As soon as upon a time, the concept of a luxurious SUV meant a Vary Rover, and even that was fairly agricultural by fashionable requirements. Then Jeep Grand Cherokees and Ford Explorers began providing fancy, range-topping variations adopted quickly by Lexus, BMW and Mercedes dipping their toes within the water. After which the floodgates opened. Right now, there’s a staggering variety of luxurious SUVs out there in each form, measurement and worth level. There are electrical luxurious SUVs just like the Tesla Mannequin X and Jaguar I-Tempo, in addition to gas-swilling, high-performance SUVs just like the BMW X5 M and Cadillac Escalade V. Sports activities automotive makers Porsche, Aston Martin and Lamborghini have even dived in.
However of this nice many, that are one of the best luxurious SUVs? We sat down, scoured our opinions, took some votes, had some discussions and got here up with the luxurious SUVs we view as one of the best. They’re listed alphabetically inside the six segments listed under.
Greatest Subcompact Luxurious SUV | Greatest Compact Luxurious SUV | Greatest Midsize Luxurious SUV (Two-Row)
Greatest Midsize Luxurious SUV (Three-Row) | Greatest Flagship Luxurious SUV (Two-Row) | Greatest Flagship Luxurious SUV (Three-Row)
Greatest subcompact luxurious SUVs
Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
Why it stands out: Excellent area and flexibility; legit luxurious inside; amusing GLB 35 model
Could possibly be higher: Overwhelming and complicated tech interface
Most subcompact luxurious SUVs are a doubtful worth, with cramped interiors of marginal high quality and unrefined driving dynamics. You would be a lot better off paying much less cash for a loaded, non-luxury compact SUV. The Mercedes GLB is totally different, although. Its boxy design offers area few different subcompact SUV can match (luxurious or in any other case), whereas its cabin design and have content material are in step with pricier Mercedes fashions. The standard’s not precisely as much as GLC requirements, neither is driving refinement, however the distinction is suitable for a way a lot you are saving and nonetheless completely acceptable. There’s nothing doubtful about shopping for a GLB.
Volvo XC40
Why it stands out: Extra options for the cash; spacious and versatile inside; distinctive design; electrical model
Could possibly be higher: Gasoline-efficient base engine solely out there with FWD
Most subcompact luxurious fashions really feel a bit like low cost knockoffs of their greater, pricier model mates. The XC40, in contrast, is a break from the Volvo norm in a great way. It rides on a distinct platform from the assorted 60- and 90-series Volvos, leading to a automotive that is a bit extra playful to drive, however nonetheless possessing the stable, refined feeling one expects from the model. Its design is extra utilitarian and youthful, eschewing luxurious trims like chrome and wooden in favor of components like contrasting roofs and vibrant inside colours. Importantly, it is also one of many bigger, extra versatile autos within the section and offers extra options for the cash. It is a fascinating automobile to purchase by itself deserves in a section that usually feels such as you acquired it trigger you could not afford a pricier mannequin.
Greatest compact luxurious SUVs
Genesis GV70
Why it stands out: Lovely inside; user-friendly tech; refined highway manners
Could possibly be higher: Merely common again seat area; not as sporty because it seems to be
Learn our Genesis GV70 assessment
The GV70 bursts onto the scene as a real, real-deal challenger for the general excellence demonstrated by the Mercedes GLC and Porsche Macan, together with providing a high-powered model. Though technically cheaper than German fashions, this is not a price play — it nonetheless has the next worth than these from Acura, Lexus and Infiniti, and incorporates a plusher inside and extra refined engineering that warrant it. Its distinctive seems to be and exquisite inside actually stand out (take a look at the purple, inexperienced and blue inside selections), and its rear-wheel-drive platform will be augmented by a easy, massively {powerful} turbo V6 and a high-tech adaptive suspension that not solely reacts to highway imperfections however anticipates them.
