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Maserati Levante
- Thread starter FiestaST
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FiestaST
Honorary Master
Maserati Levante S GranSport 2017 review
Should I buy one?
If you liked that idea last year but were ultimately put off as a disadvantaged right-hand-drive customer, you should certainly consider it afresh. Because, praise be, what’s shaping up to be the most important Maserati in decades seems to have negotiated its awkward early years and blossomed into the car many probably hoped it might be from the off.
As a luxury SUV, the Levante remains one of big attractions and a few telling disappointments. But as a driver’s car, as much as it matters to British buyers at least, it’s finally been given the engine its chassis deserves - and that feels like a much-needed coming of age.
Maserati Levante S GranSport
Where Dubai, UAE On sale January 2018 Price £76,995 Engine 2979cc, V6, twin-turbocharged, petrol Power 424bhp at 5750rpm Torque 428lb ft at 5000rpm Gearbox 8-spd automatic Kerb weight 2109kg Top speed 164mph 0-62mph 5.2sec Fuel economy 25.9mpg CO2 rating, tax band 253g/km, 37% Rivals Range Rover Sport 5.0 V8 S/C Autobiography Dynamic, Audi SQ7
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-revie...ives/maserati-levante-s-gransport-2017-review
Should I buy one?
If you liked that idea last year but were ultimately put off as a disadvantaged right-hand-drive customer, you should certainly consider it afresh. Because, praise be, what’s shaping up to be the most important Maserati in decades seems to have negotiated its awkward early years and blossomed into the car many probably hoped it might be from the off.
As a luxury SUV, the Levante remains one of big attractions and a few telling disappointments. But as a driver’s car, as much as it matters to British buyers at least, it’s finally been given the engine its chassis deserves - and that feels like a much-needed coming of age.
Maserati Levante S GranSport
Where Dubai, UAE On sale January 2018 Price £76,995 Engine 2979cc, V6, twin-turbocharged, petrol Power 424bhp at 5750rpm Torque 428lb ft at 5000rpm Gearbox 8-spd automatic Kerb weight 2109kg Top speed 164mph 0-62mph 5.2sec Fuel economy 25.9mpg CO2 rating, tax band 253g/km, 37% Rivals Range Rover Sport 5.0 V8 S/C Autobiography Dynamic, Audi SQ7
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-revie...ives/maserati-levante-s-gransport-2017-review
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Maserati Levante GTS to get 523bhp turbocharged Ferrari V8 engine
Hot SUV model due next year to rival Porsche Cayenne Turbo
The Maserati Levante will soon be hot on the heels of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo when a GTS version launches next year with a Ferrari V8 unit.
Spotted testing on the continent, the performance SUV model will inherit the twin-turbocharged 3.8-litre engine that’s currently used in the Quattroporte GTS, where it produces 523bhp.
With that output, the Levante GTS would rank within reach of the 542bhp Cayenne Turbo and upcoming Range Rover Velar SVR, which is also expected to have around 542bhp.
Like its hot SUV rivals, the Levante GTS will get bespoke chassis settings that are more road-biased than its siblings. Expect a harder performance mode for its air suspension that will sacrifice ride comfort for enhanced body control.
The car will wear GTS trim inside and out, with larger wheels and more aggressive bumpers for the exterior. The cabin will likely come with a higher-spec finish as standard, with a carbonfibre trim likely to signify the model’s sporting credentials.
The GTS will sit at the top of the Levante range, which currently receives power from either a 3.0-litre V6 petrol or a diesel engine of the same arrangement. The current quickest model, the V6 S GranSport, retails from £76,995, meaning the GTS could start from more than £80,000.
Following the GTS, Maserati will bolster its Levante line-up with a hybrid variant. It will mate the V6 petrol engine to an electric motor, shared with fellow Fiat Chrysler Automobiles stablemate Chrysler's Pacifica Hybrid, to offer around 33 miles of pure electric driving.
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/...gts-get-523bhp-turbocharged-ferrari-v8-engine
Hot SUV model due next year to rival Porsche Cayenne Turbo
The Maserati Levante will soon be hot on the heels of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo when a GTS version launches next year with a Ferrari V8 unit.
Spotted testing on the continent, the performance SUV model will inherit the twin-turbocharged 3.8-litre engine that’s currently used in the Quattroporte GTS, where it produces 523bhp.
With that output, the Levante GTS would rank within reach of the 542bhp Cayenne Turbo and upcoming Range Rover Velar SVR, which is also expected to have around 542bhp.
Like its hot SUV rivals, the Levante GTS will get bespoke chassis settings that are more road-biased than its siblings. Expect a harder performance mode for its air suspension that will sacrifice ride comfort for enhanced body control.
The car will wear GTS trim inside and out, with larger wheels and more aggressive bumpers for the exterior. The cabin will likely come with a higher-spec finish as standard, with a carbonfibre trim likely to signify the model’s sporting credentials.
The GTS will sit at the top of the Levante range, which currently receives power from either a 3.0-litre V6 petrol or a diesel engine of the same arrangement. The current quickest model, the V6 S GranSport, retails from £76,995, meaning the GTS could start from more than £80,000.
Following the GTS, Maserati will bolster its Levante line-up with a hybrid variant. It will mate the V6 petrol engine to an electric motor, shared with fellow Fiat Chrysler Automobiles stablemate Chrysler's Pacifica Hybrid, to offer around 33 miles of pure electric driving.
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/...gts-get-523bhp-turbocharged-ferrari-v8-engine
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Maserati Levante S now available in SA: New luxury SUV priced from R1.9-million
The highly-anticipated petrol version of Maserati’s SUV, the Levante S, is now available in South Africa.
Until now, the Maserati Levante has been available in South Africa in V6 turbo-diesel guise. The new twin turbo V6 Petrol Levante S offers 320KW which enables the Levante to sprint from 0-100km/h time in 5.2 seconds - making it a true performance machine.
The Levante-S is priced from R1 950 000.
Brad Graaff, Operations Manager for European Automotive Imports - South Africa (EAI-SA), said: "Since launching the Levante in South Africa last year, we have had an overwhelming response from the public. The arrival of the Levante S cements Maserati’s position as one of the country’s leaders in the niche vehicle segment, including luxury SUVs"
He adds: "Maserati is committed to the South African market, as the Levante S follows a range of new vehicle updates introduced by the brand earlier this year. Maserati South Africa has two showrooms in Johannesburg and Cape Town, with a third in the near future for Durban."
Maserati enthusiasts will be able to test drive the Levante-S later in November.
*EAI-SA is the official importer of Maserati in South Africa.
http://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModels...w-luxury-suv-priced-from-r19-million-20171109
The highly-anticipated petrol version of Maserati’s SUV, the Levante S, is now available in South Africa.
Until now, the Maserati Levante has been available in South Africa in V6 turbo-diesel guise. The new twin turbo V6 Petrol Levante S offers 320KW which enables the Levante to sprint from 0-100km/h time in 5.2 seconds - making it a true performance machine.
The Levante-S is priced from R1 950 000.
Brad Graaff, Operations Manager for European Automotive Imports - South Africa (EAI-SA), said: "Since launching the Levante in South Africa last year, we have had an overwhelming response from the public. The arrival of the Levante S cements Maserati’s position as one of the country’s leaders in the niche vehicle segment, including luxury SUVs"
He adds: "Maserati is committed to the South African market, as the Levante S follows a range of new vehicle updates introduced by the brand earlier this year. Maserati South Africa has two showrooms in Johannesburg and Cape Town, with a third in the near future for Durban."
Maserati enthusiasts will be able to test drive the Levante-S later in November.
*EAI-SA is the official importer of Maserati in South Africa.
http://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModels...w-luxury-suv-priced-from-r19-million-20171109
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Maserati's 264km/h petrol Levante scorches into SA
Maserati became the newest entrant to the insatiably popular premium-SUV market when it launched its Levante here in February.
The Italian vehicle was only available as a V6 turbodiesel however, and now it's been joined by a petrol version called the Levante S for those who prefer a lighter-coloured fuel.
Under the bonnet of this high-performance all-terrainer is a Ferrari twin turbo 3-litre petrol V6 with outputs of 320kW and 580Nm, for a claimed top speed of 264km/h and a 0-100km/h blast in just 5.2 seconds. Perhaps more importantly it will have a signature petrol roar.
Like the diesel version the Levante S is an all-wheel drive SUV which rides on adaptive air suspension that can be set to one of three firmness levels, and can raise and lower to different heights to better suit the tar or turf. There's an additional extra low easy-entry parking mode.
