Maserati Levante 1st Generation

The global automotive industry witnessed, in the second decade of the 21st century, a paradigmatic transformation in the luxury segment. The hegemony of executive sedans and high-performance coupes was challenged by the inexorable rise of Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs). For manufacturers with a centennial legacy rooted in racetracks, such as Maserati, this shift represented an existential dilemma: how to integrate the robust practicality of an SUV with the elegance and driving dynamics demanded by the Trident emblem? The answer to this strategic question materialized in the Maserati Levante.

This report offers an exhaustive and straightforward analysis of the Levante's trajectory, from its controversial conceptual origins to the end of its production in 2024. We examine the engineering behind the M161 chassis, the evolution of the Ferrari-produced powertrains, the nuances of each model year (MY) update, and the commercial performance that defined the brand's financial health for nearly a decade.

The journey to the launch of Maserati's first SUV was long and marked by significant corporate changes. The idea did not emerge in 2016, but rather thirteen years earlier, manifesting itself in two distinct concepts, both named "Kubang", which reflect different geopolitical moments of the company.

The First Concept: Kubang GT Wagon (2003)

Maserati's first foray into the universe of utility vehicles occurred in 2003, at the Detroit Auto Show. Designed by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Kubang GT Wagon concept was an avant-garde vision that attempted to merge the sports wagon with the SUV.

At that time, Maserati operated under a sphere of influence that sought synergies with the Volkswagen/Audi Group. The concept was designed on the technical basis of the Audi A8, with the anticipation of using the Quattro all-wheel-drive system and a 368 hp V8 engine derived from the Maserati 3200 GT. The project, however, fell victim to failed corporate negotiations; the agreement with Audi did not materialize, and the Kubang GT Wagon remained merely a design study, leaving Maserati out of the first wave of luxury SUVs that consecrated the Porsche Cayenne.

The Second Concept: Kubang (2011)

The dream was revived in 2011, at the Frankfurt Motor Show, under the new management of the Fiat-Chrysler (FCA) group. This second concept, also called Kubang, had a radically different technical proposal: it used the Jeep Grand Cherokee platform as its foundation. The logic was to leverage the American group's economy of scale to make the Italian product viable. The design already anticipated the lines of the final Levante, with an aggressive front grille and a muscular stance.

The Final Decision: An Italian Platform

Between 2011 and 2015, Maserati's management made a crucial decision that would define the vehicle's character. To ensure that the SUV behaved like a true Maserati and not like a rebadged Jeep, the engineering team discarded the American platform. They opted to develop the Levante on the architecture of the Ghibli and Quattroporte VI sedans. This technical choice allowed them to prioritize rear-wheel drive and sporty dynamic behavior, distancing the Levante from its more utilitarian competitors.

The name "Kubang" was abandoned in favor of Levante, inspired by a warm Mediterranean wind capable of changing from a gentle breeze to a gale in an instant — a direct metaphor for the duality of behavior intended for the car.

The Maserati Levante (internal code M161) was produced exclusively at the Mirafiori plant in Turin, Italy. Its construction reflects a commitment to on-road performance, differentiating itself from most SUVs that prioritize space or extreme off-road capability.

Structure and Chassis

The use of the sedan platform (M156) adapted for the SUV gave the Levante rare characteristics in the segment:

• Weight Distribution: The vehicle achieved a perfect 50:50 weight distribution between the front and rear axles. This was made possible by pushing the engine behind the front axle, creating a "front-mid engine" configuration.
• Center of Gravity: The structure was designed to keep the center of gravity as low as possible, essential for minimizing body roll in fast corners.
• Aerodynamics: The fluid design resulted in a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.31, an impressive number for a vehicle of its height, contributing to efficiency at high speeds and reduced wind noise.

Pneumatic Suspension and Skyhook System

Unlike the Ghibli, which used conventional steel springs, the Levante was equipped as standard in all versions with an air suspension system (pneumatic springs) combined with Skyhook variable electronic dampers.

