The Maserati Levante S proves to be an SUV fully worthy of the trident badge
Maserati’s first ever SUV is sporty, luxurious, good-looking and full of Italian flair. In short, every bit the Maserati, in spite of the unfamiliar (for Maserati, anyway) bodystyle.
A 3-litre twin-turbo V6 provides the Levante S with 430hp, propelling it to a top speed of 264km/hr and with a 0-100km/hr time of 5.2 seconds.
![Maserati Levante S, Robb Report Ultimate Drives 2018](https://rrsg.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/UltimateDrives_MaseratiLevante_1-1024x562.jpg)
![Maserati Levante S, Robb Report Ultimate Drives 2018](https://rrsg.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/UltimateDrives_MaseratiLevante_2-1024x562.jpg)
Also, where it breaks with Maserati tradition — in a good way — is how the Levante doesn’t shy away when the roads turn unpaved. Its double-wishbone suspension layout fore and aft ensures enough subtlety to maintain traction when things get rough. An all-wheel-drive system that automatically send power and therefore, traction, to where it’s needed the most.
This surefootedness also bodes well for the Levante’s on-road handling ability. If it does gravel well, surely tarmac is comparatively easy. See what we said about the Levante being every bit worthy of wearing the Maserati trident?
![Maserati Levante S, Robb Report Ultimate Drives 2018](https://rrsg.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/UltimateDrives_MaseratiLevante_3-1024x562.jpg)
![Maserati Levante S, Robb Report Ultimate Drives 2018](https://rrsg.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/UltimateDrives_MaseratiLevante_4-1024x562.jpg)
Car Specifications
Engine: 2,979cc, 24-valves, V6, turbocharged
Power: 430hp at 5,750rpm
Torque: 580Nm at 4,500-5,000rpm
0-100km/hr: 5.2 seconds
Top Speed: 264km/hr
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Fuel Consumption: 10.9L/100km
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