Just a few years ago, the notion of a Maserati SUV might have seemed absurd, but after its 2017-model-year introduction, the Levante has become the brand’s best-selling model. Based on the same platform as the Ghibli and Quattroporte sedans, the Levante combines midsize SUV versatility with sports-car-like handling. For the 2021 model year, the Levante features a wireless phone charging pad, as well as an updated infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Levante is offered in two V6-powered variants and two V8 trims. All engine offerings are actually derived from a Ferrari V8 engine (with two cylinders removed for the V6). And all are thoroughly potent.

The standard 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 makes 345 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, while an uprated S version makes 424 hp and 428 lb-ft. Moving up to the Levante GTS gains the 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. It puts out 550 hp and 538 lb-ft of torque. In the Trofeo trim, this engine churns out 590 hp, while torque remains at 538 lb-ft. With all engines, power is roughed through an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission to standard all-wheel drive (AWD).

As mentioned, the Levante comes standard with a new infotainment system, housed in an 8.4-inch touchscreen. Other standard features include an advanced voice-control assistant, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a dual-panel sunroof. Other standard features include 19-inch alloy wheels, soft-close doors, an adaptive air suspension, and Maserati’s SkyHook electronic damping system.

The available GranLusso trim adds adaptive LED headlights, open-pore wood trim, heated-and-ventilated front seats, and combination silk-and-leather upholstery. The latter is sourced from the Italian fashion house, Ermenegildo Zegna.

Another available trim is the GranSport. It adds 20-inch aluminum wheels, red brake calipers, 12-way power-adjustable front seats, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system.

Moving up to the Levante GTS adds perforated leather front bucket seats, heated-and-ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and an Integrated Vehicle Control system for improved cornering and handling. The range-topping Trofeo trim adds a Corsa drive mode that quickens throttle response and lowers the air suspension. The Trofeo also features a launch mode, allowing it to sprint from zero to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds.

Standard safety features on all trims include blind-spot monitoring, automatic high beams, and front- and rear parking sensors. Automatic emergency braking is available as an option.

Base MSRP for the 2021 Maserati Levante is $77,890. The Levante S starts at $88,890. Moving up to the V8-powered variants, the GTS starts at $125,490 and the range-topping Levante Trofeo has a starting price of $152,690.