Maserati has been tweaking its Levante SUV range, with new top-of-the-line Levante Trofeo and Levante GTS models powered by a 5.0-litre petrol V8 engine, and an entry-level V6 petrol engine all joining the UK line-up. The range made its debut at last week’s Goodwood Festival of Speed.
The new 3.0-litre petrol V6 model produces 350hp, compared to the existing twin-turbo 430hp version found in the Levante S, and has been added to the range in response to ongoing consumer shifts away from diesel power. This engine will also be available on Maserati’s flagship Quattroporte saloon and is already available on the Ghibli saloon. Maserati claims that the 350hp engine will provide a 0-62mph time of 6.0 seconds for the Levante and 5.5 seconds for the Quattroporte. Don’t expect average fuel consumption mpg figures above the mid-20s.
The new V8 models will provide more interest for Maserati enthusiasts. The 3.8-litre, twin-turbo V8 engine is the same unit found in the Quattroporte GTS saloon. It puts out 590hp in the Trofeo and 550hp in the GTS model, and has been revised to work with the Levante’s all-wheel drive system (the Quattroporte is rear-wheel drive only). All of Maserati’s V6 and V8 petrol engines are designed by Ferrari and built in Maranello, alongside the engines that go into Ferrari’s own supercars.
Visually, there are minor changes to the front bumper panel and optional adaptive full-LED headlights, while the advanced electronic stability programme that helps to prevent vehicle instability rather than just correcting it – known as Integrated Vehicle Control – is now standard on all Levante models.
Model year updates across the range
The entire Maserati range has also been given a light refresh, with some new wheel designs and colours on the outside and upgraded systems and leathers on the inside. The eight-speed automatic gearbox on all models carries over, but Maserati has paid attention to the shift lever movement. It now has a shorter travel and easier switching between manual and automatic modes. The infotainment system has also been updated with improved graphics and climate control ergonomics.
The GranTurismo and GranCabrio models have finally been retired from production, leaving the 2019 Maserati range comprising of the Levante SUV and the Ghibli and Quattroporte saloons.
The entry-level Levante 350hp will start at £61,425 and the Quattroporte 350hp will start from £78,120. They are both available to order now with deliveries expected from September. Pricing for the Levante GTS and Levante Trofeo models has yet to be announced.