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Maserati Levante
SUV · Gas · 4 versions · owner report
Ranked #17 of 22 used luxury midsize SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (304 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2024
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide.
8 problems reported (3 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentCatastrophic depreciation
Loss of 50% or more of value within 2-3 years is standard, described as the single biggest financial factor.
- Very frequentVery high maintenance and repair costs
Dealer labor rates of $250-$400/hour, expensive OEM parts (e.g., $1,200+ for a fuel pump), routine dealer oil changes quoted at $400-$650.
- Very frequentElectrical/Gremlin issues
Infotainment/radio computer glitches, random disconnections, screen freezes, requiring multiple software updates. Also includes window switches/regulators and trunk latch mechanisms.
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentInterior material and build quality
Interior described as not meeting premium segment expectations, with use of hard plastics, creaks, and jitters. Dashboard material reported to buckle/crack in direct sun (a known issue replaced under warranty).
- RecurrentBrake wear and noise
Sport brake packages wear tires and brakes very quickly (as little as 10,000 miles for tires). Severe brake squeal is a common complaint, even on low-mileage CPO vehicles.
- RecurrentDated technology
Infotainment system is described as extremely outdated, laggy, and inferior to systems from Cadillac, BMW, and Mercedes.
- IsolatedMajor powertrain failures (primarily pre-2019)
Isolated but severe reports of complete engine replacement and turbo failure on lower-mileage vehicles (e.g., 30,000 miles), leading to repair bills of $25,000+.
- IsolatedSteering wheel/hands-on detection
Thin steering wheel and an overly sensitive alarm that triggers if hands are not detected on the outer rim.
The version owners recommend
2019 and newer model years are overwhelmingly recommended over 2017-2018 models. For powertrain, the V8 models (GTS, Trofeo) are celebrated for their "Ferrari-derived" engines, sublime exhaust notes, and relentless power, described as the heart of the Maserati experience. However, the V6 models (GT, Modena, S) are acknowledged as offering strong performance and better fuel economy, with the turbocharged four-cylinder in later models also receiving praise for surprising quickness. The GranLusso trim is associated with luxury focus, while GranSport is for sportier aesthetics. The consensus is to avoid the earliest model years and prioritize a well-maintained, newer vehicle within budget, with a strong preference for V8 engines among enthusiasts.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Porsche Cayenne (all trims, especially Cayenne S), Porsche Macan, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Mercedes-Benz GLS and BMW X5.
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Overall sentiment
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. Owner experiences are sharply polarized between those who report reliable, enjoyable ownership and those who face significant financial and mechanical hardship. A strong consensus indicates that model year is the single most critical factor, with 2019 and newer models (especially 2020+) described as having substantially improved reliability over the problematic 2017-2018 launch years. The vehicle is universally praised for its character, specifically the exhilarating engine performance, intoxicating exhaust note in Sport mode, and engaging driving dynamics that rival sportier competitors. However, it is equally criticized for catastrophic depreciation, very high maintenance and repair costs, dated infotainment technology, and interior material quality that falls short of German rivals. The ownership proposition is described as an emotional, passion-driven choice that requires significant financial preparation and diligent maintenance, rather than a rational luxury SUV purchase.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a more emotionally engaging, characterful alternative to clinical German rivals, trading perceived build quality, technology, and resale value for driving passion and exclusivity. Frequently compared directly to the Porsche Cayenne, with the Levante noted for superior engine sound, more engaging driving feel, and often a more attractive interior design at point of purchase, but consistently losing to the Cayenne in long-term reliability, technology modernity, and especially depreciation. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio is mentioned as a sharper-handling, more nimble, and significantly cheaper-to-own alternative on a shared platform, though less powerful and luxurious. The vehicle is seen as undercutting the Lamborghini Urus and high-end Cayenne Turbo on price while offering a similar grand touring character, but is not considered a true competitor to them in ultimate performance or prestige.
