Maserati Levante S 2017 Review: 424Bhp V6, Performance & Luxury

The Maserati Levante S 2017 marks a bold entry for the Italian brand into the premium SUV arena, offering a compelling mix of exhilarating acceleration, refined ride quality, and opulent cabin ambiance. Powered by a Ferrari-derived twin-turbo V6 engine producing 424 horsepower, it delivers a 0-62mph sprint in 5.2 seconds, positioning it as a strong contender against the Porsche Cayenne S. While it captivates with its dramatic engine note and rear-biased all-wheel drive, it faces challenges in fuel economy, advanced infotainment, and rear passenger space compared to German rivals.

Engine Power and Dynamic Driving Experience

At the heart of the 2017 Levante S lies a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, shared with Maserati’s Ghibli and Quattroporte models but tuned to 424bhp and 580Nm of torque for enhanced vigor. This setup propels the SUV from standstill to 62mph in just 5.2 seconds, outpacing some expectations in real-world tests where 0-60mph times dipped to 5.1 seconds without launch control. The engine awakens with a subdued growl that builds into a thrilling crescendo near the redline, especially in Sport mode, providing the drama enthusiasts crave from an Italian exotic.

The eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, a staple in luxury vehicles, shifts smoothly in normal driving but exhibits slight hesitation during kick-downs outside Sport mode. Once engaged, it delivers rapid changes, though not matching the instantaneous precision of Porsche’s PDK. Paired with a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system and a limited-slip rear differential, the powertrain ensures confident traction, with minimal turbo lag after initial spool-up.

Suspension, Handling, and Ride Comfort

Standard air suspension with adaptive dampers allows selectable ride heights, lowering the body for improved aerodynamics and stability at speed. This system absorbs road imperfections adeptly in comfort settings, transitioning to a composed, roll-resistant posture in Sport mode. The lighter petrol engine aids sharper turn-in, enabling the 2.1-tonne SUV to carve corners with surprising poise and high grip levels.

Handling benefits from a rear-wheel-drive bias, fostering playful dynamics, though the switch to electric power steering from hydraulic reduces tactile feedback, prioritizing driver aids over pure connection. Brakes are robust, offering progressive bite and confident stopping power from high speeds. On smoother roads, the Levante S feels engaging and fleet-footed, but it can struggle on rougher surfaces, highlighting limitations versus more polished rivals.

• Air suspension modes: Auto, Sport, Off-Road – adjustable heights for versatility.
• Wheel options: 20-inch alloys on GranSport trim enhance stance and grip.
• Steering feel: Accurate and weighted, but less communicative than hydraulic predecessors.

Interior Luxury and Practicality

The cabin exudes Maserati heritage with supple leather, wood accents, and metallic trims, boasting solid build quality that feels premium despite some plasticky switchgear. Front seats are supportive and heated, with excellent visibility and adjustability. The GranSport trim adds sporty flourishes like red calipers visible through wheels and soft-close doors for refined entry.

However, rear space disappoints for a large SUV, with limited legroom and headroom constraining adult comfort over long journeys. Boot capacity is practical at around 580 liters, expandable for family use. Infotainment features an 8.4-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, controlled via dual knobs, but glitches like system freezes undermine reliability.

Safety Features and Driver Assistance

Model-year updates introduced a suite of active safety systems, elevating the Levante to Level 2 autonomy capabilities. Key additions include adaptive cruise control with stop-go, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition, and forward collision warning. These align it closer to competitors, though implementation lags behind Audi or BMW in seamlessness.

Standard equipment across trims now includes soft-close doors and enhanced ADAS, making it safer for daily duties without diluting its sporty ethos.

Fuel Economy and Ownership Costs

Thirst is a notable drawback; the official combined figure hovers under 26mpg, with real-world tests yielding 15-18mpg, trailing diesel variants at 39mpg or rivals like the Jaguar F-Pace. High insurance groups and premium fuel needs elevate running costs, though the petrol V6’s character justifies it for performance seekers.

• CO2 emissions: Around 250g/km, impacting company car taxes.
• Service intervals: Flexible, but dealer networks are sparser than German brands.
• Trim choices: GranLusso (silk upholstery) vs. GranSport (sportier aesthetics).

Design and Exterior Appeal

Maserati’s signature styling – the trident grille, sculpted flanks, and aggressive stance – sets the Levante S apart from angular German SUVs. The GranSport package introduces black accents, 20-inch wheels, and quad exhausts, amplifying its presence. At over five meters long, it commands attention while retaining elegant proportions suitable for urban or highway cruising.

Competitor Comparison

Versus the Porsche Cayenne S, the Levante offers more characterful power delivery and luxury but concedes in tech polish and efficiency. The Jaguar F-Pace provides better value and agility at lower cost, though lacks the Maserati’s V6 drama. Range Rover Sport edges in off-road prowess, but the Levante prioritizes on-road thrill.

Who Should Buy the Maserati Levante S 2017?

Ideal for buyers desiring Italian flair over Teutonic efficiency – those valuing a sonorous V6, plush ride, and head-turning design. It’s less suited for tech maximalists or fuel-conscious families. Starting around £80,000 in the UK ($83,800 US), it rewards with everyday usability and weekend excitement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2017 Maserati Levante S reliable?

While build quality is high, infotainment glitches and sparser service networks pose risks; long-term data shows average dependability versus Germans.

How does it compare to the diesel Levante?

Petrol S is faster and more engaging (424bhp vs. 272bhp), but diesel excels in economy (39mpg vs. 26mpg).

What’s the boot space like?

580 liters seats up, expanding to 1,620 liters – adequate but not class-leading.

Does it have Apple CarPlay?

Yes, standard on 2017 updates with 8.4-inch screen.

Is it good for towing?

Rated up to 2,750kg braked, suitable for trailers.