New 2023 Maserati Levante (Overview). – HIGHS
Design flair to spare, exhaust sings operas, top models’ kick-ass V-8.
– LOWS
Steep starting price, not as cargo friendly as German competition, some repurposed Stellantis interior switchgear.
– VERDICT
Its high-fashion look and muscle-bound mechanicals are lust-worthy, but the Levante’s price tag makes a promise that its interior can’t quite keep.
The Levante is the first SUV from Italian carmaker Maserati. Named after a Mediterranean wind that’s said to change from mild to gale-force in an instant, the Levante delivers strong power and sharp handling. It’s a viable class competitor let down only by some obvious interior cost-cutting measures.
– Pros
Quick acceleration
Stable and lively handling
Italian flair in a German-dominated segment
– Cons
Some downmarket buttons and switches
Short on cargo space
Soft brake pedal feel
– What’s new
Some previously optional driver assist features are now standard equipment
Part of the first Levante generation introduced for 2017
The Levante is the first SUV that Maserati ever made, and for the majority of its lifespan, it was the only Maserati SUV you could buy. That changed this year when the all-new 2023 Maserati Grecale showed up. The Levante is the larger of the two offerings. It offers a luxe feel and a sporty driving experience, and its top-spec Trofeo model offers a rumbling twin-turbo V8 and plenty of power.
For 2023, the Levante will carry over unchanged. And while the Levante’s elegant looks and potent powertrains make it an enticing option, the Italian SUV has stiff competition from a plethora of hot German rivals. The Porsche Cayenne, BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE all offer similar performance, with better build quality and no parts-bin items from cheaper American cars. Still, there is something unique and charming about a Maserati, and the Levante uses that to its full potential.
