With the latest evolution of the Levante, legendary Italian luxury car manufacturer Maserati has thrust its famous silver trident well and truly into the heart of the super-SUV market. The two new vehicles, Trofeo and GTS, both feature a powerful re-engineered 3.8 litre Twin Turbo V8, retuned chassis and distinct sports styling; a package that offers poise, pace, practicality, and genuine exclusivity.
From the grille and bonnet to its rear skirts, the redesign has given the Levante an aggressive and sportier appearance. It’s also more aerodynamically efficient, helped by sleek lines and features an electric Air Shutter in the grille that controls air flow to the engine compartment through the continuous movement of the blades, thus reducing drag and optimising engine temperature.
Other notable advances include adaptive full LED Matrix headlights and the Glare-Free High Beam detection system, which deactivates individual LEDs in the relevant zone, so the driver can keep on the high beam without dazzling oncoming vehicles. The exterior is further enhanced by new, larger alloy wheels and new finishes, including two tri-coat colours, Italian sports car-inspired Rosso Potente and shimmering glass of Blu Nobile.
The spacious interior is a thoughtful blend of luxury and sport. The dashboard’s central feature is the 8.4-inch Maserati Touch Control Plus (MTC+) display, which features updated graphics and improved functionality. The centre console boasts
a new gearshift lever and a revised button cluster for the driving modes, characteristic double rotary knob for basic infotainment functions and air suspension height setup switch. There are sporty model-specific instrument graphics too.
The new model interiors are clothed with premium materials, and Maserati offer a wide range of customisation options. In addition to Levante GTS or Trofeo, Maserati also released Levante GranSport and GranLusso, which is adorned in Ermenegildo Zegna materials.
The new V8 Levante is unashamedly sport-oriented and includes 12-way power sport front seats with memory function, power-adjustable sport steering wheel with aluminium gearshift paddles, and power adjustable Inox sport pedals.
Capable off-road, a delight on the open road, and comfortable in the city, driving a Levante GTS or Trofeo is a dream. The V8 engines have been developed alongside Ferrari and assembled at the famous Maranello factory, producing a whopping 550BHP (GTS) and 590BHP (Trofeo). Mated to the eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox and Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, the power delivery is smooth, precise and exhilarating.
Practical, fast, comfortable and a real head-turner, the V8 Maserati Levante Trofeo and GTS are sensational. And whilst offering a level of unmatched SUV exclusivity, they remain vehicles for everyday use.
