I have this vehicle, and I must say that it's worth every penny. It's $100,000 but it's luxurious, special, exotic, and the handleing is on point. The sound of it is amazing.
I have one too, it is amazing and love it !!! Had many Germans, ant this one is so much more refined !!! Handling is amazing !!! I appreciate every detail of the design.
I actually think this is a nice car! Great-sounding engine, good looks all-round, good interior! But, except for the double armrest misalignment, I've noticed another mistake about the armrest compartment: the 12V power supply should be somewhere at the top of the cubby hole! Being down there and between the bottle holders, there's a danger of the outside bottle condensation ruining it, especially if powering something!
I've been keen on the Mesarati Levante for quite sometime now since its launch last year and i must admit Thomas your reviews online are unbiased, detailed and informative. Most of the reviewers online made an exception with the way the automated lever performed when trying to change to/from parking mode, i was looking forward to hear your honest view on it, anyways i would appreciate if you could do a comparison of the Levante with other competitor vehicles in the same segment. As always your videos online on Autogufuhl are great, so carry on the goodwork :))
The rear seat alone is a major disappointment but an Italian car with numb steering is rediculous. When you have your hands on an Italian steering wheel you should feel like you're being electrocuted! And loving it!
I was somewhat disappointed when Thomas opened the door and I saw the interior. It just doesn't look like the interior of a car which costs one hundred and then thousand euros (in this configuration).
Hi Thomas, First of all, many thanks for all the excellent videos. I've followed the channel for many years already; always great! When this video came out, you were unimpressed by the quality of the Levante. Interior not good enough for a luxury car and the steering, handling and suspension completely insufficient. Many years have passed since and I personally think the interior looks better in the later facelifts. What do you think about the quality though? Has it improved? Is steering, handling and suspension better? I know Autogefuehl tested the more expensive V8 versions a couple of years later and I get a sense that you think they drive better. But are they good enough now? And more importantly, what about the V6 version? Have you tried the V6 version more recently and did you see any improvement? If yes, what model year should we be looking for? Many thanks! PS. Just read that Maserati will cease the production of Levante this month! End of an era it seems.
Good catch, Thomas! Everyone says the switchgear is from the Chrysler bin parts, and that makes the new Maseratis cheap cars, but they're indeed coming from the times when Daimler-Chrysler existed, and they're from the Mercedes parts bin.
So many people missing the point of this car. I know, 90% are kids with no real clue, but anyway: Maserati is NOT challenging german Suvs on the aspects they do best, that is essentially onboard gadgets and eye-candies of all possible sorts. That would be stupid since they're 20yrs ahead. Maserati comes in with the features where italians are best at, i.e. handling and road performance, and they DID hit the target, just look at sales figures. Look: you'll get bored of fancy gadgets rather quickly, but you'll never get bored of having fun. Keep it in mind kids.
@Autogefühl No-no. We dont like such cars in Italy. Never drove one but saw other reviews where it 'apparently' manages at ease narrow twisty roads at high pace. But images aside, as i said before most comments about its handling get to similar conclusions from both italian and foreign press - i.e. at Maserati they decided to screw up themselves, and with a pretty nice run-up, too. This review here on the other hand, taking place part in a city road with traffic and part in a straight strip of autobahn, doesn't make things very evident, so we all lay on your gefuhl words.
The David don’t know if you are actually trolling, who buys a suv for its handling? Who actually need that a little bit more performance while sacrificing so many “gadgets “ and overpaying tens of thousands for it? Maserati is a dead brand, face it.
Michael N 1 second ago I totally agree with you , I have one too, it is amazing and love it !!! Had many Germans, ant this one is so much more refined !!! Handling is amazing !!! I appreciate every detail of the design. Gadgets and gismos in every new TRENDY SUV now, and not the real engineering quality of the whole balanced design like in this MASERATI !!! Kids, go for what is COOL these day ... Gimmy more tech kind of thing ........
Great Review Thomas. Love the AJ music - many thanks. Like the frameless windows, but prefer a bright coloured interior. The switches for radio controls - don't you just love 'The Thomas Detail'. Disappointing rear seating! No HUD? Would prefer softer air suspension mode and sharper steering. Fun exhaust sound. Loved the whole of the U-Turn sequence. Definitely true about the more expensive the car, the rich people just buy it - a subtle marketing ploy! Fantastic video, many thanks Thomas and Team.
I forgot to remind you that for the same configuration my Levante SQ4 (MY 2018) costs about 20,000 euros less than the new Cayenne s, which is certainly a great car like many other German cars, but as I said, all cars can have defects or problems. There are also many other prestigious brands that deserve respect and not be treated with derisive features.
I have driven this car and felt Turbo lag was a big problem. Also, it lacks refinement in sound insulation with a constant drone coming into the cabin.
I have a Levante S. I totally agree, most people look back, when they hear the maserati engine noise. Even in Germany, Levante is still rare. Steering wheel.... hmm, hard to say. It is not for normal driver, I must say. And if you gonna buy a 2nd Hand Levante, you have to check Steering wheel first, because it will be the first reason for your first repairservice ( I believe), Well, it's a fun car for sure. For me, I'd like drive a Passat or Arteon (get it in 2 Month) for long trip. For short trip, I always pick Levante. ;)
Thanks for the excellent review. I'm was looking at this lavente the f pace and the Velar. As much as I love the sound the engine makes I can't justify the money for the issues you pointed out. I may take another look at the alfa Romeo Stevilo.
I think that Thomas's criticisms are rather disrespectful and biased dealing sufficiently with a prestigious brand such as Maserati, where they work people who passionately build cars that are certainly at the same level as the competitors. In the last 15 years, in my family we have had 5 Mercedes and a Porsche. After being broken down with my Mercedes CLS 350 at 32,000 km, after having had problems of reliability with the Mercedes GLA 200 4matic and having had problems with my last Cayenne (oil leaks that required an intervention for a total cost of € 5000 for the distribution chain tensioner at 75,000 km) I assure you that it is a real pleasure to hear the 6-cylinders Ferrari orchestra which bothers our reviewer.
The audi Q7 and the volvo XC90 are just a much much better product at a cheaper price,when buying this SUV your paying half of your money just for that badge.
If you believe the dishonest German guy who defends always the German product and the ridiculous Audis and Volkswagen Sprint alias Touareg and Q5 Sprints like the Cayenne and the Macan with the ridiculous 7 inch infotainment and the overstated dynamics
Julian J the Maserati sounds way better than both. It also closer compares with the Q5 and XC60 in size. You do pay at least $10,000 for brand name though.
HOW can you compare ? Sure you can get cheeper cars, Maserati is more expensive than most, go for Chrysler or Ford, way better value than XC90 or Q 7 , you either want the best or the best VALUE decide, no Bordeaux wines for somebody how just wants to get drunk (: if you get my point...
Great review, looking into getting one or the stelvio. I had a evo and a Tesla p85d which they had in the UK we used to say the turning circle of the titanic !!!
Back seat: Agreed. Really disappointing for 85,000 plus for a base model loaded. Pushes you to the new Cayenne. Was all set to say, "If I had 80-90K, and wanted an SUV, this would be it", but I think there are several items here that move you to the Velar (not much room in this one in the rear also) and the Porsche, which IMO are the closest competitors in the 75 to 90 class of SUV.
Thomas, I am an avid fan of your videos! But I am in a conundrum. If you had the following two options, which would you pick? almost new 2016 Quattroporte sq4 (only 10K miles) or a 2010 Panamera turbo (a lot of miles )? similar price.
thanks m8! Hmm... best is to compare our reviews of this segment first: Quattroporte: ruclips.net/video/jZtT8wj2e-Q/видео.html Panamera: ruclips.net/video/n7tNkyREdrw/видео.html A7: ruclips.net/video/sS_ypFTSddU/видео.html 6 GT: ruclips.net/video/eYpLaSA-vEs/видео.html CLS: ruclips.net/video/U6XiBvVuq7k/видео.html Or a comparison video: ruclips.net/video/dIZhflhK4-E/видео.html
I bought one. I wanted to try it. I think I will buy a X6 or a Kayen. I like to show off and to be exclusive, but it is too much exclusivity for me in this car.
Wie Schade :(... Well this is the first generation of the Levante vs 3rth GLE/Cayenne.. For being the first SUV of Maserati, it's a very good SUV. Personally I think the Levante has more styling and character (but less tech) than any other German SUV. Also the exhaust is a masterpiece to the ears. Whats your opinion? Great Review ;)!!!
there is something wrong with this car design but i can't say what.... it's a general feeling .... in fact i think it's just that the price is too high compare to what the car looklike ( you cold say it's a nismo or a chrysler)
i don't know why are people so much pointing out those fake exhausts...its not as if it matters really. You get the visual part and that's all you want really, who cares if real exhaust is inside...This is my opinion..
To add to what the others are saying, also, in winter it looks incredibly stupid when you can see the smoke/fog coming out of the bottom and not the trendy cut-outs.
All recent cars even hypercars like LaFerrari have this solution with a separate fake terminal, but the exhaust inside is real, and if it's real isn't a problem, the problem is the real fake exhaust terminals like in many German carmakers, also in German cars even in extreme versions like AMG fake exhaust terminals are ill fitted, at least in Italian cars like the Levante here, or LaFerrari or Stelvio they did a far greater job and of course are functional even in a base Stelvio or Giulia, unlike some base C-Classes or GLCs which have a fake exhaust terminal without any exhaust inside
All modern conception cars have a fake exhaust terminal even supercars and hypercard the important is that is functional and well fitted, German cars have ill fitted exhaust and in some cars like C-Class and GLC they even have fake exhaust terminal without any functional exhaust inside which is the worse
I like the design of the front. That's about it though. The gauges are particularly old looking. I like digital gauges or digital ones that look analogue maybe.
I really like the front look, but the back seems a bit dull IMO. Also, you could buy better built SUVs but you're not buying a Maserati because of their reliability, but because they're still considered "exotic".
My Audi SQ5 looks like a real bargain compared to this thing, looks better, performs better and cost a lot less. This is a car for people that are more impressed by badges than facts.
Nice Clinical Review on your Part ! People buy Maserati not because how the Interior should be which by the way not Bad Its Just not excellent ,Folks Buys because of its Powertrain & Looks ,.Anyway I Like the way point out bad things bluntly .We could have appreciated few words Like Engine/ Tran performs better than few competitors(German cars & which is most likely at-least with few ). Welcome there.But surely it may fair well in certain Markets on a good note.Nice & Clear Review though.