This system allows the ride height to vary across six different levels, adapting the car for multiple situations:

• Normal Mode: Balance between comfort and height.
• Aero 1 and Aero 2: Lowers the car at high speeds to improve stability and fuel consumption.
• Off-Road 1 and Off-Road 2: Raises the bodywork to clear obstacles, increasing the approach and departure angles.
• Access Mode: Lowers the car to the maximum when parked to facilitate passenger entry and exit.

The front suspension uses a double-wishbone setup, typical of race cars, while the rear employs a five-link Multi-link system, ensuring precise wheel control on uneven surfaces.

The Q4 All-Wheel Drive System

Maserati equipped the Levante with the intelligent Q4 all-wheel-drive system, designed to offer the feel of a rear-wheel-drive car but with the safety of all-wheel drive.

The Q4 system works in conjunction with a mechanical Limited Slip Rear Differential (LSD), which ensures traction even in tight corners under heavy acceleration. This focus on traditional mechanics, rather than relying solely on electronic brakes to simulate a differential, is a trademark of Maserati engineering.

Throughout its eight years of production, the Levante was powered by four distinct engine families. The vast majority of these units were designed in Modena and manufactured by Ferrari in Maranello, a crucial selling point for the model's exclusivity.

V6 Twin-Turbo (Gasoline) – F160 Family

The Levante's most popular engine is the 3.0-liter, twin-turbo V6 with gasoline direct injection (GDI). This engine was developed by Maserati Powertrain and produced by Ferrari.

• Levante (Base/GT): Configured to deliver 350 hp (345 hp in US specs) and 500 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds.
• Levante S (Modena): A higher-performance version of the same block, with ECU mapping and turbines adjusted to deliver 430 hp (424 hp) and 580 Nm of torque. The 0 to 100 km/h time drops to 5.2 seconds, with a top speed of 264 km/h.

A notable feature of this engine is the active exhaust system. In "Sport" mode, pneumatic valves in the exhaust open up, bypassing the mufflers to produce the sharp, metallic roar characteristic of the brand.

V8 Twin-Turbo (Gasoline) – F154 Family

Introduced in 2018 to compete with "super SUVs" like the Lamborghini Urus, this 3.8-liter V8 engine is derived from the unit used in the Ferrari California T and the Maserati Quattroporte GTS.

• Levante GTS: Tuned for around 550 hp, focused on Grand Touring.
• Levante Trofeo: The ultimate expression of performance. It delivers 590 hp (580 hp in Europe) and 730 Nm of torque. Capable of launching the SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds (global spec) or 4.1 seconds (Europe), surpassing the 300 km/h barrier.

V6 Turbo Diesel – VM Motori A630

At launch in 2016, the European market still demanded diesel engines. Maserati utilized a 3.0-liter V6 supplied by VM Motori.

• Specifications: Power outputs of 250 hp (for markets with tax restrictions in Italy) or 275 hp. The highlight was the massive 600 Nm of torque available at low RPMs, ideal for towing or cruising long distances efficiently.
• Sound: To mitigate the typical diesel clatter, Maserati installed sound oscillators in the exhaust system that modulated the frequency to sound more sporty.

Mild Hybrid (MHEV) – L4 eBooster

With the decline of diesel and the tightening of emissions standards, Maserati introduced the Levante Hybrid in 2021.

• Technology: Combines a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine (derived from FCA's Global Medium Engine architecture, but deeply modified) with a 48-Volt electrical system.
• eBooster: The system uses an electric compressor (eBooster) powered by the 48V battery to fill the cylinders with air at low revs, before the conventional turbo kicks in. This eliminates "turbo lag".
• Performance: Despite being smaller, the setup delivers 330 hp and 450 Nm, replacing the Diesel and the entry-level V6 in many markets, with a weight reduction that improves agility.

Although it belongs to a single generation, the Levante underwent a process of continuous improvement. Analyzing the year-over-year changes is essential to understanding the product's maturation in the used car market.

