The high-end SUV market has become even more competitive with the introduction of the upgraded Maserati Levante Trofeo. The design language retains its usual Italian charm, with an undercurrent of racing cues noticeable beneath the unmistakable Maserati lines.

Debuting at this year’s New York Auto Show, the Maserati’s look raised a few eyebrows, and indicates the company is in fighting form. And it features a significant performance tuneup that may help it compete wild-card style with the Lamborghini Ursus and Bentley Bentayga. The new Levante Trofeo gets its power from a twin-turbo V8 Ferrari-built engine capable of making 590 horsepower and 538 pound-feet of torque; bringing the prancing horse into the game was a smart strategic move.

RE kinetic movement: the Levante Trofeo can move from zero-to-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, and reach a top speed of 186 mph. Both numbers represent fairly blazing time for an SUV. The Levante’s new Corsa driving mode is designed for recreational speeds, too, giving the vehicle a true Jekyll-and-Hyde character when you want to leave the kids with the sitter. It providing launch control for heavy-footed takeoffs, and better airflow for more efficient performance.

Exterior alterations include a new vented hood and carbon-fiber side skirt inserts to give the Trofeo a fresh look. The interior of the Levante receives Pieno Fiore leather seats and Trofeo logos. It looks mighty fine, too, presenting a pleasing balance of sport and creature-comfort oriented forethought from Maserati’s design team. Which is what we all really want in an upper-echelon SUV.