In 2011, all the talk from the moment of its unveiling at the Frankfurt Auto Show was of Maserati's Kubang concept (pictured). Almost immediately, rumors that a production version would hit the market within a decade began to circulate. Turns out those rumors were true.
Reportedly set for debut at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show in January, the Levante will mark Maserati's entry into the luxury crossover/SUV market. It's named for the Via Emilia Levante in Bologna, the street where legend has it that the Maserati brothers, about a century ago, dreamed up the company that bears their name to this day. And you can bet that it'll be a head turner no matter which street it rolls down.
Word has it that the 2016 model will feature Maserati's 3.0L V6 engine, with a 560hp V8 planned for the 2018 model. Expect an 8-Speed ZF Automatic Transmission, all-wheel drive and Maserati Touch Control with a full color 8.1-inch TFT touch screen display, as well as a reconfigurable TFT gauge cluster with full color. The Levante is expected to help boost Maserati sales to 50,000 vehicles a year globally, assuring the funds needed to keep pumping out the company's signature sports cars and luxury sedans.
What do you think? Is a Maserati Levante on your automotive wish list for 2016? Post your thoughts on the E3 Spark Plugs Facebook Fan Page.
