The Maserati Levante Modena S covered here combines 430 hp with the M161 Levante’s rear-biased Q4 all-wheel drive, eight-speed automatic, air suspension, and unusually road-focused chassis. It is not simply another engine choice in the same SUV. Its European 430 PS Modena S specification gives it a distinct place in the range, with its own performance, equipment logic, maintenance concerns, and buying priorities.
The model line behind the 2022–2023 Levante Modena S was Maserati’s first production SUV, yet it retained a low, long-hood profile and a chassis derived from the brand’s sport sedans. That makes a well-sorted example engaging in a way many luxury crossovers are not. It also means used prices can be misleading: depreciation lowers the entry cost, while tires, brakes, adaptive suspension, electronics, and specialist labor remain premium-car expenses.
This guide focuses only on the Modena S 430 built for 2022–2023. It separates market-specific figures from look-alike trims, explains the engineering in plain language, identifies realistic aging points, and provides a practical inspection path for buyers who want the character without inheriting avoidable neglect.
Table of Contents
- The 430 hp Modena S Explained
- European Modena S Technical Data
- Trim Positioning and Factory Choices
- A Mature Expression of the F160 V6
- Fast-Road Manners of Modena S
- Ownership Needs of the 430 hp Version
- Selecting a Genuine Modena S
The 430 hp Modena S Explained
The central fact is simple: The 430 hp Modena S carried the older Levante S power level into the new trim hierarchy used in selected markets. It is mechanically close to the 424 hp SAE-rated Modena but must not be confused with the V8 Modena S sold elsewhere.
The 2022 trim reorganization simplified the public range into GT, Modena, and Trofeo personalities. Beneath the new names sat proven M161 hardware, now presented with mature electronics, refreshed styling details, and clearer luxury-versus-sport positioning.
The 2022–2023 430 hp Levante Modena S occupies a clear place in Maserati history because it broadened the brand without abandoning several traditional cues. A long hood, a set-back cabin, frameless side glass, a large vertical-bar grille, and three fender vents keep the shape recognizable. Underneath, the vehicle uses a steel-and-aluminum unibody, double-wishbone front suspension, a multi-link rear layout, adjustable air springs, electronically controlled Skyhook dampers, and Q4 all-wheel drive. In normal conditions Q4 favors the rear axle, then can direct up to half the torque forward when grip demands it.
European Modena S Technical Data
The mechanical package of the 2022–2023 Levante Modena S is highly specific to this version: 430 hp, 580 Nm (428 lb-ft), an eight-speed automatic, and rear-biased Q4 all-wheel drive. The core dimensions are shared with most Levantes, but engine mass, brake size, tires, calibration, and official performance differ meaningfully.
| Model and coverage | Maserati Levante Modena S (Modena S 430), 2022–2023 |
|---|---|
| Engine | metric-rated high-output Maserati F160 twin-turbo V6 |
| Displacement | 2,979 cc |
| Induction | two turbochargers and intercooling |
| Fuel system | gasoline direct injection |
| Maximum output | 430 hp |
| Maximum torque | 580 Nm (428 lb-ft) |
| Transmission | ZF eight-speed torque-converter automatic |
| Drivetrain | Q4 rear-biased all-wheel drive with rear limited-slip differential |
| Acceleration | 0–100 km/h in 5.2 seconds |
| Top speed | 264 km/h (164 mph) |
| Approximate curb weight | about 2,109 kg (4,650 lb) |
| Fuel capacity | 80 L (21.1 US gal) |
Figures published for the 2022–2023 430 hp Levante Modena S may use PS, SAE horsepower, metric acceleration, or U.S. acceleration standards depending on the market. The numbers above follow the assignment’s stated output and the matching regional specification; they should not be mixed with a different market’s badge or test method.
| Body construction | Steel-and-aluminum five-door unibody |
|---|---|
| Front suspension | Double wishbones, air springs, adaptive Skyhook damping |
| Rear suspension | Five-link layout, air springs, adaptive Skyhook damping |
| Steering | Hydraulic on some early cars; electric on later model years |
| Brakes | 380 x 34 mm six-piston front brakes; 330 x 22 mm rear brakes |
| Wheels and tires | staggered 20- or 21-inch performance tires |
| Length | 5,005 mm (197.0 in) |
| Width | 1,981 mm (78.0 in) |
| Height | 1,693 mm (66.7 in) |
| Wheelbase | 3,004 mm (118.3 in) |
| Luggage volume | 580 L seats up |
In the 2022–2023 Levante Modena S, Q4 does not make the vehicle behave like a permanently front-driven crossover. Under steady grip it retains a rear-led character, and the electronically controlled transfer system can send torque forward quickly when wheel slip, steering angle, throttle position, or road conditions require it. A mechanical limited-slip differential at the rear helps distribute drive across the axle. That system depends on four tires with closely matched rolling circumference; mixing sizes, models, or wear levels can create driveline stress and confused control behavior.
