Which is better, the Porsche Cayenne or the Maserati Levante? It depends on what matters most to you. Comparing the Maserati Levante GT with the 2023 base Porsche Cayenne, the Cayenne offers more published cargo space and a higher maximum towing rating. The Levante GT produces slightly more horsepower (345 hp versus 335 hp) and torque (369 lb-ft versus 332 lb-ft). Their EPA-estimated combined fuel economy is also close, at 18 mpg and 19 mpg, respectively. Maserati has ended Levante production, making remaining inventory and the pre-owned market relevant considerations for buyers.
For a consistent comparison, we focus primarily on the Levante GT with its 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 and the 2023 base Porsche Cayenne with its 3.0L turbocharged V6. Both are five-seat, all-wheel-drive luxury SUVs specified for premium gasoline. We compare performance, everyday usability, ride quality, ownership considerations and the implications of the Levante's discontinued production. This article does not quote current vehicle selling prices. For available vehicles, pricing and applicable disclosures, refer to the individual vehicle detail page.
Levante GT and Cayenne side by side
The Cayenne offers more published cargo capacity and a higher maximum towing rating, while the Levante GT produces 10 additional horsepower and 37 lb-ft more torque. Their EPA-estimated combined fuel economy differs by approximately 1 mpg.
The following comparison uses published specifications for the indicated U.S.-market model years and trims. Figures should not be interpreted as applying to every version of either vehicle.
| Factor | Maserati Levante GT (2022–2024) | Porsche Cayenne (2023, base SUV) | Source / clarification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L twin-turbo V6 | 3.0L turbo V6 | Published model specifications |
| Output | 345 hp / 369 lb-ft | 335 hp / 332 lb-ft | KBB – Levante; Edmunds – Cayenne |
| EPA city / highway / combined | 16 / 22 / 18 mpg | 17 / 22 / 19 mpg | EPA – Levante listing; EPA – Cayenne listing |
| Estimated fuel used per 100 miles | Approximately 5.6 gallons | Approximately 5.3 gallons | Calculated from the rounded EPA combined mpg ratings |
| Cargo space, rear seats upright / folded | 20.5 / 57.4 cu ft | 27.2 / 60.3 cu ft | CARFAX; KBB |
| Published maximum towing capacity | Up to 5,952 lb* | Up to 7,700 lb* | Third-party specifications; actual capability depends on vehicle configuration and approved towing equipment |
| Original new-vehicle limited warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles | 4 years / 50,000 miles | U.S.-market published limited warranty terms; actual remaining coverage must be verified by VIN |
| Independent crash-test information | Check applicable NHTSA / IIHS listings | Check applicable NHTSA / IIHS listings | NHTSA; IIHS |
*Maximum towing figures refer to published configurations and are not a guarantee that an individual used vehicle is equipped or approved to tow that weight. Confirm the manufacturer's model-year towing instructions, installed equipment, permissible weights and applicable trailer requirements. Cargo measurements are sourced from third-party listings and may vary by configuration. Fuel consumption is an estimate based on rounded combined mpg values. Warranty coverage is subject to the original warranty start date, applicable limits and exclusions.
In practical terms, the Cayenne's published cargo and towing specifications may appeal to drivers who regularly carry bulky equipment or tow. The Levante GT offers slightly higher engine output and a different driving character. The preferred balance depends on your intended use and the condition and equipment of the individual vehicles.
Is a Maserati faster than a Porsche?
Between the specific trims compared here, the Levante GT produces 345 hp versus 335 hp in the 2023 base Cayenne. However, a horsepower advantage alone does not establish which vehicle accelerates faster.
Acceleration also depends on vehicle weight, transmission calibration, traction and driving conditions. We have therefore not presented a direct 0–60 mph ranking without a consistent, verified testing basis.
Engine output also changes considerably across the model ranges. For example, the Levante Modena is listed at 424 hp, while the 2023 Cayenne S is listed at 434 hp, according to CARFAX and Kelley Blue Book. These figures illustrate why the exact model year and trim matter more than a brand-wide performance claim.
Ride and chassis on New Jersey roads
The Levante GT is listed with adaptive air suspension, while suspension equipment on a used Cayenne depends on the specific vehicle and its selected options.
According to U.S. News, the Levante GT offers adaptive air suspension and 20-inch wheels. Features and equipment should be confirmed against the original window sticker, particularly when comparing vehicles from different model years.
For drivers around Central New Jersey, road conditions are an important part of the ownership experience. Winter weather, road repairs and uneven pavement can make suspension behavior, tire condition and wheel size more noticeable than they appear during a short drive on smooth roads.
Use your test drive to evaluate the following:
- Drive on a representative mix of local streets and highways, following traffic laws and the dealership's approved test-drive route.
- Check for excessive suspension noise or unexpected vibration over uneven pavement.
- If equipped, cycle the Levante's available ride-height and drive-mode settings and confirm that they operate normally.