It's as if Maserati is trying to build bad cars. The Ghibli had major flaws, none of which seem to have been addressed with the Levante; The bad gear selector is still there, the cheap plastics around the bad infotainment system are still there, the steering is apparently bad - which was also my experience with the Ghibli, which I thought handled about as sharply as the Titanic - , the plastics inside the center compartment are cheap as well, and the exterior design is fairly boring. Let's not also forget the lack of leg room in the back along with cheap plastics on the back of the seats, and the fact that despite putting massive shift paddles, they haven't extended the turn signal and wiper stocks further so they don't get in the way, not to mention other quality issues, which I'm sure will pop up eventually. Truly, the lack of attention to detail is appalling, especially at that price point. I really don't get it though. Maseratis have really become the cars for people who want to be seen in Maseratis. They're banking on the fact that the name and badge still carry some weight, supplementing them with an impressive engine note, hoping it'll make people forget the quality issues. I think they're playing a very dangerous game, because in a few years, if they keep doing this, the trident will certainly lose its prestige. I don't see why I would buy this over one of the competitors really. Finally, on a more positive note, thank you Thomas for another very good and honest review of the vehicle.
Well thank you for taking time to read it. After reading it back, I do realize it was a bit long. Certainly a result of my general disappointment with regards to the vehicle and the brand in general.
Can you please tell me what Maseratis of old do you have in mind when you are disappointed like this and you say the badge still carries some weight? I'm asking that because I can't remember any Maserati that was free from the "major flaws" like the ones you mentioned - except when we talk about the engines, and the QP6, Ghibli and Levante still have incredible engines, worthy of the legacy. Take a look at all the previous models (excluding the very few coach built ones) and you'll see that all of them suffer from low quality or they share components with whichever cars the company's owner of the time was producing. It might come as a shock, but the current cars (QP6, Ghibli and Levante) are the best cars Maserati ever produced. You don't have to look further back in history than the QP5/GT or the 3200/4200 and you'll see the horrible interior build quality and insane idiosyncrasies. Should I even mention the BiTurbo era cars?
Thomas, nice reviews you're doing. Loving your German accent too! I'd never watch an hour long car review, except yours, dude! You seem to stress leather on seats in your reviews, are you a vegetarian? :) Respect.
+polyrider81 Thank you for taking interest in this very important topic! We have researched this issue for many years now so please take your time to go through our extensive resources stated below as they answer on every question we have yet received concerning this matter. At Autogefühl, we have already received several thousands (!) comments, messages and mails that more and more people want to combine enjoying their car with reducing the environmental impact at the same time. We believe that sustainable luxury is possible or at least we should do everything to support that. Those many thousand people confirming this trend, motivate us to give you the most authentic information and background on the product parts. It is not about what you bought in the past, and it is not about blaming anyone, it is about what you decide in the future and what you can decide and influence as a customer. So we want you to have all information that you need for a decision you later enjoy and like best yourself. In Summer 2017, Tesla motors has decided to be the first manufacturer to go all the way with sustainable seat materials, only offering fabric/cloth seats or leatherette seats in different colours. They have banned all real leather from the seating surface and at the steering wheel in the white trim or on demand. So Tesla shows where the industry will and must be heading, just like they went forward with electrification first. Check out our special video addressing car CEOs as a first summary and also see conditions of animal skin production: ruclips.net/video/LNSUzZXzpdc/видео.html List of practical reasons against animal skin seats: 1. animal skin seats are often sold as an expensive option, by going for base trim level seats you can save a lot of money and get a better price-performance-deal (often the manufacturers claim that animal leather is top of luxury because they can earn the best money with it) 2. animal skin seats get hot in summer and you stick to the seat, probably you need seat cooling 3. they get very cold in winter and you need seat heating 4. on cloth or microfibre surfaces, you basically don’t need seat heating nor cooling 5. animal skin seats wear out very fast and look like an old sofa 6. if you want leather look or need seats that can be wiped clean easier, the leatherette (faux leather) surfaces are meanwhile highly evolved and it is possible that it feels even softer and better than anything else (See our Tesla Model X review ruclips.net/video/y2wNGFKa4M0/видео.html) So Tesla shows a good example for that and as described, non-leather materials are now standard for ALL Tesla 7. More manufacturer names for their good alternatives: Mercedes MBTex/Artico for leatherette, Dinamica for microfibre. BMW Sensatec, Toyota Sof-Tex, Lexus Nu-Luxe (all faux leather) To the environmental reasons: 1. The way the cows and other intelligent and social animals are raised and held are not according to the basic values that we all share (also see videos below) 2. The factory farming industry can be accounted for at least 40 % of climate emissions and thus is (according to numerous sources you can look up) the number one reason for climate change and environmental destruction. It is the number one reason for deforestation, two thirds of all agricultural land on earth is used for growing animal food crops. If you would feed humans directly by using the agricultural land, you could produce much more food for everyone. See this interesting essay for more on climate emissions background: www.worldwatch.org/files/pdf/Livestock%20and%20Climate%20Change.pdf 3. It is not only cows who are suffering, but also the environment and to a big part also humans. Think of slavery-like working conditions in slaughterhouses (there are plenty of documentaries about this) or think of chemically altered drinking water in animal skin production villages as also seen in the video footage. 4. The discussion, for which body part the cow is killed first, is very patronizing. But if you really think it would be important why someone gets killed in first place: There are many productions where the cow is killed for the skin first, sometimes even while still being (part-)alive, the skin is the most profitable single part of the body. 5. So even if a cow gets theoretically killed for meat first, in every case you give additional money to an industry that relies on killing, pollutes the environment and harms people with chemicals. Let's say you are standing at the meat counter. And you ask for the leg of the cow. The butcher tells you: "You can eat that without worrying, the cow was slaughtered for the neck first". The next customer demands the neck. The butcher tells him: "It's not your fault, the cow was slaughtered for the belly". A the next customer demands the hide, what answer does he get? You see, that argument of "byproduct" comes from the meat and leather industry to cover up that you contribute to killing no matter which part of the body you buy. 6. To the often said argument, animal skin would just be a byproduct, please google/youtube "leather is not a byproduct" you will find plenty of information. A good overview on all those issues can also be found here: adaptt.org/ To “But leatherette is not sustainable due to petrochemical production” 1. Indeed some fabrics and micro fibres are oil based, however most oil is spent on energy production, heating and fuel. The share of oil used for artificial cloth etc. is very very small. 2. If you look at the whole production process, the leatherette is way more sustainable than the leather produce. 3. The best to-come solution are indeed plant-based materials like Pinatex (based on pineapple leaves) or new materials based on mycelia (roots of mushrooms) or other innovative natural products. That’s the future. More special video episodes: 1. A initial special video from Autogefühl considering the use of leather can be found here: ruclips.net/video/8f91KgbVbJQ/видео.html 2. And another one right here: ruclips.net/video/tMNgcLE0LDU/видео.html 3. Furthermore, you’ll find the footage of leather production also here, where people are walking in chemicals etc. and animals have to watch their friends being slaughtered in front of their eyes: ruclips.net/video/JipYvuDsI6s/видео.html timecode starting 27:46 4. This is another video which very well summarizes the torture of leather production, shots taken at big farms which directly produce for the automotive industry: ruclips.net/video/OgHs239bAnE/видео.html 5. Please note that those videos are made by well-known journalists and cameramen who were not influenced by any animal welfare organisation, they supply their footage to the animal rights groups of course. I partly know the creators of the video footage personally and they are all authentic. You don’t have to search long to find cruel production environments anyway. Manufacturers reactions: We started the very first inquiry years ago, with the result that car manufacturers do not reveal their sources of animal skin AT ALL. If it all would be clean and happening without harm, why don’t they show it to us whereas they are showing us every other detail of their products? They have good reason not to, because there is no such thing as a clean animal skin production without harming cows, humans and the environment. The only thing a manufacturer can do is increase their effort for a better future, and we are helping with in-depth talks and interviews by presenting the increasing customer demand for sustainable luxury. Tesla was the first one to react in a major way now. So meanwhile, we more often also get feedback that a lot of manufacturers are working on leather-free interiors and are aware of the situation. E.g. Bentley, Mini and Kia have started vegan car interior programmes. Besides Tesla, Mercedes already shows major choices for sustainable interiors, you always have to pay attention to the details when ordering, of course - and we are happy to give advice. However, much has to be done still and the Autogefuehl community is massively helping in boosting the positive change! Help to raise awareness on this subject. Thanks!
That's amazing, thank you for quick and very detailed answer. I personally like the look of leather, but prefer faux leather to real one for the reasons outlined by you. And yes, used leather seats look awfully baggy. :) Thanks again and good luck, obviously subd!
yeah , considering the price the interior looks dull compared to the german and british rivals. in a car like this the interior matters more to me than how it looks outside.
