Adoption of the Giorgio platform
The Grecale Essenza uses the Giorgio platform , which is also used in the Alfa Romeo Stelvio and Jeep Grand Cherokee , achieving high rigidity and excellent driving performance.
Differentiation points from other grades
The Essenza inherits the basic performance and design of the higher grades, while keeping the price down by carefully selecting the equipment. It is a strategic model that delivers the essential appeal of the Maserati brand to more customers.
Ordering, delivery time, and handle position
Order start date and delivery date
Orders for the Grecale Essenza will begin in September 2025. For specific delivery dates, it is recommended to check with an authorized Maserati dealer.
Handle position options
- Right-hand drive (standard)
- Left-hand drive (made to order)
Left-hand drive is also available, allowing you to enjoy the feel of a more authentic Italian sports car.
Comparison of Maserati Grecale Essenza and its competitors
Rival models in the same price range
BMW X3 xDrive20i
- Price range: From 7 million yen
- Engine: 2.0L inline 4-cylinder turbo (184PS)
Mercedes-Benz GLC220d 4MATIC
- Price range: From 7 million yen
- Engine: 2.0L diesel turbo (194PS)
Audi Q5 40 TDI quattro
- Price range: From 7 million yen
- Engine: 2.0L diesel turbo (204PS)
Compared to these rivals, the Grecale Essenza is priced higher, but considering the value of the Maserati brand and the appeal of Italian design, it is priced competitively.
Points to consider when purchasing
merit
- Experience the Maserati brand for less than 10 million yen
- Extensive standard equipment
- The beauty of Italian design
- Stable driving performance thanks to the four-wheel drive system “Q4”
- Ample power of 300PS
Points to note
- Fuel efficiency must be checked
- Consideration of maintenance costs
- Resale value prediction
- Check the dealer network
Summary: Value of the Maserati Grecale Essenza
The Maserati Grecale Essenza is an innovative model that allows customers to enter the world of Italian premium SUVs at a strategic price of 9.9 million yen . As the name “Essenza” means “essence” and “quintessence,” it is sure to attract the attention of many customers as a car that embodies the charm of Maserati.
Orders will begin in September 2025, so if you’re interested, we recommend checking the details at your Maserati dealer. As a new option for Italian luxury SUVs, the Grecale Essenza is sure to make an impact on the market.