Enhanced traction
The rear-biased all-wheel drive by default directs all the torque rearwards in regular driving, and diverts up to 50 percent to the front wheels when driving conditions dictate. There's also a mechanical limited-slip differential at the rear to enhance traction, particularly when accelerating out of tight corners.
The Levante-S is priced from R1 950 000 in standard form, but there's a bountiful list of extra-cost options for deep-pocketed buyers. Maserati South Africa has two showrooms in Johannesburg and Cape Town, with a third to be opened in Durban soon.
Next up on the Levante menu will be a V8 petrol version which is due in 2018. It will be powered by the 3.8-litre twinturbo V8 which wields 390kW and 710Nm in the Maserati Quattroporte, but may come with boosted outputs.
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/late...4kmh-petrol-levante-scorches-into-sa-11933504
Maserati became the newest entrant to the insatiably popular premium-SUV market when it launched its Levante here in February.
The Italian vehicle was only available as a V6 turbodiesel however, and now it's been joined by a petrol version called the Levante S for those who prefer a lighter-coloured fuel.
Under the bonnet of this high-performance all-terrainer is a Ferrari twin turbo 3-litre petrol V6 with outputs of 320kW and 580Nm, for a claimed top speed of 264km/h and a 0-100km/h blast in just 5.2 seconds. Perhaps more importantly it will have a signature petrol roar.
Like the diesel version the Levante S is an all-wheel drive SUV which rides on adaptive air suspension that can be set to one of three firmness levels, and can raise and lower to different heights to better suit the tar or turf. There's an additional extra low easy-entry parking mode.
Enhanced traction
The rear-biased all-wheel drive by default directs all the torque rearwards in regular driving, and diverts up to 50 percent to the front wheels when driving conditions dictate. There's also a mechanical limited-slip differential at the rear to enhance traction, particularly when accelerating out of tight corners.
The Levante-S is priced from R1 950 000 in standard form, but there's a bountiful list of extra-cost options for deep-pocketed buyers. Maserati South Africa has two showrooms in Johannesburg and Cape Town, with a third to be opened in Durban soon.
Next up on the Levante menu will be a V8 petrol version which is due in 2018. It will be powered by the 3.8-litre twinturbo V8 which wields 390kW and 710Nm in the Maserati Quattroporte, but may come with boosted outputs.
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/late...4kmh-petrol-levante-scorches-into-sa-11933504
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Maserati Levante S (2018) Launch Review
Sampling Maserati’s Ferrari-powered Levante in the dunes sounds like a tough job, but Ferdi de Vos put up his hand and volunteered for the arduous task. Much is expected of this petrol-powered premium SUV and Maserati hopes it'll snatch more than a few sales from its rivals.
So, the first luxury SUV from an Italian vehicle manufacturer with supercar power was the outlandish LM002 built by the Lamborghini between 1986 and 1993. Right? Well, actually no. Contrary to popular belief the brutish Rambo Lambo, while an unusual departure for the Fighting Bull and also the first four-wheel drive model built in Sant’ Agata, wasn’t the first opulent sports utility created south of the Alps.
This distinction belongs to the Tom Tjaarda designed Rayton Fissore Magnum luxury off-roader built in limited numbers in Cherasco, Italy, from 1985 to 2003. The Magnum, tailored with an Italian leather interior and a range of 4, 6 or 8-cylinder engines was sold in Europe as a competitor to the Range Rover, while the top American versions, marketed as Laforza, were powered by the Ford V8 5.0 SEFI V8 (some supercharged) as used in the contemporary Mustang GT, or by a 6.0-litre V8 with Eaton supercharger from GM.
The Ford V8 was good for 156 kW to over 200 kW of power, while the supercharged Chevy LS1 engine churned out an impressive 270kW and 515Nm of torque – heady figures at the time and not far off the 313 kW and 570 Nm delivered by the Countach derived 5.2-litre V12 in the LM002. Nearly a decade later the Fornasari RR99, a sleek four-door SUV first shown at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, followed in the tyre tracks of the Laforza and LM002.
The RR99, powered by a 455kW Chevy V8 that gives it a 0–100 km/h time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 280 km/h, can be considered the first “modern” Italian luxury SUV/crossover, but sadly the small company, created in 1999 by Giuseppe Fornasari, was declared bankrupt in 2015. Meanwhile, following the success of the Porsche Cayenne the FCA Group started development of a mid-size SUV, culminating in the Kubang concept displayed at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show and finally the Levante – the first four-wheel drive Maserati – introduced in 2016.
To feel the Modenese SUV’s 580 Nm of thrust while challenging the dunes is, in a word, delightful.
Introducing the Levante
The immediate success of the Levante in the world’s largest luxury segment proved to be a turning point for the Modenese manufacturer. In just over a year more than 25 000 Levantes were sold in 72 countries around the world, making it the highest-selling Maserati in that time. It was launched in South Africa in 2016, but only made available in diesel guise – and while the VM Motori V6 turbodiesel engine delivers a healthy 202 kW it doesn’t really do the luxury Italian crossover justice.
It falls short of the best in class dynamically and its performance (0-100 kph in 7,3 seconds) is diminished by its weight of more than 2,2 tonnes and even with 600 Nm of torque its power delivery is somewhat lethargic, with a hint of turbo lag before the V6 gets into its stride. But now la forza is back… in the form of the petrol-driven Levante S, the most powerful mid-sized Italian SUV available (well, at least for the moment) and this latest iteration of the flagship Levante model – soon to be unleashed locally – was recently introduced to the media in the dunes of Dubai.
To listen to the snarl of Ferrari-derived power in the desert and to feel the Modenese SUV’s 580 Nm of thrust while challenging the dunes was just delightful. With the 8-speed ZF auto gearbox (now with even quicker shifting times) in off-road mode, power distribution via the Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system with torque vectoring and a limited-slip diff to the wide wheels was near seamless, while the lifted suspension made it easy to negotiate small obstacles.
With a Ferrari-flavoured 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 under its bonnet, the Levante finally offers the punchy performance enthusiasts expect.
What's it like to drive?
Besides the fantastic aural experience from the V6, the power and flexibility of the bespoke engine transforms the car. It highlights the sporty credentials of the Trident brand in no uncertain way, and the S feels much more balanced than its diesel counterpart. With 316 kW on tap from its 3.0-litre twin-turbo direct injection engine, the S, according to Maserati, blasts from 0-100 kph in 5.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 264 kph – putting it firmly in Porsche Cayenne, Mercedes-AMG GLE and BMW X5M/X6 M territory.
The Levante range now also has a new electric power steering system in place of the hydraulic system used up to now. According to Maserati this system better supports the different driving modes and enables a bouquet of new active driver assistance functions such as Highway Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition. On the broad Dubai highways, the steering felt a bit remote at speed, but well weighted in the corners and at lower speeds in town, and Maserati also maintains it doesn’t affect engine power.
The exhaust system, controlled by pneumatic valves, maintain the rich aural signature of the brand, but in Sport mode it can become quite booming in the cabin, which will, perhaps, be appreciated by many, but probably not by all… Also noteworthy was the good stopping power supplied by Brembo 6-piston callipers and 380 mm ventilated discs up front and 330 mm ventilated discs at the rear, while thanks to standard air suspension (providing six different height levels) and Skyhook shocks, ride comfort was exemplary.
The menu of the infotainment system gives away that the unit was sourced from other products in the FCA Group, but the nameplate's a nice touch.
The Levante range is now available in GranLusso and GranSport trim with the GranLusso grade recognisable by metallic-finish front skid plates and roof rails, GranLusso badges on the front wings, body-coloured side skirts, black-painted brake callipers and 19-inch Zefiro alloys.
The GranSport model has a piano black front grille, skid plates and roof rails, GranSport badges, body-coloured side skirts, blue inserts on all Trident and Saetta logos, as well as red brake calipers and 20-inch Nereo wheels, and while the Levante and Levante Diesel are equipped with 18-inch tyres as standard, the Levante S features 19-inch wheels as standard, with wider tyres at the rear.
The GranLusso cabin combines a choice of Ermenegildo Zegna silk or full premium Italian upholstery, 12-way power comfort seats, a Harman Kardon sound system and power-adjustable steering wheel. The Levante GranSport has sportier trim inside, including sport seats, sport steering wheel with gearshift paddles and carbon trim.
Inserts of handwoven Ermenegildo Zegna silk give the Levante's interior more than just a hint of opulent exclusivity.
