It’s no secret that Americans love SUVs and no secret that SUVs have been outselling traditional cars on American roads. Consumers love the mix of practicality, comfort, and vision of the road that SUVs provide, with the latter two factors due to their high seating positions.SUVs come in all shapes and sizes: subcompact, compact, mid-size, full-size, and even extended-length, which refers to SUVs with long wheelbases (even longer than those of full-size SUVs) which are mainly sold in North America and the Middle East.With this explosion in the market, manufacturers have naturally expanded their lineups to include SUVs of every kind, and luxury manufacturers are no exception. So what do you do when you’re in the market for a luxury SUV? You consult our list of the best of the best!Lastly, let’s address what may be the (albeit relatively small) elephant in the room. Crossovers and SUVs are technically two distinct categories of vehicle, yet manufacturers and consumers alike tend to use both terms interchangeably. For our purposes, we’ll be doing the same.
SUBCOMPACT: BMW X1
The current generation BMW X1 (internally referred to as the F48) is one of the best luxury subcompact SUVs on the market. Rave reviews celebrate its excellent powertrain, driving dynamics (relative to its competition), and large cargo capacity.For just US $35,200, you’re getting one of the most capable all around cars on the market. The base model comes standard with front-wheel drive, but for just $2,000 more, you can upgrade to BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system.
COMPACT: PORSCHE MACAN
If you’re looking for an SUV with driving dynamics that make you feel like you’re driving a sports sedan instead of an SUV, look no further than the Porsche Macan. This small Porsche is stylish, quick, and incredibly poised on the road.While the base Macan (starting at a price of $50,900) is a capable car in its own right, spring for the S trim (starting at a price of $59,400) for a meaningful upgrade in power: 248 ponies in the base Macan versus 348 in the S. Either way, you’ll be pleased with your new ride.
MID-SIZE: AUDI Q7
For some families, two rows of seats just aren’t enough. Although compact SUVs are roomier inside than their spec sheets suggest, sometimes you just need that extra space. This is where the Audi Q7 comes in, as it ranks as one of the best mid-size luxury SUVs on the market.Starting at $54,800, the Q7 is pricey, especially with optional features, but packs a capable punch if you can stomach its price. With surprising agility, a technology-rich cabin, and plenty of interior space (as expected), the Q7 is a great package for those with big families.
FULL-SIZE: MERCEDES BENZ GLS-CLASS
Sift through Mercedes’ impressively confusing list of SUV classes (the GLA, GLB, GLC, GLC Coupe, GLE, GLE Coupe, GLS, and G) and you’ll stumble upon one of the best full-size SUVs money can buy: the Mercedes-Benz GLS-class.With a steep starting price of $75,950, the GLS-class will immediately turn many buyers away. However, look past its sizable price tag and you’ll discover a proper luxury SUV with a refined ride and spacious (three-row, seven-passenger of course) interior loaded with technology.
ULTRA-LUXURY
Now consider this scenario: You’re an unbelievably rich Russian oligarch—perhaps an oil tycoon—and you’re looking for a luxury SUV that fits your lifestyle and signals to the world your enduring opulence. What do you buy?The answer comes in one of three forms: the Bentley Bentayga, yours for just $160,000 (whew); the Lamborghini Urus, yours for just around $200,000 (ouch); and the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, yours for only $325,000—more than the median price of a home in the US!What do you get with any one of these three ultra-luxury SUVs? Other than the impact that driving such a status symbol has, you’re also getting world-class materials, brand heritage, and the feeling that only comes from owning one of the most luxurious vehicles on the planet.Such unmistakable symbols of opulence are not to the taste of every consumer, even to the very few who can afford to own one. If you had $325,000 for an SUV, luxury or not, what would you pick to put into your own garage? Sound off in the comments below!