Halo Thomas I really like all your videos👌 following you for a long time. Your Test your drive are always full interesting and quality. You are unfortunately the only journalist to talk about the animal condition, and what causes the use of animal skin. Anyway, continues like that for our greatest pleasure, our passion for the automobile and for the animal cause. Keep fighting 🙏 As we say in france, merci beaucoup
even if they stopped using leather tomorrow it would not make things better for the animals in fact the opposite would happen, leather is a by product not the primary product, meat will still be on all the shelves as normal and the skins would be used for other things or destroyed and the animals would not need to be treated as well as they are now as the skins don't need to be in good condition anymore. and calling it animal skin and not leather just makes Thomas seem likes he is trying to force his opinion on this matter on the viewers and it should be our decision to make. hope you can see both sides of this. regards jay
+jay b First to the practical reasons: 1. animal skin seats get hot in summer and you stick to the seat 2. they are cold in winter 3. on cloth or microfibre, you basically don’t need seat heating nor cooling 4. animal skin seats wear out very fast and look like granny’s old sofa 5. if you want leather look, the leatherette (faux leather) surfaces are meanwhile highly evolved and it is possible that it feels even softer and better than anything else (See our Tesla Model X review) So Tesla shows that the discussion wether you need animal skin is basically done. Still, now to the environmental reasons: 1. There are many productions where the cow is killed for the skin first, sometimes even alive, the skin is the most profitable single part of the body. 2. The way the cows are held are catastrophic (see videos below) 3. Even if a cow gets killed for meat first, you give additional money to an industry that relies on murder, pollutes the environment and harms people with chemicals. 4. Does it really matter for which cause a mammal, that is 99 % genetically identical with us, gets killed? Would you say a cow only got slaughtered for the meat in the leg and thus it got slaughtered for the meat in the neck anyway? That doesn’t make sense. 5. So to the often said argument, animal skin would just be a byproduct, please google/youtube "leather is not a byproduct" you will find plenty of information. A good overview on all those issues can also be found here: adaptt.org/ 6. Let's say you are standing at the meat counter. And you ask for the leg of the cow. The butcher tells you: "You can eat that without worrying, the cow was slaughtered for the neck first". The next customer demands the neck. The butcher tells him: "It's not your fault, the cow was slaughtered for the belly". An the next customer demands the hide, what answer does he get? You see, that argument of "byproduct" comes from the meat and leather industry to cover that you contribute to killing no matter which part of the body you buy. Special videos: 1. A special video from Autogefühl considering the use of leather can be found here: ruclips.net/video/8f91KgbVbJQ/видео.html 2. And another one right here: ruclips.net/video/tMNgcLE0LDU/видео.html 3. Furthermore, you’ll find footage of leather production here, where people are walking in chemicals etc. and animals have to watch their friends being slaughtered in front of their eyes: ruclips.net/video/JipYvuDsI6s/видео.html timecode starting 27:46 4. This is another video which very well summarizes the torture of leather production, shots taken at big farms which directly produce for the automotive industry: ruclips.net/video/OgHs239bAnE/видео.html Help to raise awareness on this subject. Thanks!
i'll never be able to catch the reason why the hell they equip all Maseratis with that cartoon-looking Dodge-Chrysler infotainment while a close historic partner of FCA like Magneti Marelli does hi-end systems for Bmw.
Whilst this car may really appeal to fans of Maserati I think overall it falls short of the very best the market currently has to offer. The inside does look luxurious but just not particularly special and it seems to lack the latest technology. The exterior design again is good but not especially any better than an F-Pace or even Alfa Romeo Stelvio, it appears just a little too fussy. I wouldn't choose one ahead of the cheaper Audi Q5 or the stylish new Range Rover Velar.
Opinions on this car's road performance are so different: from the "bulky and clumsy" we've heard here to "agile and swift as a sportsaloon" heard elsewhere. There's a quantity of videos showing how it handles on stressful corners at sustained speed, and its agility is quite evident - taking its weight into account. // Here the whole thing turns into a "meh" 2tons box agile like a 1930s wardrobe, probably even non-tested by a platoon of non-serious engineers. This is what i call a statement, no doubt. :)) Well ok, nice vid, thanks Tom.
thanks! hehe well I'm fine with other opinions also on the handling :) That's what it's called Autogefuehl and not Auto-oppression =) I can just state my experience, and from all big Premium/Luxury SUVs I have driven, this one has the worst handling, to me. Have u driven it yourself or are u referring to other reviewers? Caus some might be impressed by the V6 sound and performance and then also apply it to the handling
@Autogefühl no I've never drove one. I know, for a "discerning driver" it can be described as last in class or at least "yet non-mature". Not very much so for the average driver apparently, since numbers say it's selling pretty good. See what a good exhaust note can do ??!! :))
All I like about this car is the front facing...for 100k.. it has nothing to compare with the same price level SUVs, a x5 cayenne or gle class AMG even the normal model is much better I would say. I use to love Maserati, but they’re disappoint us again and again
I owned a Cayenne before for 12 years and now a Levante. I prefer the Levante and must say that a German doing a Italian Car review brings out some confirmation biases..
you mentioned looking like infiniti is not a compliment. that's why I mentioned current infiniti designs are quite good. I didn't say anything about price. a good looking car is a good looking car regardless of the price.
80386 Infiniti looks good for the prices they charge, but that car doesn't look too sharp regarding the price they sell it for. My Subaru looks also good for a 20 000€ car, but it wouldn't look good enough if Subaru charged 100 000€ for it. Do you understand what I originally meant?
Maybe because is all black but in person looks so much better. I just saw one with the dashboard in a mix of mokka letter and black plastic and looks gorgeous.
This particular spec is quite boring, but I assure you this is one of the best interiors on the market. Might not be as modern as an Audi but it has a timeless design and some of if not the best materials in the business
Sorry Thomas, you are so wrong on this one, and I like you as a reviewer. Worst vehicle in the premium segments oh boy really ? I love German cars had lots of Mercedes, BMW, Porsche and I bought (traded my 2012 ML550 ) 2018 Levante after test driving Mercedes and Macan for the similar price. Handling, quality of the materials inside ie leather, seats etc is much nicer on the Levante also handling is way better more sporty and stable than the Macan, engine note, paint quality ( what happened with Mercedes paint quality, OMG it is terrible nowadays, just look at the orange peel on almost all of the new Mercedes) and the overall premium feel of the Maserati made my decision easy, despite the fact that it was 10 K more than the Porsche. I am an old fashion quality oriented guy eg Mercedes W116 S class is my favourite old timer. Still have Merc AMG in my garage but love my Maserati for the very luxurious feel and an awesome ride? handling. Your nationality interfered with your objectivity on this one Thomas in my opinion (: Greetings from Canada.
Thanks for the feedback Michael. I can assure you that my nationality has nothing to do with any car rating. Or would I rate a BMW X5 worse since it is a US vehicle (build in Spartanburg)? Cars are international nowadays anyway. I really felt from my unbiased view that this car does not live up to the standards of the competitors, and a lot of colleagues of mine agree. However if you feel different about it, no problem, the most important thing is that the car pleases the owner :)
Michael N Michael N 3 weeks ago Hello Thomas, though you might enjoy my exchange with a BMW X5 admirer.... PS. by your logic Mercedes S class is not a German car, it is an INDIAN car, after all it is manufactured in Pune India or perhaps Thai car because it is made in Samut Prakan Thailand, do you really think BMW is an American car ????? ha ha ha. I am Canadian we are not as du... as our neighbours although we might be legally stoned nowadays ha ha ha... All the best to you, I still do not get your aversion towards leather ? Life is all about eating other life it seems cruel but it is not your or my fault it it what it is you have to eat to survive ... plants are also alive, they are just a different form of LIFE. don't you agree ? " Maserati Levante all the way !!! Way more classy, elegant exterior and interior, ride and handling is awesome and compared to I40's 3 liter 340 HP engine has 3 liter 430 hp Maserati/ Ferrari engine. Just upgraded from my Mercedes SUV. Germans these days are not as good as they used to be but the market likes them cause they have lots of tech/gismo crap, which is COOL to have nowadays. 3 REPLY View 4 replies baileyryanpatrick17 Highlighted reply baileyryanpatrick17 1 week ago You must be blind then because all EVERY review talks about is how bad the NAV is, how cheap the controls are that they literally lifted from Fiat Chrysler! Secondly, to get that 430hp engine you need to buy the Levante S...which STARTS at $85k, which is $25k more than the X540i. Not to mention lacks a TON of the tech in this BMW and has HORRIBLE reliability. REPLY Michael N Michael N 1 second ago I ain't no blind, I live and breathe, my friend, I live and breath ... and touch, and smell (the leather), and DRIVE oh yes ... and handle... the corners, and smile (: and appreciate the harmony of the design....... go for your trendy X 5 and enjoy your ride. Chrysler components, what ??? You mean window switches, ya, they are the same, so are the ones in a 130 K Merc GLS 63 AMG !!!! have you researched that ??? , how about Paolo Martinelli Ferrari Maserrati designed engine, Maserati chassis design, suspension design, Koni shocks, and overall mechanical quality ??? If that is from FIAT Chrysler OK, if that is FIAT QUALITY , I will take it ALL THE TIME !!! no problem, just as I will take any Ferrari or Maser from Fiat Chrysler as you say, over any BMW. BMW used to be a premium manufacturer, now they make X1s ............ and so on, and Mercedes makes A , B class etc, enjoy upper mild class cars (: , nothing wrong with that, just different market nowadays. PS. NOT EVERY reviewer ... only ENTERTAINERS like D M and so on. I have had many BMW's including the first X5 back in 2000, few Mercs and Rovers and an Audi Q7, now 2018 Lavante SQ4 (: It is an awsome car, but it might not be your taste, that is fair to say, just like a ribeye beef steak, my not be your thing, you might be a vegan, everything in live is RELATIVE !!!! I like classic beauty, and Italian quality design, flair, style, and German precision and Bordeaux wine, and Swiss precision watches, and Swiss cheese, yes please ..., you should get the point by now (: (: (: Cheers from Canada ! "
