The Maserati Levante was the first SUV of the Trident, and had the merit of having brought the dynamics of the brand among the cars with a high center of gravity, but without giving up anything of the company's DNA: the pneumatic suspensions, in fact, are capable of varying the height from the ground depending on the situations.
Over time, thanks to the energy transition period, the range of engines has undergone changes, and the diesel V6 unit has been replaced with a 48 volt mild hybrid power unit.
This consists of the 2-liter supercharged 4-cylinder, the belt driver starter generator, the battery, the eBooster, and a converter.
This is a powertrain that debuted on the Ghibli, and which was subsequently also adopted by the Grecale.
Technology aside, the Levante has maintained its proportions, which, to date, despite its presence on the market since 2016, still make it original and modern.
The typical grille with the Trident and the slits on the wheel arches are elements inherited from the past, while the Matrix LED headlights come from the present and, together with the rear light clusters, revised in the latest restyling, give it that stylistic freshness to always remain current.
The renewed logo and revised lettering represent further improvements to the whole, while the chrome is a sign of noble elegance.
Photo story Maserati Levante GT
Inside there is a mix of elements that pleasantly mixes vintage aspects, such as the clock that stands out in the upper part of the dashboard, and current ones, such as the 8.4-inch screen of the multimedia system, even if positioned lower than the latest cars.
The instrumentation is clear, with analogue dials surrounding a practical display, while the paddles behind the steering wheel are an irresistible attraction for those who want to use the automatic gearbox in manual mode.
The priceless sensation of craftsmanship remains thanks to the leather and sumptuous materials used to finish the passenger compartment.
The driver has an ideal driving position in terms of alignment between the steering wheel and pedals, and can count on an excellent view of the front and side areas.
Furthermore, with the infotainment system based on Android Auto, the connection with the smartphone is quick and effective, and updates are over the air.
The 580 liter boot with all seats in use also has a sensor to be opened with a movement of the foot: very useful when your hands are full.
Behind the wheel, during the long test drive carried out by ANSA Motori, we appreciated the responsiveness to the controls when driving on mixed terrain, the great comfort on the motorway and on extra-urban routes, and a sound that does not disappoint expectations.
Thanks to an 8-speed automatic gearbox well coupled to the power unit, and the electric compressor which is added to the traditional turbocharger.
The thrust does not make you regret that of a V6, as demonstrated by the 6 seconds needed to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h and a top speed which, where permitted, reaches 245 km/h.
While consumption stands, on average, at around 9-10 km/l, compared to CO2 emissions of 220 g/km.
The dynamic aids allow you to take advantage of level 2 autonomous driving, and take advantage of the presence of the new Active Driver Assist.
The price list of the Levante mild hybrid, available in the GT Ultima trim level, starts from 111,800 euros and, as per tradition, there is no shortage of possibilities to customize it both in terms of aesthetics and in terms of the interior, to arrive at an increase in equipment through packages of accessories.
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