New SUV is distinctively Italian in style
Maserati, the Italian luxury carmaker, has announced the launch of its most anticipated SUV – the 2018 Levante, in India.
It is the latest addition to the 2018 range of the carmaker, which started the year with the launch of 2018 Maserati Quattroporte GTS.
The 2018 Levante has also adopted the new range strategy by offering two distinct new trims: the luxury-orientated GranLusso and the red-blooded GranSport.
“The introduction of 2018 Levante is our commitment to satisfy the significantly increasing demand for premium SUVs in India. The design, exclusivity and performance are the key characteristics when describing this new Maserati; and will turn out to be a distinguishing factor for the Trident in the luxury SUV space,” said Bojan Jankulovski, Head of Operations, Maserati India.
As with many Maseratis from the past, the car’s name is inspired by a wind: the Levante is a warm Mediterranean wind that can change from a light breeze to an irresistible natural force in an instant, mirroring the character of the new Maserati SUV.
Distinctively Italian in style, with breathtaking and iconic Maserati design features, its coupé-sleek exterior has the best aerodynamic efficiency in its category with a Cx coefficient of just 0.31.
The technology installed on every Levante is designed to offer outstanding performance, both on and off-road: the sophisticated suspension, combined with electronically controlled damping and four corner air-springs with 5 different ride levels (as well as an extra-low level for parking) put the vehicle’s handling in a class of its own.
The Maserati of SUVs was engineered to excite the sport-focused drivers by making extensive use of lightweight materials, as well as boasting an ideal 50:50 weight distribution and the segment’s lowest center of gravity. These features delivered unparalleled agility in the high-end SUV class as well as remarkable comfort on rough roads and great handling on low-grip surfaces.
The Levante MY18 has also adopted Electric Power Steering (EPS) that provides an even more thrilling driving experience – both on- and off-road. EPS enables an enhanced Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) package, which includes new active functions such as Highway Assist (HA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Active Blind Spot Assist (ABSA) and Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR).
For India, the 2018 Levante is fitted with a 275hp 3 litre V6 Turbo Diesel, combined with the “Q4” intelligent all-wheel drive system – which can transfer torque between the axles instantaneously when required – and an 8-speed automatic gearbox, with integrated Start & Stop System. In terms of performance, the Diesel-powered Levante (275hp) covers 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds, and has a top speed of 230 km/h.
The human-machine interface on board, based on an evolution of the Maserati Touch Control system, has also been completely updated to offer additional functions and convenience with the 8.4” high-resolution screen and rotary control on the central tunnel.
State-of-the-art driving aid systems such as adaptive cruise control with Start&Stop function, forward collision warning, automatic brake assist system and lane departure warning are also available on request. Additional options include blind spot alert, surround view camera and power lift tailgate.
The interior boasts of premium leather, fine woods, platinum-effect metals, handcrafted contrast stitching, and much more. The SUV also comes with premium optional upgrades that include sound systems created in association with Bowers & Wilkins or Harman Kardon, and the world’s most stylish car interior, designed by the renowned fashion house of Ermenegildo Zegna.
Like with all Maseratis, the Levante will be offered with an unparalleled expertise in sales and aftersales service; and customers will also have the option to configure the exterior and interior look of the new Levante using the virtual Maserati configurator. fii-news.com
