Hey guys! Ever dreamed of cruising in a luxury SUV that turns heads? Well, the 2017 Maserati Levante S might just be the ride of your dreams. This SUV isn't just about getting from point A to point B; it's about making a statement. Combining Italian design flair with high-performance capabilities, the Levante S offers a driving experience that’s both exhilarating and incredibly refined. This review will delve into what makes the 2017 Maserati Levante S such a standout vehicle, exploring everything from its head-turning aesthetics to its powerful engine and luxurious interior. Buckle up, because we're about to take a deep dive into the world of Maserati.

Design and Aesthetics: Italian Flair

Let's kick things off by talking about the looks. The 2017 Maserati Levante S is a stunner. From the moment you lay eyes on it, you're greeted by a bold, athletic design that screams luxury. The iconic Maserati grille, with its vertical slats and trident emblem, immediately sets the tone. It's a symbol of prestige and performance that's instantly recognizable. The sleek, sculpted body lines flow seamlessly, giving the Levante S an air of elegance and dynamism. You can tell the designers really put in the effort to create something special.

The exterior isn't just about looks, though. Functionality plays a key role. The Levante S features a practical yet stylish SUV design that's perfect for both city streets and open roads. The overall silhouette is both imposing and graceful. The front fascia is aggressive, with sharp headlights and a muscular bumper, conveying a sense of power. The side profile reveals a sloping roofline that adds a touch of sportiness, while the rear features distinctive taillights and a dual exhaust system that hints at the performance within. These design elements, combined with the premium materials used throughout, give the Levante S a high-end feel that’s hard to ignore.

Inside the cabin, the luxury continues. You're enveloped in a world of fine Italian craftsmanship, with premium leather, wood, and metal accents. The overall design is driver-focused, with every detail carefully considered. The seats are supportive and comfortable, perfect for long drives, and the infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use. The interior ambiance is one of sophistication and refinement. From the stitching on the seats to the layout of the dashboard, everything is designed to create a premium experience. In short, the 2017 Maserati Levante S is a masterclass in automotive design, offering a perfect blend of style, performance, and practicality. It's an SUV that makes a statement, turning heads wherever it goes.

Performance and Driving Experience: Unleash the Power

Alright, let’s get down to the fun stuff: the driving experience. The 2017 Maserati Levante S is not just about looks; it's got the power to back it up. Under the hood, you’ll find a beast of an engine, specifically a Ferrari-built 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6. This powerhouse delivers a thrilling 424 horsepower, allowing the SUV to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just over five seconds. That's seriously quick for an SUV, folks.

The Levante S isn't just about straight-line speed; it handles beautifully, too. Thanks to its advanced suspension system and all-wheel-drive, the SUV delivers exceptional control and stability, even in challenging driving conditions. Whether you're navigating winding roads or cruising on the highway, the Levante S provides a smooth, engaging ride that keeps you connected to the road. The steering is responsive, the brakes are powerful, and the overall driving dynamics are top-notch.

One of the standout features of the Levante S is its selectable driving modes, allowing you to tailor the driving experience to your liking. Choose from modes like Normal, Sport, and Off-Road, each of which adjusts the engine, transmission, suspension, and steering settings to match the conditions. Sport mode, in particular, amps up the performance, making the engine more responsive and the handling even sharper. Off-Road mode is perfect for those times when you want to venture off the beaten path, giving you the confidence to tackle various terrains.

The transmission plays a critical role in the driving experience. The eight-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive, seamlessly shifting gears to optimize performance. It helps the engine deliver power efficiently, ensuring a thrilling yet refined ride. The Levante S also features a sport exhaust system that adds to the excitement, producing a distinctive, throaty growl that lets everyone know you mean business. In essence, the 2017 Maserati Levante S is a performance-oriented SUV that delivers an exhilarating driving experience, combining power, handling, and advanced technology.

Interior and Comfort: Luxury Redefined

Now, let's move inside, where the 2017 Maserati Levante S truly shines. The interior is a sanctuary of luxury, meticulously crafted with premium materials and designed to provide the ultimate comfort. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by an atmosphere of sophistication and refinement. The cabin is filled with soft, supple leather, finely finished wood accents, and brushed metal trim, all of which contribute to the high-end feel.

The seats are a highlight. They're designed to be supportive and comfortable, perfect for long journeys. You can expect a perfect blend of comfort and style. The front seats are usually power-adjustable, often with memory settings, to ensure the perfect driving position. The rear seats offer plenty of legroom and headroom, making them comfortable for passengers as well. The overall spaciousness of the cabin enhances the feeling of luxury, providing a relaxing environment for both the driver and passengers.

Technology and convenience features abound. The Levante S comes equipped with a modern infotainment system that includes a large touchscreen display, navigation, and smartphone integration. You can easily connect your devices, access your favorite apps, and stay connected on the go. The sound system is typically a premium offering, providing crystal-clear audio quality for an immersive listening experience. Other features, like climate control, make the driving experience even more enjoyable.

Attention to detail is evident throughout the interior. The stitching, the layout of the controls, and the quality of the materials all reflect the craftsmanship that Maserati is known for. The Levante S doesn't just offer luxury; it elevates the driving experience to a whole new level. It's a place where you can relax, enjoy the ride, and revel in the finer things in life. The 2017 Maserati Levante S offers a driving experience that’s unmatched, where luxury is not just an option but a standard.