Summary
The new S turbopetrol derivative will undoubtedly add to the allure of the Levante, and if sportiness, rareness and real Italian power are what you’re after, this Maserati premium SUV ticks all the boxes. However, while owning a Levante may set you apart from Cayennes, Range Rovers, Jaguars, BMWs and Mercedes-AMGs crowding our roads, you will need to dig deep for that kind of exclusivity, as pricing for the S derivative starts at R1 950 000 and with extras will probably retail for close to R2.3 million.
Specifications: Maserati Levante S GranSport
Engine: Petrol V6
Displacement (cc): 2,979
Max. Power (kW): 316 @ 5 750 rpm
Peak Torque (Nm): 580 @ 5 000 rpm
Fuel consumption (l/100 km): 10.9
CO2 (g/km): 253
0-100 kph (sec): 5.2
Top speed (kph): 264
Gearbox: ZF eight-speed automatic
Transmission: Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive with rear LS differential
Suspension Front: Double wishbone, Air Springs, Skyhook shocks
Suspension Rear: Multilink, Air Springs, Skyhook shocks
Length/width/height (mm): 5,003 / 1,968 / 1,679
Wheelbase (mm): 3,004
Tyres (standard): 265/50 ZR19 front; 295/45 ZR19 rear
Price (in SA): From R1 950 000
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/maserati-levante-s-2018-launch-review/44222/
Sampling Maserati’s Ferrari-powered Levante in the dunes sounds like a tough job, but Ferdi de Vos put up his hand and volunteered for the arduous task. Much is expected of this petrol-powered premium SUV and Maserati hopes it'll snatch more than a few sales from its rivals.
So, the first luxury SUV from an Italian vehicle manufacturer with supercar power was the outlandish LM002 built by the Lamborghini between 1986 and 1993. Right? Well, actually no. Contrary to popular belief the brutish Rambo Lambo, while an unusual departure for the Fighting Bull and also the first four-wheel drive model built in Sant’ Agata, wasn’t the first opulent sports utility created south of the Alps.
This distinction belongs to the Tom Tjaarda designed Rayton Fissore Magnum luxury off-roader built in limited numbers in Cherasco, Italy, from 1985 to 2003. The Magnum, tailored with an Italian leather interior and a range of 4, 6 or 8-cylinder engines was sold in Europe as a competitor to the Range Rover, while the top American versions, marketed as Laforza, were powered by the Ford V8 5.0 SEFI V8 (some supercharged) as used in the contemporary Mustang GT, or by a 6.0-litre V8 with Eaton supercharger from GM.
The Ford V8 was good for 156 kW to over 200 kW of power, while the supercharged Chevy LS1 engine churned out an impressive 270kW and 515Nm of torque – heady figures at the time and not far off the 313 kW and 570 Nm delivered by the Countach derived 5.2-litre V12 in the LM002. Nearly a decade later the Fornasari RR99, a sleek four-door SUV first shown at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, followed in the tyre tracks of the Laforza and LM002.
The RR99, powered by a 455kW Chevy V8 that gives it a 0–100 km/h time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 280 km/h, can be considered the first “modern” Italian luxury SUV/crossover, but sadly the small company, created in 1999 by Giuseppe Fornasari, was declared bankrupt in 2015. Meanwhile, following the success of the Porsche Cayenne the FCA Group started development of a mid-size SUV, culminating in the Kubang concept displayed at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show and finally the Levante – the first four-wheel drive Maserati – introduced in 2016.
To feel the Modenese SUV’s 580 Nm of thrust while challenging the dunes is, in a word, delightful.
Introducing the Levante
The immediate success of the Levante in the world’s largest luxury segment proved to be a turning point for the Modenese manufacturer. In just over a year more than 25 000 Levantes were sold in 72 countries around the world, making it the highest-selling Maserati in that time. It was launched in South Africa in 2016, but only made available in diesel guise – and while the VM Motori V6 turbodiesel engine delivers a healthy 202 kW it doesn’t really do the luxury Italian crossover justice.
It falls short of the best in class dynamically and its performance (0-100 kph in 7,3 seconds) is diminished by its weight of more than 2,2 tonnes and even with 600 Nm of torque its power delivery is somewhat lethargic, with a hint of turbo lag before the V6 gets into its stride. But now la forza is back… in the form of the petrol-driven Levante S, the most powerful mid-sized Italian SUV available (well, at least for the moment) and this latest iteration of the flagship Levante model – soon to be unleashed locally – was recently introduced to the media in the dunes of Dubai.
To listen to the snarl of Ferrari-derived power in the desert and to feel the Modenese SUV’s 580 Nm of thrust while challenging the dunes was just delightful. With the 8-speed ZF auto gearbox (now with even quicker shifting times) in off-road mode, power distribution via the Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system with torque vectoring and a limited-slip diff to the wide wheels was near seamless, while the lifted suspension made it easy to negotiate small obstacles.
With a Ferrari-flavoured 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 under its bonnet, the Levante finally offers the punchy performance enthusiasts expect.
What's it like to drive?
Besides the fantastic aural experience from the V6, the power and flexibility of the bespoke engine transforms the car. It highlights the sporty credentials of the Trident brand in no uncertain way, and the S feels much more balanced than its diesel counterpart. With 316 kW on tap from its 3.0-litre twin-turbo direct injection engine, the S, according to Maserati, blasts from 0-100 kph in 5.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 264 kph – putting it firmly in Porsche Cayenne, Mercedes-AMG GLE and BMW X5M/X6 M territory.
The Levante range now also has a new electric power steering system in place of the hydraulic system used up to now. According to Maserati this system better supports the different driving modes and enables a bouquet of new active driver assistance functions such as Highway Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition. On the broad Dubai highways, the steering felt a bit remote at speed, but well weighted in the corners and at lower speeds in town, and Maserati also maintains it doesn’t affect engine power.
The exhaust system, controlled by pneumatic valves, maintain the rich aural signature of the brand, but in Sport mode it can become quite booming in the cabin, which will, perhaps, be appreciated by many, but probably not by all… Also noteworthy was the good stopping power supplied by Brembo 6-piston callipers and 380 mm ventilated discs up front and 330 mm ventilated discs at the rear, while thanks to standard air suspension (providing six different height levels) and Skyhook shocks, ride comfort was exemplary.
The menu of the infotainment system gives away that the unit was sourced from other products in the FCA Group, but the nameplate's a nice touch.
The Levante range is now available in GranLusso and GranSport trim with the GranLusso grade recognisable by metallic-finish front skid plates and roof rails, GranLusso badges on the front wings, body-coloured side skirts, black-painted brake callipers and 19-inch Zefiro alloys.
The GranSport model has a piano black front grille, skid plates and roof rails, GranSport badges, body-coloured side skirts, blue inserts on all Trident and Saetta logos, as well as red brake calipers and 20-inch Nereo wheels, and while the Levante and Levante Diesel are equipped with 18-inch tyres as standard, the Levante S features 19-inch wheels as standard, with wider tyres at the rear.
The GranLusso cabin combines a choice of Ermenegildo Zegna silk or full premium Italian upholstery, 12-way power comfort seats, a Harman Kardon sound system and power-adjustable steering wheel. The Levante GranSport has sportier trim inside, including sport seats, sport steering wheel with gearshift paddles and carbon trim.
Inserts of handwoven Ermenegildo Zegna silk give the Levante's interior more than just a hint of opulent exclusivity.
Summary
The new S turbopetrol derivative will undoubtedly add to the allure of the Levante, and if sportiness, rareness and real Italian power are what you’re after, this Maserati premium SUV ticks all the boxes. However, while owning a Levante may set you apart from Cayennes, Range Rovers, Jaguars, BMWs and Mercedes-AMGs crowding our roads, you will need to dig deep for that kind of exclusivity, as pricing for the S derivative starts at R1 950 000 and with extras will probably retail for close to R2.3 million.
Specifications: Maserati Levante S GranSport
Engine: Petrol V6
Displacement (cc): 2,979
Max. Power (kW): 316 @ 5 750 rpm
Peak Torque (Nm): 580 @ 5 000 rpm
Fuel consumption (l/100 km): 10.9
CO2 (g/km): 253
0-100 kph (sec): 5.2
Top speed (kph): 264
Gearbox: ZF eight-speed automatic
Transmission: Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive with rear LS differential
Suspension Front: Double wishbone, Air Springs, Skyhook shocks
Suspension Rear: Multilink, Air Springs, Skyhook shocks
Length/width/height (mm): 5,003 / 1,968 / 1,679
Wheelbase (mm): 3,004
Tyres (standard): 265/50 ZR19 front; 295/45 ZR19 rear
Price (in SA): From R1 950 000
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/maserati-levante-s-2018-launch-review/44222/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
New Maserati Levante S: Here's how many luxury SUVs Maserati has sold so far in 2017
It’s rare these days for a luxury automaker not to build an SUV.
