Dubbed the Maserati of SUVs, the Levante S shows class with a Ferrari-tinged engine, array of driving assistants, and sleek or sporty trim.
We first saw the Maserati of SUVs at this year’s Frankfurt Motorshow, and now, Malaysian fans of the Italian brand have two new petrol-powered twin-turbocharged Levante S to choose from.
Launched at Desa Park City at the end of November, this latest entry into the luxury SUV segment has been engineered to excite with a V6 featuring latest Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) tech. Designed by Maserati Powertrain with the help of some friends from Ferrari Powertrain, its power is matched by green sensibilities including Auto Start-Stop.
This allows the fuel-efficient 430-hp engine to reach a maximum speed of 264 km/h and do 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds. We’re talking 194 Nm torque and 144hp/l specific power. Coupled with the lowest centre of gravity in its class and ideal 50:50 weight distribution, Maserati Levante S is light and versatile with four drive modes: Normal, I.C.E., Sport, and Off-road. Each alter engine, transmission, suspension and electronics for an eight-speed automatic drive that is seamlessly comfortable, quick, and safe.
Maserati has done away with hydraulic power steering and embraced electric power steering with the Levante S, which improves handling and driving comfort. Also worth noting is the new Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS), featuring assistance for highway, lane keeping, active blind spot and traffic sign recognition. Other improvements are seen in the braking system and front system, which now benefits from Brembo 6-piston aluminium monobloc calipers on drilled discs.
For those who like the finer things: GranLusso
The Levante S GranLusso is made with luxury convenience in mind. Interior options on offer are lush Ermenegildo Zegna silk or full premium Italian upholstery, each with Radica open-pore wood trim and leather steering wheel.
External design features include metallic-finish front skid plates and rood rails and 19-inch Zefiro alloy wheels. This extravagant trim also comes with standard 12-way power comfort seats, Harman Kardon sound system, power-adjustable steering wheel, illuminated door sills, and new Soft Close doors.
For the wild at heart: GranSport
Maserati’s racing heritage is at the heart of the Levante S GranSport aesthetic and design. On the outside, you’ll find a distinct Piano Black front grille, while the front wings bear GranSport badges. There are blue inserts on all Trident and Saetta logos, as well as red black calipers and 20-inch Nereo wheels.
On the inside, innovative solutions receive a sporty touch with 12-way power leather seats and carbon-trimmed power-adjustable steering wheel. This is completed by standard gearshift paddles, power-adjustable Inox sport pedals, and the same parking sensors and navigation system as its luxurious-trim twin.
Maserati Levante S is available at a starting price of RM788,800 (inclusive of local taxes and duties) with three-year Standard Warranty coverage (no mileage restriction) and Maserati Premium Service Plus of three years or 60,000 km.
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Images courtesy of Naza Italia.
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