Porsche Macan
Why it stands out: The very best compact SUV to drive; Porsche high quality and customization potential
Could possibly be higher: Costly earlier than you even get to the exorbitantly priced choices; small inside
Taken actually, the Porsche Macan is nearly definitely one of the best compact luxurious SUV. The way in which it seems to be, the way in which it is made and, most importantly, the way in which it drives would make it a no brainer if we had been looking for a compact SUV … and did not have to fret a couple of finances. Ah sure, there’s the rub. As distinctive because the Macan is, it is nonetheless a Porsche, which implies that it delivers fairly dismal function content material and area for the cash. The bottom four-cylinder mannequin particularly is a questionable worth. So, is it essentially the most good selection? No, however then, this is not the “Most Wise Luxurious SUV” listing. It is about one of the best. The Macan is certainly one of them.
Volvo XC60
Why it stands out: Scandinavian design; extra space and options for the cash; Recharge plug-in hybrid
Could possibly be higher: Unrefined engines; unremarkable dealing with
OK, so generally it’s about being a bit wise, and the XC60 is extra so than most. It is extra spacious than the norm and (shock!) this Volvo boasts security credentials that ought to please fretful dad and mom in every single place. It is also fairly gasoline environment friendly, and even out there with a wonderful plug-in hybrid mannequin dubbed Recharge. However the XC60 additionally is not some uber-utilitarian boxy Volvo of outdated. The styling is timelessly stunning, and its inside oozes Scandinavian cool. High quality and have content material are additionally absolutely in step with the larger, pricier XC90. Mainly, the XC60 is without doubt one of the extra wise selections within the section, but additionally top-of-the-line.
Greatest midsize luxurious SUVs (customary two-row)
Genesis GV80
Why it stands out: Beautiful inside; well-executed driver help tech; seems to be, feels and drives pricier than it’s
Could possibly be higher: Restricted availability of third-row seat
The Genesis GV80 shouldn’t be an affordable SUV, beginning at round $50,000, however even when maxed out at practically $70,000, it will nonetheless make you suppose that it ought to price far more. The inside is the showpiece, with a contemporary design slathered in wealthy supplies and benefiting from user-friendly controls. There is no such thing as a scarcity of opulent creature comforts out there, and the usual portfolio of infotainment and security expertise shouldn’t be solely plentiful, however well-executed. Importantly, the GV80 additionally delivers the form of refined driving expertise because of its new rear-wheel-drive chassis, out there air-spring suspension, sturdy engines and plenty of sound deadening. There’s additionally a number of area inside, and though you will get the GV80 with a 3rd row, it is very cramped and solely out there with the V6 engine and certainly one of both the Advance+ or Status packages. As such, we think about the GV80 a two-row SUV.
Lexus RX 350h and RX 500h
Why it stands out: Nice gasoline economic system for a midsize SUV; well-made cabin; 500h’s sturdy energy for a hybrid; vibrant colours
Could possibly be higher: Some infotainment and security tech annoyances; 350h’s pokey acceleration
Learn our 2023 Lexus RX Evaluate
The 2023 Lexus RX represents a very redesigned mannequin, and though we’re not fully enamored with it (and had been critically aggravated by its tech), the RX 350h and new RX 500h hybrids supply such distinctive gasoline economic system that they are undoubtedly price a search for anybody looking out on this section. When you’re in search of max gasoline economic system, the RX 350h sacrifices efficiency (plus a quiet cabin underneath onerous acceleration) for a stellar 37 mpg mixed. We’re guessing an terrible lot of individuals will fortunately take that trade-off to get compact sedan gasoline economic system out of a midsize luxurious SUV. The RX 500h represents a extra balanced strategy. It might return solely 27 mpg mixed, but it surely additionally produces 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. Its acceleration could not blow you away like a Porsche or AMG Mercedes, however once more, we’re speaking steadiness right here and the RX 500h delivers it. There’ll finally be a plug-in hybrid dubbed RX 450h+ out there that ought to present a helpful quantity of all-electric vary.
