2018 Maserati Levante

The Levante is Maserati's first SUV, a luxury crossover that brings Italian style to the segment. It drives with a sporty feel, thanks to a responsive chassis and a throaty exhaust note that reminds you it's a Maserati. Inside, the cabin is trimmed with quality materials, and the rear seats fold flat to open up generous cargo space for a crossover. Expect higher running costs than typical luxury SUVs, with frequent fuel stops and pricey maintenance from the Italian brand. The Levante S is the mid-range pick for buyers who want more punch than the base model without jumping to the top-tier Trofeo. Its 3.0L I6 produces 424 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque, routed through eight-speed automatic to all four wheels, which makes for eager acceleration and a satisfying exhaust note. The S trim unlocks the optional Skyhook adaptive suspension, which lets you firm up the ride for cornering or soften it for cruising.