- Inspect the fitted wheel and tire sizes, tire condition and maintenance history.
- For the Cayenne, check whether the particular vehicle has conventional suspension or optional air suspension.
Ride quality is subjective and can be affected by vehicle condition, tires and equipment. A test drive is useful for comparing the actual vehicles rather than relying on generalized descriptions.
What does each cost to keep, and what does each brand include?
Using the EPA figures in our comparison, the Levante GT consumes approximately 5.6 gallons per 100 miles, compared with approximately 5.3 gallons for the 2023 base Cayenne. Both specify premium gasoline. Actual fuel and maintenance expenses will depend on vehicle condition, usage, local prices and service requirements.
Both vehicles were originally offered in the U.S. with a four-year or 50,000-mile new-vehicle limited warranty, whichever occurs first. On a used vehicle, the remaining factory coverage depends on the manufacturer's recorded warranty commencement date, mileage, applicable exclusions and any other relevant warranty conditions.
Before purchasing, request written confirmation of any remaining original factory warranty and any separate Certified Pre-Owned or extended coverage. Do not assume that certification restarts the original manufacturer warranty or that both brands' CPO programs offer identical benefits.
Maintenance and repair expenses for either SUV can vary significantly. Instead of relying on generalized brand-level cost claims, review the individual vehicle's service history, upcoming maintenance schedule, tire and brake condition, and any existing inspection findings. Request a written estimate for known or anticipated work before making a purchase decision.
Edmunds' Levante review provides additional perspective on the model's fuel economy and driving characteristics. Third-party reviews should be read alongside the exact specifications and condition of the vehicle being considered.
Is the Levante a good car to buy, and which year should you check first?
A used Levante may appeal to buyers looking for Maserati styling, its V6 driving characteristics and an SUV body style. Rather than identifying one model year as universally preferable or problematic, evaluate each vehicle's maintenance history, mileage, equipment, recalls and present condition.
The Levante has less published cargo capacity than the Cayenne configuration compared here. Edmunds also identifies dated infotainment technology as a consideration in its review. Buyers should try the actual infotainment system and driver-assistance features to determine whether they meet their expectations.
When reviewing safety information, distinguish between the absence of a published independent crash-test rating and evidence of poor crash performance. They are not the same. Check NHTSA and IIHS for available results covering the applicable model year and vehicle.
For any used Levante, enter its VIN into the free NHTSA recall lookup. This can help identify open safety recalls. Request available service documentation, ask whether applicable recall remedies have been completed and consider an inspection by a qualified technician.
To see which Levante models or other pre-owned Maserati vehicles are currently offered at our dealership, visit our pre-owned inventory. Availability, vehicle condition, equipment and listed prices are specific to each vehicle and subject to change.
What happens to Levante resale now that it is discontinued?
Maserati has concluded Levante production. Discontinuation is therefore relevant when considering future supply, ownership support and resale, but it does not establish how much an individual vehicle will gain or lose in value.
Maserati's official U.S. SUV information positions the Levante as a legacy model, with the Grecale representing its current SUV range.
Used-car valuations depend on age, mileage, condition, specification, market demand and other factors. Kelley Blue Book provides third-party valuation information for the Levante, but historical depreciation figures should not be treated as guaranteed future resale outcomes or as quotations for an individual vehicle.
Before deciding, compare current retail and trade-in estimates for the relevant model year, trim, mileage and condition. Also review maintenance requirements, remaining warranty coverage and service availability.
Drive both before you decide
Published specifications provide a useful starting point, but the condition and configuration of an individual pre-owned luxury SUV can have a significant influence on the ownership experience. Compare available vehicles, inspect their documentation and arrange an appropriate test drive.
Our team at Maserati of Central New Jersey can discuss available inventory, provide vehicle-specific information where available and help you explore your options before making a decision.
For a broader discussion of the two brands, see our Maserati vs. Porsche overview .
Important information: This article is provided for general informational and comparative purposes only. It does not constitute an offer to sell a specific vehicle, a guarantee of performance or condition, or a representation of current vehicle availability or selling price. Specifications, equipment, cargo capacity, towing capability, fuel economy and warranty coverage may vary by model year, trim, installed options and individual vehicle. Maximum towing figures require suitable manufacturer-approved equipment and compliance with all applicable weight and operating limits. EPA fuel economy estimates are provided for comparison; actual results vary with driving conditions, maintenance and use. Original factory warranty coverage depends on the manufacturer's recorded commencement date, mileage and applicable terms and exclusions. Certified Pre-Owned and extended warranty coverage, where offered, is governed by separate program documentation. Independent third-party opinions and valuation data are not guarantees of reliability, safety performance, future depreciation or resale value. Buyers should verify vehicle-specific information, review available records and obtain an appropriate inspection before purchase. Vehicle availability and pricing may change without notice. Published data and source references reflect the information reviewed as of September 30, 2026.