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Why it stands out: Lovely inside; impeccable engineering oozes from the whole lot; 5 engine choices; well-executed security tech
Could possibly be higher: Overwhelming and complicated tech interface
If the GV80 is the supremely gifted rookie of the 12 months, the GLE is the perennial all-star who’s just lately taken its recreation to an entire new stage. This midsize luxurious SUV builds upon its illustrious predecessors (together with the ML- and M-Courses earlier than it) with components that additionally make it way more aggressive within the section as an entire: extra cohesive styling, an opulent inside, 5 engine selections (together with two AMG fashions) and practically each little bit of infotainment and security expertise in Mercedes’ huge arsenal. If something, all that tech can simply overwhelm, particularly the MBUX interface. Nonetheless, it positive seems to be fairly with its ultra-wide twin-screen setup and vivid graphics. Word {that a} third-row seat is a $2,100 choice, however just like the GV80’s, it is fairly small and certain a uncommon function to seek out on seller heaps.
Why it stands out: Partaking driving expertise; Porsche inside high quality and customization choices; a number of plug-in hybrids
Could possibly be higher: Costly earlier than you even get to the exorbitantly priced choices; smaller-than-average inside
On paper, and particularly when in comparison with the GV80, the Cayenne could appear to be an enormous ripoff. Particularly whenever you begin making choices from the exorbitantly priced choices listing. However then you definately drive it — any of them, from the bottom 335-horsepower V6 as much as the 670-hp Turbo S E-Hybrid — and the value begins to make slightly extra sense. Even if you happen to simply climb aboard, have a look round and run your fingers over the surfaces, you will seemingly come away impressed with the elevated construct high quality, even in a section the place that is anticipated. The extremely customizable infotainment tech is even straightforward to make use of. We additionally respect that regardless of being one of many preeminent efficiency SUVs, the Cayenne is obtainable as a plug-in hybrid (there are two selections of them, actually). We even like the Cayenne Coupe regardless of typically being unmoved by such “crossover coupe” fashions, together with the GLE’s. By some means, that physique form simply works higher on a automotive that shares its badge with a Porsche 911.
Greatest midsize luxurious SUVs (customary three-row)
Acura MDX
Why it stands out: Superior dealing with; versatile second row; worth in your cash; reliability popularity
Could possibly be higher: Steep tech interface studying curve; stiff brake pedal really feel; no hybrid choice
Learn our 2022 Acura MDX Evaluate
The MDX was fully redesigned for 2022. It is extra luxurious than its predecessor, making Acura’s three-row crossover a extra convincing competitor for the Audis, BMWs and Lexuses of the world. It additionally has Acura’s most recent in-car expertise, although the interface is an acquired style. Most vital, although, the MDX shouldn’t be solely extra participating to drive than earlier than, it additionally outpaces its three-row competitors — credit score to Acura’s latest-generation Tremendous-Dealing with All-Wheel Drive system in addition to an elevated deal with driving pleasure. On the similar time, although, the MDX stays probably the most wise luxurious SUV selections. The third row is friendlier for teenagers or adults, and the versatile second row incorporates a detachable middle-seat portion, which means you do not have to decide on between seven-passenger capability or extra comfy second-row captain’s chairs. There’s additionally the matter of getting extra gear in your cash, in addition to the MDX’s historically sturdy resale worth and reliability.
Lincoln Aviator
Why it stands out: Excessive-style cabin; large energy; comparatively spacious third-row; ample cargo area
Could possibly be higher: A less expensive, less-powerful entry mannequin that will open the Aviator as much as extra patrons
Learn our full 2022 Lincoln Aviator Evaluate
You will not hear us say this fairly often, however the Lincoln Aviator has an excessive amount of energy. With a normal 400-horsepower turbo V6, the Aviator obliterates the bottom and improve engines of most rivals. That is undoubtedly commendable, and we’re probably not complaining. It is simply that the Aviator is so good, it may simply supply a much less strong engine and cater to extra patrons with a cheaper price. They’d nonetheless be getting a spacious, well-equipped, easy-to-use and high-style inside, plus a refined driving expertise that makes an attempt to make your time behind the wheel “easy” versus “sporty.” Sure, even with 400 hp, the Aviator is extra about grand-touring pace than taking corners (acceptable for a Lincoln). And, talking of Grand Touring, the Aviator’s trim of that title is actually a plug-in hybrid that boasts 494 hp and 630 pound-feet of torque. It additionally has a helpful 21 miles of electrical vary.