About the leather issue: We have researched this issue for many years now so please take your time to go through our extensive resources stated below as they answer every single question we have yet received concerning this matter. At Autogefühl, we have already received several thousands (!) comments, messages and mails that more and more people want to combine enjoying their car with reducing the environmental impact at the same time. We believe that sustainable luxury is possible or at least we should do everything to support that. Those many thousand people confirming this trend, motivate us to give you the most authentic information and background on the product parts. It is not about what you bought in the past, and it is not about blaming anyone, it is about what you decide in the future and what you can decide and influence as a customer. So we want you to have all information that you need for a decision you later enjoy and like best yourself. In Summer 2017, Tesla motors has decided to be the first manufacturer to go all the way with sustainable seat materials, only offering fabric/cloth seats or leatherette seats in different colours. They have banned all real leather from the seating surface and at the steering wheel in the white trim or on demand. So Tesla shows where the industry will and must be heading, just like they went forward with electrification first. Check out our special video addressing car CEOs as a first summary and also see conditions of animal skin production: ruclips.net/video/LNSUzZXzpdc/видео.html List of practical reasons against animal skin seats: 1. animal skin seats are often sold as an expensive option, by going for base trim level seats you can save a lot of money and get a better price-performance-deal (often the manufacturers claim that animal leather is top of luxury because they can earn the best money with it) 2. animal skin seats get hot in summer and you stick to the seat, probably you need seat cooling 3. they get very cold in winter and you need seat heating 4. on cloth or microfibre surfaces, you basically don’t need seat heating nor cooling 5. animal skin seats wear out very fast and look like an old sofa 6. if you want leather look or need seats that can be wiped clean easier, the leatherette (faux leather) surfaces are meanwhile highly evolved and it is possible that it feels even softer and better than anything else (See our Tesla Model X review ruclips.net/video/y2wNGFKa4M0/видео.html) So Tesla shows a good example for that and as described, non-leather materials are now standard for ALL Tesla 7. More manufacturer names for their good alternatives: Mercedes MBTex/Artico for leatherette, Dinamica for microfibre. BMW Sensatec, Toyota Sof-Tex, Lexus Nu-Luxe (all faux leather) To the environmental reasons: 1. The way the cows and other intelligent and social animals are raised and held are not according to the basic values that we all share (also see videos below) 2. The factory farming industry can be accounted for at least 40 % of climate emissions and thus is (according to numerous sources you can look up) the number one reason for climate change and environmental destruction. It is the number one reason for deforestation, two thirds of all agricultural land on earth is used for growing animal food crops. If you would feed humans directly by using the agricultural land, you could produce much more food for everyone. See this interesting essay for more on climate emissions background: www.worldwatch.org/files/pdf/Livestock%20and%20Climate%20Change.pdf 3. It is not only cows who are suffering, but also the environment and to a big part also humans. Think of slavery-like working conditions in slaughterhouses (there are plenty of documentaries about this) or think of chemically altered drinking water in animal skin production villages as also seen in the video footage. 4. The discussion, for which body part the cow is killed first, is very patronizing. But if you really think it would be important why someone gets killed in first place: There are many productions where the cow is killed for the skin first, sometimes even while still being (part-)alive, the skin is the most profitable single part of the body. 5. So even if a cow gets theoretically killed for meat first, in every case you give additional money to an industry that relies on killing, pollutes the environment and harms people with chemicals. Let's say you are standing at the meat counter. And you ask for the leg of the cow. The butcher tells you: "You can eat that without worrying, the cow was slaughtered for the neck first". The next customer demands the neck. The butcher tells him: "It's not your fault, the cow was slaughtered for the belly". A the next customer demands the hide, what answer does he get? You see, that argument of "byproduct" comes from the meat and leather industry to cover up that you contribute to killing no matter which part of the body you buy. 6. To the often said argument, animal skin would just be a byproduct, please google/youtube "leather is not a byproduct" you will find plenty of information. A good overview on all those issues can also be found here: adaptt.org/ To “But leatherette is not sustainable due to petrochemical production” 1. Indeed some fabrics and micro fibres are oil based, however most oil is spent on energy production, heating and fuel. The share of oil used for artificial cloth etc. is very very small. 2. If you look at the whole production process, the leatherette is way more sustainable than the leather produce. Even if you leave the ethical aspect aside, here is the official calculation of the CO2-Output animal skin vs leatherette (different kinds of leatherette): Leather 17 kg CO2/m² PVC leatherette 10 kg CO2/m² Acella Eco natural leatherette 8,5 kg CO2/m² Benova (PUR leatherette): 8 kg CO2/m² So by using the latest high-tech leatherette, you even the CO2-emissions are cut in half! 3. The best to-come solution are indeed plant-based materials like Pinatex (based on pineapple leaves) or new materials based on mycelia (roots of mushrooms) or other innovative natural products. That’s the future. A great extensive report is also to be found here: moneywisedriver.com/do-vegan-cars-exist-a-guide-to-non-leather-interiors/ More special video episodes: 1. A initial special video from Autogefühl considering the use of leather can be found here: ruclips.net/video/8f91KgbVbJQ/видео.html 2. And another one right here: ruclips.net/video/tMNgcLE0LDU/видео.html 3. Furthermore, you’ll find the footage of leather production also here, where people are walking in chemicals etc. and animals have to watch their friends being slaughtered in front of their eyes: ruclips.net/video/JipYvuDsI6s/видео.html timecode starting 27:46 4. This is another video which very well summarizes the torture of leather production, shots taken at big farms which directly produce for the automotive industry: ruclips.net/video/OgHs239bAnE/видео.html 5. Please note that those videos are made by well-known journalists and cameramen who were not influenced by any animal welfare organisation, they supply their footage to the animal rights groups of course. I partly know the creators of the video footage personally and they are all authentic. You don’t have to search long to find cruel production environments anyway. Manufacturers reactions: We started the very first inquiry years ago, with the result that car manufacturers do not reveal their sources of animal skin AT ALL. If it all would be clean and happening without harm, why don’t they show it to us whereas they are showing us every other detail of their products? They have good reason not to, because there is no such thing as a clean animal skin production without harming cows, humans and the environment. The only thing a manufacturer can do is increase their effort for a better future, and we are helping with in-depth talks and interviews by presenting the increasing customer demand for sustainable luxury. Tesla was the first one to react in a major way now. So meanwhile, we more often also get feedback that a lot of manufacturers are working on leather-free interiors and are aware of the situation. E.g. Bentley, Mini and Kia have started vegan car interior programmes. Besides Tesla, Mercedes already shows major choices for sustainable interiors, you always have to pay attention to the details when ordering, of course - and we are happy to give advice. However, much has to be done still and the Autogefuehl community is massively helping in boosting the positive change! Help to raise awareness on this subject. Thanks!
I swear to god..... if Ferrari or Lamborghini are making a SUV i will never eat Spaghetti or Pizza in my entire life again!!! Shame on Maserati and Porsche for beeing so greedy for money and f**** up theit sports cas heritage :(
Porsche Cayenne and Macan are pretty descent cars. Actually if you consider they have 0 background making SUVs their first product blew the competition out of the water they are fantastic cars that kept the company alive. And Lamborghini made a pick up truck in the past lol... All kidding aside Lambo has a good concept for a future SUV (google URUS) and they have a good platform to start on... Q7, Touareg & Cayenne...
radu_c It's not being greedy. It's called securing the company's future. More sales = More budget for RnD. I don't really see what's bad about sporty brands making SUVs. If anything, it's actually worthy of praise if a sports car company is able to make an SUV(which they don't usually make), and still able to make their DNA come through, and you still know what brand it is. Excitement comes in all shapes and sizes. SUVs are no exception.
thing is that it can be 30 degress one day, and the next one it drops to 20 with wind and it can become quite cold, you have very nice days yes, but it's not that you can calculate with one week sunny and 30 degrees fully :)
The interior is a lot like dodge journey.... so cheap...the rear looks like a Hyundai ix35 .. In the other hand , thomas you rules the car video industry....
It seems like the Fiat Chrysler group have spend much less money and effort developing this new line of Maseratis, than they have the new line of Alfa Romeos. That is a real shame, and the risk ruining the whole value of the brand, if this does not change very fast. Charging more for less, just because it has a Maserati badge, is not going to work for very long.
![BLACK BAG - Official Trailer [HD] - Only in Theaters March 14](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Du0Xp8WX_7I/mqdefault.jpg)
I have this vehicle, and I must say that it's worth every penny. It's $100,000 but it's luxurious, special, exotic, and the handleing is on point. The sound of it is amazing.
I have one too, it is amazing and love it !!! Had many Germans, ant this one is so much more refined !!! Handling is amazing !!! I appreciate every detail of the design.
My dad is looking for a used one in about 2/3 months. Any thing we should definitely look for in a levante? (Options, factory errors, wear and tear?)
Terrible build quality, odd styling but great sound even with the base engine I had
Please update on Quality and Maintenance costs? Thank you!
FCA is making the coolest and most distinctive cars today. I admire them no matter if it is Fiat Panda 4x4, Maserati Levante or Ferrari GTB.
Most beautiful high end SUV. Looks more expensive than it really is. I love made in Italy and Maserati & Co.
0:43 “Let's go! Uh...let's go!” Thomas is just too precious! 🤗
Thanks again Thomas and the Autogefuehl team for another amazingly informative car review.
+MrRiyuku 👍👍
I actually think this is a nice car! Great-sounding engine, good looks all-round, good interior! But, except for the double armrest misalignment, I've noticed another mistake about the armrest compartment: the 12V power supply should be somewhere at the top of the cubby hole! Being down there and between the bottle holders, there's a danger of the outside bottle condensation ruining it, especially if powering something!
Your reviews are superb, detailed, clear and no wasted sales verbage...just really good reviews.Really appreciated.
thanks keep tuning in! =)
I've been keen on the Mesarati Levante for quite sometime now since its launch last year and i must admit Thomas your reviews online are unbiased, detailed and informative. Most of the reviewers online made an exception with the way the automated lever performed when trying to change to/from parking mode, i was looking forward to hear your honest view on it, anyways i would appreciate if you could do a comparison of the Levante with other competitor vehicles in the same segment. As always your videos online on Autogufuhl are great, so carry on the goodwork :))
+holydevil20 thanks! We have reviewed every other competitor just to RUclips search them with autogefuehl
The digital Tacho has a remarkable refresh rate, did they use an i7 processor in there?
The rear seat alone is a major disappointment but an Italian car with numb steering is rediculous. When you have your hands on an Italian steering wheel you should feel like you're being electrocuted! And loving it!
Been missing Thomas's voice !
Man, you are the best in previewing any car 👍 always fan of your videos
thanks pal!
I was somewhat disappointed when Thomas opened the door and I saw the interior. It just doesn't look like the interior of a car which costs one hundred and then thousand euros (in this configuration).
Thomas your outfit really matches the car. I don't know it fits together perfectly.
Hi Thomas,
First of all, many thanks for all the excellent videos. I've followed the channel for many years already; always great!
When this video came out, you were unimpressed by the quality of the Levante. Interior not good enough for a luxury car and the steering, handling and suspension completely insufficient.
Many years have passed since and I personally think the interior looks better in the later facelifts. What do you think about the quality though? Has it improved? Is steering, handling and suspension better?
I know Autogefuehl tested the more expensive V8 versions a couple of years later and I get a sense that you think they drive better. But are they good enough now? And more importantly, what about the V6 version? Have you tried the V6 version more recently and did you see any improvement? If yes, what model year should we be looking for?
Many thanks!
PS. Just read that Maserati will cease the production of Levante this month! End of an era it seems.
Good catch, Thomas! Everyone says the switchgear is from the Chrysler bin parts, and that makes the new Maseratis cheap cars, but they're indeed coming from the times when Daimler-Chrysler existed, and they're from the Mercedes parts bin.
+Arty Eet thanks! Indeed the Gear switcher is really horrible, so often you miss reverse or neutral
The gear selector is indeed fiddly, to say at least, but I was talking about the window switches and other buttons.
Thank you for another honest, detailed review.
I love my levante.solid quality.
And that sound...you have to appreciate the brand and history. To enjoy it really..
Great channel! And the route to Essen I know! Keep it up, Mister!
thanks =)
Love your final analysis Thomas, honesty in an auto review; "well i nevah" You remain the best mi amigo!
