A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.1/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4.3
Comfort & Interior
4.4
Running Costs
3.2
Practicality
4
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a luxury SUV that combines Italian flair with genuine off road capability? The Maserati Levante stands out in the premium SUV segment with its distinctive styling and sporty character. This Italian SUV offers a refreshing alternative to the typical German luxury offerings, delivering both comfort and performance in equal measure. The Levante excels with its powerful engine options, ranging from efficient diesel units to thunderous V8 petrol variants that deliver genuine supercar performance.
Unlike rivals such as the BMW X5 or Mercedes GLE, the Levante brings unmistakable Italian character to every journey. The interior blends luxury materials with modern technology, while the exterior design turns heads wherever you go. Whether you’re cruising through city streets or exploring country lanes, the Levante offers impressive versatility. The air suspension system ensures comfortable ride quality, while the advanced four wheel drive system provides confidence in all weather conditions.
For buyers seeking something different from the usual premium SUV choices, the Maserati Levante offers genuine character and exclusivity. While running costs may be higher than mainstream alternatives, the Levante rewards owners with a unique driving experience that few rivals can match. This is a car that appeals to those who value style and heritage alongside practical family transport needs.
What's the Maserati Levante Like to Drive?
The Maserati Levante offers a range of powerful engines that set it apart from more conservative luxury SUVs. The entry-level diesel produces around 275 horsepower, providing smooth acceleration and respectable fuel economy for such a large vehicle. For those wanting more excitement, the petrol V6 models deliver between 350 and 430 horsepower, offering genuine sports car acceleration in an SUV body. The top Trofeo version pushes performance even further with its Ferrari-derived V8 engine.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
-
Engine
3.0L V6 Diesel / 3.0L V6 Petrol / 3.8L V8 Petrol
-
Power Output
275 - 580 bhp
-
0-60 mph
6.9 - 3.8 seconds
-
MPG Combined
28 - 35 mpg
- Boot Space
- 580 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★☆ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the Maserati Levante: Comfort & Features
Step inside the Levante and you’re immediately reminded this is something special. The interior showcases Italian craftsmanship with beautiful leather upholstery, genuine wood trim, and metal accents throughout. The seats are supremely comfortable and offer extensive adjustment, including massage functions on higher-spec models. Build quality feels solid, though some switchgear doesn’t quite match the standards of German rivals.
The Maserati Levante blends Italian elegance with bold performance, offering a unique alternative to German luxury SUVs. Its V8-powered Trofeo variant delivers exhilarating acceleration, while diesel options balance efficiency and power. The interior excels in quality and craftsmanship, though running costs remain steep. Practicality is solid, but the premium price and maintenance demands may deter budget-conscious buyers. A compelling choice for those prioritizing character over cost.
Is the Maserati Levante Expensive to Run?
Owning a Maserati Levante comes with premium running costs that reflect its luxury positioning. Fuel economy varies significantly depending on which engine you choose, with diesels achieving around 35 mpg in real-world driving, while the powerful petrol V6 models return closer to 25 mpg. The V8 Trofeo is significantly thirstier. Insurance costs are high due to the car’s value and performance, typically falling into the highest groups.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
|
Maserati Levante
|
BMW X5
|
Mercedes GLE
|
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £55,000 | £58,000 | £56,000 |
|
Performance
|
|||
| Engine | 3.0L V6 275hp | 3.0L I6 286hp | 3.0L I6 272hp |
| Power | 275 bhp | 286 bhp | 272 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 6.9 seconds | 6.5 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
|
Running Costs
|
|||
| MPG Combined | 35 mpg | 32 mpg | 34 mpg |
|
Practicality
|
|||
| Boot Space | 580 litres | 650 litres | 630 litres |
|
Standard Features
|
|||
| Key Features | Italian style, Distinctive design, Sports exhaust | Advanced tech, Superb handling, Premium build | Luxurious interior, Smooth ride, Advanced safety |
Maserati Levante Practicality & Boot Space
For a luxury SUV, the Levante delivers solid everyday practicality. The 580-litre boot easily accommodates family luggage, golf bags, or weekly shopping. Rear seats fold to expand cargo space when needed, though the loading lip is quite high. Inside the cabin, there are plenty of storage compartments for phones, drinks, and other essentials, plus useful cup holders and door pockets.
Absolutely love my Levante. It turns heads everywhere and drives beautifully. Yes, it’s expensive to run, but the experience is worth every penny. The sound from the V6 engine never gets old.
The Maserati Levante stands out in the luxury SUV segment by offering genuine Italian character and engaging driving dynamics. It combines distinctive styling, powerful engine options, and a beautifully crafted interior into a package that feels truly special. While it may not be the most practical or economical choice, it excels in areas that matter to enthusiast drivers. The refined ride quality and impressive performance make every journey feel like an occasion.