Volvo XC90
Why it stands out: Spacious third-row and cargo space; Scandinavian design; broad worth vary; out there Recharge plug-in hybrid
Could possibly be higher: Unrefined engines
You may get an XC90 dressed to the nines with the 400-horsepower plug-in hybrid powertrain and each high-tech, leather-lined choice out there for practically $80,000 and stroll away with a very particular luxurious SUV befitting that price ticket. On the similar time, although, you possibly can get a base XC90 T5 for lower than $50,000 and stroll away with a well-equipped and well-made household SUV that is extra spacious, environment friendly and trendy than most luxurious fashions. Such widespread attraction and competitiveness are uncommon. The XC90 is a good luxurious SUV regardless of the value or trim stage.
Greatest flagship luxurious SUV (two-row)
Aston Martin DBX
Why it stands out: Shockingly enjoyable to drive for an SUV; shockingly cozy for a sporting SUV; it is an Aston Martin
Could possibly be higher: It is wildly costly for an SUV of its measurement; last-gen Mercedes infotainment
Learn our Aston Martin DBX Evaluate
Duh. You’d definitely hope that an Aston Martin could be one of many most interesting autos on this planet, however truthfully, that is not often been true (if ever). The model’s styling and affiliation with a sure British spy carries A LOT of the load, whereas the automotive’s themselves have hardly been world-beaters. Their interiors particularly have traditionally been letdowns. The DBX SUV defies these expectations, nevertheless. For cynics anticipating the DBX to be an chubby, overwrought luxurious SUV with an Aston Martin badge glued to the hood, relaxation assured that it is shockingly enjoyable to drive with a number of the finest steering we have come throughout in ages. It provides long-distance consolation like a correct Aston Martin GT as nicely. Its inside is even nicely crafted for its extraordinarily lofty worth level and customarily advantages from Aston’s tie-up with Mercedes-Benz (though the last-gen Mercedes tech interface may undoubtedly be higher). Sure, the value is nuts, however we’re speaking the “Greatest” SUVs right here, not the “Greatest for the Cash.”
Land Rover Vary Rover
Why it stands out: Regal driving expertise; beautiful high-fashion inside; out there plug-in hybrid
Could possibly be higher: The tech interface; comparatively small third-row
Learn our most up-to-date Vary Rover assessment
The Vary Rover is all-new for 2022, which solely solidifies its place on this listing of one of the best luxurious SUVs. It additionally stays top-of-the-line luxurious autos, interval, providing each drop of consolation, comfort, model and opulence one expects from a flagship-quality automotive with a price ticket deep into six digits. The brand new Vary Rover is now out there as three-row, long-wheelbase mannequin, however because it’s an choice and hardly as much as the adult-friendly confines of an Escalade and even Mercedes GLS, we thought it finest to maintain it right here within the two-row class. Highlights embody an distinctive consideration to element all through, a compelling new mild-hybrid engine (and a plug-in hybrid added later), and as it is a Land Rover, go-anywhere functionality.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Why it stands out: See footage; excessive off-road functionality; impeccable inside; absurd efficiency
Could possibly be higher: Compromised on-road dealing with and inside area; gasoline economic system
Learn our Mercedes-Benz G-Class Evaluate
Does the G-Class make any rational sense? Completely not. Its design and mechanicals are a weird mash-up of old-school and new-school, leading to a automobile that is directly massively rugged and opulently luxurious; huge but area inefficient; a beast off-road but cumbersome on-road. It additionally has an eye-watering price ticket that is grossly increased than Mercedes’ personal GLS-Class that ought to make way more sense for extra patrons than the somewhat absurd G-Class. But, not the whole lot needs to be wise, and what the G-Class does do, it does higher than nearly the whole lot whereas being extremely cool in addition. It is the German Vary Rover, and due to its most up-to-date (and solely) redesign, it is practically as fashionable as Land Rover’s flagship whereas being slightly easier (and certain dependable) by being rather less sophisticated. It is all about clearance and hardcore mechanicals, together with locking entrance, heart and rear differentials.