Automakers such as Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz and BMW have been building premium SUVs for decades, while newcomers to the segment include Jaguar and Bentley.
A luxury favourite
Maserati joined the SUV race in 2016 with the launch of its luxury Levante and in November 2017 the automaker has expanded its range with the addition of a new petrol 'S' version.
Maserati has sold 132 models from January to October, with the Levante coming out on top - 83 sold so far in 2017, not bad considering the model starts from R1.6-million.
By Maserati's standards, the Levante can be seen as an overwhelming preferred choice of the brand as the second best seller, the Ghibli, only managed to find 14 homes.
The rest of the list consists of the GranTuriso, GranCabrio and Quattraporte.
http://www.wheels24.co.za/News/SA_v...uvs-maserati-has-sold-so-far-in-2017-20171115
It’s rare these days for a luxury automaker not to build an SUV.
Automakers such as Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz and BMW have been building premium SUVs for decades, while newcomers to the segment include Jaguar and Bentley.
A luxury favourite
Maserati joined the SUV race in 2016 with the launch of its luxury Levante and in November 2017 the automaker has expanded its range with the addition of a new petrol 'S' version.
Maserati has sold 132 models from January to October, with the Levante coming out on top - 83 sold so far in 2017, not bad considering the model starts from R1.6-million.
By Maserati's standards, the Levante can be seen as an overwhelming preferred choice of the brand as the second best seller, the Ghibli, only managed to find 14 homes.
The rest of the list consists of the GranTuriso, GranCabrio and Quattraporte.
http://www.wheels24.co.za/News/SA_v...uvs-maserati-has-sold-so-far-in-2017-20171115
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Massively magnificent Maserati: New Levante S in SA
It never rains in Cape Town. Like, hardly ever. But on Wednesday, hours before Maserati launched its much anticipated petrol version of its SUV, the Levante S, it poured, bringing the inner city to a standstill.
Then, out of nowhere, a white Maserati Levante S pulled up and parked a metre from where I was sitting on my pavement seat.
Turns out the driver was there to pick up some big wig from Maserati for the event. Using all my media charm, I convinced him to take me along and told him I’d Uber back to my Pajero after the event.
For the next 20 minutes, in almost standstill and rain-drenched traffic, I got a tactile tour of the entirely delicious SUV Masa that’s taken the world – and clearly Cape Town – by storm. Since venturing into the premium SUV market, more than 25 000 Levantes have sold worldwide.
Until now, only the V6 Turbo Diesel has been available locally, but here comes the V6 Petrol Levante S.
I could only imagine how this V6 beauty would sound on an open road, when its 320kW of delicious sport-inspired power were unleashed to show off its zero to 100km in 5.2 seconds performance prowess. Playing with the myriad buttons and switches on the highly stylish and functional infotainment system, I found it a dream to operate.
In fact, by the time we got to the launch venue, I was so lost in the Levante S and the brilliant Harman Kardon sound system that the driver had to drag me from my seat.
What an entrance. What a car. However, it’ll set you back R1 950 000.
http://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModels/massively-magnificent-maserati-new-levante-s-in-sa-20171217
It never rains in Cape Town. Like, hardly ever. But on Wednesday, hours before Maserati launched its much anticipated petrol version of its SUV, the Levante S, it poured, bringing the inner city to a standstill.
Then, out of nowhere, a white Maserati Levante S pulled up and parked a metre from where I was sitting on my pavement seat.
Turns out the driver was there to pick up some big wig from Maserati for the event. Using all my media charm, I convinced him to take me along and told him I’d Uber back to my Pajero after the event.
For the next 20 minutes, in almost standstill and rain-drenched traffic, I got a tactile tour of the entirely delicious SUV Masa that’s taken the world – and clearly Cape Town – by storm. Since venturing into the premium SUV market, more than 25 000 Levantes have sold worldwide.
Until now, only the V6 Turbo Diesel has been available locally, but here comes the V6 Petrol Levante S.
I could only imagine how this V6 beauty would sound on an open road, when its 320kW of delicious sport-inspired power were unleashed to show off its zero to 100km in 5.2 seconds performance prowess. Playing with the myriad buttons and switches on the highly stylish and functional infotainment system, I found it a dream to operate.
In fact, by the time we got to the launch venue, I was so lost in the Levante S and the brilliant Harman Kardon sound system that the driver had to drag me from my seat.
What an entrance. What a car. However, it’ll set you back R1 950 000.
http://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModels/massively-magnificent-maserati-new-levante-s-in-sa-20171217
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Honorary Master
Drive.com.au review of the S
[video=youtube_share;BoaXON-AX8k]https://youtu.be/BoaXON-AX8k[/video]
[video=youtube_share;BoaXON-AX8k]https://youtu.be/BoaXON-AX8k[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Maserati Levante S GranSport 2017 UK review
Should I buy one?
If you’re sold on the exclusivity and romance of the Maserati badge, there’s no particular reason not to buy a Levante S. Other SUVs may be more luxurious still or even better to drive at speed, but the Levante offers a broad spread of talents, backed up by a certain degree of style. And in the Levante S, Maserati’s first SUV finally has an engine that lives up to the trident badge.
Starting at £70,755 - rising to £76,995 for either the GranSport or GranLusso models - the Levante S is a little more expensive than the similarly powerful Porsche Cayenne S, but it's fractionally cheaper than a Range Rover Sport with its much less powerful 334bhp supercharged V6.
Maserati Levante S GranSport
Where Bedfordshire On sale Now Price £76,995 Engine 2979cc, V6, twin-turbo, petrol Power 424bhp at 5750rpm Torque 428lb ft at 4500rpm Gearbox 8-spd automatic Kerb weight 2109kg Top speed 164mph 0-62mph 5.2sec Fuel economy 25.9mpg (combined) CO2, tax band 253g/km, 37% Rivals Porsche Cayenne S, Range Rover Sport S/C V6
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-revie...s/maserati-levante-s-gransport-2017-uk-review
Should I buy one?
If you’re sold on the exclusivity and romance of the Maserati badge, there’s no particular reason not to buy a Levante S. Other SUVs may be more luxurious still or even better to drive at speed, but the Levante offers a broad spread of talents, backed up by a certain degree of style. And in the Levante S, Maserati’s first SUV finally has an engine that lives up to the trident badge.
Starting at £70,755 - rising to £76,995 for either the GranSport or GranLusso models - the Levante S is a little more expensive than the similarly powerful Porsche Cayenne S, but it's fractionally cheaper than a Range Rover Sport with its much less powerful 334bhp supercharged V6.
Maserati Levante S GranSport
Where Bedfordshire On sale Now Price £76,995 Engine 2979cc, V6, twin-turbo, petrol Power 424bhp at 5750rpm Torque 428lb ft at 4500rpm Gearbox 8-spd automatic Kerb weight 2109kg Top speed 164mph 0-62mph 5.2sec Fuel economy 25.9mpg (combined) CO2, tax band 253g/km, 37% Rivals Porsche Cayenne S, Range Rover Sport S/C V6
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-revie...s/maserati-levante-s-gransport-2017-uk-review
FiestaST
Honorary Master
[video=youtube_share;VMmkHEnH-RE]https://youtu.be/VMmkHEnH-RE[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Doug DeMuro review
[video=youtube_share;RdunXzNNfqk]https://youtu.be/RdunXzNNfqk[/video]
[video=youtube_share;RdunXzNNfqk]https://youtu.be/RdunXzNNfqk[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
2018 Maserati Levante S Review | motoring.com.au
[video=youtube;U4oCBl81YV8]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4oCBl81YV8[/video]
[video=youtube;U4oCBl81YV8]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4oCBl81YV8[/video]
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Honorary Master
Maserati Ghibli, Quattroporte, Levante Nerissimo Edition revealed on eve of Geneva motor show
'Very black' editions of Maserati's four and five-door cars get all-black exteriors and upgraded equipment
Maserati has revealed the Ghibli, Quattroporte and Levante Nerissimo editions as its stars of the Geneva motor show.
