Johannesburg - Maserati became the newest entrant to the insatiably popular premium-SUV market when it launched its Levante here in February.
The Italian vehicle was only available as a V6 turbodiesel however, and now it's been joined by a petrol version called the Levante S for those who prefer a lighter-coloured fuel.
Under the bonnet of this high-performance all-terrainer is a Ferrari twin turbo 3-litre petrol V6 with outputs of 320kW and 580Nm, for a claimed top speed of 264km/h and a 0-100km/h blast in just 5.2 seconds. Perhaps more importantly it will have a signature petrol roar.
Like the diesel version the Levante S is an all-wheel drive SUV which rides on adaptive air suspension that can be set to one of three firmness levels, and can raise and lower to different heights to better suit the tar or turf. There's an additional extra low easy-entry parking mode.
Enhanced traction