LUXURY SUVS
- Audi Q7: Audi Q7 is one of the most fun-to-drive and luxurious large SUVs on the market, and it’s priced well below many rivals in the class. You’ll have plenty of muscle from the Q7’s V6 engine, and its automatic transmission makes good use of the engine’s power. The Q7 delivers its power as soon as you hit the accelerator. The Q7 is very fuel efficient compared with its rivals. Despite its large size, the Q7 is nimble around corners, with precise steering and strong brakes to help you enjoy twisty roads. Inside, you’ll find high-end materials, comfortable seats, and lots of high-tech features to keep you informed, entertained, and safe. The first two rows of seats offer generous room for adults and are comfortable for long drives. The third row is cramped, though, which is typical for 3-row SUVs. Many rivals offer more cargo room than the Q7, so you may want to look elsewhere if you need to do lots of hauling.
- Aston Martin DBX: The SUV for James Bond, the new DBX from Aston Martin is still just a concept vehicle, but one that’s expected to reach dealerships following the success of the British automaker’s competitors. Not quite an SUV, the DBX is the brand’s most family-friendly crossover that will break barriers to allow the freedom to drive in less-than-ideal terrain. The 4×4 crossover is slated for production and will be manufactured at three old Royal Air Force super hangers in Wales that Aston Martin has spent £200m transforming into the new factory that will produce the DBX. The concept is one that was requested personally by Andy Palmer, the CEO of Aston Martin after he left Nissan to join the luxury automaker. He wanted a crossover that would perform well in North America and Asia. The DBX was the result. Although initial designs have been released, don’t expect to be able to buy the crossover until at least 2020. Production will kick off next year, and it’s likely this will be a new vehicle featured in future James Bond films.
- Lexus RX: The best-selling luxury SUV in America is the midsize Lexus RX. Available as the RX 350 with a 270-horsepower V-6 engine or as the RX 400h with a 280-horsepower, gas-electric hybrid powertrain, the Lexus RX seats 5 people and offers all-wheel drive as an option. The F Sport version gets a more sophisticated 8-speed automatic transmission, styling changes, and a sport-tuned suspension for a more athletic look and feel.
- BMW X5 M: Helped by a 567 horsepower engine, the main claim of the 2016 BMW X5 M is its ability to go from zero to 60 mph in four seconds flat, which clipped their last model’s speed by almost a second. Also included are its new set of wheels (21–inches), brakes, and suspension. Aside from the enhanced USB and Bluetooth (now both standardized), the rest of the superb technology in the interior is present. For many, the high-performing 2016 BMW X5 M is the top luxury SUV of the year.
- Cadillac Escalade: The bold, redesigned styling of the 2016 Cadillac Escalade is one attractive factor that pulls in admirers, and eventually buyers. The bigger attraction, however, is its V8 power. This year, the Escalade will now have the new automatic transmission in eight speeds. The sleek technological devices used for the utilities, entertainment and safety inside the full-size SUV are still premium, as in the previous one. Powered by a 6.2-liter V8 engine, the Cadillac Escalade can achieve 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque.
- Land Rover Range Rover: The 2016 Land Rover Range Rover has potent engines, incredible off-road ability and a premium interior, according to test drivers. The 2016 Range Rover’s standard supercharged V6 makes decent power, but the optional, more powerful supercharged V6, turbodiesel V6 and supercharged V8 deliver more muscle and faster acceleration. The seats in both rows offer plenty of space and comfort. Standard features in the 2016 Range Rover include a Meridian audio system, HD radio, satellite radio, Bluetooth, a USB port, tri-zone automatic climate control, a rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors and new-for-2016 InControl Remote smartphone integration, which lets you adjust some vehicle functions from a smartphone.
- Mazda CX-5: The 2016 Mazda CX-5 combines excellent fuel economy, top safety scores, a well-made interior and a degree of driver engagement that no other compact crossover can match. Indeed, the CX-5’s brakes, suspension and steering are all best-in-class, yet it still boasts a family-friendly ride quality, backseat and cargo area. A greatly improved tech interface for 2016 makes it even more appealing. If you’re looking to move from a small, nimble car to a crossover SUV, the CX-5 should make your transition a little less jarring.
- Ford Escape: The 2016 Ford Escape’s main strengths is a choice of powertrains, including two punchy turbocharged four-cylinders that provide spirited acceleration. However, it also scores high marks for its sporty handling manners, some cool tech features (including Ford’s new Sync 3 touchscreen interface for 2016) and a well-crafted cabin that stands above most competitors. It isn’t quite as utilitarian and spacious as the CR-V or Forester, nor does its fuel economy match the class leaders. But as with the CX-5, the Escape’s carlike manners make it a great choice for those coming out of a car.
- Acura MDX: Redesigned for 2014, the 7-passenger Acura MDX is the second most popular luxury SUV in America, and is Acura’s best-selling model. A 280-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine is standard, Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) is optional, and extras are offered in Technology, Entertainment, and Advance option packages.
- Porsche Cayenne Hybrid: Sporty and indulgent, the 2016 Porsche Cayenne has a lineup that includes a turbocharged V8, a plug-in hybrid, and a model powered by diesel. It could be the top all-around market cross-over. This midsized, five-passenger SUV is available in six trim levels: Turbo, Turbo S., Diesel, S.E-hybrid, GTS, and Cayenne. The wide range of available engines reward the handling; this vehicle is highly customizable and displays an exquisite-looking interior.