Maserati unveils hybrid version of Levante SUV

Reuters

Published Apr 19, 2021 06:13

MILAN (Reuters) - Maserati, Stellantis' premium carmaker, unveiled the hybrid version of its Levante large sports utility vechicle (SUV) on Monday, refreshing its range as part of a turnaround effort.

Available from this summer, Maserati's first hybrid SUV will be based on a mild-hybrid technology, which offers some electric assistance to a traditional engine.

"A plug-in hybrid platform would have added too much weight to the car, jeopardising performance," Maserati Head of product development Francesco Tonon said during a web presentation.

Combining a 4 cylinder, 2 litre engine with a 48-volt hybrid system, the Levante reaches a top speed of more than 240 kilometres per hour.

Maserati has said it will offer hybrid or fully-electric versions of its new models, and its entire range will be electrified by 2025.

The carmaker already offers a hybrid version of its Ghibli sedan, while its new Grecale SUV, expected in the second half of this year, will also be available as a hybrid.