Jeremy Clarkson Calls Out “Worst Problem” in Maserati Grecale and Mocks Kaleb Cooper’s Bold Claim

Jeremy Clarkson has tested nearly every type of vehicle imaginable throughout his long and outspoken career, from stripped-down performance machines to the most luxurious SUVs on the market. Yet in his latest experience behind the wheel, it was not speed, handling, or engineering that immediately caught his attention. Instead, it was something far more unexpected—and, in his view, far more problematic: the color.

While driving the Maserati Grecale across multiple trips between London, Cheltenham, and Birmingham, Clarkson found himself both impressed and irritated. The Italian luxury SUV delivered a generally strong performance, offering comfort, refinement, and a suite of modern features expected in its class. However, one detail nearly overshadowed the entire experience: its bold, egg-yellow paint finish.

For Clarkson, the striking color was less of a fashion statement and more of a liability. In his typically sharp and humorous tone, he remarked that while such a vibrant shade might look eye-catching on the glossy cover of a car magazine, it feels entirely different in real-world driving conditions. On ordinary roads filled with neutral-colored vehicles—dominated by shades of gray, black, and silver—the Grecale stood out in a way that Clarkson did not entirely appreciate.

Rather than enhancing the vehicle’s premium image, he joked that the bright yellow made it resemble something far more ordinary. To passing drivers, he suggested, the expensive Maserati could easily be mistaken for a much cheaper car, with confused onlookers wondering why he appeared to be driving what looked like a yellow Toyota. For someone accustomed to vehicles that quietly signal status and performance, this unintended effect became, in Clarkson’s words, the car’s “worst problem.”

The issue became even more apparent during long motorway drives, where blending into traffic can often be part of the appeal of a luxury vehicle. Instead, Clarkson found himself in a car that demanded attention at every turn. While some drivers might enjoy that level of visibility, Clarkson’s reaction suggested that subtlety still holds significant value in the high-end automotive world.

Adding a layer of humor to his review, Clarkson also took the opportunity to poke fun at his Clarkson’s Farm co-star Kaleb Cooper. Referencing Kaleb’s recent claim that Birmingham is “the best city in the world,” Clarkson could not resist a sarcastic response. During one of his journeys, he revisited the statement with clear amusement, treating it as a lighthearted but laughable exaggeration. The remark became a comedic side note in an otherwise automotive-focused review, highlighting the ongoing dynamic between the two personalities.

Despite his criticism of the color, Clarkson’s overall assessment of the Grecale was far from negative. In fact, he expressed appreciation for several aspects of the vehicle, particularly its approach to modern driver assistance systems. Many contemporary cars are criticized for overwhelming drivers with constant alerts, warnings, and intrusive safety features that can detract from the driving experience. Clarkson, known for valuing driver control, seemed relieved that the Grecale allows users to easily disable some of these systems.

This flexibility stood out as a major advantage. Rather than being trapped in a cycle of beeps and reminders every time the engine starts, Clarkson found that the car respected the driver’s preferences. In a humorous aside, he even referenced Italy’s reputation for a more relaxed attitude toward rules, suggesting that while regulations may exist, enforcement—and adherence—can sometimes be more flexible. It was a classic Clarkson observation, blending cultural commentary with automotive critique.

Beyond that, the Grecale impressed with its range of practical features. Advanced parking systems, surround-view cameras, sensors, and rear braking assistance all contribute to making the vehicle easier to handle in tight urban environments. Ironically, these capabilities tied neatly into another anecdote associated with Clarkson—one that highlights his well-known tendency to turn everyday situations into memorable moments.

Writer Mariana Swain once recounted an embarrassing encounter involving Clarkson during a parallel parking lesson. Struggling to complete what should have been a simple maneuver, she suddenly became aware of laughter coming from nearby. Looking up, she discovered Clarkson observing the situation with visible amusement. According to her account, he watched her repeated attempts before delivering a blunt, one-word judgment. The moment left her mortified and ultimately forced her to abandon the effort, handing control back to her instructor.

The story perfectly captures Clarkson’s public persona: direct, unapologetic, and often brutally honest, yet undeniably entertaining. Whether reviewing a high-end SUV or reacting to a stranger’s parking difficulties, he has a unique ability to leave a lasting impression.

In the end, Clarkson’s experience with the Maserati Grecale reflects a familiar pattern. He acknowledges quality where he sees it, appreciates thoughtful engineering, but never hesitates to call out flaws—no matter how unconventional they may be. And in this case, it was not horsepower or handling that drew his sharpest critique, but a bold design choice that, for him, simply went too far.

As always, Clarkson’s verdict is as much about personality as it is about the product. And whether one agrees with his opinions or not, there is little doubt that he continues to shape conversations in the automotive world—one sharp remark at a time.