The Best Years For Maserati Levante And Some To Avoid

The Maserati Levante, the Italian automaker's foray into the luxury SUV market, has captivated enthusiasts with its distinctive styling, powerful engines, and opulent interiors. However, like any vehicle, some model years have proven to be more reliable and desirable than others. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the Levante's production run, identifying the best years to consider and highlighting potential pitfalls to avoid, empowering you to make an informed purchasing decision.

Maserati Levante Model Year Analysis

Detailed Explanations

2017: The inaugural year of the Levante was met with both excitement and trepidation. While the design and performance were generally well-received, early production vehicles often suffer from teething problems. The 2017 Levante is no exception. Common issues reported include electrical glitches affecting the infotainment system, sensors, and other electronic components. The infotainment system itself was also criticized for being somewhat slow and unintuitive.

2018: Maserati attempted to address some of the initial issues in the 2018 model year, introducing minor interior trim updates and expanding the trim levels with the GranLusso and GranSport options. However, many of the initial concerns persisted. Electrical issues remained a common complaint, and new concerns arose regarding the reliability of the air suspension system, which is a complex and potentially expensive component to repair.

2019: The 2019 model year saw the introduction of the powerful Levante GTS, equipped with a 550hp 3.8L V8 engine. While the increased performance was alluring, it also came with increased risk. V8 models are inherently more prone to mechanical issues due to the greater stress placed on the engine and drivetrain. Furthermore, the air suspension system continued to be a potential source of problems, even with minor software updates aimed at improving its performance.

2020: The 2020 model year brought the even more potent Levante Trofeo, boasting a 590hp 3.8L V8. In addition to the performance upgrade, the infotainment system received a significant update with a larger screen and improved functionality. However, the fundamental issues associated with the V8 models and the air suspension system remained. While some improvements may have been made, reliability concerns persisted.

2021: The 2021 Levante saw the introduction of a mild hybrid engine option, although this was primarily for the European market. Enhanced driver-assistance features were also added, improving the vehicle's safety and convenience. The long-term reliability of the mild hybrid system is still being evaluated, and the air suspension system continued to be a potential concern. The 2021 model represented a refinement of the existing platform rather than a radical overhaul.

2022: The 2022 Levante received minor styling tweaks and made adaptive cruise control a standard feature. However, the changes were minimal, and the 2022 model largely inherited the strengths and weaknesses of the 2021 model. This means that potential buyers should still be aware of the potential for air suspension issues and the need for careful maintenance.

2023: The 2023 model year marked a limited production run for the Levante, as Maserati shifted its focus towards electric vehicles. Due to the limited availability, 2023 Levantes may command higher prices. However, they offer no significant improvements over the previous years and may be more difficult to find and maintain due to their rarity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Levante year is the most reliable? While no Levante year is considered exceptionally reliable, the later model years (2021-2023) are generally considered to be more reliable than the earlier models, as Maserati addressed some of the initial quality control issues. However, the air suspension remains a potential area of concern.

Are V8 Levante models worth the extra power? The V8 Levante models offer exhilarating performance but come with increased maintenance costs and a higher risk of mechanical issues due to the increased stress on the engine and drivetrain. Consider your budget and tolerance for potential repairs before opting for a V8 model.

Is the air suspension system on the Levante problematic? The air suspension system has been a common source of complaints on the Levante, with reports of leaks, compressor failures, and other issues. Thoroughly inspect the system before purchasing a used Levante, and factor in the potential cost of repairs.

What are the most common problems with the Maserati Levante? The most common problems reported with the Maserati Levante include electrical glitches, issues with the air suspension system, infotainment system quirks, and, in V8 models, increased wear and tear on the engine and drivetrain.

What should I look for when buying a used Maserati Levante? When buying a used Levante, thoroughly inspect the vehicle's service history, paying close attention to any reported issues with the air suspension, electrical system, or engine. Have a qualified mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection to identify any potential problems.

Conclusion

Choosing the best year for a Maserati Levante requires careful consideration of your individual needs and priorities. While the later model years (2021-2023) generally offer improved reliability and updated features, they may also come with a higher price tag. Earlier model years (2017-2020) can be more affordable, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential for electrical issues, air suspension problems, and increased maintenance costs, especially with V8 models. Regardless of the year you choose, a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is essential to ensure a satisfying ownership experience.