Maserati has revealed its Kubang SUV/Crossover to the pubic at Frankfurt, showcasing its intention to diversify the brand’s profile by potentially taking the fight to the likes of the Porsche Cayenne and Range Rover Sport.
As reported with the release of a leaked image earlier this week, the Kubang eschews the usual boxy SUV profile in favour of a more curved design incorporating a sloping roofline and pronounced ‘haunches’ featuring a strong character line that cuts into the tail lamps and a kicked-up, dare we say Porsche-like, rear.
The front features a dramatic take on the company’s swept-back headlamps and ovoid grille, as well as the signature ‘gills’ punctuating the front wings. Although it’s labelled a concept, the Kubang looks close to production ready and Maserati claims that the end product will be “100 % Maserati”.
Maserati has not yet divulged any details regarding the powerplant, but word is that it will be a next-generation Ferrari-developed unit mated with an 8-speed automatic transmission – the smart money is on a redeveloped 4,7-litre V8 pushing out around 335 kW.
The Kubang is underpinned by the Jeep Grand Cherokee platform, but the suspension, brakes and steering modules will be model-specific items. Assembly will take place at Chrysler’s Jefferson North plant with sales commencing in 2013.
