THE LEVANTE IS Maserati’s first, and so far only, SUV. It was launched in 2016 with right-hand drive models powered by a 3.0-litre turbodiesel power. Eventually the V6 engine was launched for right-hand drive cars and now the range topping V8 model is available.
The Levante GTS Twin Turbo V8 maintains the V90 architecture of the 3.8-litre unit fitted in the flagship Quattroporte GTS four-door saloon, but it has been re-engineered to work with the Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive System and retuned to deliver 550hp at 6,250rpm and 730Nm of torque between 2,500 and 5,000rpm.
Like all Maserati petrol engines, this V8 is assembled by Ferrari in Maranello.
The Levante GTS has a weight/power ratio of 3.9 kg/hp and takes 4.2 seconds to reach 100km/h from a standstill. Its top speed is 292km/h.
The Levante features a redesigned gearshift lever featuring a more intuitive shift pattern, shorter travel and improved operation. The driver now has the option to use the eight-speed ZF gearbox in automatic or manual mode simply by shifting the lever from right to left.
The cabin comes as standard with full premium leather, sport pedals and a Harman Kardon audio system with 14 speakers. Also coming fitted as standard is Integrated Vehicle Control (IVC), which, rather than simply correcting vehicle instability, helps prevent it which is said to provide enhanced active safety as well as improve driving dynamics.
Optional extras include full-grain Pieno Fiore natural leather and adaptive full LED Matrix headlights.
Exterior colour options have also been refreshed and there is now eleven to choose from and along with two new tri-coat colours.
There are two brand new alloy wheel designs in 20 and 21-inch sizes as well as a 22-inch Orione forged aluminium wheel option – the largest ever created by Maserati.
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