Maserati Levante

Owning the Unknown Brand Levante in India is a commitment to exclusivity over practicality. With a price bracket starting at Rs 1,37,16,275 and reaching Rs 2,25,13,610, this vehicle competes directly with the Porsche Cayenne and Range Rover Sport. The primary ownership hurdle is the manual-only transmission, which is an anomaly in the luxury segment where competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLE offer seamless 9-speed automatics. Maintenance costs are elevated because the 9.43 kmpl fuel economy necessitates frequent, high-cost petrol stops, and the specialized parts require specialized service technicians not found in Tier-2 cities. Safety is a major selling point, as the inclusion of 6 airbags, ESC, and a full suite of ADAS features—including Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go—places it on par with top-tier European SUVs. However, the lack of an automatic transmission hurts its long-term resale value, as most luxury buyers in 2026 demand the convenience of an automatic gearbox. The body structure is robust, yet the reliance on a space-saver spare tyre is a drawback for long-distance Indian touring where full-size spares are preferred. Insurance premiums are high due to the high repair costs of the ADAS sensors integrated into the bumpers and windshield. If you are a purist who values the tactile feel of a manual gearbox in a high-end SUV, the Levante offers a unique experience, but you must be prepared for a higher total cost of ownership than a comparable BMW or Audi. The ISOFIX mounts and child safety locks are standard, making it a safe choice for families, provided you can manage the sheer physical size of the vehicle in congested urban centers like Mumbai or Delhi. Ultimately, the Levante is for the buyer who prioritizes the manual driving experience and active safety tech over the convenience of modern luxury standard features.