Always appreciated!
So many people missing the point of this car. I know, 90% are kids with no real clue, but anyway: Maserati is NOT challenging german Suvs on the aspects they do best, that is essentially onboard gadgets and eye-candies of all possible sorts. That would be stupid since they're 20yrs ahead. Maserati comes in with the features where italians are best at, i.e. handling and road performance, and they DID hit the target, just look at sales figures. Look: you'll get bored of fancy gadgets rather quickly, but you'll never get bored of having fun. Keep it in mind kids.
I get the Italien style idea, but there is one thing that this car is worst in: handling - as exlained in detail in the review
@Autogefühl No-no. We dont like such cars in Italy. Never drove one but saw other reviews where it 'apparently' manages at ease narrow twisty roads at high pace. But images aside, as i said before most comments about its handling get to similar conclusions from both italian and foreign press - i.e. at Maserati they decided to screw up themselves, and with a pretty nice run-up, too.
This review here on the other hand, taking place part in a city road with traffic and part in a straight strip of autobahn, doesn't make things very evident, so we all lay on your gefuhl words.
The David don’t know if you are actually trolling, who buys a suv for its handling? Who actually need that a little bit more performance while sacrificing so many “gadgets “ and overpaying tens of thousands for it? Maserati is a dead brand, face it.
Michael N
1 second ago
I totally agree with you , I have one too, it is amazing and love it !!! Had many Germans, ant this one is so much more refined !!! Handling is amazing !!! I appreciate every detail of the design. Gadgets and gismos in every new TRENDY SUV now, and not the real engineering quality of the whole balanced design like in this MASERATI !!!
Kids, go for what is COOL these day ... Gimmy more tech kind of thing ........
Great Review Thomas. Love the AJ music - many thanks. Like the frameless windows, but prefer a bright coloured interior. The switches for radio controls - don't you just love 'The Thomas Detail'. Disappointing rear seating! No HUD? Would prefer softer air suspension mode and sharper steering. Fun exhaust sound. Loved the whole of the U-Turn sequence. Definitely true about the more expensive the car, the rich people just buy it - a subtle marketing ploy! Fantastic video, many thanks Thomas and Team.
+gordon bennett u name it!
Oh my!!! Looks at all those Chrysler knobs and switch gear :P
Finally! Thank you Thomas and @Autogefühl :P
The front end would look much much better without these very misplaced fog lights
I forgot to remind you that for the same configuration my Levante SQ4 (MY 2018) costs about 20,000 euros less than the new Cayenne s, which is certainly a great car like many other German cars, but as I said, all cars can have defects or problems. There are also many other prestigious brands that deserve respect and not be treated with derisive features.
wow thats really a notable gap
Another great review from Thomas. Much much better than the car it seems.
+ian taf 👏👏
I have driven this car and felt Turbo lag was a big problem. Also, it lacks refinement in sound insulation with a constant drone coming into the cabin.
I have a Levante S.
I totally agree, most people look back, when they hear the maserati engine noise.
Even in Germany, Levante is still rare.
Steering wheel.... hmm, hard to say. It is not for normal driver, I must say. And if you gonna buy a 2nd Hand Levante, you have to check Steering wheel first, because it will be the first reason for your first repairservice ( I believe),
Well, it's a fun car for sure. For me, I'd like drive a Passat or Arteon (get it in 2 Month) for long trip. For short trip, I always pick Levante. ;)
Ohhhh that shifting sound on hard acceleration.
From the side profile, it looks like a QX50 from Infinty!
I liked the beginning. You said "Let's go" and Maserati goes 0-200 km/h!
=)
Thanks for the excellent review. I'm was looking at this lavente the f pace and the Velar. As much as I love the sound the engine makes I can't justify the money for the issues you pointed out. I may take another look at the alfa Romeo Stevilo.
Indeed, I'm sure some of the Stelvio petrol engines might please you. The price will be attractive as well!
When will you test the new Maserati Gricale? Sounds like it should be more enjoyable to drive … a taller Ghibli?
I think that Thomas's criticisms are rather disrespectful and biased dealing sufficiently with a prestigious brand such as Maserati, where they work people who passionately build cars that are certainly at the same level as the competitors. In the last 15 years, in my family we have had 5 Mercedes and a Porsche. After being broken down with my Mercedes CLS 350 at 32,000 km, after having had problems of reliability with the Mercedes GLA 200 4matic and having had problems with my last Cayenne (oil leaks that required an intervention for a total cost of € 5000 for the distribution chain tensioner at 75,000 km) I assure you that it is a real pleasure to hear the 6-cylinders Ferrari orchestra which bothers our reviewer.
thanks for the feedback! We cannot test long-term unfortunately so its good to have the feedback.
The audi Q7 and the volvo XC90 are just a much much better product at a cheaper price,when buying this SUV your paying half of your money just for that badge.
If you believe the dishonest German guy who defends always the German product and the ridiculous Audis and Volkswagen Sprint alias Touareg and Q5 Sprints like the Cayenne and the Macan with the ridiculous 7 inch infotainment and the overstated dynamics
MrDandymusic oh its you again, please bro fuck off watch some reviews
Julian J the Maserati sounds way better than both. It also closer compares with the Q5 and XC60 in size. You do pay at least $10,000 for brand name though.
HOW can you compare ? Sure you can get cheeper cars, Maserati is more expensive than most, go for Chrysler or Ford, way better value than XC90 or Q 7 , you either want the best or the best VALUE decide, no Bordeaux wines for somebody how just wants to get drunk (: if you get my point...
Great review, looking into getting one or the stelvio. I had a evo and a Tesla p85d which they had in the UK we used to say the turning circle of the titanic !!!
thanks keep joining us!
Hi Thomas, thanks for the great review. Any insight why many car brands build fake exhaust pipes?
+Yi Xiong design purpose and also possible crash safety
I wonder if you can change that blue color on the screen
Back seat: Agreed. Really disappointing for 85,000 plus for a base model loaded. Pushes you to the new Cayenne. Was all set to say, "If I had 80-90K, and wanted an SUV, this would be it", but I think there are several items here that move you to the Velar (not much room in this one in the rear also) and the Porsche, which IMO are the closest competitors in the 75 to 90 class of SUV.
Test is done with a Levante with relative small 19 inch rims. Will the steering precision substantial improve with bigger 20 or 21 inch rims?
+Paul Jonkers no its about the steering itself
Thomas, I am an avid fan of your videos! But I am in a conundrum. If you had the following two options, which would you pick? almost new 2016 Quattroporte sq4 (only 10K miles) or a 2010 Panamera turbo (a lot of miles )? similar price.
thanks m8! Hmm... best is to compare our reviews of this segment first:
Quattroporte: ruclips.net/video/jZtT8wj2e-Q/видео.html
Panamera: ruclips.net/video/n7tNkyREdrw/видео.html
A7: ruclips.net/video/sS_ypFTSddU/видео.html
6 GT: ruclips.net/video/eYpLaSA-vEs/видео.html
CLS: ruclips.net/video/U6XiBvVuq7k/видео.html
Or a comparison video: ruclips.net/video/dIZhflhK4-E/видео.html
@@autogefuehl thanks, yes watched all the videos...but what would thomas do? :)
3:58.... Is the Golf6 driver drunk or just a little bit confused???
I bought one. I wanted to try it. I think I will buy a X6 or a Kayen. I like to show off and to be exclusive, but it is too much exclusivity for me in this car.
Thomas: Cayenne or GLE are better to drive? Sharper steering wheel?? Tks!!
+Guzmán Grunert for sure
Wie Schade :(... Well this is the first generation of the Levante vs 3rth GLE/Cayenne.. For being the first SUV of Maserati, it's a very good SUV. Personally I think the Levante has more styling and character (but less tech) than any other German SUV. Also the exhaust is a masterpiece to the ears. Whats your opinion? Great Review ;)!!!
there is something wrong with this car design but i can't say what.... it's a general feeling .... in fact i think it's just that the price is too high compare to what the car looklike ( you cold say it's a nismo or a chrysler)
Nice review. Very helpful. Whats your thoughts on Alpina XD3?
merci! havent driven one
The interior really turn me off for a car that cost this much, come on man the interior looks like a typical American car
i don't know why are people so much pointing out those fake exhausts...its not as if it matters really. You get the visual part and that's all you want really, who cares if real exhaust is inside...This is my opinion..
Same, if its not a sports car I really don't care. Also it keeps it cleaner and makes it easier to keep clean.
To add to what the others are saying, also, in winter it looks incredibly stupid when you can see the smoke/fog coming out of the bottom and not the trendy cut-outs.
Cyfic: Your logic is spot on!
All recent cars even hypercars like LaFerrari have this solution with a separate fake terminal, but the exhaust inside is real, and if it's real isn't a problem, the problem is the real fake exhaust terminals like in many German carmakers, also in German cars even in extreme versions like AMG fake exhaust terminals are ill fitted, at least in Italian cars like the Levante here, or LaFerrari or Stelvio they did a far greater job and of course are functional even in a base Stelvio or Giulia, unlike some base C-Classes or GLCs which have a fake exhaust terminal without any exhaust inside
All modern conception cars have a fake exhaust terminal even supercars and hypercard the important is that is functional and well fitted, German cars have ill fitted exhaust and in some cars like C-Class and GLC they even have fake exhaust terminal without any functional exhaust inside which is the worse
I don't know why you think it's weird to have the trunk button low? Maserati made it that way so it can be easier for people who is not as tall.
I like the design of the front. That's about it though. The gauges are particularly old looking. I like digital gauges or digital ones that look analogue maybe.
Exterior styling wise, Maserati should have bought Mazda CX9 bodies, installed their engines and slapped on some tridents and a dash clock.
It doesn't look anything like a Mazda.. Mazda is a piece of garbage..scrap it.
I really like the front look, but the back seems a bit dull IMO. Also, you could buy better built SUVs but you're not buying a Maserati because of their reliability, but because they're still considered "exotic".
Little tip:
Actually you could write down in the description box how much the presented car costs.
all info in the video :) enjoy full length! :)
Will there be a review of the Alfa Stelvio soon??
khris they reviewed it
+Aditya Jayaram Hi AJ!
Thanks!! I'm on it!!
Byron Ohene-Adu Hey man :D what's up
My Audi SQ5 looks like a real bargain compared to this thing, looks better, performs better and cost a lot less. This is a car for people that are more impressed by badges than facts.
