590bhp Maserati Levante Trofeo unveiled

Maserati has revealed a high-performance version of its Levante SUV called the Trofeo – with a 590bhp V8 engine built by Ferrari.

The Levante Trofeo takes its place at the top of Maserati's SUV range, and is the first to use a V8. The 3.8-litre, twin-turbocharged petrol engine is built by Ferrari in Maranello, and lurks beneath a purposeful carbon fibre engine cover. It sends its power to all four wheels, and is claimed to enable 0-62mph in just 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 187mph.

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As evidenced by the presence of a specific ‘Corsa’ driving mode and launch control system, Maserati’s clear intention is to make the Trofeo fun and fast, in spite of its substantial size and weight. The Italian manufacturer claims to have retained the Levante's low centre of gravity and perfectly balanced 50/50 weight distribution in the pursuit of nimble handling, but without compromising ride comfort. It says this “ensures the Levante Trofeo continues to embody the essence of the Maserati GranTurismo philosophy with supercar performance."

In keeping with its performance potential, the Levante Trofeo is far from understated on the outside, with a new, vented bonnet and extra front air intakes in the lower front apron. Carbon-fibre details abound; the side blades and front splitter are made from the lightweight material. Special 22-inch forged-alloy wheels, which are the largest ever fitted to a Maserati, can be chosen with a polished or matt finish.

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Sporting luxury is the name of the game inside, too, with soft, natural ‘pieno fiore’ leather for the seats and a stitched ‘Trofeo’ emblem in the headrests. Carbon fibre trim, special instrument cluster graphics and a unique Maserati clock add to the racy atmosphere. There's a 1,280 watt Bowers and Wilkins stereo, in case that V8 soundtrack isn't sufficient.

North American enthusiasts can get their hands on a Trofeo before the rest of the world. A limited-run 'launch edition' will be offered to buyers in the USA and Canada, where deliveries are expected soon after production begins this summer. A European launch for the Trofeo has yet to be confirmed.