Maserati Levante GranSport Diesel

Hey there, fellow car enthusiasts and prospective luxury SUV buyers! Navigating the Indian car market can be quite a journey, especially when you're looking at premium vehicles. You're probably weighing crucial factors like how much it costs, whether your family will be safe, what kind of monthly maintenance bill to expect, if it has all the latest tech, and of course, the peace of mind that comes with good company service.

Well, today we're diving deep into a machine that often sparks curiosity and admiration: the Maserati Levante GranSport Diesel. It's a blend of Italian flair, performance, and luxury that aims to stand out in a crowded segment. So, let's break it down and see if this Trident-badged SUV is the right fit for your garage.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

Under the bonnet of the Maserati Levante GranSport Diesel lies a heart that means business, even with a diesel tag.

• Engine Type: 3.0-litre V6 Turbo Diesel
• Maximum Power: Around 275 PS (Pferdestärke) at 4000 rpm
• Peak Torque: A generous 600 Nm between 2000-2600 rpm
• Transmission: ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox
• 0-100 km/h: Approximately 6.9 seconds
• Top Speed: Around 230 km/h
• Drivetrain: Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system

This setup ensures that you get strong, effortless performance perfect for both city commutes and highway cruising.

Design Overview

Maserati is synonymous with style, and the Levante GranSport Diesel is no exception.

Exterior Design

The GranSport trim takes the elegant Levante and adds a dose of aggression.

• Front Fascia: Features a prominent concave grille with the iconic Maserati Trident, flanked by sleek, adaptive LED matrix headlights.
• Side Profile: Muscular, coupe-like lines flow seamlessly from front to rear, giving it a sporty yet sophisticated stance. The signature triple air vents on the fenders are a classic Maserati touch.
• Rear: Distinctive LED tail lights, a sporty bumper, and quad exhaust tips reinforce its performance credentials.
• Wheels: Larger alloy wheels (often 20-inch or 21-inch) are standard on the GranSport, enhancing its road presence.

Interior Design

Step inside, and you're greeted by a cabin that exudes luxury and Italian craftsmanship.

• Materials: High-quality leather upholstery (often Pieno Fiore natural leather), open-pore wood, or carbon fibre trims adorn the cabin, creating a premium feel.
• Layout: The dashboard is driver-focused, with a blend of analogue and digital displays. The classic Maserati analogue clock sits proudly in the centre.
• Comfort: Plush, supportive seats offer excellent comfort for long journeys, and the cabin is surprisingly spacious.

Key Features

The Levante GranSport Diesel comes loaded with features designed for convenience, entertainment, and luxury.

• Infotainment System: 8.4-inch Maserati Touch Control Plus (MTC+) touchscreen with intuitive interface.
• Connectivity: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Bluetooth, USB ports.
• Sound System: Premium sound systems from Harman Kardon or even Bowers & Wilkins are often available.
• Sunroof: Large panoramic sunroof to let in light and air.
• Camera: 360-degree surround view camera system for easy parking and maneuvering.
• Wireless Charging: Yes, for compatible smartphones.
• Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control (sometimes quad-zone as an option).
• Air Suspension: Adaptive air suspension system for adjustable ride height and comfort.
• Power Tailgate: Hands-free power tailgate for convenience.

What is the Ground Clearance of Maserati Levante GranSport Diesel?

The Maserati Levante features an adaptive air suspension system which allows for variable ground clearance. Typically, it ranges from about 165 mm in Aero mode to 247 mm in Off-Road 2 mode. For general Indian driving conditions, having that flexibility is a big advantage, especially when dealing with speed breakers or uneven roads.

What is the Boot Space of Maserati Levante GranSport Diesel?

The Levante offers a practical boot space of approximately 580 litres with the rear seats up. This is ample for most family trips or airport runs, easily accommodating multiple suitcases.

What are the Dimensions of Maserati Levante GranSport Diesel?

• Length: Approximately 5003 mm
• Width: Approximately 1968 mm (excluding mirrors) / 2158 mm (including mirrors)
• Height: Approximately 1679 mm
• Wheelbase: Approximately 3004 mm

Powertrain Options

While our focus today is on the GranSport Diesel, it's worth noting that globally, the Maserati Levante has been offered with various powertrain options, including V6 and V8 petrol engines. However, in India, the diesel variant was particularly popular for its balance of performance and relatively better fuel economy for a luxury SUV.

Safety Features

Maserati ensures that safety is paramount. The Levante GranSport Diesel comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features:

• Airbags: Multiple airbags, including front, side, curtain, and knee airbags.
• Braking: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA).
• Stability: Maserati Stability Program (MSP) which includes Traction Control System (TCS) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
• ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems): Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Monitor, Forward Collision Warning, Highway Assist System, Rear Cross Path Function.
• Parking: Front and Rear Parking Sensors, 360-degree camera.
• Hill Descent Control: For controlled descents on steep slopes.

NCAP Rating Table

Safety ratings are a critical aspect for many buyers.

Rating Body	Maserati Levante Rating
Euro NCAP	5 Stars (tested in 2017)
Global NCAP	Not specifically tested by Global NCAP. Euro NCAP is a relevant benchmark.
Bharat NCAP	Not tested (as of now, luxury imports are rarely tested by Bharat NCAP)

A 5-star Euro NCAP rating is a strong indicator of the vehicle's robust safety structure and effective safety systems.

Rivals of Maserati Levante GranSport Diesel

The luxury SUV segment in India is highly competitive. The Maserati Levante GranSport Diesel locks horns with some formidable contenders:

• Porsche Cayenne
• Mercedes-Benz GLE
• BMW X5
• Audi Q7
• Range Rover Velar
• Volvo XC90

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty and help you weigh your options.

Pros

• Exquisite Design: Truly stands out with its Italian styling and aggressive GranSport cues. It's a head-turner.
• Strong Performance: The V6 diesel engine offers ample power and torque, making it a joy to drive, especially on highways.
• Luxurious and Comfortable Cabin: Premium materials, excellent build quality, and a comfortable ride (thanks to air suspension) define the interior experience.
• Exclusive Brand Image: Driving a Maserati carries a certain prestige and exclusivity that few other brands can match.
• Engaging Dynamics: For an SUV, it handles surprisingly well, with a sporty edge that Maserati is known for.
• Versatile Ground Clearance: The adjustable air suspension is a boon for varied Indian road conditions.

Cons

• High Purchase Price: Being a luxury import, the initial cost is significant.
• Maintenance Costs: Luxury European cars, especially brands like Maserati, tend to have higher service and spare part costs.
• Fuel Efficiency: While a diesel, it's still a large, powerful SUV. Don't expect compact car mileage figures.
• Limited Dealership Network: Maserati's sales and service network in India is not as widespread as some of its German rivals, which can be a concern for owners outside major metros.
• Resale Value: Niche luxury brands can sometimes have a slower depreciation curve or a smaller resale market compared to mass-market luxury brands.

Conclusion

The Maserati Levante GranSport Diesel is more than just an SUV; it's a statement. It offers a unique blend of Italian luxury, powerful diesel performance, and undeniable style that truly sets it apart from its German counterparts. If you're someone who values exclusivity, a captivating driving experience, and doesn't mind the premium associated with a niche luxury brand, then the Levante GranSport Diesel could be an excellent choice.

However, it's crucial to consider the practical aspects like running costs and the service network in your area. If you're looking for something that stands out from the crowd, delivers a thrilling drive, and wraps you in luxury, the Trident-badged SUV definitely deserves a closer look. As always, a thorough test drive is highly recommended to truly experience what this Italian marvel has to offer. Happy motoring!