The 2018 Maserati Levante is a midsize luxury SUV that blends Italian styling with performance-focused road manners and a distinctive exhaust note. It’s ideal for drivers who want an upscale, sporty alternative to the more common German luxury SUVs, with a premium badge and a unique character. For 2018, the Levante remains part of the first-generation model introduced for 2017, positioned as Maserati’s flagship SUV and a key entry in the high-end crossover market. It offers strong engines and a high-end cabin feel, but buyers should understand ownership costs and known 2018 Maserati Levante problems before committing.

1) Engine choices and performance: The 2018 Levante is available with a twin-turbo 3.0L V6 in Levante and Levante S trims (with the S delivering notably quicker acceleration), plus a high-performance 3.8L twin-turbo V8 in the Levante Trofeo for maximum power and sound. 2) Standard all-wheel drive: Maserati’s Q4 all-wheel-drive system helps put power down in wet or low-traction conditions while keeping a rear-biased feel during spirited driving. 3) Air suspension availability: Many models feature adjustable air suspension for a smoother ride, variable ride height, and improved highway comfort. 4) Premium interior and Italian design: Upscale materials, a driver-focused cockpit, and bold exterior styling set it apart from more conservative competitors. 5) Practical luxury SUV utility: A comfortable driving position, usable cargo space for a luxury midsize SUV, and strong highway manners make it a legitimate daily driver—when properly maintained.

Searches like “2018 Maserati Levante reliability” and “2018 Maserati Levante common issues” often focus on electronics, drivetrain behavior, and suspension wear. Overall reliability can be solid with attentive maintenance, but it’s not typically a “set-it-and-forget-it” SUV. 1) Infotainment and electrical glitches: Owners commonly report issues such as screen freezing, Bluetooth pairing problems, intermittent backup camera operation, and warning lights tied to sensors. These may appear unpredictably, sometimes within the first 20,000–40,000 miles, and can range from simple software updates to module or sensor replacement. 2) Suspension noises and air suspension concerns: Vehicles equipped with air suspension may develop creaks, clunks, or uneven ride-height behavior as mileage accumulates (often noticed around 40,000–70,000 miles depending on climate and road conditions). Some complaints point to leaks, compressor strain, or sensor issues. Early diagnosis helps avoid expensive secondary damage. 3) Transmission/driveability behavior: Some drivers report rough shifting, hesitation, or laggy response at low speeds. In some cases, updated software, adaptation resets, or addressing related sensors and fluid condition can improve behavior, but persistent symptoms should be inspected promptly. 4) Cooling system and fluid leaks: Like many high-performance turbo vehicles, the Levante can develop coolant or oil seepage over time. Leaks are more likely to show up as the vehicle ages, and catching them early during routine inspections can prevent overheating and larger repairs.