1/100 Ferrari SUV that you didn’t know about. Maserati Levante Trofeo.
Equipped with a 3.8L Ferrari built twin turbo V8 engine, putting almost all its power down to the rear wheels and some to the front delivered via a 8 speed ZF transmission with an opera of a sounding exhaust which changes the perception of V8’s always sounding brawly.
Exterior:
Originally based on the Maser sedan platform, the Levante Super Trofeo is more of a crossover than SUV however finished in the shade of Blu Emozione Matte it manages to steal the show and grab road presence like never before. The ST will also be available in Giallo Modenese and Rosso Magma as well which are the gloss paint options.
The ST features exclusive carbon fiber inserts on the bumpers and side skirts, as well as the specially designed bonnet. The Levante Trofeo Launch Edition rides on 22-inch Orione rims not seen on the standard car and shows off some really really low profile tyres!
Interior:
Moving into the interior, we see sports seats upholstered in premium full-grain “Pieno Fiore” natural leather, with contrasting stitching and a “Trofeo” logo embroidered on the headrest matching the exterior color.
What’s not so nice is the slightly outdated technology seen on offer in terms of the chrysler touch screen, however the quality of materials and ride quality makes up for it with leather and carbon fibre plenty reminding you of the craftsmanship that went into the manufacturing process.
Engine:
The engine however, makes you forget about every single issue, quirk or negative point that you could possibly think of. The Ferrari built incredible V8 engine, sounding expensive upon first start up. It manages to retain the supercar trait of shifting its pitch dramatically with every small increase in RPM.
It’s quite an incredible engine, sounding expensive upon first start up. It manages to retain the supercar trait of shifting its pitch dramatically with every small increase in RPM. Compared to the regular model, the Trofeo’s engine has been heavily revised.
There are new pistons, a whole new oiling system, improved hardware in the engine’s head, as well as a pair of unique turbochargers. Out back, a variable exhaust truly gives the V8 the ability to sing its song. It isn’t overly loud or obnoxious, more organic, and sounds like a highly tuned instrument which makes 590 PS (582 hp) and 730 Nm (538 lb-ft) of torque.
The ZF 8 Speed torque converter gearbox also opens up a new world from the traditional perception of dual clutch boxes mated to powerful V8’s allowing the Levante ST to drive smoother.
Overall: If you have the want for something practical from Italy and can look beyond the Lamborghini Urus and want to save some money while still enjoying an interesting sounding yet practical car while standing out from the crowd ironically dominated by the Urus, the Levante ST may just be the pick for you. Also it would be pretty cool to own a 1/100 car!
Written by: Aakash Kalro
Shot by: Nirmeet Patil