The 2022–2023 430 hp version uses air suspension with several ride heights for entry, normal road use, high-speed stability, and rough surfaces. Height changes alter ground clearance and the center of gravity, but they do not turn low-profile performance tires into off-road tires. The double-wishbone front geometry is one reason the steering feels more precise than the class average, while the multi-link rear keeps the body settled under power. Steel brake discs are used; condition and thickness matter, but buyers should not assume the car has carbon-ceramic hardware simply because replacement costs are high.
Trim Positioning and Factory Choices
The useful way to view this version is straightforward: production details matter because the Levante changed more through electronics, trim logic, and market calibration than its familiar silhouette suggests. The S suffix had different meanings by region during 2022–2023. A factory build sheet, VIN-specific parts record, and engine-bay inspection are more reliable identifiers than online trim menus.
During the 2022–2023 Levante Modena S production span, the late trim hierarchy separated GT’s elegant tone from Modena’s sportier presentation and Trofeo’s V8 focus. Market logic was not identical: the same trim word could accompany a hybrid, a 345 hp V6, a 350 PS V6, a 424 hp V6, a 430 PS V6, or even a 523 hp V8. The VIN and factory record settle the question.
How to identify an authentic specification
When verifying a 2022–2023 430 hp Levante Modena S, start with the VIN and build data, then compare the engine family, emissions label, brake hardware, wheel size, interior trim, and original market. Badges are easy to replace. Software tunes can also alter output without changing visible parts. A factory options list helps distinguish desirable equipment from later additions and clarifies whether missing features are faults or simply were never ordered.
Useful items to verify include:
- factory-correct exterior and interior colors for the Maserati Levante Modena S with 430 hp, including trim material and stitching;
- wheel design, diameter, and correct staggered tire sizes;
- brake caliper color and front-disc specification;
- panoramic roof, heated or ventilated seats, driver-assistance packages, and audio system;
- adaptive LED or earlier bi-xenon lighting, depending on model year;
- GranLusso, GranSport, GT, Modena, S, Trofeo, or Ultima details appropriate to the market;
- MTC+ or later MIA infotainment and the related control layout;
- two keys, handbook pack, cargo equipment, compressor or mobility kit, and service records.
A Mature Expression of the F160 V6
The 2022–2023 430 hp Levante Modena S stands apart because its engineering and visual proportions support the same message: it is a road-focused Maserati first and an SUV second. The long hood, low roof for the class, frameless door glass, muscular rear haunches, and cab-rearward stance avoid the upright, square profile common to utility vehicles.
On the 2022–2023 Modena S 430, the grille is tall and concave, with vertical bars and a central Trident. Three vents sit behind each front wheel, while the side glass tapers toward the rear under a sweeping roofline. Early cars use a cleaner lamp graphic; later cars gain boomerang-style rear lights inspired by historic Maserati designs. GranSport, Modena, GTS, Trofeo, and Ultima treatments change the lower fascias, dark trim, carbon content, wheel design, and badge treatment without disguising the core shape.
In the 2022–2023 Levante Modena S, the engine sits behind the front axle line as far as packaging permits, supporting the near-even weight distribution Maserati promoted for the platform. Turbocharging adds cooling demand, so clear radiator and condenser faces matter for both performance and durability.
Cabin layout and sensory character
In the 2022–2023 430 hp Levante Modena S, the driving position is lower and more car-like than in many luxury SUVs. A broad center tunnel divides the front seats, substantial column-mounted paddles remain fixed as the wheel turns, and the instrument layout keeps major driving information directly ahead. Physical controls for climate and several vehicle functions reduce dependence on the touchscreen, although the exact switchgear and software generation vary by year.
The exhaust and intake character depend strongly on the powertrain. Its midrange punch and sharper brake package give it the urgency expected of an S model, while the air suspension keeps it usable on rough European roads when wheel size is sensible. Drive modes alter throttle, gearbox, damping, ride height, stability control, and exhaust behavior where valves are fitted. These systems create real differences between settings; they also mean a fault can flatten the car’s character without preventing it from moving.
Practicality in the 2022–2023 Levante Modena S remains visible in the split-folding rear seat, power tailgate, useful cargo floor, roof-rail availability, and adjustable ride height. Rear space is adequate for adults, though the sloping roof and large transmission tunnel make the cabin less box-like than the exterior length suggests. Visibility is good forward but tighter over the rear quarters, making cameras and parking sensors valuable rather than decorative options.