Greatest flagship luxurious SUV (three-row)
Cadillac Escalade
Why it stands out: 38 inches of OLED screens; diesel engine; tow functionality; adult-friendly third row; Tremendous Cruise
Could possibly be higher: V8 gasoline (in)effectivity; gargantuan measurement impedes dealing with and maneuverability
Learn our full 2023 Cadillac Escalade Evaluate
The Escalade was all new for 2021, and consequently, wasradically improved and way more aggressive. The swap to an unbiased rear suspension has taken the third row from uninhabitable to one of many greatest available on the market, whereas additionally benefiting the experience, dealing with and cargo area. The styling is extra refined and the inside will get a critical improve by way of supplies, design and expertise. Particularly, the 38 inches price of three OLED screens that encompass the motive force. The Escalade can also be out there with GM’s extremely superior Tremendous Cruise hands-free driving expertise. One other key new factor is the addition of a diesel engine, which offers the identical 460 pound-feet of torque as the usual 6.2-liter gasoline V8, however will prevent a whole bunch per 12 months on gasoline. It is shockingly quiet, too. On the opposite finish of the spectrum, is the brand new Cadillac Escalade-V that assaults your ears (and the planet) with 682 horses and a bellowing quad-exhaust (and 13 mpg).
Lincoln Navigator
Why it stands out: Excessive-style cabin; easy and {powerful} engine is extra environment friendly than rivals; adult-friendly third-row area
Could possibly be higher: Not as high-tech because the Escalade; gargantuan measurement impedes dealing with and maneuverability
Learn our full 2022 Lincoln Navigator Evaluate
It is simple to be wowed by the range-topping Navigator Black Label fashions that may be dressed up within the beautiful shade “Themes” of inexperienced or icy blue. They’re really particular, and in case you have the money, the priciest Navigators are with out query essentially the most fascinating ones. On the similar time, each Navigator advantages from the identical basic Mid-Century Fashionable-inspired inside design, unmatched passenger area, plentiful options listing, refined highway manners and a normal engine that produces 450 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque. Regardless of this vital energy benefit over the 6.2-liter Escalade, it is also extra environment friendly (though Lincoln would not supply a fuel-efficient reply to the diesel Escalade). Positive, it is nonetheless gigantic and somewhat truckish in lots of regards, however the Navigator can nonetheless stand tall in opposition to the world’s most interesting flagship luxurious SUVs.
Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
Why it stands out: Lovely inside; impeccable engineering oozes from the whole lot; various mannequin line; well-executed security tech
Could possibly be higher: Overwhelming and complicated tech interface
The Mercedes GLS is a lot greater and a lot nicer than three-row luxurious SUVs just like the Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90 that it is elevated past them into the uppermost echelon of luxurious SUVs: the flagships. That it has three rows is in some methods only a bonus for these in search of essentially the most superior SUV Mercedes has to supply (the Maybach GLS 600 would not even have it), however that aft-most row can also be genuinely adult-friendly, which is uncommon amongst luxurious makers. As such, the GLS can directly compete with the Vary Rover and Navigator … to not point out the Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan when in Maybach guise. After all, we expect the Maybach and AMG GLS 63 variations are borderline offensive of their overkill and extravagance, however if you would like one of the best, then it is definitely onerous to argue in opposition to them.
