Maserati’s eagerly anticipated petrol-engined Levante S is currently available to order in all UK dealerships, and joins the Levante line-up alongside the diesel variant launched last year.

Levante S has been engineered to excite the sport-focused driver. It makes extensive use of lightweight materials, boasts an ideal 50:50 weight distribution and the segment’s lowest centre of gravity. These features deliver unparalleled agility in the luxury SUV class.

When it comes to its engine, Levante S is equipped with the latest evolution of the Maserati 3.0-litre V6 engine, and promises drivers Maserati’s signature sound and exceptional performance, with 0-62mph in 5.2 seconds and a top speed of 164mph.

The V6 petrol engine was designed by Maserati Powertrain, in conjunction with the Ferrari Powertrain development team, and is manufactured by Ferrari in Maranello exclusively for Maserati. An eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox, provides seamless and ultra-fast gear shifting, and drivers can choose between four drive modes: Normal, I.C.E., Sport and Off-Road. Each one uses different settings, intelligently altering engine, transmission, suspension and electronic settings when required.

The 430hp Levante S features a state-of-the-art braking system that deals superbly with the car’s high performance. In addition, the aluminium double-wishbone, five-link suspension layout of Levante S comprises standard Air Springs and electronically-controlled Skyhook shock absorbers. In conjunction with the Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive System and the torque vectoring system, the chassis delivers GT on-road dynamics and surprising off-road capabilities.

An enhanced ADAS package is optionally available with the Levante S, which includes new active functions such as Highway Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition. The new Electronic Power Steering (EPS), introduced with MY18, supports the enhanced ADAS package and also improves the car’s handling and comfort, whilst retaining the razor-sharp steering feel expected of any Maserati.

In line with Maserati’s new range strategy, the Levante S comes in two distinct trim levels: the GranLusso and GranSport.

The GranLusso trim is externally recognisable by its metallic-finish front skid plates, the GranLusso badges on the front wings, the body-colour side skirts, the black-painted brake callipers and the 19-inch Zefiro alloy wheels. The interior’s feel is further enhanced thanks to Ermenegildo Zegna silk or full premium Italian leather with a Radica open-pore wood trim and leather steering wheel.

Recognisable by its Black Piano front grille, skid plates and roof rails, the GranSport trim was conceived to meet the demands of customers seeking a sportier expression of a high-end SUV and reflect the legendary racing heritage of Maserati. The exterior also boasts body-colour side skirts, blue inserts on all Trident and Saetta logos, red brake callipers and 20-inch Nereo wheels, whilst the cabin includes leather sport seats with 12-way power, a power adjustable sport steering wheel with gear shift paddles as well as sport pedals in brushed stainless steel.

The Maserati Levante S is available from £70,755.