Maserati has pulled the covers off of the Levante GTS – a second-tier super-SUV with a V8 engine – to sit beneath the Levante Trofeo, the Italian carmaker's range-topper.

While the Trofeo's Ferrari-derived 3.8-litre V8 puts out 590hp, the GTS uses the Quattroporte GTS-derived V8 that generates 550hp. The new super-SUV is also fitted with Maserati's Q4 four-wheel-drive system which allows for a 0-100kph time of 4.2sec and a top speed of 291kph.

The Levante GTS gets sportier styling than the regular Levante and is also more sophisticated than its V6-powered sibling. New-design alloy wheels have also been fitted on the GTS, so as to mark out the new model.

Inside, the car gets a premium audio system, upgraded leather upholstery and a redesigned gear selector. It is also the first Levante to get full-LED headlights – a feature which is likely to make its way to the rest of the range, now.

The Levante GTS has made its world debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed alongside the higher-end Trofeo, which is making its European debut.

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2017 Maserati Levante review, test drive