Nerissimo edition (meaning 'very black') adds black exterior paint to black trim, including a black-painted grille, window trim, exhaust tips, and wheels, with flourishes of chrome trim remaining.
On the inside, the upholstery and trim are black, although there's the option for carbonfibre interior trim on the Ghibli and Quattroporte. Over the standard cars, the saloons get Maserati's Integrated Vehicle Control stability system as standard. Maserati claims that this improves handling by upgrading the car's body control.
On the Levante, additional underbody protection is available, as is the option to paint the fog light surrounds black to match the rest of the car. A selection of 20in and 21in wheels are available across the Nerissimo edition cars.
The Ghibli, meanwhile, gets sports seats with heating, a heated steering wheel, tinted windows and a powered rear sunblind. Entry-level and Gransport trims are available with the Nerissimo edition. The Quattroporte gets a selection of small tech upgrades such as keyless entry extended to the rear doors as part of the pack, too.
All three cars now also get electric power steering in place of hydraulic systems as part of their 2018 model year update, which allows the use of more advanced driver assistance systems such as lane-keeping assist and highway assist. Maserati claims that the steering feeling remains unchanged despite the update.
The Nerissimo editions sit alongside lightly updated versions of the Granturismo and Grancabrio - both making their respective debuts at Geneva.
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/...ghibli-quattroporte-levante-nerissimo-edition
'Very black' editions of Maserati's four and five-door cars get all-black exteriors and upgraded equipment
Maserati has revealed the Ghibli, Quattroporte and Levante Nerissimo editions as its stars of the Geneva motor show.
Nerissimo edition (meaning 'very black') adds black exterior paint to black trim, including a black-painted grille, window trim, exhaust tips, and wheels, with flourishes of chrome trim remaining.
On the inside, the upholstery and trim are black, although there's the option for carbonfibre interior trim on the Ghibli and Quattroporte. Over the standard cars, the saloons get Maserati's Integrated Vehicle Control stability system as standard. Maserati claims that this improves handling by upgrading the car's body control.
On the Levante, additional underbody protection is available, as is the option to paint the fog light surrounds black to match the rest of the car. A selection of 20in and 21in wheels are available across the Nerissimo edition cars.
The Ghibli, meanwhile, gets sports seats with heating, a heated steering wheel, tinted windows and a powered rear sunblind. Entry-level and Gransport trims are available with the Nerissimo edition. The Quattroporte gets a selection of small tech upgrades such as keyless entry extended to the rear doors as part of the pack, too.
All three cars now also get electric power steering in place of hydraulic systems as part of their 2018 model year update, which allows the use of more advanced driver assistance systems such as lane-keeping assist and highway assist. Maserati claims that the steering feeling remains unchanged despite the update.
The Nerissimo editions sit alongside lightly updated versions of the Granturismo and Grancabrio - both making their respective debuts at Geneva.
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/...ghibli-quattroporte-levante-nerissimo-edition
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Ignition GT insert of the Levante S
[video=youtube_share;D9iP151F6vA]https://youtu.be/D9iP151F6vA[/video]
[video=youtube_share;D9iP151F6vA]https://youtu.be/D9iP151F6vA[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Maserati Levante Trofeo
Maserati revealed the first Levante built around a V8 engine at the 2018 New York International Auto Show. It is the Maserati Levante Trofeo, the ultimate Maserati of SUVs, capable of accelerating in style from 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and reaching a top speed of over 300 km/h.
The Maserati Levante Trofeo is equipped with one of the most powerful engines ever fitted in a Maserati. A 3.8-litre Twin Turbo V8 engine that has been engineered to perfectly mate with the Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive System and delivers an astounding 590 hp (440kw) at 6,250 rpm and 730 Nm of peak torque at 2,250 - 5,000 rpm.
The engine boasts the highest output per litre (156 hp/litre) of any Maserati powerplant ever produced and, like all Maserati gasoline engines, is assembled by Ferrari in Maranello, Italy.
The chassis of the fastest Levante ever has been tuned to handle the higher power output and provides an exhilarating driving experience with no compromise in terms of comfort. This tuning ensures the Levante Trofeo continues to embody the essence of the Maserati GranTurismo philosophy with supercar performance.
"It's proof that when you play with the elements you end up in a storm", says Maserati CEO Tim Kuniskis. "In the case of Trofeo, the engineers and designers in Modena knew that the driveline parameters were more than able to cope with additional power and they also knew that Maserati had access to the finest engines on earth. So, they were up to the challenge of making the finest luxury SUV also one of the fastest".
The unmistakable Levante design has reached new levels of sportiness in this top of the line Trofeo. The elegant restyling was mainly focused on the lower front fascia and the rear bumper and is underlined by the 22-inch forged aluminium "Orione" wheels - the largest ever fitted on a Maserati - available in both polished and matte finishes.
The side air intakes in the lower fascia feature a new, more aggressive design, defined by two aerodynamic wings that give a sense of further stability, visually "pushing" the weight of the car's nose towards the massive front wheels. And to help improve the airflow distribution, Trofeo is outfitted with carbon fibre side bezel blades and a carbon fibre splitter.
The rear end also looks wider and more muscular with a sharper carbon fibre horizontal element and body-color lower extractor that embrace the oval quad exhaust tips.
In front, the Maserati Levante Trofeo has Full Matrix LED headlights, a front grille with double vertical bars in a piano black finish and lower honeycomb mesh fascia, as well as body color door handles, oval exhaust tips in a dark finish and performance painted brake calipers in red, blue, black, silver or yellow. And to cap it off, specific "Saetta" Trofeo logos adorn the iconic c-pillars of the coupé styled SUV.
Specific details, like the lower splitter, the blade side bezels in the front air intakes, the side skirt inserts and the rear extractor are made of ultralight, high-gloss carbon fibre, giving the Levante Trofeo a polished racing look. Even the hood is new, featuring two aggressive vent for better cylinder head cooling. And under the hood, the engine cover is also made of high-gloss carbon fibre featuring a V8 inscription and the iconic Trident logo, while cylinder heads and intake manifolds are painted red.
Interior designers have come up with elegant ways to create a distinctive environment within the Maserati Levante Trofeo cabin. The sculpted sport seats feature a premium full-grain "Pieno Fiore" natural leather available in black, red and tan, all with contrast stitching and "Trofeo" logo stitched on the headrests. "Pieno Fiore" is like no other leather used in the automotive industry for its natural, soft feel and for the unique character it develops throughout the years.
A new matte carbon fibre trim and paddle shifters, specific instrument cluster graphics, floor mats with metal Trofeo badges and a Maserati clock with a unique dial elegantly underline the exclusive sporty character of this extraordinary Levante, which is outfitted with a standard 1,280-watt, 17-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium surround sound audio system for exceptional listening enjoyment.
The production of the Levante Trofeo starts this summer at the refurbished Maserati plant in Mirafiori (Turin), Italy. The fastest Levante in Maserati history is initially intended for overseas export markets, including the U.S. and Canada.
Power under control
Maserati engineers developed the mighty 3.8-litre Twin Turbo V8 engine to accommodate the Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, providing it with a new crankcase design, specific crankshaft assembly, new oil pump and auxiliary belt and a different wiring layout.
New turbochargers feature increased flow, while redesigned cylinder heads with specific camshafts and valves, different pistons and new connecting rods allow the ability to reach the maximum power targets in combination with specific engine calibration mapping.
The Levante Trofeo is definitely one of the fastest SUVs ever built with a top speed of over 300 km/h. Thanks to its remarkable weight/power ratio of 3.6 kg/hp the Trofeo needs only 3.9 seconds to reach 100 km/h and only 34.5 metres of braking distance to get back to a complete stop.
The ideal 50:50 weight balance and the low center of gravity - common to all Levante models - in combination with the finely tuned double-wishbone front / Multi Link rear suspension and the larger tyres fitted to the 22-inch forged aluminium wheels, endow the new Trofeo with remarkably balanced handling and lateral stability.
The new "Corsa" Driving mode with Launch Control functionality in addition to the existing Normal, I.C.E., Sport and Off Road modes has been adopted to enhance the athletic character of the ultimate Maserati SUV. "Corsa" driving mode further improves engine response and opens exhaust valves in acceleration, as well as provides faster gear shifting, lower air suspension height levels, sportier Skyhook damping and optimized Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive settings and interacts with Traction Control and ESP systems to maximize driving pleasure.
