The Maserati Levante Trofeo is expected to launch in South Africa in the first quarter of 2020, offering a whopping 433 kW and 730 N.m from its Ferrari-built twin-turbo 3,8-litre V8.

Equipped with what the Italian firm describes as “one of the most powerful engines ever fitted to a Maserati”, the Levante Trofeo – revealed back in March 2018 at the New York International Auto Show – will sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in a claimed 3,9 seconds, before topping out at 304 km/h.

The eight-cylinder mill, which is assembled by Ferrari in Maranello, boasts the highest output per litre of any powerplant fitted to a Maserati and sends its oomph to all four corners via an eight-speed automatic transmission sourced from ZF.

So, how much are you looking at for the flagship version of the SUV, which slots in above the Levante Diesel and Levante S? Well, while Maserati South Africa hasn’t officially revealed pricing, a CARmag.co.za source has confirmed a starting figure of R3,5-million.

Maserati says this derivative’s bespoke exterior styling updates were mainly focused on the lower front facia and rear bumper. The side air intakes up front, for instance, feature a more aggressive design, while carbon-fibre side bezel blades and a carbon-fibre splitter have also been added to the mix.

There’s also a model-specific bonnet and optional 22-inch alloy wheels. Round back, you’ll find a new carbon-fibre horizontal element and body-coloured diffuser arrangement between the oval quad exhaust tips. Furthermore, “Saetta” Trofeo logos have been added to the C-pillars.

Inside, the sport seats are trimmed in full-grain “Pieno Fiore” natural leather, complete with contrast stitching and the “Trofeo” logo stitched onto the headrests. There’s also new matte carbon-fibre trim and paddle shifters, specific instrument cluster graphics, floor mats with metal “Trofeo” badges and a fancy Maserati clock.

Original article from Car