It seems like Maserati is confused about choosing a platform for its SUV. Conversations about creating their own off-road vehicle have been going on for 10 years. Their first Kubang concept was unveiled in 2003. Fiat-Chrysler merger allowed the Italians to get the ready-made platforms of Chrysler SUVs in their disposal. But now it looks like Maserati has changed its mind again.
At first, when the merger of carmakers from Italy and North America has just begun, the company thought about using the Jeep Grand Cherokee platform. But as CNN reports with reference to company’s CEO Harold Wester, after much deliberation the engineers from Maserati changed their minds again and now consider using their in-house developed platform.
There are absolutely no details about the predicted platform yet. Though the company had plans to kick-start production of the Levante SUV this year already. The production site of the new car has also changed. It was previously planned that Levante would be produced by the American partners of the auto group located in Detroit, but now rumours are Maserati wants to launch SUV’s production on a factory in Mirafiori, Italy.
Only one thing might be predicted about the future SUV — its engine specifications. Most likely, Levante would share its powertrain options with the Quattroporte and Ghibli. Levante might choose between three engine types — 3-litre petrol turbocharged 410-hp motor; 3.8-litre 580-hp petrol V8; or 3-litre 275-hp diesel engine.
