When it comes to design, the Levante speaks fluent Maserati. And wherever you look, the messages are clear and compelling. The sports coupé lines say it all: not only do they have mesmerising looks, but they also contribute to class-leading aerodynamic efficiency. The inside, selected by WardsAuto as one of the ten finest automobile cabins in 2017, exudes authentic Maserati character: that means elegant Italian style, meticulously crafted finishes and a unique, race-bred energy that inspires long-distance, luxurious travel.
With the GranLusso, the style is focused on luxury. With the GranSport, it’s more about engaging driving dynamics.
A core offering of all Maserati vehicles is the ability to cover long distances at dynamic, refined high speed. The V6 and V8 engines offer everything you would expect of a Maserati – from snarling responsiveness to effortless comfort over long distances.
With a new two-lane gear lever featuring a dedicated Park button, the sophisticated eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox delivers improved comfort, faster gear shifting, better fuel consumption and an even more refined driving experience. The new system negates the need for the Manual button, as the driver can now simply push the gear lever into the left channel to select this mode. The different settings, listed below, can be selected via the switches next to the gear lever:
• Auto Normal: this default mode provides smooth gearshifts at low revs to maximise ride comfort and minimise fuel consumption.
• Manual Normal: the driver can change gear using the optional paddles behind the steering wheel or the lever on the central tunnel
• Auto Sport: in this mode, gear changes are faster (under 100 ms) and occur at higher revs for a much sportier driving experience
• Manual Sport: the driver is in full command of the transmission; the only automatic feature is downshifting if the revs drop too low
• Manual Off-Road: when the driver selects a chosen speed in this mode, the Levante continues at that pace, even when climbing
• Auto Off-Road: this mode retains all the benefits of the Off-Road setting but adds the convenience of automatic shifting
• I.C.E. (Increased Control & Efficiency): not just for use in icy or low-grip conditions, this mode ensures an even quieter, smoother ride plus lower fuel consumption
• Corsa Mode: only available on Levante Trofeo, this immediately creates the most dynamic settings for the engine, gearbox, air suspensions, Skyhook, steering, exhaust system, traction control and stability control.
Dynamic Suspension Layout
Double wishbone suspension layouts are another Maserati tradition. With the Levante, the all-aluminium set-up at the front is designed to ensure precise handling coupled with accurate and communicative steering. At the rear, a five-arm multilink system provides the perfect blend of comfort and dynamic performance. Both front and rear suspension, feature anti-roll bars to keep the driving experience relaxed and enjoyable at all times.
Sport Skyhook System
The Levante features the Sport Skyhook suspension, which continuously adapts shock absorber damping to suit the situation. The system monitors body and wheel movement, damper settings and suspension height. Depending on the selected driving mode, the damping rate is then adapted separately for each wheel.
Brakes
All versions of the Maserati Levante feature powerful Brembo brakes carefully matched to engine performance. The discs are dual-cast, combining the strength of cast iron with the lightness of aluminium to reduce unsprung mass and, therefore, increase handling prowess.
