Having spent considerable time with both the Maserati GL (likely referring to the Levante) and the F Tributo, I can offer a unique owner’s perspective for those considering a Maserati SUV. If luxury is your priority, the GL stands out. However, for a sportier experience, the GTS or Modena S models are the way to go. Imagine being a passenger in your realtor’s car – the GL would undoubtedly be the preferred choice for comfort. My wife, for instance, adored our GL and also appreciates the F Tributo, though public reactions tend to favor the sportier F Tributo.
Across the Maserati SUV range, avoiding the base models is advisable to ensure you get essential features. Personally, soft-close doors are a desirable option I missed. The Zegna seat inserts in the GL were a highlight, offering a superior look and feel compared to the standard all-leather seats in my current F Tributo.
However, potential buyers should be aware of some recurring, albeit minor, electrical issues. These problems tend to be intermittent and might not surface during a typical pre-purchase inspection. These “niggles” include random alarm activations, erratic door lock behavior, and instances where the liftgate doesn’t fully secure upon button closure. The 2018 GL model was particularly plagued by remote engine start failures, occurring roughly 25-30% of the time. On one occasion, resolving this required cycling through every door, window, and the liftgate before the remote start would function. My newer 2022 F Tributo, thankfully, has not exhibited this remote start problem.
Another point to consider is tire wear. Expect to replace tires around the 12,000-mile mark with typical city driving and occasional spirited driving on the stock tires. Brake squeal is another complaint occasionally mentioned by Maserati SUV owners. My personal fix for this is a firm brake application from around 65 mph, which usually resolves the squealing.
Alt text: Front view of a Maserati Levante Modena S, showcasing its sporty design and signature grille, relevant for a Maserati SUV review.
Pre-Owned Maserati SUV Considerations
For those considering a used Maserati SUV, meticulously reviewing the service records is crucial. Always request to see dealership service records in advance and specifically look for mentions of electrical complaints. In my experience, Maserati dealerships often struggle to resolve these intermittent electrical issues. If the problem cannot be replicated during service, the typical resolution is a software update with a “wait-and-see” approach. It’s worth noting that my 2022 F Tributo has been free of the electrical issues that plagued my 2018 GL, but it’s still relatively new with only 1,200 miles driven over six months.
Alt text: Luxurious Maserati Grecale interior featuring Zegna leather seats, highlighting the premium materials and craftsmanship discussed in a Maserati SUV review.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Maserati SUVs like the Levante and Grecale (potentially the F Tributo) offer a blend of luxury and performance. Choosing between models like the GL and sportier variants depends on your priorities. While generally well-regarded, potential buyers should be aware of potential electrical quirks and tire wear. Thoroughly checking dealership service records, especially for pre-owned models, is highly recommended to ensure a smoother ownership experience. Despite minor issues, the overall experience of owning a Maserati SUV remains compelling, particularly for those seeking Italian flair and driving dynamics in an SUV package.
