As soon as upon a time, the concept of a Luxurious SUV meant a Range 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 electric luxury SUVs just like the Tesla Model 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 the perfect luxurious SUVs? We sat down, scoured our critiques, 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 under. 

Best Subcompact Luxury SUV   |   Best Compact Luxury SUV   |   Best Midsize Luxury SUV (Two-Row)

Best Midsize Luxury SUV (Three-Row)   |   Best Flagship Luxury SUV (Two-Row)   |   Best Flagship Luxury SUV (Three-Row) 

Finest subcompact luxurious SUVs

Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class

Why it stands out: Excellent house and flexibility; legit luxurious inside; amusing GLB 35 model
Might 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 totally different, although. Its boxy design gives 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 model
Might 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 special 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 strong, 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 autos within the section and gives extra options for the cash. It is a fascinating car to purchase by itself deserves in a section that usually feels such as you received it trigger you could not afford a pricier mannequin. 

Finest compact luxurious SUVs

Genesis GV70

Why it stands out: Stunning inside; user-friendly tech; subtle street manners
Might be higher: Merely common again seat house; not as sporty because it seems

Learn our Genesis GV70 review

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 a better worth than these from Acura, Lexus and Infiniti, and includes a plusher inside and extra subtle engineering that warrant it. Its distinctive seems and delightful inside actually stand out (try the purple, green and blue interior choices), and its rear-wheel-drive platform might be augmented by a clean, massively {powerful} turbo V6 and a high-tech adaptive suspension that not solely reacts to street imperfections however anticipates them.

Porsche Macan

Why it stands out: The perfect 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 best way it seems, the best way it is made and, most importantly, the best way it drives would make it a no brainer if we had been purchasing 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 implies 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 selection? No, however then, this is not the “Most Wise Luxurious SUV” listing. It is about the perfect. The Macan is one in all them.   

Volvo XC60

Why it stands out: Scandinavian design; extra space and options for the cash; Recharge plug-in hybrid
Might 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 mother and father all over the place. It is also fairly gas environment friendly, and even out there with a superb plug-in hybrid mannequin dubbed Recharge. However the XC60 additionally is not some uber-utilitarian boxy Volvo of previous. The styling is timelessly lovely, 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 likely one of the extra wise selections within the section, but additionally the most effective.     

Finest midsize luxurious SUVs (customary two-row)

Genesis GV80

Why it stands out: Beautiful inside; well-executed driver help tech; seems, feels and drives pricier than it’s
Might 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 practically $70,000, it’s going to 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 any scarcity of opulent creature comforts out there, and the usual portfolio of infotainment and security expertise isn’t solely considerable, however well-executed. Importantly, the GV80 additionally delivers the kind of subtle driving expertise because of its new rear-wheel-drive chassis, out there air-spring suspension, sturdy engines and many sound deadening. There’s additionally plenty of house inside, and though you may get the GV80 with a 3rd row, it is very cramped and solely out there with the V6 engine and one in all 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 colours
Might be higher: Some infotainment and security tech annoyances; 350h’s pokey acceleration

Learn our 2023 Lexus RX Review

The 2023 Lexus RX represents a very redesigned mannequin, and though we’re not fully enamored with it (and had been severely irritated by its tech), the RX 350h and new RX 500h hybrids provide such distinctive gas financial system that they are undoubtedly price a search for anybody looking on this section. If you happen to’re looking for max gas financial system, the RX 350h sacrifices efficiency (plus a quiet cabin beneath 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, but it surely additionally produces 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. Its acceleration might 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 ultimately 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: Stunning inside; impeccable engineering oozes from the whole lot; 5 engine choices; well-executed security tech
Might 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 not too long ago taken its sport to a complete new degree. 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 a complete: 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 fairly with its ultra-wide twin-screen setup and vivid graphics. Observe {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 search out on seller tons. 

 

Why it stands out: Partaking driving expertise; Porsche inside high quality and customization choices; a number of plug-in hybrids
Might 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 might 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 should you simply climb aboard, have a look round and run your fingers over the surfaces, you may doubtless 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 recognize that regardless of being one of many preeminent efficiency SUVs, the Cayenne is on the market as a plug-in hybrid (there are two selections of them, in truth). We even like the Cayenne Coupe regardless of typically being unmoved by such “crossover coupe” fashions, together with the GLE’s. In some way, that physique form simply works higher on a automotive that shares its badge with a Porsche 911. 

