Maserati Levante GRANSPORT S

Highlights

• Top-tier audio system standard
• 5-Star NCAP safety rating
• Lowest depreciation in class

Summary

This 2019 Maserati Levante GRANSPORT S represents a sophisticated entry into the luxury SUV market, combining Italian performance with the practicality required for GCC life. With 130,000 km, this vehicle has been driven across the Emirates as intended, showing it is mechanically well-sorted for the local climate. The S trim brings a significant power advantage that makes it a more engaging drive than the standard model, while the Grey exterior remains one of the most sought-after and resilient colors for maintaining resale value in the region. Compared to its German rivals, the Levante offers a level of exclusivity and soul that is often missing in the segment. For a buyer looking for a Ferrari-developed engine note and a prestigious badge without the price tag of a brand-new model, this GCC-spec example is a compelling choice. The most important ownership factor here is the balance between its high-performance DNA and its ability to serve as a daily family commuter on the E11 highway.

This Car vs Other 2019 Levantes

When looking at the 2019 Levante market in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, mileage often varies significantly. At 130,000 km, this vehicle sits at a realistic average for a five-year-old luxury SUV in the GCC, where 25,000 km per year is the standard for executive commuting between cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Unlike lower-mileage examples that may have sat idle in garages, this car’s history suggests consistent use, which is often better for the air suspension and cooling seals in extreme heat. The Grey paintwork is a significant asset here; it hides the fine desert dust better than black and holds its luster against the intense sun better than darker shades, making it a favorite for used car buyers. Choosing a GCC-spec model over a North American import is vital for this model year to ensure the radiator and AC compressor are sized correctly for the 50-degree summer peaks.

GRANSPORT S vs Lower Trims

The GRANSPORT S is the sweet spot in the range, offering a substantial performance bridge over the base Levante. While the standard model focuses on comfort, the S trim adds the more powerful 350 hp engine tune and specific aerodynamic enhancements that improve high-speed stability on the highway. Inside, the GRANSPORT S receives more aggressive seat bolstering and premium leather finishes that feel more expensive than the entry-level cabin materials. You also benefit from the inclusion of the Skyhook adaptive damping system as standard, allowing you to stiffen the ride for mountain passes in Ras Al Khaimah or soften it for city traffic. Many of the features that were optional on the base trim, such as the upgraded infotainment interface and specific driver assistance tools, are baked into the S configuration, providing a much higher level of standard equipment.

Levante vs Segment Rivals

The Maserati Levante is frequently cross-shopped against the Porsche Cayenne and the BMW X5. Where the Levante leads is in its emotional appeal and the distinct character of its 3.0L V6 engine, which was developed in collaboration with Ferrari engineers. For the GCC driver, the Levante offers a larger fuel tank than some European competitors, providing more range for cross-country drives across the Oman border or to the Western Region. Its All Wheel Drive system is rear-biased, giving it a sporty feel that the more clinical German rivals often lack. Additionally, the Levante’s air suspension provides a higher maximum ground clearance than several rivals in this year group, making it surprisingly capable on soft sand or gravel tracks leading to desert campsites. The interior design also stands out for its use of genuine materials, avoiding the overly digital and plasticky feel found in some newer competitors.

Running Costs & Resale

Running a Levante in the GCC is a premium experience that requires specialized care, but it is manageable thanks to a strong network of authorized service centers in the UAE, Kuwait, and Qatar. Fuel consumption for the 3.0L V6 averages around 12 to 14 liters per 100 km in mixed GCC driving, though long highway cruises can see this improve significantly. It is essential to use high-octane Super 98 fuel to maintain the health of the twin-turbo system in the heat. Service intervals typically occur every 20,000 km or once a year, and while parts are more expensive than Japanese alternatives, the availability of components in the UAE is excellent. In terms of resale, the Levante has matured into a stable asset in the used market; while it depreciates faster than a Lexus, it holds value better than many British luxury SUVs. A well-maintained GRANSPORT S in a neutral color like Grey remains a highly liquid asset in the secondary market.

Performance & Capability

Performance is led by the 350 hp twin-turbo V6, which allows this SUV to reach 100 km/h in just 6.0 seconds. On the open roads of the UAE, the Levante feels exceptionally composed at cruising speeds, with the ZF 8-speed automatic providing seamless shifts. The Q4 All Wheel Drive system is highly intelligent, constantly monitoring grip levels and transferring torque to the front wheels in milliseconds if it detects slip on a sandy patch of asphalt. With multiple drive modes including 'I.C.E' for efficiency and 'Sport' for maximum response, the car can transform its personality at the touch of a button. The ground clearance is adjustable via the air suspension, which is a lifesaver when navigating high speed bumps or exploring off-pavement locations. Even at 130,000 km, the engine remains punchy and the exhaust note is widely considered the best in the SUV segment.

Comfort & Cabin

The cabin is a 5-seat sanctuary designed for long-distance comfort in the Middle Eastern climate. The dual-zone climate control system is exceptionally powerful, designed to pull down cabin temperatures quickly after the car has been parked in the sun. Standard on this trim is a top-tier audio system that provides concert-hall clarity, easily overcoming any road noise at highway speeds. The seats are finished in fine Italian leather and offer extensive electric adjustment, ensuring that both driver and passengers remain fatigue-free during the three-hour drive from Dubai to Al Ain. Rear passengers are well-catered for with dedicated air vents and sufficient legroom for adults. The insulation is a highlight, as Maserati utilized thick acoustic glass to ensure the cabin remains a quiet place to conduct business calls or enjoy music, regardless of the wind noise outside.

Safety

Safety is a priority for the Levante, which holds a prestigious 5-Star NCAP rating. This GRANSPORT S comes equipped with a suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that are particularly helpful in the fast-paced traffic of the GCC. Features like Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path Detection are essential for navigating 6-lane highways, while the advanced stability control system ensures the vehicle stays planted during emergency maneuvers on varying surfaces. The braking system is equally impressive, utilizing large ventilated discs that provide consistent stopping power even when hot. Six airbags come standard, providing comprehensive protection for all five occupants. This level of safety, combined with the sure-footedness of the Q4 AWD system, makes it a reliable choice for families who prioritize protection on every journey.

The bottom line

This Maserati Levante GRANSPORT S is the ideal choice for a professional who wants a vehicle with soul and prestige that has already cleared its steepest depreciation curve. It offers a unique blend of Ferrari-inspired performance and daily utility that makes it stand out in any UAE parking lot.

AI insights generated from market expert data. Always inspect the vehicle before purchase.