2018 Maserati Levante S touches down

Maserati has announced local pricing and specifications for its new Levante S, which landed in Australia this week.

Priced from $169,990 plus on-road costs, the highly-awaited twin-turbo V6-powered model arrives with a $30,000 price premium over the existing 202kW/600Nm diesel-powered Levante – though you could argue it is the genuine version of Maserati’s first SUV.

The Ferrari-built petrol engine in the Levante S makes 321kW and 580Nm, endowing the Latin high-rider with a 5.2-second 0-100km/h time. That’s 1.7 seconds faster than the diesel.

Top speed is raised accordingly in the petrol model, from 230km/h to 264km/h, with drive apportioned to all four wheels (but with a rear bias) via an eight-speed ZF automatic.

The under-bonnet credentials are backed by larger 380mm front disc brakes, wrapped by six-piston Brembo callipers, and 330mm rear brake discs. There are also subtle tweaks the S’ suspension set-up.

In addition, the Levante S debuts new electrically-assisted power steering that will be shared with the regular diesel-powered Levante. The move away from hydraulic steering (which will soon apply to all new Trident-badged models) has enabled Maserati to equip both models with driver aids including autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist and highway assist.

Furthermore, the Levante now gets traffic sign recognition and a 360-degree camera that was previously optional.

The Levante S is available in S, GranLusso and GranSport trims, the latter two adding unique exterior and interior trims for an added $10,000.

Inside, Levante models offer an 8.4-inch touch-screen with sat-nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while further back boot space is rated at 580 litres.

Diesel – $139,990
Diesel GranSport – $159,990
Diesel GranLusso – $159,990
S – $169,990
S GranSport – $179,990
S GranLusso – $179,990