An Italian story. A Global Icon – Maserati’s words not ours. With the launch of the “Maserati of SUVs”, is there now a leading on-road performance SUV coupled with off-road durability in the new Levante? Are Porsche, Bentley and even the Range Rover going to take note of this new product?
Without doubt, the Maserati Levante is an aesthetically pleasing product. Its opulent and ostentatious exterior targets the luxury leasing market – some customers do want a brash vehicle that stands out. Understated simply isn’t for everyone. The front of the vehicle is distinctly Maserati – the front grille with vertical bars and ornamental side grilles adds presence to the vehicle. From the side and back, you can see the Porsche influence, with the oval/bubble design, lending for a smooth finish.
A standard car, with a list price of circa £45,000 plus Vat, will offer standard features which includes 18” Borea alloys, hill hold and descent control, heat and noise insulated glass, ride height control, parking sensors (front and rear), touch screen navigation, folding mirrors, keyless start, Navtrak tracking system and a choice of leather upholsteries.
In true Maserati form, you need to reach deep in your pockets to get the ultimate in luxury vehicles. Add the Sport Package to include 19” alloys, a rear spoiler, 12-way sports memory seats, sports pedals, skid plates, sport steering wheel, surround view camera and Nero brake callipers. For a bit of comfort, add the luxury package for heated front seats and premium fine grain leather.
Performance-wise, the 3 litre V6 diesel engine offers a combined MPG of circa 40 and ,with 275ps, this is not the slowest of vehicles. In terms of maintenance, service intervals are set at 12 month or every 12,000 miles, whichever is sooner.
So what do you think to the Levante… is this a young-driver’s aspiration or an older drivers comfort blanket?
