The Maserati Levante 3.0 V6 GDI (350 Hp) AWD Automatic, launched in 2016, represents Maserati’s entry into the burgeoning luxury SUV segment. Positioned as the core offering within the initial Levante lineup, this variant aimed to balance performance, luxury, and everyday usability. It served as the gateway to the Levante experience, offering a compelling alternative to established German and British competitors. The Levante, built on a modified version of the Jeep Grand Cherokee platform, was Maserati’s first ever SUV, and this 3.0 V6 model was crucial to establishing the brand’s presence in this new market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Maserati |
| Model | Levante |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 V6 GDI (350 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 14.8 l/100 km (15.9 US mpg, 19.1 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 249 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 251 km/h (155.96 mph) |
| Power | 350 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 117.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 4500-5000 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 4500-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M156D |
| Engine displacement | 2979 cm3 (181.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 86.5 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.2 l (9.72 US qt | 8.09 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2109 kg (4649.55 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 580 l (20.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5003 mm (196.97 in.) |
| Width | 1968 mm (77.48 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2158 mm (84.96 in.) |
| Height | 1679 mm (66.1 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3004 mm (118.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1624 mm (63.94 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1676 mm (65.98 in.) |
| Front overhang | 966 mm (38.03 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1033 mm (40.67 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/60 ZR18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Levante 3.0 V6 GDI lies Maserati’s M156D engine, a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6. This engine, developed in collaboration with Ferrari, utilizes direct fuel injection and a relatively high 9.7:1 compression ratio. The twin-turbocharger setup, employing a pair of BorgWarner turbochargers, delivers a broad torque curve and contributes to the engine’s responsive nature. The engine produces 350 horsepower at 5,750 rpm and 369 lb-ft of torque between 4,500 and 5,000 rpm. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle. The Levante 3.0 V6 utilizes a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifts and efficiency. This transmission is a staple in many luxury vehicles and provides a good balance between performance and comfort.
Driving Characteristics
The Levante 3.0 V6 Automatic offers a refined and capable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of its rivals, it provides ample power for everyday driving and confident highway passing. The 8-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering quick and seamless gear changes. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions. Compared to the more powerful Levante S models, the 350 hp variant feels less urgent in its acceleration, but the difference is often subtle in normal driving. The gear ratios are optimized for a blend of performance and fuel economy, with lower gears providing brisk acceleration and higher gears prioritizing efficiency at cruising speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The base Levante 3.0 V6 Automatic came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and a rearview camera. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional extras included premium audio systems (Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins), adaptive cruise control, ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Interior trim options included various wood veneers and leather colors, allowing for a degree of personalization.
Chassis & Braking
The Levante’s chassis features a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, but it still offers a secure and controlled feel. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The Levante 3.0 V6 typically came equipped with 18-inch wheels as standard, with larger 19- and 20-inch options available. The standard Levante did not feature air suspension, which was reserved for higher trim levels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Levante 3.0 V6 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some critics noted that its performance wasn’t quite as engaging as some of its German rivals, and its fuel economy was relatively poor for its class. Compared to the higher-output Levante S, the 3.0 V6 offered a more affordable entry point into the Levante lineup, but at the expense of some performance. Against competitors like the Porsche Macan and BMW X5, the Levante offered a unique Italian flair and a more relaxed driving experience.
Legacy
The Maserati Levante 3.0 V6 Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, although some owners have reported minor issues with the infotainment system and certain electronic components. The M156D engine has generally been considered robust, but regular maintenance is crucial to ensure its longevity. On the used car market, the Levante 3.0 V6 represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a luxurious and stylish SUV with a distinctive Italian character. Its combination of performance, comfort, and features continues to make it an appealing option in the luxury SUV segment.