Ed Roy its about class if you buy this car
Audi will be in shop a lot..and is very small.plane looking..garbage quality..
Can you do a review on the 2018 GranTurismo?
Nice Clinical Review on your Part ! People buy Maserati not because how the Interior should be which by the way not Bad Its Just not excellent ,Folks Buys because of its Powertrain & Looks ,.Anyway I Like the way point out bad things bluntly .We could have appreciated few words Like Engine/ Tran performs better than few competitors(German cars & which is most likely at-least with few ). Welcome there.But surely it may fair well in certain Markets on a good note.Nice & Clear Review though.
34:50 75%-25% is not 2/3-1/3 lol, small mistake but great review as always, thanks!
Looks like a Mazda. The S needs 21 inch alloys. Great review.
The switch gear is borrowed from Jeep and dodge as there both part of the fiat corporation
It's as if Maserati is trying to build bad cars. The Ghibli had major flaws, none of which seem to have been addressed with the Levante; The bad gear selector is still there, the cheap plastics around the bad infotainment system are still there, the steering is apparently bad - which was also my experience with the Ghibli, which I thought handled about as sharply as the Titanic - , the plastics inside the center compartment are cheap as well, and the exterior design is fairly boring. Let's not also forget the lack of leg room in the back along with cheap plastics on the back of the seats, and the fact that despite putting massive shift paddles, they haven't extended the turn signal and wiper stocks further so they don't get in the way, not to mention other quality issues, which I'm sure will pop up eventually. Truly, the lack of attention to detail is appalling, especially at that price point.
I really don't get it though. Maseratis have really become the cars for people who want to be seen in Maseratis. They're banking on the fact that the name and badge still carry some weight, supplementing them with an impressive engine note, hoping it'll make people forget the quality issues. I think they're playing a very dangerous game, because in a few years, if they keep doing this, the trident will certainly lose its prestige. I don't see why I would buy this over one of the competitors really.
Finally, on a more positive note, thank you Thomas for another very good and honest review of the vehicle.
I enjoyed reading your comment. I share your opinion.
Well thank you for taking time to read it. After reading it back, I do realize it was a bit long. Certainly a result of my general disappointment with regards to the vehicle and the brand in general.
MarcXW No, I wish more people would unlike me but like you take their time to expound their thoughts, but time is running.
Can you please tell me what Maseratis of old do you have in mind when you are disappointed like this and you say the badge still carries some weight?
I'm asking that because I can't remember any Maserati that was free from the "major flaws" like the ones you mentioned - except when we talk about the engines, and the QP6, Ghibli and Levante still have incredible engines, worthy of the legacy.
Take a look at all the previous models (excluding the very few coach built ones) and you'll see that all of them suffer from low quality or they share components with whichever cars the company's owner of the time was producing.
It might come as a shock, but the current cars (QP6, Ghibli and Levante) are the best cars Maserati ever produced. You don't have to look further back in history than the QP5/GT or the 3200/4200 and you'll see the horrible interior build quality and insane idiosyncrasies. Should I even mention the BiTurbo era cars?
+MarcXW very thorough comment!
Thomas, nice reviews you're doing. Loving your German accent too! I'd never watch an hour long car review, except yours, dude! You seem to stress leather on seats in your reviews, are you a vegetarian? :) Respect.
+polyrider81 thx for the support!!
+polyrider81 Thank you for taking interest in this very important topic!
We have researched this issue for many years now so please take your time to go through our extensive resources stated below as they answer on every question we have yet received concerning this matter.
At Autogefühl, we have already received several thousands (!) comments, messages and mails that more and more people want to combine enjoying their car with reducing the environmental impact at the same time. We believe that sustainable luxury is possible or at least we should do everything to support that. Those many thousand people confirming this trend, motivate us to give you the most authentic information and background on the product parts. It is not about what you bought in the past, and it is not about blaming anyone, it is about what you decide in the future and what you can decide and influence as a customer. So we want you to have all information that you need for a decision you later enjoy and like best yourself.
In Summer 2017, Tesla motors has decided to be the first manufacturer to go all the way with sustainable seat materials, only offering fabric/cloth seats or leatherette seats in different colours. They have banned all real leather from the seating surface and at the steering wheel in the white trim or on demand. So Tesla shows where the industry will and must be heading, just like they went forward with electrification first.
Check out our special video addressing car CEOs as a first summary and also see conditions of animal skin production:
ruclips.net/video/LNSUzZXzpdc/видео.html
List of practical reasons against animal skin seats:
1. animal skin seats are often sold as an expensive option, by going for base trim level seats you can save a lot of money and get a better price-performance-deal (often the manufacturers claim that animal leather is top of luxury because they can earn the best money with it)
2. animal skin seats get hot in summer and you stick to the seat, probably you need seat cooling
3. they get very cold in winter and you need seat heating
4. on cloth or microfibre surfaces, you basically don’t need seat heating nor cooling
5. animal skin seats wear out very fast and look like an old sofa
6. if you want leather look or need seats that can be wiped clean easier, the leatherette (faux leather) surfaces are meanwhile highly evolved and it is possible that it feels even softer and better than anything else (See our Tesla Model X review ruclips.net/video/y2wNGFKa4M0/видео.html) So Tesla shows a good example for that and as described, non-leather materials are now standard for ALL Tesla
7. More manufacturer names for their good alternatives: Mercedes MBTex/Artico for leatherette, Dinamica for microfibre. BMW Sensatec, Toyota Sof-Tex, Lexus Nu-Luxe (all faux leather)
To the environmental reasons:
1. The way the cows and other intelligent and social animals are raised and held are not according to the basic values that we all share (also see videos below)
2. The factory farming industry can be accounted for at least 40 % of climate emissions and thus is (according to numerous sources you can look up) the number one reason for climate change and environmental destruction. It is the number one reason for deforestation, two thirds of all agricultural land on earth is used for growing animal food crops. If you would feed humans directly by using the agricultural land, you could produce much more food for everyone. See this interesting essay for more on climate emissions background: www.worldwatch.org/files/pdf/Livestock%20and%20Climate%20Change.pdf
3. It is not only cows who are suffering, but also the environment and to a big part also humans. Think of slavery-like working conditions in slaughterhouses (there are plenty of documentaries about this) or think of chemically altered drinking water in animal skin production villages as also seen in the video footage.
4. The discussion, for which body part the cow is killed first, is very patronizing. But if you really think it would be important why someone gets killed in first place: There are many productions where the cow is killed for the skin first, sometimes even while still being (part-)alive, the skin is the most profitable single part of the body.
5. So even if a cow gets theoretically killed for meat first, in every case you give additional money to an industry that relies on killing, pollutes the environment and harms people with chemicals. Let's say you are standing at the meat counter. And you ask for the leg of the cow. The butcher tells you: "You can eat that without worrying, the cow was slaughtered for the neck first". The next customer demands the neck. The butcher tells him: "It's not your fault, the cow was slaughtered for the belly". A the next customer demands the hide, what answer does he get? You see, that argument of "byproduct" comes from the meat and leather industry to cover up that you contribute to killing no matter which part of the body you buy.
6. To the often said argument, animal skin would just be a byproduct, please google/youtube "leather is not a byproduct" you will find plenty of information. A good overview on all those issues can also be found here: adaptt.org/
To “But leatherette is not sustainable due to petrochemical production”
1. Indeed some fabrics and micro fibres are oil based, however most oil is spent on energy production, heating and fuel. The share of oil used for artificial cloth etc. is very very small.
2. If you look at the whole production process, the leatherette is way more sustainable than the leather produce.
3. The best to-come solution are indeed plant-based materials like Pinatex (based on pineapple leaves) or new materials based on mycelia (roots of mushrooms) or other innovative natural products. That’s the future.
More special video episodes:
1. A initial special video from Autogefühl considering the use of leather can be found here: ruclips.net/video/8f91KgbVbJQ/видео.html
2. And another one right here: ruclips.net/video/tMNgcLE0LDU/видео.html
3. Furthermore, you’ll find the footage of leather production also here, where people are walking in chemicals etc. and animals have to watch their friends being slaughtered in front of their eyes: ruclips.net/video/JipYvuDsI6s/видео.html
timecode starting 27:46
4. This is another video which very well summarizes the torture of leather production, shots taken at big farms which directly produce for the automotive industry: ruclips.net/video/OgHs239bAnE/видео.html
5. Please note that those videos are made by well-known journalists and cameramen who were not influenced by any animal welfare organisation, they supply their footage to the animal rights groups of course. I partly know the creators of the video footage personally and they are all authentic. You don’t have to search long to find cruel production environments anyway.
Manufacturers reactions:
We started the very first inquiry years ago, with the result that car manufacturers do not reveal their sources of animal skin AT ALL. If it all would be clean and happening without harm, why don’t they show it to us whereas they are showing us every other detail of their products? They have good reason not to, because there is no such thing as a clean animal skin production without harming cows, humans and the environment. The only thing a manufacturer can do is increase their effort for a better future, and we are helping with in-depth talks and interviews by presenting the increasing customer demand for sustainable luxury. Tesla was the first one to react in a major way now.
So meanwhile, we more often also get feedback that a lot of manufacturers are working on leather-free interiors and are aware of the situation. E.g. Bentley, Mini and Kia have started vegan car interior programmes. Besides Tesla, Mercedes already shows major choices for sustainable interiors, you always have to pay attention to the details when ordering, of course - and we are happy to give advice. However, much has to be done still and the Autogefuehl community is massively helping in boosting the positive change!
Help to raise awareness on this subject. Thanks!
That's amazing, thank you for quick and very detailed answer. I personally like the look of leather, but prefer faux leather to real one for the reasons outlined by you. And yes, used leather seats look awfully baggy. :) Thanks again and good luck, obviously subd!
+polyrider81 Great to have you with us!
I feel it will look even better without front number plate!
Because you're an American!
such a good review, thank you for your honest insights
+mychannelnameisbah 👏👏
It's really not a remarkable product in my opinion.
yeah , considering the price the interior looks dull compared to the german and british rivals. in a car like this the interior matters more to me than how it looks outside.
mika haken have you see how shit audi is!??
Guys! Italian cars are to buy from heart not from head :D
All said..
Arsalan B. oooh please stop with this stereotype, we're not in the 1950s anymore.
I would prefer 1080p30 to save data. 60 fps really isn't needed in an Autoreview, but 1080p is better than 720p.