Technology and Features: Modern Amenities

Let’s dive into the tech side of things. The 2017 Maserati Levante S comes loaded with modern technology and features designed to enhance your driving experience and make your life easier. The infotainment system is a central hub, typically featuring a large touchscreen display that provides access to navigation, audio controls, and vehicle settings. You can easily connect your smartphone via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, allowing you to access your favorite apps, make calls, and listen to music seamlessly.

Driver-assistance features are also a key part of the package. Depending on the trim level and options selected, you could find features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. These features not only enhance safety but also make driving more convenient and enjoyable. Adaptive cruise control, for example, maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front, easing the burden of long highway drives.

Comfort and convenience features are plentiful. Automatic climate control, premium sound systems, and power-adjustable seats are usually standard. Higher-end trims might include features like a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and a hands-free power liftgate. These features all contribute to a more luxurious and user-friendly experience. The overall aim is to make your drive as enjoyable and effortless as possible. In terms of technology, the 2017 Maserati Levante S delivers a connected and convenient driving experience, ensuring that you're always in control and connected, without sacrificing luxury.

Trim Levels and Options: Customization and Choice

One of the great things about the 2017 Maserati Levante S is the ability to customize it to your specific tastes. Maserati offered various trim levels and a wide range of options, allowing you to tailor the SUV to your needs and preferences. While the exact trim levels and options could vary, here’s a general overview.

Typically, the Levante S might be offered in a base trim, as well as higher-end trims such as GranSport or GranLusso. The base trim provides a great starting point, with a solid set of standard features, including the powerful V6 engine, leather upholstery, and a range of technology and safety features. Moving up the trims, you'll find more luxurious appointments, such as upgraded leather, premium wood accents, and enhanced technology features. The GranSport trim often features a sportier look and feel, with performance-oriented enhancements, while the GranLusso trim emphasizes luxury, with features such as premium materials and more advanced comfort features.

Beyond the trim levels, Maserati offered a range of optional packages and individual features. These could include things like a premium sound system, upgraded wheels, advanced driver-assistance features, and a variety of interior trim options. You could also choose from a wide palette of exterior paint colors, allowing you to personalize the look of your Levante S.

This level of customization gives you the power to create an SUV that truly reflects your style and personality. Whether you prioritize performance, luxury, or a combination of both, the 2017 Maserati Levante S offers a wealth of choices to help you build your perfect ride.

Safety Features: Protecting You on the Road

Safety is a top priority, and the 2017 Maserati Levante S is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. Standard safety features typically include airbags throughout the cabin, including front, side, and curtain airbags. These are designed to provide protection in the event of a collision.

Electronic stability control and traction control systems are standard, helping to maintain control of the vehicle in challenging driving conditions. These systems can intervene to prevent skidding or loss of control, increasing safety on the road. The braking system is also robust, with features like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) to ensure effective stopping power.

Depending on the trim level and options selected, the Levante S may also include advanced driver-assistance features (ADAS). These can include adaptive cruise control, which maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front, lane departure warning, which alerts you if you drift out of your lane, and blind-spot monitoring, which helps to detect vehicles in your blind spots. A surround-view camera system may also be available, providing a comprehensive view of your surroundings to assist with parking and maneuvering.

Maserati prioritizes safety by ensuring the Levante S is not just a luxury SUV, but also a safe one, providing peace of mind on the road. The goal is to provide a confident and secure driving experience, with the technology and features necessary to protect you and your passengers.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

Alright, let's break down the good and the not-so-good of the 2017 Maserati Levante S. This should help you make an informed decision if you're considering buying one.

Pros:

• Stunning Design: The Levante S boasts head-turning Italian styling that sets it apart from the crowd. It's a beautiful SUV.
• Powerful Engine: The Ferrari-built V6 engine provides exhilarating performance.
• Luxurious Interior: The cabin is crafted with premium materials and offers a high level of comfort and refinement.
• Exhilarating Driving Experience: The Levante S offers engaging handling and a thrilling ride. You'll love it!
• Advanced Technology: It includes modern infotainment and driver-assistance features.

Cons:

• Price: It comes with a premium price tag, reflecting its luxury status.
• Reliability: Like any luxury car, it may come with potential reliability issues. Research this point carefully.
• Fuel Economy: The powerful engine can lead to relatively lower fuel economy compared to some competitors.
• Rear Seat Space: Some reviews suggest the rear seat space may not be as generous as in some rivals.

Overall, the 2017 Maserati Levante S is a fantastic choice if you're looking for an SUV that combines luxury, performance, and style. However, keep in mind the price and potential maintenance costs. Weighing these pros and cons will help you decide if it's the right vehicle for you.

Conclusion: A Blend of Performance and Luxury

To wrap it all up, the 2017 Maserati Levante S is more than just an SUV; it's a statement. It's a blend of Italian design, exhilarating performance, and luxurious comfort that sets it apart from its competitors. From its head-turning exterior to its meticulously crafted interior, every detail is designed to provide an exceptional driving experience.

The powerful Ferrari-built engine delivers impressive performance, while the advanced suspension and handling systems ensure a smooth and engaging ride. The interior is a haven of luxury, with premium materials and advanced technology creating a comfortable and connected environment.

While the Levante S comes with a premium price tag and potential maintenance costs, the overall experience is worth it if you're looking for a luxury SUV that truly stands out. It's a vehicle that turns heads, delivers a thrilling drive, and provides a level of comfort that will make every journey a pleasure.

If you're in the market for a luxury SUV, the 2017 Maserati Levante S deserves a spot on your list. Just be prepared to fall in love with its blend of performance and luxury! It's a ride that is hard to forget! So, guys, if you have the chance to get behind the wheel of one, don't pass it up. You won't regret it!