Maserati stirred the market with the introduction of its first SUV in history, a car that breached into a world dominated by other premium automakers thanks to its Ferrari-sourced engines and the sports car lines of bodywork.
It was clearly not just another SUV on the market, one that could only be used for school runs and pull trailers with boats attached to it. The Levante was Maserati's alternative for go-fast SUVs that could keep pace with sports cars and still be able to transport a family of four in comfort. In addition, the vehicle attracted more customers to the Italian brand thanks to its look, performance, and usability. It was no longer a sports car for two but one that the owners could share with their families and friends.
Maserati made the Levante on the same platform as the Ghibli and the Quattroporte and unveiled the SUV in 2016 at the Geneva Motor Show. At the front, the car featured a large grille dominated by vertical slats where the “Tridento” badge took center stage. Unlike most SUVs, the car featured slim headlights compared to the rest of the front fascia and featured an additional set of fog lamps underneath them. On the lower side of the bumper, the automaker added a broad air intake with a hexagonal pattern for the mesh. In addition, Maserati placed a light-gray trim underneath the bumper and engine compartment that mimicked an underbody shield.
The luxurious interior featured broad areas covered in leather. Besides the seats and door cards, the dashboard was trimmed with the same material and matching color. Depending on the engine version, grades, and options, the Levante boasted carbon fiber trims or wood grains. The instrument cluster fronted the driver and featured two large dials for the speedometer and tachometer that flanked an LCD. To complete the technology package, Maserati installed an 8.4” touchscreen on the center stack between two slim vertical vents. The high-bolstered front seats were separated by a tall center console that featured the armrest and housed the gear selector and the controller for driving modes. Under the armrest, the automaker installed a storage compartment. In the back, the Levante featured a bench for three adults but mostly profiled for two. In addition, the split-folding seatback could expand the trunk space.
Under the hood, Maserati installed a choice of gasoline-powered V6 and V8 engines developed by Ferrari. Furthermore, for specific markets, the carmaker offered a turbo-diesel version. All versions were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that sent the power to all corners. A torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system and an adaptive suspension enhanced the car's on-road behavior. While the automaker didn't make the Levante to conquer remote places on top of a mountain, it still made the vehicle good enough to tackle unpaved roads and perform well in snow-covered areas.
load press release