It’s been quite a while since Maserati toyed with a crossover/utility vehicle concept. It was back in 2003 when the Maserati Kubang concept was heard and it wasn’t until 2011 at the Frankfurt Auto Show that the public saw one in the flesh.
Now up in the frigid north, a camouflaged Maserati has been spotted undergoing a shakedown, likely in final preparation for the Geneva Motor Show in March and sale as a 2017 model. To be called the Levante, Maserati is pinning hopes on this crossover to enjoy commercial success like the Porsche Cayenne.
Originally based on the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Levante was subsequently altered to ride on the Maserati Ghibli and Quattroporte sedan platform. Maserati is said to
be offering the Levante with 3 engines – twin-turbo 3L V6, 3.8L V8 and/or a 3L V6 turbo diesel with outputs of 410hp, 530hp and 275h respectively. All variants will be paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and 4-wheel-drive system.
Recent spyshots of the interior reveal it won’t be dissimilar to Maserati’s current offerings such as the Quattroporte, with prominent use of leather and wood trim. We’ll just have to wait a while for the official unveiling.
Keyword: Maserati Levante Crossover