Hill Descent Control

The Hill Descent Control (HDC) system enhances your off-road performance along with even more safety by giving you a smooth, controlled descent on snowy and rough terrains. HDC is available exclusively for Levante.

What is the hill descent control system?

The Hill Descent Control system is enabled by pressing the HDC switch on the left-hand side of the steering wheel. By using the Cruise Control buttons, you can set the vehicle speed even when you’re descending steep hills.

How does hill descent work in detail:
- Within a defined threshold of slope (12%), the vehicle gets to the default speed value of 5 mph (or 8 km/h).
- With steeper slopes (more than 12%), the vehicle gets to the default speed value of 1.8 - 2.5 mph (or 3 - 4 km/h).

What does hill descent control do?

HDC will use the Anti-lock (ABS) to control each wheel’s speed without you needing to touch either the brakes or the accelerator.
If the vehicle accelerates with no input from you, the system will automatically apply the brakes to gently slow to the desired speed. Applying pressure to the accelerator or brake pedal instantly overrides the system.

Maserati Levante Hill Descent Control - braking to slow to the desired speed

Keep in mind

Maserati Levante Hill Descent Control - how it works

HDC maintains vehicle speed while descending hills by actively controlling the brakes.
Applying pressure to the accelerator or brake pedal instantly overrides the system.
You must always remain attentive to the driving conditions and maintain a safe vehicle speed.
Cars with hill descent control are intended to be used only by licensed and alert users and under the conditions specified in a vehicle’s Owner’s Manual.