'Maserati Grecale is not for the masses, attractive but also very Italian temperamental'

The 2026 Maserati Grecale SUV, a familiar presence in the Vietnamese market for over three years, has undergone subtle yet significant refinements. These updates aim to make the Italian luxury vehicle more approachable and aligned with the practical needs of Vietnamese consumers. The car's journey from Ho Chi Minh City to the sunny coastal destination of Phan Thiet offered a chance to experience its blend of Mediterranean flair and everyday usability.

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However, like many Italian cars, the Grecale is not a model for those who only seek absolute perfection.

Maserati has opted for a less ostentatious approach with the Grecale, particularly regarding its pricing and optional packages. Unlike many luxury vehicles where extensive customization comes at a steep additional cost, the Grecale GT starts at 3.83 billion VND, a reduction from its initial launch price. This suggests Maserati is prioritizing a more complete experience straight from the factory, rather than compelling buyers to "purchase" additional emotional value through optional extras.

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With a starting price of 3.83 billion VND for the GT version, significantly lower than the more than 4.2 billion VND at its launch, the Italian SUV offers a complete feeling right from the factory instead of forcing the driver to 'buy' additional emotions.

Inside, the Grecale exudes a quiet luxury. Instead of flashy decorations or elaborate ambient lighting, the cabin is adorned with soft, full-grain leather across surfaces like the seats, dashboard, and door panels. This tactile experience emphasizes understated elegance and comfort. Standard on the Grecale GT is a Sonus faber audio system featuring 14 speakers and 860W of power. While the specifications sound impressive, the real-world audio performance is characterized by clarity, balance, and depth, rather than overwhelming volume or excessive bass.

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The sound is reproduced cleanly, easy to listen to and with enough depth, instead of trying to overwhelm with volume or excessive bass.

The Grecale's driving personality is a study in contrasts, embodying a distinctly Italian "temperamental" nature. In city traffic, the steering is light and forgiving, offering a relaxed driving experience. However, engaging the Sport mode on the highway transforms the vehicle. The throttle response sharpens, the steering tightens, and the active exhaust system unleashes a more aggressive sound, revealing the SUV's true sporty character. This duality, a calm demeanor in urban settings and a spirited performance on the open road, defines the Grecale's unique appeal.

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But when stepping onto the Dau Giay - Phan Thiet highway, everything changes immediately after turning the knob to Sport mode.