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. In the present day, there’s a staggering variety of luxurious SUVs obtainable in each form, measurement and value 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 automobile makers Porsche, Aston Martin and Lamborghini have even dived in.
However of this nice many, that are the perfect luxurious SUVs? We sat down, scoured our evaluations, took some votes, had some discussions and got here up with the posh SUVs we view as the perfect. They’re listed alphabetically inside the six segments listed beneath.
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 house and flexibility; legit luxurious inside; amusing GLB 35 versionCould 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 significantly better off paying much less cash for a loaded, non-luxury compact SUV. The Mercedes GLB is completely different, although. Its boxy design supplies house few different subcompact SUV can match (luxurious or in any other case), whereas its cabin design and have content material are consistent with pricier Mercedes fashions. The standard’s not precisely as much as GLC requirements, neither is driving refinement, however the distinction is acceptable for the 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 versionCould be higher: Gasoline-efficient base engine solely obtainable with FWD
Most subcompact luxurious fashions really feel a bit like low-cost knockoffs of their greater, pricier model mates. The XC40, against this, is a break from the Volvo norm in a great way. It rides on a unique platform from the assorted 60- and 90-series Volvos, leading to a automobile 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 parts like contrasting roofs and vibrant inside colours. Importantly, it is also one of many bigger, extra versatile automobiles within the section and supplies extra options for the cash. It is a fascinating car to purchase by itself deserves in a section that usually feels such as you bought it trigger you could not afford a pricier mannequin.
Greatest compact luxurious SUVs
Genesis GV70
Why it stands out: Lovely inside; user-friendly tech; subtle highway mannersCould be higher: Merely common again seat house; not as sporty because it seems
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 worth play — it nonetheless has the next value than these from Acura, Lexus and Infiniti, and contains a plusher inside and extra subtle engineering that warrant it. Its distinctive seems and delightful inside actually stand out (try the purple, inexperienced and blue inside selections), and its rear-wheel-drive platform may 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 most effective compact SUV to drive; Porsche high quality and customization potential Might be higher: Costly earlier than you even get to the exorbitantly priced choices; small inside
Taken actually, the Porsche Macan is nearly actually the perfect compact luxurious SUV. The way in which it seems, the way in which it is made and, most importantly, the way in which it drives would make it a no brainer if we have been looking for a compact SUV … and did not have to fret a few funds. Ah sure, there’s the rub. As distinctive because the Macan is, it is nonetheless a Porsche, which signifies that it delivers fairly dismal function content material and house for the cash. The bottom four-cylinder mannequin specifically is a questionable worth. So, is it probably the most good choice? No, however then, this is not the “Most Smart Luxurious SUV” listing. It is about the perfect. The Macan is certainly one of them.
Volvo XC60
Why it stands out: Scandinavian design; more room and options for the cash; Recharge plug-in hybridCould be higher: Unrefined engines; unremarkable dealing with
OK, so typically 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 mother and father in every single place. It is also fairly gas environment friendly, and even obtainable with a superb 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 consistent with the larger, pricier XC90. Mainly, the XC60 is among the extra wise selections within the section, but additionally among the best.
Greatest midsize luxurious SUVs (normal two-row)
Genesis GV80
Why it stands out: Beautiful inside; well-executed driver help tech; seems, feels and drives pricier than it isCould be higher: Restricted availability of third-row seat
The Genesis GV80 isn’t an affordable SUV, beginning at round $50,000, however even when maxed out at almost $70,000, it will nonetheless make you assume 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 isn’t a scarcity of opulent creature comforts obtainable, and the usual portfolio of infotainment and security know-how isn’t solely plentiful, however well-executed. Importantly, the GV80 additionally delivers the kind of subtle driving expertise because of its new rear-wheel-drive chassis, obtainable air-spring suspension, sturdy engines and many sound deadening. There’s additionally plenty of house inside, and though you will get the GV80 with a 3rd row, it is very cramped and solely obtainable with the V6 engine and certainly one of both the Advance+ or Status packages. As such, we take into account the GV80 a two-row SUV.
Lexus RX 350h and RX 500h
Why it stands out: Nice gas financial system for a midsize SUV; well-made cabin; 500h’s sturdy energy for a hybrid; vibrant colorsCould be higher: Some infotainment and security tech annoyances; 350h’s pokey acceleration
Learn our 2023 Lexus RX Assessment
The 2023 Lexus RX represents a very redesigned mannequin, and though we’re not fully enamored with it (and have been critically irritated by its tech), the RX 350h and new RX 500h hybrids provide such distinctive gas financial system that they are undoubtedly value a search for anybody looking on this section. In case you’re searching for max gas financial system, the RX 350h sacrifices efficiency (plus a quiet cabin below exhausting 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 gas financial system out of a midsize luxurious SUV. The RX 500h represents a extra balanced strategy. It could return solely 27 mpg mixed, however it 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 stability right here and the RX 500h delivers it. There’ll finally be a plug-in hybrid dubbed RX 450h+ obtainable 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 every part; 5 engine choices; well-executed security techCould be higher: Overwhelming and complicated tech interface
If the GV80 is the supremely proficient rookie of the 12 months, the GLE is the perennial all-star who’s not too long ago taken its sport 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 parts 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 almost each little bit of infotainment and security know-how in Mercedes’ huge arsenal. If something, all that tech can simply overwhelm, particularly the MBUX interface. Nonetheless, it positive seems fairly with its ultra-wide twin-screen setup and vivid graphics. Notice {that a} third-row seat is a $2,100 possibility, however just like the GV80’s, it is fairly small and certain a uncommon function to seek out on supplier heaps.
