A hybrid addition to Maserati’s new SUV range from a Chrysler minivan? It could happen
| Model | Engine | Power | Torque | 0-100kph | Top speed | Weight | Basic price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Levante | V6, twin-turbo, 2979cc | 396bhp@6100rpm | 520Nm (384lb ft) @2500-5000rpm | 6.0 secs | 251kph | 2109kg (188bhp/ton) | $77,800 |
| Model | Engine | Power | Torque | 0-100kph | Top speed | Weight | Basic price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Levante S | V6, twin-turbo, 2979cc | 424bhp @6100rpm | 580Nm (428lb ft) @ 5,000rpm | 5.2 secs | 264kph | 2109kg (201bhp/ton) | TBC |
Maserati has revealed it could add a plug-in hybrid option to its Levante SUV range. Should plans go ahead, the plug-in technology will come from the new Chrysler Pacifica minivan, which isn’t too much of a surprise, considering Chrysler is part of the same Fiat Chrysler Automobile (FCA) Group. “A standalone program would be suicidal,” explained Maserati chief Harald Wester at the recent Geneva Motor Show, “so we have to look at FCA.” At the other end of the scale, Maserati has intimidated that a performance version of the Levante may emerge in the near future, though the company is still unwilling to commit owing to ‘cost reasons.’ Depending on opening sales figures for the Levante, neither option is likley to arrive before 2017 at the earliest.
From launch, the Levante will be available with two V6 engine options, including a 345bhp 3-litre base model and a 424bhp 3-litre ‘S’ variant. Each V6 will be mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. Prices are set to begin from around $77,800.
Technical specifications available on page 2
Source – Maserati