Launch Phase (2016–2017)

The Levante hit the market with the mission of doubling the brand's sales. The first units were criticized by the specialized media for some interior materials that felt shared with generalist brands from the Chrysler group (such as power window switches and the older multimedia screen). However, the driving dynamics were universally praised.

Brazil: The launch took place at the São Paulo Auto Show in 2016, with prices starting at R$ 640,000 for the entry-level version and reaching R$ 740,000 for the S version.

2018 Update (MY18)

The first major technical update occurred in 2018.

• Electric Steering: Maserati replaced the traditional hydraulic steering (appreciated for its road "feeling") with an Electric Power Steering (EPS). Although purists complained, this change was necessary to integrate modern active safety systems, such as Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist.
• New Trim Levels: Introduction of the GranLusso (focused on luxury, with chrome accents and Zegna silk) and GranSport (focused on sportiness, with bolstered seats and Piano Black details) lines.

2019 Update (MY19)

The 2019 model year brought interior refinements to address criticisms about perceived quality.

• Center Console: Redesigned to accommodate a new "drive-by-wire" gear lever with a shorter throw and more intuitive operation. The parking brake button and driving mode controls were also reorganized.
• MTC+ Infotainment: Software and hardware update for the 8.4-inch screen, improving resolution and touch response.
• Matrix LED Headlights: Introduction of adaptive Full LED Matrix headlights as an option or standard on top-of-the-line versions.
• V8 Launch: Official arrival of the GTS and Trofeo versions to global markets.

Facelift and Hybridization (2021/2022)

In 2021, the Levante received its most significant aesthetic update.

• Exterior Design: The front grille was subtly altered, but the major change was at the rear. The taillights gained a new "boomerang" internal design, with tri-color lenses (red, white, and dark outline), inspired by the Alfieri concept and the historic 3200 GT.
• MIA (Maserati Intelligent Assistant): The old MTC+ system was replaced by MIA, based on the Android Automotive system. The screen increased in resolution and adopted a "frameless" design, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• New Emblem: Introduction of the new Trident logo on the C-pillar and grille, following the brand's new visual identity debuted on the MC20 supercar.
• Hybrid: Sales of the Levante GT Hybrid began.

The "Ultima" Farewell (2024)

To mark the end of production, Maserati simplified the range into two main versions, under the "Ultima" nomenclature, loaded with equipment that was previously optional.

• Levante GT Ultima: Equipped with the 350 hp V6 (or Hybrid in some markets).
• Levante Modena Ultima: Equipped with the 430 hp (424 hp) V6.
• Trofeo Ultima: The final farewell to the V8 engine, aimed at collectors.

Maserati utilized limited editions to keep the model fresh and attract collectors.

Levante Trofeo Launch Edition (2019)

Limited to 100 global units, this edition marked the debut of the V8 engine. It was characterized by the exclusive matte Blu Emozione Matte paint, 22-inch Orione wheels, and an interior with contrast stitching matching the body color. The interior featured a numbered "One of 100" plaque on the center console.

Levante Vulcano (2019)

A limited series of 150 units exclusive to Europe and Asia. Available only in the color Grigio Lava (matte gray), with the "Nerissimo" pack that blacked out all chrome elements (grille, exhaust, window trims). The brake calipers were red, and the interior featured high-gloss carbon fiber and red leather seats.

Levante Royale (2020)

A tribute to the ultra-rare 1986 Quattroporte Royale. Production was restricted to 100 units (divided among Levante, Ghibli, and Quattroporte).

Differentiator: Available in two exclusive colors (Blu Royale and Verde Royale). The interior debuted the Zegna PELLETESSUTA™ material, an innovative fabric made from thin strips of Nappa leather woven like wool yarns, offering a unique and luxurious tactile texture.

F Tributo Special Edition (2021)

A tribute to the brand's racing history and to driver Juan Manuel Fangio (the "F" in the name).

Colors: Rosso Tributo (Red) and Azzurro Tributo (Blue). The red symbolizes the colors of Italian racing, while the blue refers to the flag of the city of Modena.

