Up until now the UK has only had one Levante engine option, a torquey and capable 3.0-litre V6 diesel developing 275hp. That’s more than respectable in the performance stakes and a fine riposte to anyone who feels that the words ‘diesel Maserati’ is an oxymoron. However, the new Levante S is for those who demand something more, namely sports-car performance together with the kind of sounds that a thoroughbred petrol engine makes.

From the outside, Levante’s sinuous, sleek silhouette stands out from the generic premium SUV crowd. Maserati signifiers include the trident badge on grille and C pillar, and three distinctive air vents on the front wing. It’s a sporty, yet practical shape with ample space inside for five. Driver and passengers are cosseted in a beautiful – and beautifully-crafted – interior, with premium leather upholstery or the option of Zegna Mulberry silk for the top of the range models. Bowers and Wilkins or Harman Kardon audio systems deliver the power and precision of a live concert to the cabin, and you can personalise the interior with a wide choice of finishes, including carbon fibre. Infotainment options are accessed via Maserati’s Touch Control 8.4″ screen.

GranLusso & Granport trim options:

All Maserati vehicles promise the highest standards of sporting luxury, and naturally, the Levante is no exception. The Levante GranLusso, raises the luxurious profile of this commanding yet elegant SUV even higher, whilst the Gransport trim celebrates the race-bred performance of the Levante.

When it comes to one-upmanship, try casually mentioning that the engine in your SUV is built by Ferrari. That’s the conversational endgame that owning a Levante S gives you. The 3.0-litre 430hp V6 is twin-turbocharged and can power the Levante S from 0-62mph in 5.8 seconds, with a top speed capability of 164mph.

With that kind of performance on tap, it’s good to know that Levante has the lowest centre of gravity in its class and 50:50 front to rear weight distribution. Thanks to this, and to Maserati’s acclaimed Skyhook suspension system all Levante models handle more like sports saloons than tall SUVs. Q4 Intelligent all-wheel drive constantly monitors traction levels for optimum grip, torque vectoring delivers uncanny levels of cornering agility and there are five selectable ride heights depending on whether you’re driving though a flood or cruising at speed on the motorway.

As well as being a sporty drive, Levante S is also a safe haven. Optional active safety systems include Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Alert, Rear Cross Path detection, and Lane Departure and Forward Collision warning systems.