When you think of Italian automotive excellence, names like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati come to mind. Among them, Maserati Levante has long stood for a unique blend of elegance, power, and exclusivity. The Maserati Levante, Maserati’s first SUV, takes all the core values of the brand and fuses them into a luxurious, powerful, and stylish package that redefines what an SUV can be.
Let’s take a deep dive into the world of the Levante, from its origins to its design, technology, performance, variants, features, and how it compares to competitors in the luxury SUV market.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Levante
Launched globally in 2016, the Levante marked the iconic Italian carmaker’s entry into the luxury SUV market. Named after a warm Mediterranean wind that can change from calm to fierce in an instant, the Levante embodies this spirit — combining elegance with raw performance.
This SUV was Maserati’s answer to the rising demand for performance-oriented SUVs that still retain luxury and refinement. Since its launch, the Maserati Levante has evolved significantly, incorporating cutting-edge technology, electrification (in some variants), and refined design elements to keep it competitive.
Design: The Art of Italian Craftsmanship
Exterior
The Levante is unmistakably Italian. Its bold and aerodynamic design stands out in a sea of generic luxury SUVs. Up front, the aggressive grille with vertical slats and the iconic trident logo immediately establishes its presence. The narrow LED headlights, sporty bumper, and air intakes create a fierce yet classy look.
Moving to the side, the sloping roofline, muscular arches, and distinctive C-pillar with the Maserati Saetta logo provide a coupe-like silhouette — adding sportiness without sacrificing practicality. The rear is equally appealing, with quad exhaust pipes and a sculpted tailgate that reflect performance and sophistication.
Interior
Step inside the Levante, and you’re greeted with a cabin draped in fine Italian leather, open-pore wood, carbon fiber, and brushed aluminum accents. The quality is top-notch, and everything from the stitching to the choice of materials screams luxury.
Maserati offers extensive customization options — customers can choose between Zegna silk upholstery, different leather grades, trims, and even seat configurations. It is a truly bespoke experience.
The driver-focused cockpit includes a high-resolution digital display, intuitive controls, and premium sound systems from Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins, depending on the variant.
Performance That Matches the Pedigree
Maserati isn’t just about luxury — it’s about performance. The Levante delivers thrilling driving dynamics while retaining the comfort expected of a grand tourer.
Engine Options
The Levante is offered in multiple variants, each catering to different performance needs:
- Levante GT – Powered by a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing around 330 hp. It’s aimed at efficiency-focused buyers without compromising on performance.
- Levante Modena – Features a 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 engine developed by Ferrari, churning out 430 hp.
- Levante Modena S – A more powerful version with enhanced suspension and braking systems.
- Levante Trofeo – The ultimate performance variant with a 3.8L V8 twin-turbo engine (also Ferrari-built), pushing out a monstrous 580 hp. 0–100 km/h comes in just 3.9 seconds.
Drive Dynamics
- All variants feature Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, offering excellent grip and off-road capability.
- The Skyhook adaptive air suspension adjusts ride height and damping on the fly, providing a smooth ride or sporty handling depending on the drive mode.
- Five drive modes: Normal, Sport, Off-Road, I.C.E (Increased Control & Efficiency), and Corsa (Trofeo only) allow the Levante to transform from a cruiser to a beast.
Technology and Infotainment
The Maserati offers a refined tech experience that complements its performance and luxury.
- Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA): A next-gen infotainment system based on Android Automotive OS. Features a 10.1-inch HD touchscreen, voice recognition, navigation, and smartphone integration.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard.
- Digital Driver Display with customizable layouts for navigation, media, and vehicle data.
- Connected Services: Over-the-air updates, remote diagnostics, vehicle tracking, and app-based control features.
- Optional Heads-Up Display and Surround View Camera enhance usability.
Safety and Driver Assistance
While performance is Maserati’s core, safety has not been overlooked.
Key features include:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Forward Collision Warning
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Active Driving Assist (semi-autonomous driving)
The Levante has received solid safety ratings and offers an intelligent safety suite to ensure both comfort and peace of mind.
Variants and Pricing
As of 2025, the Maserati is available in the following trims (approximate ex-showroom India prices):
| Variant | Engine | Power | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Levante GT Hybrid | 2.0L Turbo Hybrid | 330 hp | ₹1.49 Crore |
| Levante Modena | 3.0L V6 | 430 hp | ₹1.68 Crore |
| Levante Modena S | 3.0L V6 | 450 hp | ₹1.85 Crore |
| Levante Trofeo | 3.8L V8 | 580 hp | ₹2.48 Crore |
Maserati Levante Trofeo – The Super SUV
One of the highlights of the range is the Levante Trofeo. It stands out with unique exterior detailing (carbon fiber inserts, red accents), sports seats, a performance-tuned chassis, and the fastest acceleration in the Levante lineup. It competes directly with the Lamborghini Urus, Porsche Cayenne Turbo, and Aston Martin DBX.
How It Compares to Rivals
Let’s see how the Levante stacks up against key rivals in the luxury performance SUV segment:
- Lamborghini Urus – Offers more power and brand prestige but costs significantly more.
- Porsche Cayenne – Offers sharper dynamics and a wider range of variants, but lacks the exotic flair of Maserati.
- Range Rover Sport – Great off-road ability and luxury, but not as sporty.
- BMW X6 M – More tech-loaded and practical but not as exclusive or emotionally appealing.
The Levante strikes a perfect balance between performance, luxury, and individuality.
What Makes the Levante Unique?
- Italian Flair – No other SUV has the same blend of exotic design, craftsmanship, and charisma.
- Ferrari-Derived Engines – That unmistakable exhaust note and thrilling performance.
- Personalization – Extensive options for color, leather, stitching, and trims.
- Exclusivity – You won’t see a Levante on every corner, making it a rare gem.
Sustainability and Future Outlook
Maserati has begun its shift toward electrification. The Levante GT Hybrid is a step in that direction. Maserati plans to offer full electric versions under its Folgore line, including the next-generation Levante EV — expected by 2026. This will offer eco-conscious buyers the luxury and performance of Maserati without emissions.
Should You Buy the Levante?
If you seek:
- A luxurious SUV that turns heads,
- High-performance without sacrificing comfort,
- Unique Italian craftsmanship and brand heritage,
- And the ability to stand out from the crowd,
Then the Maserati Levante is one of the best options in the segment.
While it may not offer the same practicality or tech as some German rivals, it more than makes up for it in style, sound, exclusivity, and emotion.
Conclusion
The Maserati Levante is more than just an SUV — it’s a statement. It tells the world that you value passion, elegance, and performance in equal measure. From the soulful rumble of its engine to the intricate leatherwork inside, every detail is meticulously crafted.
In a market flooded with cookie-cutter SUVs, the Levante dares to be different — and for those who appreciate that difference, it offers an experience like no other.