The Maserati Integrated Vehicle Control (IVC) system has been incorporated for the first time in a Levante, for impressive driving dynamics, better performance and a genuine Maserati driving experience, by helping to prevent vehicle instability, instead of correcting "driver mistakes" as a traditional Electronic Stability Program (ESP) system does.
Limited series Maserati Levante Trofeo launch edition
As an introduction to its upcoming new model, Maserati is showcasing a limited Levante Trofeo launch edition at the Javits Center in New York. The show car is in the special matte Grigio Lava paint with matte finished 22-inch wheels and red brake calipers. This limited series Trofeo is exclusively intended for a small number of Maserati customers in the U.S. and Canada.
The Maserati Levante Trofeo launch edition will be available in eight unique exterior colors including the following exclusive exterior features: 22-inch forged aluminium wheels with three-season performance tyres or new 21-inch wheels with all-season tyres, in a gloss finish and dark details, like black daylight openings (DLO) and fog light rings, as well as Black Chrome Maserati badges, Trofeo "Saetta" logos, side air vents and trunk accent.
The Trofeo launch edition interior is even more individual, featuring natural "Pieno Fiore" leather sport seats available in black, tan or red with contrast stitching. Black leather with blue or yellow stitching is exclusive to the launch edition and all feature the new matte carbon fibre wave interior trim. A serialized launch edition badge integrated on the center console featuring the customer's name, has also been added to underline the unique character of the Trofeo launch edition.
https://www.netcarshow.com/maserati/2019-levante_trofeo/
Maserati revealed the first Levante built around a V8 engine at the 2018 New York International Auto Show. It is the Maserati Levante Trofeo, the ultimate Maserati of SUVs, capable of accelerating in style from 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and reaching a top speed of over 300 km/h.
The Maserati Levante Trofeo is equipped with one of the most powerful engines ever fitted in a Maserati. A 3.8-litre Twin Turbo V8 engine that has been engineered to perfectly mate with the Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive System and delivers an astounding 590 hp (440kw) at 6,250 rpm and 730 Nm of peak torque at 2,250 - 5,000 rpm.
The engine boasts the highest output per litre (156 hp/litre) of any Maserati powerplant ever produced and, like all Maserati gasoline engines, is assembled by Ferrari in Maranello, Italy.
The chassis of the fastest Levante ever has been tuned to handle the higher power output and provides an exhilarating driving experience with no compromise in terms of comfort. This tuning ensures the Levante Trofeo continues to embody the essence of the Maserati GranTurismo philosophy with supercar performance.
"It's proof that when you play with the elements you end up in a storm", says Maserati CEO Tim Kuniskis. "In the case of Trofeo, the engineers and designers in Modena knew that the driveline parameters were more than able to cope with additional power and they also knew that Maserati had access to the finest engines on earth. So, they were up to the challenge of making the finest luxury SUV also one of the fastest".
The unmistakable Levante design has reached new levels of sportiness in this top of the line Trofeo. The elegant restyling was mainly focused on the lower front fascia and the rear bumper and is underlined by the 22-inch forged aluminium "Orione" wheels - the largest ever fitted on a Maserati - available in both polished and matte finishes.
The side air intakes in the lower fascia feature a new, more aggressive design, defined by two aerodynamic wings that give a sense of further stability, visually "pushing" the weight of the car's nose towards the massive front wheels. And to help improve the airflow distribution, Trofeo is outfitted with carbon fibre side bezel blades and a carbon fibre splitter.
The rear end also looks wider and more muscular with a sharper carbon fibre horizontal element and body-color lower extractor that embrace the oval quad exhaust tips.
In front, the Maserati Levante Trofeo has Full Matrix LED headlights, a front grille with double vertical bars in a piano black finish and lower honeycomb mesh fascia, as well as body color door handles, oval exhaust tips in a dark finish and performance painted brake calipers in red, blue, black, silver or yellow. And to cap it off, specific "Saetta" Trofeo logos adorn the iconic c-pillars of the coupé styled SUV.
Specific details, like the lower splitter, the blade side bezels in the front air intakes, the side skirt inserts and the rear extractor are made of ultralight, high-gloss carbon fibre, giving the Levante Trofeo a polished racing look. Even the hood is new, featuring two aggressive vent for better cylinder head cooling. And under the hood, the engine cover is also made of high-gloss carbon fibre featuring a V8 inscription and the iconic Trident logo, while cylinder heads and intake manifolds are painted red.
Interior designers have come up with elegant ways to create a distinctive environment within the Maserati Levante Trofeo cabin. The sculpted sport seats feature a premium full-grain "Pieno Fiore" natural leather available in black, red and tan, all with contrast stitching and "Trofeo" logo stitched on the headrests. "Pieno Fiore" is like no other leather used in the automotive industry for its natural, soft feel and for the unique character it develops throughout the years.
A new matte carbon fibre trim and paddle shifters, specific instrument cluster graphics, floor mats with metal Trofeo badges and a Maserati clock with a unique dial elegantly underline the exclusive sporty character of this extraordinary Levante, which is outfitted with a standard 1,280-watt, 17-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium surround sound audio system for exceptional listening enjoyment.
The production of the Levante Trofeo starts this summer at the refurbished Maserati plant in Mirafiori (Turin), Italy. The fastest Levante in Maserati history is initially intended for overseas export markets, including the U.S. and Canada.
Power under control
Maserati engineers developed the mighty 3.8-litre Twin Turbo V8 engine to accommodate the Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, providing it with a new crankcase design, specific crankshaft assembly, new oil pump and auxiliary belt and a different wiring layout.
New turbochargers feature increased flow, while redesigned cylinder heads with specific camshafts and valves, different pistons and new connecting rods allow the ability to reach the maximum power targets in combination with specific engine calibration mapping.
The Levante Trofeo is definitely one of the fastest SUVs ever built with a top speed of over 300 km/h. Thanks to its remarkable weight/power ratio of 3.6 kg/hp the Trofeo needs only 3.9 seconds to reach 100 km/h and only 34.5 metres of braking distance to get back to a complete stop.
The ideal 50:50 weight balance and the low center of gravity - common to all Levante models - in combination with the finely tuned double-wishbone front / Multi Link rear suspension and the larger tyres fitted to the 22-inch forged aluminium wheels, endow the new Trofeo with remarkably balanced handling and lateral stability.
The new "Corsa" Driving mode with Launch Control functionality in addition to the existing Normal, I.C.E., Sport and Off Road modes has been adopted to enhance the athletic character of the ultimate Maserati SUV. "Corsa" driving mode further improves engine response and opens exhaust valves in acceleration, as well as provides faster gear shifting, lower air suspension height levels, sportier Skyhook damping and optimized Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive settings and interacts with Traction Control and ESP systems to maximize driving pleasure.
The Maserati Integrated Vehicle Control (IVC) system has been incorporated for the first time in a Levante, for impressive driving dynamics, better performance and a genuine Maserati driving experience, by helping to prevent vehicle instability, instead of correcting "driver mistakes" as a traditional Electronic Stability Program (ESP) system does.
Limited series Maserati Levante Trofeo launch edition
As an introduction to its upcoming new model, Maserati is showcasing a limited Levante Trofeo launch edition at the Javits Center in New York. The show car is in the special matte Grigio Lava paint with matte finished 22-inch wheels and red brake calipers. This limited series Trofeo is exclusively intended for a small number of Maserati customers in the U.S. and Canada.
The Maserati Levante Trofeo launch edition will be available in eight unique exterior colors including the following exclusive exterior features: 22-inch forged aluminium wheels with three-season performance tyres or new 21-inch wheels with all-season tyres, in a gloss finish and dark details, like black daylight openings (DLO) and fog light rings, as well as Black Chrome Maserati badges, Trofeo "Saetta" logos, side air vents and trunk accent.
The Trofeo launch edition interior is even more individual, featuring natural "Pieno Fiore" leather sport seats available in black, tan or red with contrast stitching. Black leather with blue or yellow stitching is exclusive to the launch edition and all feature the new matte carbon fibre wave interior trim. A serialized launch edition badge integrated on the center console featuring the customer's name, has also been added to underline the unique character of the Trofeo launch edition.
https://www.netcarshow.com/maserati/2019-levante_trofeo/
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Honorary Master
Maserati Levante Trofeo lands with 582bhp Ferrari V8
Italian brand reveals new range-topper in New York; it can hit 62mph in 3.9sec
Maserati has revealed a new range-topping version of its Levante SUV called the Trofeo, which uses a 582bhp Ferrari-built V8.