Halo Thomas
I really like all your videos👌
following you for a long time.
Your Test your drive are always full interesting and quality. You are unfortunately the only journalist to talk about the animal condition, and what causes the use of animal skin. Anyway, continues like that for our greatest pleasure, our passion for the automobile and for the animal cause. Keep fighting 🙏
As we say in france, merci beaucoup
merci !!
even if they stopped using leather tomorrow it would not make things better for the animals in fact the opposite would happen, leather is a by product not the primary product, meat will still be on all the shelves as normal and the skins would be used for other things or destroyed and the animals would not need to be treated as well as they are now as the skins don't need to be in good condition anymore.
and calling it animal skin and not leather just makes Thomas seem likes he is trying to force his opinion on this matter on the viewers and it should be our decision to make.
hope you can see both sides of this.
regards
jay
+jay b my opinion is I like Blue Cars, the fact is that animal skin supports Killing and it's not a byproduct
+jay b First to the practical reasons:
1. animal skin seats get hot in summer and you stick to the seat
2. they are cold in winter
3. on cloth or microfibre, you basically don’t need seat heating nor cooling
4. animal skin seats wear out very fast and look like granny’s old sofa
5. if you want leather look, the leatherette (faux leather) surfaces are meanwhile highly evolved and it is possible that it feels even softer and better than anything else (See our Tesla Model X review) So Tesla shows that the discussion wether you need animal skin is basically done.
Still, now to the environmental reasons:
1. There are many productions where the cow is killed for the skin first, sometimes even alive, the skin is the most profitable single part of the body.
2. The way the cows are held are catastrophic (see videos below)
3. Even if a cow gets killed for meat first, you give additional money to an industry that relies on murder, pollutes the environment and harms people with chemicals.
4. Does it really matter for which cause a mammal, that is 99 % genetically identical with us, gets killed? Would you say a cow only got slaughtered for the meat in the leg and thus it got slaughtered for the meat in the neck anyway? That doesn’t make sense.
5. So to the often said argument, animal skin would just be a byproduct, please google/youtube "leather is not a byproduct" you will find plenty of information. A good overview on all those issues can also be found here: adaptt.org/
6. Let's say you are standing at the meat counter. And you ask for the leg of the cow. The butcher tells you: "You can eat that without worrying, the cow was slaughtered for the neck first". The next customer demands the neck. The butcher tells him: "It's not your fault, the cow was slaughtered for the belly". An the next customer demands the hide, what answer does he get? You see, that argument of "byproduct" comes from the meat and leather industry to cover that you contribute to killing no matter which part of the body you buy.
Special videos:
1. A special video from Autogefühl considering the use of leather can be found here: ruclips.net/video/8f91KgbVbJQ/видео.html
2. And another one right here: ruclips.net/video/tMNgcLE0LDU/видео.html
3. Furthermore, you’ll find footage of leather production here, where people are walking in chemicals etc. and animals have to watch their friends being slaughtered in front of their eyes: ruclips.net/video/JipYvuDsI6s/видео.html
timecode starting 27:46
4. This is another video which very well summarizes the torture of leather production, shots taken at big farms which directly produce for the automotive industry: ruclips.net/video/OgHs239bAnE/видео.html
Help to raise awareness on this subject. Thanks!
i'll never be able to catch the reason why the hell they equip all Maseratis with that cartoon-looking Dodge-Chrysler infotainment while a close historic partner of FCA like Magneti Marelli does hi-end systems for Bmw.
Whilst this car may really appeal to fans of Maserati I think overall it falls short of the very best the market currently has to offer. The inside does look luxurious but just not particularly special and it seems to lack the latest technology. The exterior design again is good but not especially any better than an F-Pace or even Alfa Romeo Stelvio, it appears just a little too fussy. I wouldn't choose one ahead of the cheaper Audi Q5 or the stylish new Range Rover Velar.
Opinions on this car's road performance are so different: from the "bulky and clumsy" we've heard here to "agile and swift as a sportsaloon" heard elsewhere. There's a quantity of videos showing how it handles on stressful corners at sustained speed, and its agility is quite evident - taking its weight into account. // Here the whole thing turns into a "meh" 2tons box agile like a 1930s wardrobe, probably even non-tested by a platoon of non-serious engineers. This is what i call a statement, no doubt. :)) Well ok, nice vid, thanks Tom.
thanks! hehe well I'm fine with other opinions also on the handling :) That's what it's called Autogefuehl and not Auto-oppression =)
I can just state my experience, and from all big Premium/Luxury SUVs I have driven, this one has the worst handling, to me. Have u driven it yourself or are u referring to other reviewers? Caus some might be impressed by the V6 sound and performance and then also apply it to the handling
@Autogefühl no I've never drove one. I know, for a "discerning driver" it can be described as last in class or at least "yet non-mature". Not very much so for the average driver apparently, since numbers say it's selling pretty good. See what a good exhaust note can do ??!! :))
All I like about this car is the front facing...for 100k.. it has nothing to compare with the same price level SUVs, a x5 cayenne or gle class AMG even the normal model is much better I would say. I use to love Maserati, but they’re disappoint us again and again
I owned a Cayenne before for 12 years and now a Levante. I prefer the Levante and must say that a German doing a Italian Car review brings out some confirmation biases..
Is someone following you with that VW?
i think the exhaust sounds like it has a loose heat shield vibrating. For that kind of money I would buy three Mazdas instead.
27:48 That is actually a Touareg :-)
The best SUV in class !!!
Blackpink in your area we about to give you awesome lives get it awesome screen awesome camera long lasting battery life
Good to see many Japanese cars on the road
Looks like Infiniti. And that is NOT a compliment.
infinitis look pretty good these days. Q60 for example is a sharp looking car
80386 But Infiniti doesn't charge 100 000 € + for a car! That is the point!
you mentioned looking like infiniti is not a compliment. that's why I mentioned current infiniti designs are quite good. I didn't say anything about price. a good looking car is a good looking car regardless of the price.
80386 Infiniti looks good for the prices they charge, but that car doesn't look too sharp regarding the price they sell it for.
My Subaru looks also good for a 20 000€ car, but it wouldn't look good enough if Subaru charged 100 000€ for it. Do you understand what I originally meant?
The interior is underwhelming to say the least...
+
Maybe because is all black but in person looks so much better. I just saw one with the dashboard in a mix of mokka letter and black plastic and looks gorgeous.
This particular spec is quite boring, but I assure you this is one of the best interiors on the market. Might not be as modern as an Audi but it has a timeless design and some of if not the best materials in the business
All Black is BORING !!! Deliberately chosen by Tomas....Hates Italian Cars ~~ FORZA ALFA BABY
Looks bad, feels bad. Especially those stitching on the steering wheel. Already sold my levante 1 years ago for a macan gts. Feels good man
Looking very smart standing next to a smart car, suits you well
thanks paul !
Könnt ihr die Videos auch in deutsch bringen?
Infiniti Q70 translated to Italian ?
I really want to buy one of these
You should do the Bmw X4 M
the most cars you are asking for we have already covered, see the X4 M here: ruclips.net/video/Bcv4kADsbH0/видео.html
Sorry Thomas, you are so wrong on this one, and I like you as a reviewer. Worst vehicle in the premium segments oh boy really ? I love German cars had lots of Mercedes, BMW, Porsche and I bought (traded my 2012 ML550 ) 2018 Levante after test driving Mercedes and Macan for the similar price. Handling, quality of the materials inside ie leather, seats etc is much nicer on the Levante also handling is way better more sporty and stable than the Macan, engine note, paint quality ( what happened with Mercedes paint quality, OMG it is terrible nowadays, just look at the orange peel on almost all of the new Mercedes) and the overall premium feel of the Maserati made my decision easy, despite the fact that it was 10 K more than the Porsche. I am an old fashion quality oriented guy eg Mercedes W116 S class is my favourite old timer.
Still have Merc AMG in my garage but love my Maserati for the very luxurious feel and an awesome ride? handling.
Your nationality interfered with your objectivity on this one Thomas in my opinion (:
Greetings from Canada.
Thanks for the feedback Michael. I can assure you that my nationality has nothing to do with any car rating. Or would I rate a BMW X5 worse since it is a US vehicle (build in Spartanburg)? Cars are international nowadays anyway. I really felt from my unbiased view that this car does not live up to the standards of the competitors, and a lot of colleagues of mine agree. However if you feel different about it, no problem, the most important thing is that the car pleases the owner :)
Michael N
Michael N
3 weeks ago
Hello Thomas, though you might enjoy my exchange with a BMW X5 admirer....
PS. by your logic Mercedes S class is not a German car, it is an INDIAN car, after all it is manufactured in Pune India or perhaps Thai car because it is made in Samut Prakan Thailand, do you really think BMW is an American car ????? ha ha ha. I am Canadian we are not as du... as our neighbours although we might be legally stoned nowadays ha ha ha...
All the best to you, I still do not get your aversion towards leather ? Life is all about eating other life it seems cruel but it is not your or my fault it it what it is you have to eat to survive ... plants are also alive, they are just a different form of LIFE. don't you agree ?
"
Maserati Levante all the way !!! Way more classy, elegant exterior and interior, ride and handling is awesome and compared to I40's 3 liter 340 HP engine has 3 liter 430 hp Maserati/ Ferrari engine. Just upgraded from my Mercedes SUV. Germans these days are not as good as they used to be but the market likes them cause they have lots of tech/gismo crap, which is COOL to have nowadays.
3
REPLY
View 4 replies
baileyryanpatrick17
Highlighted reply
baileyryanpatrick17
1 week ago
You must be blind then because all EVERY review talks about is how bad the NAV is, how cheap the controls are that they literally lifted from Fiat Chrysler! Secondly, to get that 430hp engine you need to buy the Levante S...which STARTS at $85k, which is $25k more than the X540i. Not to mention lacks a TON of the tech in this BMW and has HORRIBLE reliability.
REPLY
Michael N
Michael N
1 second ago
I ain't no blind, I live and breathe, my friend, I live and breath ... and touch, and smell (the leather), and DRIVE oh yes ... and handle... the corners, and smile (: and appreciate the harmony of the design....... go for your trendy X 5 and enjoy your ride.
