2019 Maserati Levante: A Detailed Overview
The 2019 Maserati Levante offers a compelling blend of Italian luxury, sporty performance, and SUV practicality, aiming to capture the discerning buyer seeking something more exclusive than mainstream luxury SUVs. It stands apart with its distinctive styling, potent engine options, and a driving experience that prioritizes engagement.
Highlights
-
Engine Options: The Levante provides a choice of robust engines, each offering a distinct character:
- 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6 (GTS): This potent V6 delivers spirited performance with a satisfying exhaust note, making it the entry point into the Levante's performance pedigree.
- 3.8L Twin-Turbocharged V8 (Trofeo): The range-topping Trofeo boasts a Ferrari-derived V8 that unleashes supercar-levels of power and torque. This engine is the heart of the Levante's performance ambitions, offering exhilarating acceleration and a truly intoxicating soundtrack.
- All engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, providing confident traction in various conditions.
-
Safety Features: While not as comprehensively laden with driver-assist tech as some competitors, the 2019 Levante includes essential safety features to enhance peace of mind:
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed.
- Blind Spot Monitoring: Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots, aiding in lane changes.
- Forward Collision Warning: Warns of potential frontal collisions and can automatically apply brakes in emergencies.
- Lane Departure Warning: Provides alerts if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without signaling.
- Surround View Camera: Offers a 360-degree view around the vehicle, assisting with parking and low-speed maneuvering.
-
Trims: The 2019 Levante is offered in a tiered structure, each building upon the last with enhanced performance and luxury:
- Levante GTS: The standard offering, featuring the strong twin-turbo V6, a luxurious interior, and a comfortable ride.
- Levante Trofeo: The pinnacle of performance. This trim elevates the driving experience with the powerful V8 engine, sport-tuned suspension, aerodynamic enhancements, and a more aggressive design.
-
Other Notable Aspects:
- Exquisite Interior Design: The Levante's cabin is a masterpiece of Italian craftsmanship, featuring premium leather, wood or carbon fiber trim, and a driver-focused cockpit.
- Distinctive Styling: The Levante possesses a unique and elegant exterior design that immediately sets it apart from its competitors. Its flowing lines and aggressive front fascia exude a sense of sportiness and sophistication.
- Engaging Driving Dynamics: Despite its SUV stature, the Levante offers surprisingly agile handling and a connected feel to the road, a testament to Maserati's sporting heritage.
What to Expect
Owning a 2019 Maserati Levante is an experience that leans towards the luxurious and the engaging. The typical ownership journey is characterized by:
- Luxurious Comfort: The interior is a sanctuary of premium materials and thoughtful design. Expect comfortable seating, high-quality finishes, and a generally serene cabin environment for daily commutes and long journeys.
- Performance on Demand: While comfortable, the Levante is never truly mundane. The available potent engines provide ample power for effortless highway cruising and exhilarating acceleration when desired. The soundtrack from the V8, in particular, adds a significant layer of enjoyment.
- Maintenance: As a luxury performance vehicle from a specialized manufacturer, expect maintenance costs to be higher than your average SUV. Regular servicing at authorized Maserati service centers will be crucial for preserving the vehicle's performance and longevity. Fluid changes, filter replacements, and specialized inspections will be part of the routine.
- Insurance: Insurance premiums for the 2019 Maserati Levante are likely to be above average due to its luxury classification, powerful engines, and the specialized nature of its parts and repairs. Factors like your driving record, location, and chosen coverage levels will influence the final cost.
Potential Considerations
While the 2019 Maserati Levante offers a compelling package, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- Infotainment System: While functional, the infotainment system might not feel as cutting-edge or as intuitive as those found in some of its German rivals. User interface design and software responsiveness might lag behind segment leaders.
- Rear Seat Space: While not cramped, the rear seats might not offer the same generous legroom or headroom as some larger luxury SUVs in the class. This is a trade-off for the Levante's more coupe-like profile.
- Brand Exclusivity vs. Mainstream Support: While the exclusivity is part of its appeal, finding Maserati service centers might be less convenient in certain geographic areas compared to brands with a broader dealership network.
Overall Summary
The 2019 Maserati Levante is a distinctive and desirable luxury SUV that successfully blends Italian flair with potent performance. It appeals to those who prioritize style, driving engagement, and a sense of occasion over sheer practicality or the latest technology. For buyers seeking an alternative to the ubiquitous German luxury SUVs, the Levante offers a captivating proposition that rewards with its unique character and exhilarating driving experience.
