Introduction
The Maserati Levante, a stunning Italian luxury SUV, has recently caught the attention of car enthusiasts with its attractive price tags and special offers. Known for its exquisite design, powerful performance, and rich features, the Levante is now more accessible than ever, making it a compelling choice for those looking to upgrade their driving experience.
Background
A friend of ours, considering a new large SUV, was initially eyeing German brands. However, after discovering a limited-time promotion from Maserati, the Levante suddenly fell within his budget. With a starting price of HK$799,000 for the GT Hybrid version and over HK$500,000 in discounts for the Modena and Modena S versions, the Levante offers an impressive value proposition, complete with a factory five-year unlimited mileage warranty.
Design and Performance
The Levante, which underwent a minor facelift in 2022, now features new headlights, taillights, and a revised grille, giving it a more aggressive and upscale look. The massive grille, adorned with the Neptune Trident logo, is a hallmark of Maserati’s identity, inherited from its line of supercars.
For this test drive, we had the opportunity to try the Modena version, which comes with a 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine tuned by Ferrari, delivering 350 horsepower and 500 Newton-meters of torque. The 0-100 km/h acceleration time is just 6 seconds, making it a exhilarating drive. However, for those seeking the best value for money, the Levante GT Hybrid is an excellent choice, offering 330 horsepower and 450 Newton-meters of torque from a 2.0-liter inline-four turbo engine paired with a 48V mild hybrid system.
Driving Experience
The moment we turned on the engine, the familiar sound of the engine and exhaust filled the cabin, though it was muffled due to the excellent sound insulation. Pressing the Sport button, however, brought the exhaust note to life, making even slow movements sound thrilling. The engine and exhaust system of the Levante Modena are not just about delivering power; they are like a brass instrument, playing a passionate symphony with every change in engine speed.
The Levante, with its over 5-meter length, feels surprisingly agile, akin to the Grecale model. Despite years of driving a German large SUV, the Levante’s handling on narrow mountain curves was precise and responsive, with linear throttle response and ample low-end torque. Climbing steep hills was effortless, requiring no aggressive acceleration.
The body roll was well-controlled, maintaining a comfortable ride even during aggressive acceleration and steering. It was easy to forget we were driving a large SUV until a slight tire squeal reminded us of its size.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Levante is adorned with Italian leather, offering a level of luxury that surpasses its German counterparts. The seats are handcrafted with premium materials, providing both comfort and a sense of opulence. The touch of a classic analog clock on the dashboard adds a touch of elegance to the interior.
The front seats are equipped with large shift paddles on the steering wheel, and the center console offers ample space for physical buttons, cup holders, and storage bins, making operations and storage convenient.
Conclusion
The Maserati Levante offers a unique blend of Italian luxury, powerful performance, and surprising agility, making it an attractive option for those looking to upgrade to a premium SUV. With the current special offers, the Levante is now more accessible than ever, providing an affordable way to enjoy Italian luxury.
For those interested in experiencing the thrill of driving a Maserati, the Copper Bay Maserati Experience Center is the place to visit. Schedule a test drive and discover the magic of the Levante for yourself!
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