Finest midsize luxurious SUVs (customary three-row)

Acura MDX

Why it stands out: Superior dealing with; versatile second row; worth to your cash; reliability repute
Might be higher: Steep tech interface studying curve; stiff brake pedal really feel; no hybrid possibility

Learn our 2022 Acura MDX Review

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 newest in-car expertise, although the interface is an acquired taste. Most vital, although, the MDX isn’t solely extra partaking 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 includes a detachable middle-seat portion, that means you do not have to decide on between seven-passenger capability or extra snug second-row captain’s chairs. There’s additionally the matter of getting extra gear to 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 house
Might be higher: A less expensive, less-powerful entry mannequin that will open the Aviator as much as extra consumers

Learn our full 2022 Lincoln Aviator Review

You will not hear us say this fairly often, however the Lincoln Aviator has an excessive amount of energy. With an ordinary 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 consumers with a lower cost. 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 (applicable for a Lincoln). And, talking of Grand Touring, the Aviator’s trim of that identify 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; extensive worth vary; out there Recharge plug-in hybrid
Might be higher: Unrefined engines

You will get an XC90 dressed to the nines with the 400-horsepower plug-in hybrid powertrain and each high-tech, leather-lined possibility 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 could possibly 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 superb luxurious SUV irrespective of the value or trim degree. 

Finest flagship luxurious SUV (two-row)

Aston Martin DBX

Why it stands out: Shockingly enjoyable to drive for an SUV; shockingly comfortable for a sporting SUV; it is an Aston Martin
Might be higher: It is wildly costly for an SUV of its measurement; last-gen Mercedes infotainment

Learn our Aston Martin DBX Review

Duh. You’d actually hope that an Aston Martin could be one of many most interesting autos on this planet, however actually, that is not often been true (if ever). The model’s styling and affiliation with a sure British spy carries A LOT of the burden, whereas the automotive’s themselves have hardly been world-beaters. Their interiors specifically have traditionally been letdowns. The DBX SUV defies these expectations, nonetheless. 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 greatest steering we have come throughout in ages. It affords long-distance consolation like a correct Aston Martin GT as effectively. Its inside is even effectively 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 might undoubtedly be higher). Sure, the value is nuts, however we’re speaking the “Finest” SUVs right here, not the “Finest for the Cash.”

Land Rover Vary Rover

Why it stands out: Regal driving expertise; beautiful high-fashion inside; out there plug-in hybrid
Might be higher: The tech interface; comparatively small third-row

Learn our most up-to-date Range Rover review

The Vary Rover is all-new for 2022, which solely solidifies its place on this listing of the perfect luxurious SUVs. It additionally stays the most effective luxurious autos, interval, providing each drop of consolation, comfort, type 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 possibility and hardly as much as the adult-friendly confines of an Escalade and even Mercedes GLS, we thought it greatest to maintain it right here within the two-row class. Highlights embrace an exceptional attention to detail throughout, 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
Might be higher: Compromised on-road dealing with and inside house; gas financial system

Learn our Mercedes-Benz G-Class Review

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 without delay 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 consumers than the fairly 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 as well. It is the German Vary Rover, and because of its most up-to-date (and solely) redesign, it is practically 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.

Finest 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
Might be higher: V8 gas (in)effectivity; gargantuan measurement impedes dealing with and maneuverability 

Learn our full 2023 Cadillac Escalade Review

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 greatest in the marketplace, whereas additionally benefiting the experience, dealing with and cargo house. The styling is extra refined and the inside will get a severe improve by way of supplies, design and expertise. Particularly, the 38 inches price of three OLED screens that encompass the driving force. The Escalade can be out there with GM’s extremely superior Tremendous Cruise hands-free driving expertise. One other key new component is the addition of a diesel engine, which gives the identical 460 pound-feet of torque as the usual 6.2-liter fuel V8, however will prevent a whole bunch per 12 months on gas. It is shockingly quiet, too. On the opposite finish of the spectrum, is the 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; clean and {powerful} engine is extra environment friendly than rivals; adult-friendly third-row house
Might be higher: Not as high-tech because the Escalade; gargantuan measurement impedes dealing with and maneuverability

Learn our full 2022 Lincoln Navigator Review

It is easy to be wowed by the range-topping Navigator Black Label fashions that may be dressed up within the beautiful colour “Themes” of inexperienced or icy blue. They’re really particular, and in case you have the money, the priciest Navigators are with out query probably the most fascinating ones. On the similar time, each Navigator advantages from the identical common Mid-Century Fashionable-inspired inside design, unmatched passenger house, considerable options listing, refined street manners and an ordinary 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). Certain, it is nonetheless gigantic and fairly truckish in lots of regards, however the Navigator can nonetheless stand tall towards the world’s most interesting flagship luxurious SUVs. 

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Why it stands out: Stunning inside; impeccable engineering oozes from the whole lot; numerous mannequin line; well-executed security tech
Might 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 looking 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 be genuinely adult-friendly, which is uncommon amongst luxurious makers. As such, the GLS can without delay 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 predict the Maybach and AMG GLS 63 variations are borderline offensive of their overkill and extravagance, however if you’d like the perfect, then it is actually exhausting to argue towards them.