In the world of luxury SUVs, the 2017 Maserati Levante S stands out with its unique blend of performance, style, and Italian craftsmanship. If you’re in the market for a vehicle that combines the practicality of an SUV with the heart and soul of a sports car, the Levante S might just be your perfect match. This review dives into what makes the 2017 model particularly appealing, from its roaring engine to its lavish interior, ensuring you’re well-informed before making your decision.
Performance Features of the 2017 Maserati Levante S
When exploring the 2017 Maserati Levante S, you’ll discover an SUV that remarkably blends luxury with high performance. At the heart of this exceptional vehicle is a 3.0L V6 engine, engineered with Italian craftsmanship, delivering not just power but a melodious roar that’s music to any car enthusiast’s ears. Here’s what sets the Levante S apart in terms of performance:
- Peak Power and Torque: The Levante S boasts an impressive output, offering you 424 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque. This power allows for a sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds, a notable figure for a vehicle of its class.
- Advanced Transmission System: Equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the Levante S provides smooth and immediate shifts. This ZF gearbox is tuned explicitly for the Levante S, giving you efficiency and responsiveness at your fingertips.
- Intelligent All-Wheel Drive: The Q4 All-Wheel Drive system dynamically distributes power between the front and rear axles. Depending on the conditions and your driving style, it can adjust within milliseconds, ensuring optimal traction and performance.
- Skyhook Suspension: For an SUV, ride quality is paramount. The Levante S features the Skyhook suspension with electronic damping control. This system adjusts the shock absorbers to the road surface and your driving style, offering you a balance between sporty responsiveness and luxurious comfort.
- Sport Mode: Enhancing your driving experience, the Levante S’s Sport Mode sharpens the engine and gearbox response. It also opens up the exhaust valves, letting the V6’s exhilarating soundtrack fill the air.
With these performance features, the 2017 Maserati Levante S stands out not just as a marvel of automotive engineering, but as a testament to Maserati’s commitment to combining performance with luxury. Whether on a spirited drive through the countryside or cruising in the city, the Levante S is designed to perform.
Design and Style Aspects
When you set your eyes on the 2017 Maserati Levante S, you’re immediately struck by its distinctive silhouette that blends sportiness with elegance. This model makes a bold statement with its assertive front grille, adorned with the iconic Maserati trident, embodying the brand’s rich heritage and commitment to luxury.
The Levante S’s design is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about functionality. The sleek aerodynamics are not merely for show; they enhance the vehicle’s performance, reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency. The frameless door windows and tapered back end are specifically designed to cut through the air more efficiently, demonstrating how form can follow function.
Inside, the cabin exudes opulence, with premium materials such as fine leather and handcrafted wood trims enveloping you. The ergonomic design of the interior ensures that everything is within reach, making your driving experience as comfortable as it is thrilling. Maserati’s attention to detail is evident, with features like the 8.4-inch touchscreen display and customizable ambient lighting, which add a modern touch to the traditional luxury.
Also, the Levante S sets itself apart with its spacious interior. Even though its performance-oriented design, the vehicle doesn’t compromise on comfort, offering ample room for all passengers and their cargo. This blend of luxury, style, and practicality solidifies the Levante S’s position as a top contender in its class.
Italian Craftsmanship in the Interior
When you step into the 2017 Maserati Levante S, you’re immediately enveloped in a world where luxury and Italian craftsmanship converge to create an unparalleled driving experience. The interior of the Levante S is a testament to Maserati’s dedication to excellence and attention to detail.
The first thing you’ll notice is the premium leather upholstery that adorns the seats, dashboard, and door panels. This isn’t just any leather; it’s handpicked for its quality and durability, ensuring that every touchpoint speaks volumes of luxury. The seats are not only visually stunning but also ergonomically designed, offering superior comfort and support, even during long drives.
Craftsmanship extends beyond the soft touch materials. The Levante S features handcrafted wood trims, each piece carefully selected and treated, adding a warm, organic feel to the cabin’s modern aesthetics. Whether it’s the gloss of the trim or the shine of the metallic accents, every detail contributes to the cabin’s opulent ambiance.
In the technology department, Maserati doesn’t hold back. The centerpiece is an 8.4-inch touchscreen display which is intuitively designed for ease of use, ensuring that all your controls are just a touch away. Alongside, the customizable ambient lighting lets you set the perfect mood for any journey, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
Each element within the Levante S’s interior signifies Maserati’s commitment to combining traditional Italian craftsmanship with modern innovation. This approach not only sets a high standard for luxury SUV interiors but also ensures that the Levante S offers a distinct, immersive experience unlike any other.
Driving Experience: Sports Car or SUV?
When you slide into the driver’s seat of the 2017 Maserati Levante S, you’re greeted by an interior that seamlessly blends luxury with sporty flair. The real question you’ll find yourself asking isn’t whether this vehicle meets your expectations, but rather if it’s more of a sports car or an SUV. The answer lies in its performance and handling characteristics, which offer a rare blend of both worlds.
Power and Performance
At the heart of the Levante S is a 3.0L V6 engine turbocharged to perfection, delivering 424 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain ensures acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.0 seconds, a remarkable feat for a vehicle of its size. Coupled with Maserati’s Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive System, the Levante S offers an exhilarating drive that rivals many sports cars, yet provides the utility and comfort expected from a luxury SUV.
Handling and Comfort
Maserati has ingeniously equipped the Levante S with an adaptive air suspension system that adjusts the vehicle’s height and stiffness according to the driving mode selected. Whether you’re cruising on the highway or tackling tight corners, the Levante S remains remarkably balanced and responsive. The Skyhook performance shock system with electronic damping control further enhances the driving experience, ensuring a smooth ride over various terrains without compromising on agility.
Sport Mode Enhancement
Activating Sport Mode transforms the Levante S, sharpening throttle response, adjusting shift patterns, and enhancing exhaust notes for a more dynamic driving experience. In Sport Mode, the Levante S feels more like a sports car, with quicker acceleration and a more pronounced engine note that adds to its exhilarating performance.
In essence, the 2017 Maserati Levante S blurs the lines between SUV reliability and sports car excitement. Its exceptional power, paired with advanced handling technologies and a customizable driving experience, make it a standout in its class. Whether you’re in the mood for a spirited drive or a comfortable long-distance journey, the Levante S adapts to your needs, offering the best of both worlds.
Conclusion
The 2017 Maserati Levante S stands out as a masterful blend of luxury and performance. You’ve seen how its sophisticated interior and robust 3.0L V6 engine cater to both the luxury seeker and the thrill-seeker. Its ability to switch from a comfortable SUV to a sports car at the push of a button with the Sport Mode is nothing short of impressive. The Levante S doesn’t just meet expectations; it surpasses them by offering a driving experience that’s both exhilarating and practical. Whether you’re drawn to its sporty essence or its utilitarian prowess, this vehicle proves to be a compelling choice for anyone looking to merge these worlds seamlessly.
