Maserati Reveals New Levante Hybrid As The Brand’s First Electrified SUV

Maserati has revealed the new Levante Hybrid at the Shanghai Auto Show, taking the next step in the brand’s electrification strategy following the reveal of the Ghibli Hybrid last year.

The new electrified variant of the Maserati Levante, which is also the first hybrid SUV with the trident badge, is powered by a four-cylinder 2.0-liter engine fitted with a 48-volt belt-driven starter-generator and paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The mild-hybrid Levante produces 325 HP (330 PS) and 331 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque and is available only with all-wheel-drive.

Maserati also claims that the new Levante Hybrid is lighter than the six-cylinder petrol and diesel variants at 4,607 lbs (2,090 kg), and comes with a better weight distribution since the battery is placed in the rear. 0-62 mph (100 km/h) comes in 6 seconds while top speed is set at over 149 mph (240 km/h). The Italian carmaker also promises that the electrified Levante will still sound like a Maserati.

The new Maserati Levante Hybrid features blue detailing on the exterior to identify its hybrid powertrain, including the side air ducts, the brake calipers, and the trident badge on the C-Pillar. The same blue shade can be found inside, on the embroidered seams of the seats.

The latest Maserati Connect infotainment system was revealed as part of the Levante’s recent facelift, using a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen high-resolution display with a frameless design. The new system is based on the Android Automotive operating system and remains always connected. Owners can use either the Maserati Connect App or a virtual personal assistant (Amazon Alexa and Google Assist)  to stay in contact with the vehicle.

In addition, the launch version of the new Maserati Levante Hybrid debuts a new metallic tri-coat exterior color option, called Azzurro Astro, which will be available through the brand’s customization programme, Maserati Fuoriserie.

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