On show in New York, it produces 538lb ft of torque and can accelerate from 0-62mph in 3.8sec, beating the previous top model, the V6 S, by 1.3sec. Top speed is claimed to be over 186mph.
Maserati’s hot SUV is not only more potent than its Quattroporte GTS, which uses a 3.8-litre Ferrari V8 that produces 523bhp and 479lb ft of torque, it’s got more firepower than the Jaguar F-Pace SVR – also at New York but with 40bhp less.
Despite its larger engine, the all-wheel drive SUV is claimed to have a 50:50 weight distribution like the rest of the range. It uses double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension and gets a more aggressive Corsa driving mode for maximum performance and the most aggressive air suspension setup.
To signify its potency, the Levante Trofeo sits on bespoke 21in or 22in forged aluminium wheels. It features black accents on its exterior, including black badges. Inside, it builds on the specification of the existing Gransport models with new sports seats.
The Trofeo is expected on roads later this year, but there’s no word on pricing as of yet. Expect a hefty increase on the V6 S Gransport’s starting figure of £76,995.
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/...serati-levante-trofeo-lands-582bhp-ferrari-v8
Italian brand reveals new range-topper in New York; it can hit 62mph in 3.9sec
Maserati has revealed a new range-topping version of its Levante SUV called the Trofeo, which uses a 582bhp Ferrari-built V8.
On show in New York, it produces 538lb ft of torque and can accelerate from 0-62mph in 3.8sec, beating the previous top model, the V6 S, by 1.3sec. Top speed is claimed to be over 186mph.
Maserati’s hot SUV is not only more potent than its Quattroporte GTS, which uses a 3.8-litre Ferrari V8 that produces 523bhp and 479lb ft of torque, it’s got more firepower than the Jaguar F-Pace SVR – also at New York but with 40bhp less.
Despite its larger engine, the all-wheel drive SUV is claimed to have a 50:50 weight distribution like the rest of the range. It uses double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension and gets a more aggressive Corsa driving mode for maximum performance and the most aggressive air suspension setup.
To signify its potency, the Levante Trofeo sits on bespoke 21in or 22in forged aluminium wheels. It features black accents on its exterior, including black badges. Inside, it builds on the specification of the existing Gransport models with new sports seats.
The Trofeo is expected on roads later this year, but there’s no word on pricing as of yet. Expect a hefty increase on the V6 S Gransport’s starting figure of £76,995.
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/...serati-levante-trofeo-lands-582bhp-ferrari-v8
RedViking
Nord of the South
Beautiful!
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Honorary Master
New Maserati Levante Trofeo boasts Ferrari-built V8
Maserati has revealed its new Levante Trofeo at the New York International Auto Show, describing the V8-powered newcomer as “the ultimate” SUV.
Equipped with one of the most powerful engines ever fitted to a Maserati in the form of a twin-turbo 3,8-litre V8 courtesy of Ferrari, the Italian brand says its new Levante Trofeo will sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in 3,9 seconds, before reaching a top speed of more than 300 km/h.
The eight-cylinder mill, which is assembled by Ferrari in Maranello, is in this application worth 440 kW and 730 N.m, with the latter on tap from 2 250 r/min to 5 000 r/min. The engine boasts the highest output per litre of any Maserati powerplant and sends its oomph to all four corners.
Maserati says its engineers have tweaked the V8 to suit the all-wheel-drive Levante, providing it with a new crankcase design, specific crankshaft assembly, new oil pump and auxiliary belt and a different wiring layout. New turbochargers have also been added, along with redesigned cylinder heads with specific camshafts and valves, different pistons and new connecting rods.
Maserati says it has tuned the chassis of the hotter Levante to handle the higher power output and provide “an exhilarating driving experience with no compromise in terms of comfort”.
So, how will you spot a Levante Trofeo out on the road (if you don’t recognise the V8 roar first, that is)? Well, Maserati says this derivative’s restyling was mainly focused on the lower front facia and rear bumper. The side air intakes up front, for instance, feature a more aggressive design, while carbon-fibre side bezel blades and a carbon-fibre splitter have also been added.
There’s also a model-specific bonnet and optional 22-inch alloy wheels (with brake callipers offered in red, blue, black, silver or yellow). Round back, you’ll notice a new carbon-fibre horizontal element and body-coloured diffuser element between the oval quad exhaust tips. Furthermore, “Saetta” Trofeo logos have been added to the C-pillars.
Inside, the sport seats are trimmed in full-grain “Pieno Fiore” natural leather (available in black, red or tan), with contrast stitching and the “Trofeo” logo stitched onto the headrests. There’s also new matte carbon-fibre trim and paddle shifters, specific instrument cluster graphics, floor mats with metal “Trofeo” badges and a fancy Maserati clock.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news/new-maserati-levante-trofeo-boasts-ferrari-built-v8/
Maserati has revealed its new Levante Trofeo at the New York International Auto Show, describing the V8-powered newcomer as “the ultimate” SUV.
Equipped with one of the most powerful engines ever fitted to a Maserati in the form of a twin-turbo 3,8-litre V8 courtesy of Ferrari, the Italian brand says its new Levante Trofeo will sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in 3,9 seconds, before reaching a top speed of more than 300 km/h.
The eight-cylinder mill, which is assembled by Ferrari in Maranello, is in this application worth 440 kW and 730 N.m, with the latter on tap from 2 250 r/min to 5 000 r/min. The engine boasts the highest output per litre of any Maserati powerplant and sends its oomph to all four corners.
Maserati says its engineers have tweaked the V8 to suit the all-wheel-drive Levante, providing it with a new crankcase design, specific crankshaft assembly, new oil pump and auxiliary belt and a different wiring layout. New turbochargers have also been added, along with redesigned cylinder heads with specific camshafts and valves, different pistons and new connecting rods.
Maserati says it has tuned the chassis of the hotter Levante to handle the higher power output and provide “an exhilarating driving experience with no compromise in terms of comfort”.
So, how will you spot a Levante Trofeo out on the road (if you don’t recognise the V8 roar first, that is)? Well, Maserati says this derivative’s restyling was mainly focused on the lower front facia and rear bumper. The side air intakes up front, for instance, feature a more aggressive design, while carbon-fibre side bezel blades and a carbon-fibre splitter have also been added.
There’s also a model-specific bonnet and optional 22-inch alloy wheels (with brake callipers offered in red, blue, black, silver or yellow). Round back, you’ll notice a new carbon-fibre horizontal element and body-coloured diffuser element between the oval quad exhaust tips. Furthermore, “Saetta” Trofeo logos have been added to the C-pillars.
Inside, the sport seats are trimmed in full-grain “Pieno Fiore” natural leather (available in black, red or tan), with contrast stitching and the “Trofeo” logo stitched onto the headrests. There’s also new matte carbon-fibre trim and paddle shifters, specific instrument cluster graphics, floor mats with metal “Trofeo” badges and a fancy Maserati clock.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news/new-maserati-levante-trofeo-boasts-ferrari-built-v8/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Tested: Petrol power a better fit for Maserati's SUV
Maserati launched its first SUV in the form of a diesel model in 2017, but the recent introduction of the Levante S petrol version was far more appropriate to this Italian marque’s sporty heritage.
As torquey and fuel-efficient as diesels are, they just don’t conjure the same emotion and charisma as a powerful petrol engine - and charisma is high on the list when it comes to driving this trident-badged SUV, courtesy of the Ferrari twin-turbo three-litre petrol V6 under the bonnet.
It flexes 320kW and 580Nm muscles for a claimed top speed of 264km/h and a 0-100km/h blast in just 5.2 seconds. That’s plenty fast, if not class-leading for the price; there are several BMW X5s, Mercedes GLEs, Porsche Cayennes, and Range Rover Sports that will run away from it in a straight line.
An even more powerful turbo V8 Levante is on the way either later this year or early in 2019 to take on the top performers in the sports SUV league, but for now the V6 Levante S is swift without being brutal, with a quick throttle response and very little turbo lag.
Channelling it all is an eight-speed ZF auto transmission that’s as smooth as well-aged whisky and does a very effective job in auto mode, but yanking gears manually becomes routine as those metal paddle shifters feel so great to the touch.
Leading this vehicle’s charm offensive is the sound it makes. It’s not a particularly high-revving engine, with a redline set at just under 6500rpm, that V6 blurts a hard-rock roar that aurally intensifies the whole experience, especially with sports mode selected to make the exhaust even raspier.
