2019 Maserati Levante S: High-fashion, high-performance

The Maserati Levante S is powered by a 3.0-liter, twin-turbo, Ferrari-sourced V6.

The base Levante gets 345 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque from this prancing power plant. Stepping up to this Levante S trim also steps the output up to 424 hp and 428 lb-ft of torque. 

Standing between the V6 and the contact patches are an eight-speed automatic transmission and Maserati's Q4 all-wheel-drive system.

Electronic damping control and a five-level height adjustable air suspension allow the driver to tailor the handing from firm-yet-comfortable to really-firm-and-dynamic.

The Maser sounds like a proper exotic in its sportiest setting, with a satisfying howl and pops and burbles punctuating each shift.

The Levante wears Maserati's design hallmarks well, wrapping gorgeous Italian styling around the more upright proportions of an SUV.

From the trident grille to the fender vents and sculpted shoulders, the Levante certainly feels like a member of the family that birthed the Quattroporte and GranTurismo. 

The 2019 Maserati Levante starts at $76,980 for the base, all-wheel-drive model. Another 10 grand gets you 80 extra ponies, stepping up to the $87,980, 424-hp Levante S.

The Levante isn't the best in its class, but with its engaging performance and dramatic flair it has an emotional, intangible appeal all of its own.

Keep scrolling for more photos of the 2019 Maserati Levante.