Why it stands out: Participating driving expertise; Porsche inside high quality and customization choices; a number of plug-in hybridsCould 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 look like an enormous ripoff. Particularly whenever you begin making choices from the exorbitantly priced choices listing. However you then drive it — any of them, from the bottom 335-horsepower V6 as much as the 670-hp Turbo S E-Hybrid — and the worth begins to make slightly extra sense. Even should you simply climb aboard, have a look round and run your fingers over the surfaces, you may 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 simple 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, in truth). We even like the Cayenne Coupe regardless of usually being unmoved by such “crossover coupe” fashions, together with the GLE’s. In some way, that physique form simply works higher on a automobile that shares its badge with a Porsche 911.
Greatest midsize luxurious SUVs (normal three-row)
Acura MDX
Why it stands out: Superior dealing with; versatile second row; worth in your cash; reliability reputationCould be higher: Steep tech interface studying curve; stiff brake pedal really feel; no hybrid possibility
Learn our 2022 Acura MDX Assessment
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 modern in-car know-how, although the interface is an acquired style. Most essential, although, the MDX isn’t 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 give attention to driving pleasure. On the identical 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 contains a detachable middle-seat portion, that 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 tools 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 spaceCould 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 Assessment
You will not hear us say this fairly often, however the Lincoln Aviator has an excessive amount of energy. With a typical 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 might simply provide 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 velocity than taking corners (acceptable for a Lincoln). And, talking of Grand Touring, the Aviator’s trim of that title is in truth 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; huge value vary; obtainable Recharge plug-in hybridCould 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 possibility obtainable for almost $80,000 and stroll away with a really particular luxurious SUV befitting that price ticket. On the identical 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 classy than most luxurious fashions. Such widespread attraction and competitiveness are uncommon. The XC90 is a good luxurious SUV irrespective of the worth 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 MartinCould be higher: It is wildly costly for an SUV of its measurement; last-gen Mercedes infotainment
Learn our Aston Martin DBX Assessment
Duh. You’d actually hope that an Aston Martin could be one of many most interesting automobiles on the earth, however truthfully, that is hardly ever been true (if ever). The model’s styling and affiliation with a sure British spy carries A LOT of the load, whereas the automobile’s themselves have hardly been world-beaters. Their interiors specifically 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 among the finest steering we have come throughout in ages. It presents long-distance consolation like a correct Aston Martin GT as properly. Its inside is even properly crafted for its extraordinarily lofty value level and usually advantages from Aston’s tie-up with Mercedes-Benz (though the last-gen Mercedes tech interface might undoubtedly be higher). Sure, the worth 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; obtainable plug-in hybridCould 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 the perfect luxurious SUVs. It additionally stays among the best luxurious automobiles, interval, providing each drop of consolation, comfort, model and opulence one expects from a flagship-quality automobile with a price ticket deep into six digits. The brand new Vary Rover is now obtainable as three-row, long-wheelbase mannequin, however because it’s an possibility 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 embrace 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 photos; excessive off-road functionality; impeccable inside; absurd performanceCould be higher: Compromised on-road dealing with and inside house; gas financial system
Learn our Mercedes-Benz G-Class Assessment
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 car that is directly massively rugged and opulently luxurious; huge but house inefficient; a beast off-road but cumbersome on-road. It additionally has an eye-watering price ticket that is grossly greater than Mercedes’ personal GLS-Class that ought to make way more sense for extra patrons than the reasonably absurd G-Class. But, not every part must be wise, and what the G-Class does do, it does higher than virtually every part whereas being extremely cool as well. It is the German Vary Rover, and due to its most up-to-date (and solely) redesign, it is almost as fashionable as Land Rover’s flagship whereas being slightly less complicated (and certain dependable) by being rather less sophisticated. It is all about clearance and hardcore mechanicals, together with locking entrance, middle 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 CruiseCould be higher: V8 gas (in)effectivity; gargantuan measurement impedes dealing with and maneuverability
Learn our full 2023 Cadillac Escalade Assessment
The Escalade was all new for 2021, and in consequence, wasradically improved and way more aggressive. The swap to an impartial rear suspension has taken the third row from uninhabitable to one of many largest in the marketplace, whereas additionally benefiting the experience, dealing with and cargo house. The styling is extra refined and the inside will get a critical improve when it comes to supplies, design and know-how. Particularly, the 38 inches value of three OLED screens that encompass the motive force. The Escalade can also be obtainable with GM’s extremely superior Tremendous Cruise hands-free driving know-how. One other key new ingredient is the addition of a diesel engine, which supplies the identical 460 pound-feet of torque as the usual 6.2-liter fuel V8, however will prevent a whole lot per 12 months on gas. 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 spaceCould be higher: Not as high-tech because the Escalade; gargantuan measurement impedes dealing with and maneuverability
Learn our full 2022 Lincoln Navigator Assessment
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 actually particular, and you probably have the money, the priciest Navigators are with out query probably the most fascinating ones. On the identical time, each Navigator advantages from the identical normal Mid-Century Fashionable-inspired inside design, unmatched passenger house, plentiful options listing, refined highway manners and a typical 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 provide a fuel-efficient reply to the diesel Escalade). Positive, it is nonetheless gigantic and reasonably 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 every part; numerous mannequin line; well-executed security techCould 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 searching for probably 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. In fact, we expect the Maybach and AMG GLS 63 variations are borderline offensive of their overkill and extravagance, however if you would like the perfect, then it is actually exhausting to argue in opposition to them.