Maserati Levante 2022: mild-hybrid cuts fuel usage, not performance

Always a glamorous but thirsty beast, Maserati has given the Levante a new hybrid system that cuts back on fuel usage but not necessarily performance.

Maserati has unveiled a mild-hybrid version of the 2022 Levante large SUV that is set to arrive in Australia by the end of the year.

The Levante Hybrid uses a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that recharges the battery when coming to a stop and helps fire the petrol engine back up again when you move off again through the use of a belt starter generator, similar to the recently released Mazda MX-30 small SUV.

Maserati Levante Hybrid 2021 rear — Maserati has unveiled a hybrid variant of the Levante large SUV

In place of the twin-turbo V6 in the regular models or even the full-fat V8 engine in the Levante Trofeo variant is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that still packs a punch.

When combined with the 48-volt mild-hybrid system the drivetrain develops 246kW of power and 450Nm of torque, which is sent through an eight-speed torque converter automatic to the all-wheel-drive system.

Maserati says this setup is capable of accelerating from 0-100km/h in six seconds flat, matching the time set up the 257kW twin-turbo V6 version.

Maserati Levante Hybrid 2021 side — Despite the increase in fuel economy the Levante Hybrid still hits 100km/h in six seconds

While not yet certified for the Australian market, fuel economy looks to be slightly better at around 10L/100km, a figure that is improved over the 11.6L/100km/h demanded in the aforementioned petrol V6.

While not as impactful as a full hybrid system like that offered in a Toyota RAV4 midsize SUV, the fuel economy gain is noteable though real-world figures may vary.

Maserati claims this hybrid system has also improved the handling, with batteries now placed over the rear wheels the Levante has a 50:50 weight distribution – with a slightly lower mass overall at 2090kg.

Maserati Levante Hybrid 2021 seats — Maserati has trimmed the interior and exterior with shades of blue as a subtle nod to its drivetrain

Changes on the Levante Hybrid are primarily restricted to the drivetrain, but there are some key visual differences that will help Maserati fans tell it apart from its petrol-only brethren.

The launch version of the Levante Hybrid is available with a metallic colour called Azzurro Astro that is built up with three coats to help it really pop.

Maserati Levante Hybrid 2021 front driving — The Levante Hybrid should make it to Australia by the end of the year

This blue theme carries over to the seat stitching, external air ducts and the brake calipers, with even Maserati Trident adorned on the C pillar receiving a handsome shade of blue.

Maserati plans to launch the Levante Hybrid in Australia in the fourth quarter of this year, with the exact price and specifications to be confirmed closer to the launch date.