Chrysler components, what ??? You mean window switches, ya, they are the same, so are the ones in a 130 K Merc GLS 63 AMG !!!! have you researched that ??? , how about Paolo Martinelli Ferrari Maserrati designed engine, Maserati chassis design, suspension design, Koni shocks, and overall mechanical quality ??? If that is from FIAT Chrysler OK, if that is FIAT QUALITY , I will take it ALL THE TIME !!! no problem, just as I will take any Ferrari or Maser from Fiat Chrysler as you say, over any BMW. BMW used to be a premium manufacturer, now they make X1s ............ and so on, and Mercedes makes A , B class etc, enjoy upper mild class cars (: , nothing wrong with that, just different market nowadays.
PS. NOT EVERY reviewer ... only ENTERTAINERS like D M and so on.
I have had many BMW's including the first X5 back in 2000, few Mercs and Rovers and an Audi Q7, now 2018 Lavante SQ4 (: It is an awsome car, but it might not be your taste, that is fair to say, just like a ribeye beef steak, my not be your thing, you might be a vegan, everything in live is RELATIVE !!!!
I like classic beauty, and Italian quality design, flair, style, and German precision and Bordeaux wine, and Swiss precision watches, and Swiss cheese, yes please ..., you should get the point by now (: (: (:
Cheers from Canada !
"
About the leather issue:
We have researched this issue for many years now so please take your time to go through our extensive resources stated below as they answer every single question we have yet received concerning this matter.
At Autogefühl, we have already received several thousands (!) comments, messages and mails that more and more people want to combine enjoying their car with reducing the environmental impact at the same time. We believe that sustainable luxury is possible or at least we should do everything to support that. Those many thousand people confirming this trend, motivate us to give you the most authentic information and background on the product parts. It is not about what you bought in the past, and it is not about blaming anyone, it is about what you decide in the future and what you can decide and influence as a customer. So we want you to have all information that you need for a decision you later enjoy and like best yourself.
In Summer 2017, Tesla motors has decided to be the first manufacturer to go all the way with sustainable seat materials, only offering fabric/cloth seats or leatherette seats in different colours. They have banned all real leather from the seating surface and at the steering wheel in the white trim or on demand. So Tesla shows where the industry will and must be heading, just like they went forward with electrification first.
Check out our special video addressing car CEOs as a first summary and also see conditions of animal skin production:
ruclips.net/video/LNSUzZXzpdc/видео.html
List of practical reasons against animal skin seats:
1. animal skin seats are often sold as an expensive option, by going for base trim level seats you can save a lot of money and get a better price-performance-deal (often the manufacturers claim that animal leather is top of luxury because they can earn the best money with it)
2. animal skin seats get hot in summer and you stick to the seat, probably you need seat cooling
3. they get very cold in winter and you need seat heating
4. on cloth or microfibre surfaces, you basically don’t need seat heating nor cooling
5. animal skin seats wear out very fast and look like an old sofa
6. if you want leather look or need seats that can be wiped clean easier, the leatherette (faux leather) surfaces are meanwhile highly evolved and it is possible that it feels even softer and better than anything else (See our Tesla Model X review ruclips.net/video/y2wNGFKa4M0/видео.html) So Tesla shows a good example for that and as described, non-leather materials are now standard for ALL Tesla
7. More manufacturer names for their good alternatives: Mercedes MBTex/Artico for leatherette, Dinamica for microfibre. BMW Sensatec, Toyota Sof-Tex, Lexus Nu-Luxe (all faux leather)
To the environmental reasons:
1. The way the cows and other intelligent and social animals are raised and held are not according to the basic values that we all share (also see videos below)
2. The factory farming industry can be accounted for at least 40 % of climate emissions and thus is (according to numerous sources you can look up) the number one reason for climate change and environmental destruction. It is the number one reason for deforestation, two thirds of all agricultural land on earth is used for growing animal food crops. If you would feed humans directly by using the agricultural land, you could produce much more food for everyone. See this interesting essay for more on climate emissions background: www.worldwatch.org/files/pdf/Livestock%20and%20Climate%20Change.pdf
3. It is not only cows who are suffering, but also the environment and to a big part also humans. Think of slavery-like working conditions in slaughterhouses (there are plenty of documentaries about this) or think of chemically altered drinking water in animal skin production villages as also seen in the video footage.
4. The discussion, for which body part the cow is killed first, is very patronizing. But if you really think it would be important why someone gets killed in first place: There are many productions where the cow is killed for the skin first, sometimes even while still being (part-)alive, the skin is the most profitable single part of the body.
5. So even if a cow gets theoretically killed for meat first, in every case you give additional money to an industry that relies on killing, pollutes the environment and harms people with chemicals. Let's say you are standing at the meat counter. And you ask for the leg of the cow. The butcher tells you: "You can eat that without worrying, the cow was slaughtered for the neck first". The next customer demands the neck. The butcher tells him: "It's not your fault, the cow was slaughtered for the belly". A the next customer demands the hide, what answer does he get? You see, that argument of "byproduct" comes from the meat and leather industry to cover up that you contribute to killing no matter which part of the body you buy.
6. To the often said argument, animal skin would just be a byproduct, please google/youtube "leather is not a byproduct" you will find plenty of information. A good overview on all those issues can also be found here: adaptt.org/
To “But leatherette is not sustainable due to petrochemical production”
1. Indeed some fabrics and micro fibres are oil based, however most oil is spent on energy production, heating and fuel. The share of oil used for artificial cloth etc. is very very small.
2. If you look at the whole production process, the leatherette is way more sustainable than the leather produce. Even if you leave the ethical aspect aside, here is the official calculation of the CO2-Output animal skin vs leatherette (different kinds of leatherette):
Leather 17 kg CO2/m²
PVC leatherette 10 kg CO2/m²
Acella Eco natural leatherette 8,5 kg CO2/m²
Benova (PUR leatherette): 8 kg CO2/m²
So by using the latest high-tech leatherette, you even the CO2-emissions are cut in half!
3. The best to-come solution are indeed plant-based materials like Pinatex (based on pineapple leaves) or new materials based on mycelia (roots of mushrooms) or other innovative natural products. That’s the future.
A great extensive report is also to be found here:
moneywisedriver.com/do-vegan-cars-exist-a-guide-to-non-leather-interiors/
More special video episodes:
1. A initial special video from Autogefühl considering the use of leather can be found here: ruclips.net/video/8f91KgbVbJQ/видео.html
2. And another one right here: ruclips.net/video/tMNgcLE0LDU/видео.html
3. Furthermore, you’ll find the footage of leather production also here, where people are walking in chemicals etc. and animals have to watch their friends being slaughtered in front of their eyes: ruclips.net/video/JipYvuDsI6s/видео.html
timecode starting 27:46
4. This is another video which very well summarizes the torture of leather production, shots taken at big farms which directly produce for the automotive industry: ruclips.net/video/OgHs239bAnE/видео.html
5. Please note that those videos are made by well-known journalists and cameramen who were not influenced by any animal welfare organisation, they supply their footage to the animal rights groups of course. I partly know the creators of the video footage personally and they are all authentic. You don’t have to search long to find cruel production environments anyway.
Manufacturers reactions:
We started the very first inquiry years ago, with the result that car manufacturers do not reveal their sources of animal skin AT ALL. If it all would be clean and happening without harm, why don’t they show it to us whereas they are showing us every other detail of their products? They have good reason not to, because there is no such thing as a clean animal skin production without harming cows, humans and the environment. The only thing a manufacturer can do is increase their effort for a better future, and we are helping with in-depth talks and interviews by presenting the increasing customer demand for sustainable luxury. Tesla was the first one to react in a major way now.
So meanwhile, we more often also get feedback that a lot of manufacturers are working on leather-free interiors and are aware of the situation. E.g. Bentley, Mini and Kia have started vegan car interior programmes. Besides Tesla, Mercedes already shows major choices for sustainable interiors, you always have to pay attention to the details when ordering, of course - and we are happy to give advice. However, much has to be done still and the Autogefuehl community is massively helping in boosting the positive change!
Help to raise awareness on this subject. Thanks!
Best SUV on the market, this spec is unflattering however
you convinced me to own one hihi, it's really really awesome.. tq bro.
That infotainment system looks straight out of a KIA
+Fernando C out of fiat
I swear to god..... if Ferrari or Lamborghini are making a SUV i will never eat Spaghetti or Pizza in my entire life again!!! Shame on Maserati and Porsche for beeing so greedy for money and f**** up theit sports cas heritage :(
radu_c bad news, Lamborghini had an SUV in the past and Ferrari is manufacturing station wagon cars.
Porsche Cayenne and Macan are pretty descent cars. Actually if you consider they have 0 background making SUVs their first product blew the competition out of the water they are fantastic cars that kept the company alive. And Lamborghini made a pick up truck in the past lol... All kidding aside Lambo has a good concept for a future SUV (google URUS) and they have a good platform to start on... Q7, Touareg & Cayenne...
radu_c It's not being greedy. It's called securing the company's future. More sales = More budget for RnD. I don't really see what's bad about sporty brands making SUVs. If anything, it's actually worthy of praise if a sports car company is able to make an SUV(which they don't usually make), and still able to make their DNA come through, and you still know what brand it is. Excitement comes in all shapes and sizes. SUVs are no exception.
Thomas...nice suit...and these shoes...
Wearing scarf in June?
welcome to Germany
I am still in shock! I would expect that in Sweden or Norway, but in Germany...
thing is that it can be 30 degress one day, and the next one it drops to 20 with wind and it can become quite cold, you have very nice days yes, but it's not that you can calculate with one week sunny and 30 degrees fully :)
That interior looks shockingly crap.
Agreed soo cheap and crap 80K Euros are they having a laugh
The two tone looks way better
I have one cheep is not what I would d
OMG, what are you talking about HAVE you seen one at the dealership ???? they are WAY more quality than everything I have owned, ie few GERMAN SUVS (:
this or the Lamborghini Urus?
Such a German snob. I love it.
One of the best exhaust sounds of any SUV.......but that interior is not worthy of an 80k car. In fact it reminds me a bit of the Ford Focus!
The interior is a lot like dodge journey.... so cheap...the rear looks like a Hyundai ix35 ..
In the other hand , thomas you rules the car video industry....
Your comment is ridiculous
Thomas love that watch.
+D Lynch thanks! It's alpina startimer pilot big date / metal
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It seems like the Fiat Chrysler group have spend much less money and effort developing this new line of Maseratis, than they have the new line of Alfa Romeos. That is a real shame, and the risk ruining the whole value of the brand, if this does not change very fast. Charging more for less, just because it has a Maserati badge, is not going to work for very long.