Details: The wheels and brake calipers received a yellow finish, a reference to the colors of the front of the Maserati 250F that Fangio piloted in Formula 1.

Brazil received the Levante during a time of expansion in the luxury market, although currency volatility affected its pricing.

Launch and Pricing

At its launch in 2016, Maserati (represented by the importer Via Itália) brought two versions of the V6:

• Levante Luxury (350 hp): R$ 640,000 Levante Sport (430 hp): R$ 740,000.

These values placed the Levante above the entry-level versions of the Porsche Cayenne, positioning it as a more exclusive niche product.

Price Evolution and Used Market (Fipe Table)

An analysis of prices over the years shows the appreciation of the more powerful versions and the impact of the exchange rate.

According to market data (Fipe and Webmotors) referenced in the research:

• A used 2017 Levante fluctuates between R$ 430,000 and R$ 450,000.
• A 2019 Levante can vary from R$ 567,000 (base V6) to over R$ 1,120,000 (V8 Trofeo), demonstrating how the V8 version retains significantly higher value due to its rarity.
• The 2021 Levante Trofeo reached list prices exceeding R$ 1,460,000 when new. The Brazilian market absorbed the Hybrid version well in its later years, due to tax benefits in some states and greater fuel efficiency, with zero-km 2023 units being offered in the range of R$ 890,000 to R$ 2,600,000 (depending on whether it is a GT or Trofeo).

The Levante's production numbers tell the story of a dazzling initial success followed by a gradual decline, typical of models that remain in the market for a long time without a total renewal.

Annual Sales Volume

The Levante was Maserati's engine for growth. Prior to it, the brand sold modest volumes.

• 2016: The debut year saw partial sales (starting in May in Europe and September in the US).
• 2017 (The Peak): Maserati hit its all-time global sales record with 51,500 vehicles. The Levante was responsible for almost half of that volume, selling about 22,500 units alone, doubling its performance from the previous year.
• 2018-2020 (The Fall): The brand's global sales dropped to 34,900 in 2018 and 19,300 in 2019. The Levante suffered with the arrival of newer competitors. In the US, a key market, sales fell, and demand in China also cooled.
• 2021 (Recovery): With the facelift and the hybrid version, there was a recovery. Maserati sold 24,269 cars in total, a 41% increase compared to 2020.

The End in Mirafiori (2024)

The end of production was abrupt and marked by a crisis at the Mirafiori plant. In 2024, the factory's total production (including the last Levantes and the new GranTurismos) plummeted to just 2,250 units, a 74% drop compared to 2023. Stellantis, the brand's parent company, halted production of the Levante in the first quarter of 2024, without an immediate direct successor on the assembly line, sparking strikes and labor uncertainties in the Turin region.

The total estimated production of the Levante over its 8-year lifespan hovers around 100,000 to 110,000 units, consolidating it as one of the most produced Maseratis in history, despite the melancholic finale.

The Maserati Levante was much more than just a product; it was a survival tool. It proved that the Trident brand could step out of its sports car niche and compete in a global mass market without losing its Italian soul.

Strengths of the Legacy:

• Mechanical Purity: In an era of autonomous driving and total electrification, the Levante will be remembered for its communicative steering, its sophisticated suspension, and above all, the Ferrari engines that powered it.
• Timeless Design: Unlike many SUVs that age poorly, the Levante's fluid and organic lines remained elegant right up to the end of production.
• Exclusivity: Even as a "volume" vehicle, the limited production and the infinite personalization possibilities (leathers, silks, colors) ensured that it never became as commonplace as its German rivals.

The Future:

With the end of the Levante, Maserati temporarily leaves the large SUV segment (E-UV). The baton has been passed to the Maserati Grecale, a smaller SUV (D-UV) launched in 2022, which now carries the brand's volume responsibility. A direct successor to the Levante, likely fully electric (Folgore), is in the brand's future plans, but the original Levante will remain in history as the last of its kind: a large, gasoline-powered SUV with the heart of a Ferrari and the soul of a GT.