Fast-Road Manners of Modena S
This version feels faster and more agile than its size suggests, but its strongest quality is balance rather than a single acceleration number. Its midrange punch and sharper brake package give it the urgency expected of an S model, while the air suspension keeps it usable on rough European roads when wheel size is sensible.
In the 2022–2023 Modena S 430, throttle response depends on engine speed, drive mode, and gear selection. The eight-speed automatic can be smooth and unobtrusive in normal driving, then deliver fast, decisive changes when the driver uses Sport or the paddles. A healthy gearbox should engage drive and reverse without a long pause, shift cleanly under light load, and avoid flare or harshness when warm. Software adaptation and fluid condition can affect behavior, so one imperfect shift is a reason to investigate rather than immediately condemn the unit.
In the 2022–2023 Levante Modena S, steering is one of the model’s defining traits. Hydraulic early cars communicate more road texture, while later electric systems enable lane-support functions and can feel lighter around center. Both should track straight and return naturally after a corner. A wandering car may have tire, alignment, control-arm, wheel, or ride-height issues rather than an inherent steering flaw.
In the 2022–2023 430 hp version, Sport mode holds gears, sharpens throttle response, firms damping, and can open the exhaust valves where fitted; the normal setting is better for broken pavement and low-speed traffic. The air suspension keeps body movement controlled without eliminating it. In the softer setting the Levante breathes with the road; in firmer modes it resists roll and pitch more strongly. Very large wheels can make sharp impacts busy and noisy, especially on old or overinflated tires. A 19- or 20-inch setup often provides the best road compromise, while 21- and 22-inch packages prioritize response and appearance.
The 2022–2023 430 hp Levante Modena S has firm braking feel when the discs, pads, fluid, and tires are healthy. The vehicle is heavy, so repeated high-speed stops generate substantial heat. A lip on the disc edge, vibration through the pedal, blue spots, cracking around drilled holes where applicable, or uneven inner-pad wear all deserve measurement. The official stopping figures were achieved on suitable tires and fresh hardware; budget replacements can alter the result dramatically.
In the 2022–2023 Modena S 430, engine braking is modest in the automatic modes, so paddle downshifts are useful before a steep descent or a tight sequence of bends. On a motorway the long wheelbase, quiet cabin, broad torque delivery, and stable aero behavior make the Levante an effective grand tourer. In a city its width, turning circle, expensive wheels, and limited rear-quarter view require care. On a mountain road the rear-led balance and strong brakes are rewarding, but physics still applies: enter a corner with restraint, settle the chassis, then use the traction on exit.
Ownership Needs of the 430 hp Version
Reliability in the 2022–2023 430 hp version depends less on a simple model score than on service history, operating pattern, and the number of deferred systems. The Levante can be dependable, but one neglected car may simultaneously need tires, front brakes, air-suspension work, a battery, cooling repairs, and fluid service.
Powertrain and cooling
The F160 V6 in the 2022–2023 Modena S 430 responds well to consistent oil service and careful temperature management. Inspect for oil seepage around cam covers and upper timing areas, coolant loss around hoses, thermostat and water-pump components, rough cold starts, ignition-coil weakness, worn spark plugs, and loose turbo or intercooler plumbing. Direct injection can also allow deposits to build on intake valves over long use, particularly when journeys are short.
In the 2022–2023 Levante Modena S, low voltage is a recurring source of misleading warnings on modern Maseratis, so battery age, charging voltage, and stored fault history belong in every inspection. Worn engine mounts may create vibration at idle or a thump during load changes. A tuned car can place more stress on turbos, catalysts, transmission, and cooling components even if it has been returned to standard software. Ask for dated invoices that show the oil grade, filter, plugs, coolant work, and diagnosis behind any warning-light repair.
The ZF eight-speed in the 2022–2023 430 hp version is widely used and generally durable, but “lifetime fluid” should not be read as “fluid that never ages.” Check the pan, connector area, cooler lines, and service history for leaks or neglected fluid. Harsh engagement, delayed reverse, shudder under light acceleration, or inconsistent shifts need diagnosis. Transfer-case and differential fluids also age, and the AWD system depends on matched tires.
Suspension, brakes, and electronics
On the 2022–2023 Modena S 430, air springs can leak, compressors can weaken, valve blocks can stick, and ride-height sensors can report implausible positions. Leave the car parked overnight and compare all four corners before starting it. A compressor that runs for an extended period after every start may be compensating for leakage. Adaptive dampers, upper and lower control-arm bushes, anti-roll-bar links, and wheel bearings also wear; knocking should not be dismissed as “normal for big wheels.”
