Maserati Levante GTS slated for 2020 Aussie launch

A 404kW Ferrari-powered version of Maserati’s first SUV – the Levante GTS – will be heading Down Under, the company has confirmed, although it’ll be over a year’s wait to get your hands on one. 

While a V8-powered version of the Levante – the Trofeo – was first shown back in March of this year at the New York International Auto Show, it won’t be until the tail-end of 2019 that bent-eight Levantes make the trip to Australia, just in time for the 2020 model year.

Powered by a detuned version of the Trofeo’s Ferrari-developed twin-turbocharged 3.8-litre V8 producing 404kW and 730Nm, it will be capable of sending the Levante GTS to 100km/h from a standstill in 4.2 seconds, while charging on to a top speed of 292km/h.

Backing the powerhouse of an engine will be an eight-speed automatic from ZF, while power will be channeled to all four wheels through Maserati’s Q4 all-wheel drive system.

In terms of styling, the GTS is set apart from cooking models with front and rear bumpers more closely resembling those of the Trofeo, along with massive 22-inch wheels to complete the sporty look.

There are changes on the inside too, albeit minor ones, with revised infotainment and a 14-speaker surround sound system as standard.

With the launch of the hottest Levante to hit Australian shores yet still well over a year away, pricing and full specifications for the GTS are yet to be announced. Until then, the V6-powered Levante S will continue on as the current range-topper.