Recommended configurations
Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) purchase is strongly and frequently recommended to secure an extended manufacturer warranty. An independent pre-purchase inspection (PPI) at a Maserati dealer or specialist is considered essential. Choosing a 2019+ model year is the most critical configuration advice. Owners recommend finding a trusted independent mechanic specializing in European or Italian cars to avoid dealer labor rates ($250-$400/hour). Budgeting for high maintenance costs and setting aside a significant repair fund is mandatory. Sport mode is recommended for experiencing the full character of the vehicle. For those concerned with costs, sourcing parts online (eBay, Amazon) for wear items is a common owner strategy.
General recommendations
Suitable only for buyers who prioritize emotional engagement, driving character, and exclusivity over technology, resale value, and low cost of ownership. Ideal for enthusiasts who can perform some maintenance themselves or have a trusted independent specialist, and who are financially prepared for repairs that can exceed the vehicle's market value. A factory or extended warranty is considered non-negotiable. Not recommended as a primary vehicle for those on a tight budget, for owners who neglect scheduled maintenance, or for buyers seeking the latest technology and infotainment. The vehicle must be driven regularly and maintained meticulously; deferred maintenance leads to rapid, expensive failures. Purchase should be motivated by passion, with full acceptance of massive depreciation.
Remarks
The owner experience is almost entirely defined by model year. The 2017-2018 models are associated with first-year teething problems, higher electrical issues, and greater risk of major mechanical failure. A significant turning point occurred around the 2019 model year, with widespread owner reports of dramatically improved reliability for 2019+ vehicles. This generational improvement is a dominant theme in the data. The high cost of ownership is consistently attributed to the vehicle's original high MSRP, with parts and labor priced accordingly, not necessarily to exceptional failure rates on newer models. The community is split between enthusiasts who maintain their vehicles properly and report great reliability, and owners who experience financial ruin from neglected or out-of-warranty repairs, fueling the brand's controversial reputation. Analysis based on approximately 50 substantive owner discussions.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2017. Years to avoid: 2017Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Maserati Levante years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 1 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2022 | 1 | 2 | fuel system |
| 2020 | 2 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2019 | 5 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2018 | 4 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2017 | 18 | 4 | engine |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices9 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2023 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 25V098000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Grecale, 2023-2025 MC20 Cielo, 2024 Granturismo, GranCabrio, 2021-2024 Levante, Ghibli, Quattroporte, and 2022-2025 MC 20 vehicles. The radio software may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2022 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:hoses, lines/piping, and fittingscampaign 21V872000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2021 Quattroporte, Ghibli, 2021-2022 Levante, and 2022 MC20 vehicles. The fuel line sensor housing may crack and leak fuel.
2022 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 25V098000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Grecale, 2023-2025 MC20 Cielo, 2024 Granturismo, GranCabrio, 2021-2024 Levante, Ghibli, Quattroporte, and 2022-2025 MC 20 vehicles. The radio software may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2019 · exterior lighting:headlightscampaign 19V521000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2019 Levante vehicles equipped with full LED headlights with Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFLS). The headlights may be misadjusted above the maximum height allowed, possibly impairing other driver's visibility on the roadway. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
2018 · structure:frame and memberscampaign 18V347000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2018 Maserati Quattroporte, Ghibli, and Levante vehicles. The welds on the front sub frame may be incomplete, which can result in the welds breaking.
2017 · engine and engine cooling:enginecampaign 17V161000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2017 Levante vehicles. Due to an engine software problem, at slow speeds such as stop-and-go traffic, the transmission may unexpectedly shift into neutral or the engine may shut off.
2017 · back over prevention: camera systemcampaign 16V839000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain model year 2017 Quattroporte, Ghible, and Levante vehicles manufactured July 1, 2016, to November 14, 2016. In temperatures below freezing, the entertainment telematics module (ETM) may place itself in a protection mode, disabling the back-up camera.
2017 · seats:front assembly:power adjustcampaign 17V046000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Quattroporte and Ghibli, and 2017 Levante vehicles. Adjusting the front seats may cause the seat wiring harness to rub, possibly resulting in an electrical short.
2017 · electrical system:softwarecampaign 16V936000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2017 Levante vehicles. The engine software may cause the transmission to shift to neutral, or the engine to shut down, when the vehicle speed is approximately two miles per hour.
Specifications
Trofeo 3.8 V8 GDI
3.8L 8-cylinder · 590 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2018–2026