For the 2022–2023 Levante Modena S, brake wear is a major cost driver. Measure disc thickness and runout rather than judging only through the wheel spokes. Inspect both pad faces, parking-brake operation, flexible hoses, and fluid age. Tires should match by brand, model, size, speed rating, and similar tread depth across each axle and ideally all four corners. Check date codes because a low-mileage car can still sit on hardened tires.
The modules in the 2022–2023 430 hp version are sensitive to battery condition. Confirm that the conventional battery is correctly specified and registered or initialized when required. Test every window, frameless-glass drop function, mirror, lock, key, seat motor, climate zone, camera, sensor, headlamp, tailgate, and infotainment input. Water from roof drains, door membranes, or previous windshield work can create electrical problems that appear unrelated.
Service planning and parts reality
For the 2022–2023 Modena S 430, use the VIN-specific schedule as the minimum, then adjust for age, heat, short journeys, and performance use. Annual oil and inspection service is sensible for lightly driven examples. Brake fluid, coolant, filters, plugs on gasoline engines, diesel fuel filters, driveline fluids, belts, and air-conditioning service all have time as well as mileage considerations. Exact intervals and torque values vary by market and equipment.
Before buying a 2022–2023 Levante Modena S, check the VIN for open recalls and completed campaigns in the country where the vehicle is registered. Rear-camera software, fuel-system details, and other campaigns have varied by model year and market. Recall completion does not replace a physical inspection, and the absence of an open campaign does not prove a problem-free car.
Selecting a Genuine Modena S
The best purchase is the car with the clearest identity, strongest maintenance file, and fewest combined needs—not automatically the newest, lowest-mileage, or cheapest example. Confirm whether the car is the V6 430 PS or V8 550 PS/523 hp version before discussing value, insurance, service costs, or replacement parts.
Inspection sequence
- Confirm the VIN, market, model year, engine code, output, trim, and factory options for the Maserati Levante Modena S with 430 hp.
- Review dated invoices, not only stamps, and map major work against time and mileage.
- Inspect the car cold for fluid levels, leaks, startup noise, smoke, warning lights, and battery behavior.
- Measure tires, wheels, brakes, ride height, and suspension wear before the test drive.
- Drive through city, rough-road, motorway, braking, and heat-soak conditions.
- Run a full-module diagnostic scan and investigate stored, pending, and recently cleared faults.
- Obtain a written specialist estimate for every defect, then add a contingency for hidden work.
A proper pre-purchase inspection for the 2022–2023 430 hp version should put the vehicle on a lift. Look for undertray damage, oil or coolant traces, crushed lifting points, corrosion on fasteners and subframes in salted climates, exhaust damage, differential or transfer-case seepage, and evidence of a previous impact. Panel gaps, paint depth, glass dates, lamp dates, wheel finish, and overspray help reveal body history. Quality repairs are not automatically disqualifying, but undisclosed structural or airbag work is.
Questions that protect the buyer
Build a first-year budget for the 2022–2023 Modena S 430 before negotiating. It should cover baseline fluids and filters if the history is incomplete, alignment, battery testing, tire or brake reserve, and one unexpected electronic or cooling repair. The gap between purchase price and a sorted car can be large, particularly on V8 or heavily optioned examples. Conversely, paying more for recent tires, measured brakes, fresh fluids, and documented suspension work can be economical.
Buy the 2022–2023 Levante Modena S primarily for the driving and ownership experience; speculative rarity should be a secondary reason. Avoid cars with mismatched tires, persistent suspension warnings, unexplained coolant loss, recently cleared fault memory, incomplete ownership documents, or performance modifications without supporting engineering and maintenance records. Cosmetic flaws can be priced; an uncertain mechanical story is harder to contain.
When the right 2022–2023 430 hp version appears, preserve the same discipline after purchase. Establish a baseline service, keep the battery charged, warm the powertrain before heavy load, cool it after sustained hard use, maintain matched tires, and address small leaks or warning messages early. That approach protects the Levante’s best qualities: unusual style, real cross-country ability, and a driving character that still feels distinct from mainstream luxury SUVs.
References
- Maserati Levante MY22: GT, Modena and Trofeo | Maserati | Stellantis Media 2021 (Model Update)
- Maserati Levante – Model Overview: Info, Performance, Design | Maserati US 2024 (Model Overview)
- Maserati Service Bundle: All-Inclusive Care | Maserati 2024 (Service Information)
- Vehicle Detail Search – 2022 MASERATI LEVANTE | NHTSA 2022 (Recall Database)
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or repair. Specifications, torque values, service intervals, and procedures can vary by VIN, market, equipment, and production date. Verify all work against the vehicle’s official service documentation and use a qualified Maserati specialist when appropriate.
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