First he told us a new Maserati SUV based on the Jeep Grand Cherokee platform was in the works and destined for launch late next year or in early 2013. Then he revealed that the prized platform would also spawn an upscale seven-seater SUV for the Jeep brand, one that would revive the Grand Wagoneer nameplate.

Now, Fiat-Chrysler’s demanding CEO Sergio Marchionne has revealed that the new Maserati SUV model will be powered by a Ferrari designed engine, possibly in both V-8 and V-12 configurations.

Speaking at this week’s 2011 Detroit Auto Show, Marchionne described the engine as “rock and roll”, which isn’t hard to imagine considering it’s being designed by the same guys behind the V-8 and V-12 units in the 458 Italia and 599 GTO.

Production is expected to take place within the next 12 to 18 months at Chrysler’s Jefferson North assembly plant in Detroit. And of course, being a Maserati, prices will likely however around the $80,000 to $100,000 mark.

Interestingly, the upcoming luxury SUV isn’t the only new Maserati in the works. A replacement for the aging Quattroporte is due soon and a new ‘entry-level’ sedan designed to take on the likes of the BMW M5 and Audi A7 is also planned. You can read about both models in our previous story by clicking here.

_______________________________________

Follow Motor Authority on Facebook, Twitter, and Google +.