Maserati Levante

Buying a new car in India is always a big decision, isnt it? Youre probably weighing up many factors: how much it will cost, what about safety, the dreaded monthly maintenance, whether it has all the latest features, and of course, how good is the companys after-sales service. In the luxury segment, these questions become even more critical. Today, were diving deep into an SUV that promises to turn heads and stir emotions – the Maserati Levante. If youre looking for an Italian masterpiece that combines performance, luxury, and exclusivity, the Levante demands your attention. Lets explore if this premium SUV from Maserati is the right fit for your garage.

Main Highlights of the Maserati Levante

Engine Specifications

The Maserati Levante for the Indian market primarily features powerful petrol engines designed for thrilling performance.

• Engine Type: 3.0-litre Twin-Turbo V6 Petrol
• Max Power: Around 350 hp (Standard) to 430 hp (Levante S)
• Max Torque: 500 Nm to 580 Nm
• Transmission: 8-speed ZF Automatic
• Drive: Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive System
• Acceleration (0-100 km/h): Approximately 6.0 seconds (350 hp) to 5.2 seconds (430 hp)

Design Overview

The Levante is unmistakably a Maserati, blending sporty elegance with SUV practicality.

• Exterior:
  • Grille: Features the iconic Maserati trident emblem prominently, flanked by aggressive vertical slats.
  • Headlights: Sleek full-LED matrix headlights provide excellent illumination and a sharp look.
  • Lines: A coupé-like profile with a sloping roofline and muscular haunches gives it a dynamic stance.
  • Wheels: Large alloy wheels, typically ranging from 19 to 21 inches, complement its commanding presence.
  • Overall: It manages to look both luxurious and sporty, standing out from the crowd of other luxury SUVs.
• Interior:
  • Materials: High-quality leather (often Pieno Fiore leather), open-pore wood, and carbon fibre trims create a lavish ambiance.
  • Comfort: Spacious cabin with comfortable, supportive seats. Available with ventilation and heating functions.
  • Dashboard: Driver-focused cockpit with a blend of traditional analogue gauges and a modern digital display.
  • Attention to Detail: Signature Maserati clock on the dashboard, intricate stitching, and well-finished surfaces underscore its premium appeal.

Key Features

The Levante comes packed with modern conveniences and advanced technology to enhance your driving experience.

• Infotainment: 8.4-inch Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA) touchscreen system.
• Connectivity: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, USB ports.
• Sound System: Premium audio options from Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins.
• Sunroof: Large panoramic sunroof adds to the sense of space and light in the cabin.
• Parking Aids: 360-degree surround view camera and front/rear parking sensors.
• Charging: Wireless charging pad for compatible smartphones (on select variants/model years).
• Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control for optimal comfort.
• Adjustable Air Suspension: For varying ride heights and comfort levels.
• Soft-Close Doors: A touch of luxury and convenience.

What is the Ground Clearance of Maserati Levante

The Maserati Levante offers an impressive ground clearance, especially beneficial for Indian road conditions. Thanks to its adjustable air suspension, the ground clearance can range from approximately 162 mm (aero mode) to 247 mm (off-road 2 mode), with a standard driving height of around 207 mm. This flexibility ensures it can tackle speed breakers and uneven terrain with ease.

What is the Boot Space of Maserati Levante

For a luxury SUV, the Levante provides ample cargo capacity. It offers a boot space of approximately 580 litres, which is generous enough for multiple suitcases or a weeks worth of shopping. With the rear seats folded down, this space expands significantly.

What are the Dimensions of Maserati Levante

The Maserati Levante has a substantial road presence, reflected in its dimensions:

• Length: Approximately 5,003 mm
• Width: Approximately 1,968 mm (without mirrors) / 2,158 mm (with mirrors)
• Height: Approximately 1,697 mm (at standard ride height)
• Wheelbase: Approximately 3,004 mm

Powertrain Options

While global markets might see V8 options, the Maserati Levante in India is predominantly offered with a potent 3.0-litre Twin-Turbo V6 Petrol engine. This engine is paired with an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission and Maserati’s Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, ensuring power is delivered smoothly and efficiently to all four wheels, providing excellent grip and handling in various conditions.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount in the Levante, equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety systems.

• Seven airbags (front, side, curtain, and drivers knee airbag)
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Traction Control System (TCS)
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
• Hill Descent Control and Hill Holder
• Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) in higher trims, including:
  • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
  • Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
  • Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)
  • Forward Collision Warning (FCW) with Advanced Brake Assist
  • Rear Cross Path function

NCAP Rating Table

As of now, the Maserati Levante has not been officially tested by either Bharat NCAP or leading global safety assessment programs like Euro NCAP or Global NCAP. This is not uncommon for ultra-luxury and niche vehicles. However, it is built to stringent safety standards and equipped with a full array of active and passive safety features, as listed above, designed to protect occupants.

Rivals of Maserati Levante

In the competitive luxury SUV segment, the Maserati Levante faces strong competition from established players:

• Porsche Cayenne
• BMW X5 / X6
• Mercedes-Benz GLE / GLS
• Audi Q7
• Land Rover Range Rover Sport

How is the Car The Maserati Levante Pros & Cons

Heres a balanced look at what makes the Maserati Levante stand out and where it might fall short.

Pros

• Exquisite Design: Its unique Italian styling ensures it stands out in a sea of luxury SUVs.
• Potent Performance: The V6 petrol engine delivers exhilarating power and a captivating exhaust note.
• Luxurious Interior: High-quality materials and craftsmanship create a truly premium cabin experience.
• Comfortable Ride: Adjustable air suspension provides a smooth ride quality, adaptable to different road conditions.
• Exclusive Appeal: Owning a Maserati offers a sense of exclusivity and prestige.
• Engaging Handling: Despite its size, it offers surprisingly agile handling for an SUV.

Cons

• High Price Point: As expected, it comes with a premium price tag which can be a barrier for some.
• Fuel Efficiency: The powerful V6 engine can be quite thirsty, leading to higher running costs.
• After-Sales Service Network: Maserati has a smaller service network in India compared to its German rivals, which could be a concern for owners outside major metros.
• Resale Value: While improving, Maserati might not hold its resale value as strongly as some German luxury brands.
• Infotainment System: While functional, it might not feel as cutting-edge or intuitive as some newer systems from competitors.

Conclusion

The Maserati Levante is more than just an SUV; its a statement. It offers a unique blend of Italian flair, exhilarating performance, and luxurious comfort that sets it apart from its rivals. If you value exclusivity, a captivating driving experience, and head-turning design over sheer practicality or widespread service network, the Levante is definitely worth considering. While it demands a premium and might have higher running costs, the emotional appeal and the prestige of the Trident badge are undeniable. For the discerning Indian car buyer who seeks a luxury SUV with soul, the Maserati Levante presents a compelling and stylish choice.