The big Levante accelerates with great gusto for its size and the same applies to cornering, where it very effectively masks its 2.1 ton weight. This is one of the more athletic SUVs on the market and sweeps through curves with an agility that belies a high-riding SUV. It changes direction without feeling wallowy, and the steering is exceptionally sharp for a high-riding adventure vehicle.
The rear-biased all-wheel drive directs all the torque rearwards in regular driving, but diverts up to 50 percent to the front wheels when driving conditions dictate. A mechanical limited-slip rear differential enhances traction, particularly accelerating out of tight corners.
Like the diesel version the Levante S rides on adaptive air suspension that can be set to one of three firmness levels, and can be raised or lowered to different heights to better suit the tar or turf.
The focus is clearly on tarmac-based agility, but the Levante S can also handle gravel. The air suspension is pleasantly absorbent in its softest setting, even though the optional low-profile 21 inch tyres on our test vehicle caused some jarring on the rough stuff. The standard 20 inch rubber will be more suited to adventure driving.
Though Maserati’s owned by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, which also includes Jeep, the Levante is no Jeep in drag and it’s built on the same platform as the Maserati Ghibli and Quattroporte.
The colour touchscreen of the infotainment system, taken from the Jeep Grand Cherokee, was the only family sharing I noticed in the otherwise all-Maserati, smartly-appointed interior. And I don’t mind the sharing when the system’s this good. It’s an intuitive infotainment setup that makes it easy to find your way around the navigation, climate control and driver-assist features.
Space inside the smart cabin is roomy enough for five adults, and the large boot - with an electrically folding tailgate - puts good family practicality on this sporty SUV’s menu.
The cabin’s lurid red upholstery and carbon fibre trimmings were well suited to the Levante’s powerful charisma, just a pity they weren’t standard. Driver-assist features such as lane-keeping assist and radar cruise control will also cost extra money, as will the 21 inch wheels and panoramic sunroof.
And that brings us to the elephant in the room: at just under R2-million without options, this Maserati’s one of the most expensive vehicles in the luxury SUV segment.
It has that turbocharged Ferrari engine, of course, which makes a great roar and swift progress, but there are other, and notably less expensive SUVs that are faster and sound just as good.
One might argue that you can’t put a price on esoteric factors such as emotion and badge appeal, but a similarly-powered Porsche Cayenne S sells for nearly 700 grand less and also has no shortage of brand prestige.
VERDICT
I don’t know whether the Levante’s Italian flair is objectively enough to justify its higher price against its rivals, some of them a lot more powerful. It all depends how much the trident badge on that toothy grille resonates with you.
FACTS
Maserati Levante S
Engine:3.0-litre, V6, turbopetrol
Gearbox:8-speed automatic
Power:320kW @ 5750rpm
Torque:580Nm @ 4500-5000rpm
0-100km/h (claimed):5.2 seconds
Top speed (claimed):264km/h
Price:R1 950 000
Warranty:3-year/unlimited km
Maintenance plan:5-year/100 000km
ALTERNATIVES
BMW X5 xDrivei 4.4 turbo330kW/650NmR1 348 956
BMW X5 M 423kW/750NmR1 994 732
Mercedes-AMG GLE63 5.5 turbo410kW/700NmR2 006 184
Range Rover Sport HSE Dynamic 5.0 Supercharged386kW/625NmR1 684 660
Porsche Cayenne S 2.9 turbo324kW/550NmR1 272 000
Porsche Cayenne Turbo 4.0 turbo404kW/770NmR2 064 000
Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine AWD Excellence300kW/640NmR1 580 000
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/road...power-a-better-fit-for-maseratis-suv-14150138
Maserati launched its first SUV in the form of a diesel model in 2017, but the recent introduction of the Levante S petrol version was far more appropriate to this Italian marque’s sporty heritage.
As torquey and fuel-efficient as diesels are, they just don’t conjure the same emotion and charisma as a powerful petrol engine - and charisma is high on the list when it comes to driving this trident-badged SUV, courtesy of the Ferrari twin-turbo three-litre petrol V6 under the bonnet.
It flexes 320kW and 580Nm muscles for a claimed top speed of 264km/h and a 0-100km/h blast in just 5.2 seconds. That’s plenty fast, if not class-leading for the price; there are several BMW X5s, Mercedes GLEs, Porsche Cayennes, and Range Rover Sports that will run away from it in a straight line.
An even more powerful turbo V8 Levante is on the way either later this year or early in 2019 to take on the top performers in the sports SUV league, but for now the V6 Levante S is swift without being brutal, with a quick throttle response and very little turbo lag.
Channelling it all is an eight-speed ZF auto transmission that’s as smooth as well-aged whisky and does a very effective job in auto mode, but yanking gears manually becomes routine as those metal paddle shifters feel so great to the touch.
Leading this vehicle’s charm offensive is the sound it makes. It’s not a particularly high-revving engine, with a redline set at just under 6500rpm, that V6 blurts a hard-rock roar that aurally intensifies the whole experience, especially with sports mode selected to make the exhaust even raspier.
The big Levante accelerates with great gusto for its size and the same applies to cornering, where it very effectively masks its 2.1 ton weight. This is one of the more athletic SUVs on the market and sweeps through curves with an agility that belies a high-riding SUV. It changes direction without feeling wallowy, and the steering is exceptionally sharp for a high-riding adventure vehicle.
The rear-biased all-wheel drive directs all the torque rearwards in regular driving, but diverts up to 50 percent to the front wheels when driving conditions dictate. A mechanical limited-slip rear differential enhances traction, particularly accelerating out of tight corners.
Like the diesel version the Levante S rides on adaptive air suspension that can be set to one of three firmness levels, and can be raised or lowered to different heights to better suit the tar or turf.
The focus is clearly on tarmac-based agility, but the Levante S can also handle gravel. The air suspension is pleasantly absorbent in its softest setting, even though the optional low-profile 21 inch tyres on our test vehicle caused some jarring on the rough stuff. The standard 20 inch rubber will be more suited to adventure driving.
Though Maserati’s owned by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, which also includes Jeep, the Levante is no Jeep in drag and it’s built on the same platform as the Maserati Ghibli and Quattroporte.
The colour touchscreen of the infotainment system, taken from the Jeep Grand Cherokee, was the only family sharing I noticed in the otherwise all-Maserati, smartly-appointed interior. And I don’t mind the sharing when the system’s this good. It’s an intuitive infotainment setup that makes it easy to find your way around the navigation, climate control and driver-assist features.
Space inside the smart cabin is roomy enough for five adults, and the large boot - with an electrically folding tailgate - puts good family practicality on this sporty SUV’s menu.
The cabin’s lurid red upholstery and carbon fibre trimmings were well suited to the Levante’s powerful charisma, just a pity they weren’t standard. Driver-assist features such as lane-keeping assist and radar cruise control will also cost extra money, as will the 21 inch wheels and panoramic sunroof.
And that brings us to the elephant in the room: at just under R2-million without options, this Maserati’s one of the most expensive vehicles in the luxury SUV segment.
It has that turbocharged Ferrari engine, of course, which makes a great roar and swift progress, but there are other, and notably less expensive SUVs that are faster and sound just as good.
One might argue that you can’t put a price on esoteric factors such as emotion and badge appeal, but a similarly-powered Porsche Cayenne S sells for nearly 700 grand less and also has no shortage of brand prestige.
VERDICT
I don’t know whether the Levante’s Italian flair is objectively enough to justify its higher price against its rivals, some of them a lot more powerful. It all depends how much the trident badge on that toothy grille resonates with you.
FACTS
Maserati Levante S
Engine:3.0-litre, V6, turbopetrol
Gearbox:8-speed automatic
Power:320kW @ 5750rpm
Torque:580Nm @ 4500-5000rpm
0-100km/h (claimed):5.2 seconds
Top speed (claimed):264km/h
Price:R1 950 000
Warranty:3-year/unlimited km
Maintenance plan:5-year/100 000km
ALTERNATIVES
BMW X5 xDrivei 4.4 turbo330kW/650NmR1 348 956
BMW X5 M 423kW/750NmR1 994 732
Mercedes-AMG GLE63 5.5 turbo410kW/700NmR2 006 184
Range Rover Sport HSE Dynamic 5.0 Supercharged386kW/625NmR1 684 660
Porsche Cayenne S 2.9 turbo324kW/550NmR1 272 000
Porsche Cayenne Turbo 4.0 turbo404kW/770NmR2 064 000
Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine AWD Excellence300kW/640NmR1 580 000
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/road...power-a-better-fit-for-maseratis-suv-14150138