The 10 Best New Luxury SUVs to Buy Now & The 10 Worst to Avoid
Luxury Done Right (And Wrong)
Luxury SUVs have never been more popular, but a premium badge doesn't automatically guarantee a premium ownership experience. Some models combine comfort, performance, technology, and long-term value in ways that justify their price tags, while others struggle with reliability, dated interiors, or disappointing driving dynamics. If you're shopping in this segment, knowing which SUVs stand out for the right reasons can save you a lot of money and frustration. Here are the 10 best new luxury SUVs and the 10 worst.
1. Genesis GV80
The Genesis GV80 continues to be one of the strongest values in the luxury SUV market. Its cabin feels just as upscale as those of its German rivals, complete with high-end materials and an intuitive infotainment system. You also get generous standard equipment and one of the industry's best warranties, making it an easy recommendation.
2. BMW X5
The BMW X5 remains one of the most well-rounded luxury SUVs you can buy. It delivers sharp handling without sacrificing ride comfort, while its engine lineup offers everything from efficient six-cylinders to high-performance M models. Inside, the technology feels modern, and the interior quality matches its premium reputation.
3. Lexus RX
If reliability is near the top of your priority list, the Lexus RX is difficult to beat. The latest generation offers a smoother hybrid lineup, excellent fuel economy, and a comfortable ride that's perfect for daily driving. Ownership costs also tend to be lower than those of many European competitors.
4. Lexus GX
The redesigned Lexus GX delivers the premium interior and modern technology buyers have been asking for without sacrificing its legendary durability. It remains one of the few luxury SUVs that's genuinely capable off-road while still feeling comfortable during everyday driving. It somehow strikes the perfect balance between rugged and luxurious.
5. Porsche Cayenne
The Cayenne proves that an SUV can still feel like a Porsche behind the wheel. Steering is precise, body control is exceptional, and nearly every powertrain delivers strong performance. It isn't inexpensive, but few luxury SUVs blend sportiness and everyday usability this well.
6. Mercedes-Benz GLE
Mercedes strikes an excellent balance with the GLE by combining comfort, technology, and refinement. The cabin is quiet on long drives, while the suspension smooths out rough pavement with ease. Buyers also have access to a broad range of engines, from efficient mild hybrids to powerful AMG variants.
7. Acura MDX
The Acura MDX offers premium features without reaching the eye-watering prices of many European rivals. It comes standard with three rows, handles confidently, and has earned a strong reputation for dependability. For families who want luxury with fewer maintenance headaches, it's an appealing option.
8. Audi Q7
The Audi Q7 continues to excel as a refined midsize luxury SUV. Its interior is beautifully assembled, the ride remains composed, and the turbocharged V6 provides more than enough power for everyday driving. Even after several years on the market, it still feels polished and sophisticated.
9. Lincoln Nautilus
Lincoln made enormous improvements with the latest Nautilus. The massive panoramic display dominates a stylish cabin, while the seats are among the most comfortable in the segment. It delivers a relaxed driving experience that's ideal for long highway trips.
10. BMW X3
The redesigned BMW X3 brings a fresh look, updated technology, and the balanced driving dynamics the model has long been known for. Its cabin feels more modern than ever, with high-quality materials and a streamlined infotainment system that makes daily driving feel effortless. Whether you're commuting or taking a weekend road trip, the new X3 delivers the kind of comfort, performance, and refinement that make it one of the best luxury SUVs to buy today.
Now that we've covered some of the best luxury SUVs out there, let's talk about the ones that are on the more disappointing side.
1. Infiniti QX60
While the QX60 is comfortable enough, it struggles to stand out in a crowded luxury segment. Its interior feels less upscale than many newer competitors, and the driving experience is nothing more than competent. There are simply stronger choices available at similar prices.
2. Infiniti QX80
The QX80 still rides on an aging platform that shows its age in several areas. Fuel economy is poor, handling feels dated, and many rivals offer significantly more modern technology. Although the V8 has plenty of power, the overall package no longer feels competitive.
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3. Jaguar F-Pace
The F-Pace remains attractive, but ownership can be less enjoyable than the styling suggests. Reliability concerns continue to hurt its reputation, and Jaguar's uncertain future in several markets has made resale values less appealing. Buyers have plenty of alternatives that inspire more confidence.
4. Maserati Grecale
The Grecale certainly has Italian flair, but it asks buyers to pay a premium for a brand name that doesn't always deliver matching quality. Some interior materials fall short of expectations at this price point, and depreciation is expected to be steep. Unless you're especially drawn to the badge, it's difficult to justify.
5. Land Rover Discovery
The Discovery remains incredibly capable off-road, but many owners spend far more time on pavement than on trails. Reliability has been an ongoing concern, and maintenance costs can quickly add up after the warranty expires. For most buyers, there are safer long-term bets.
6. Alfa Romeo Stelvio
The Stelvio is genuinely fun to drive, but that's only part of the ownership equation. Interior technology feels dated compared to newer rivals, and dependability has never been one of Alfa Romeo's strongest selling points. If you prioritize long-term peace of mind, you'll probably want to look elsewhere.
7. Cadillac XT6
The XT6 wears a luxury badge, yet its interior doesn't always justify its asking price. Several competitors provide richer materials, stronger engines, and more advanced technology for similar money. It ends up feeling closer to a premium crossover than a true luxury SUV.
8. Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV
The EQS SUV is packed with technology, but its polarizing styling has limited its appeal. It's also significantly more expensive than several excellent electric luxury SUVs that offer similar performance and range. Unless you're committed to the Mercedes ecosystem, there are more compelling EV options.
9. BMW XM
The BMW XM is undeniably powerful, but its styling has divided enthusiasts since launch. Its extremely high price also puts it in competition with more rewarding performance SUVs and even exotic sports cars. For many buyers, it feels like an exercise in excess rather than a balanced luxury vehicle.
10. Lexus LX
The Lexus LX is exceptionally reliable and incredibly capable off-road, but many luxury SUV buyers will never use those strengths. Its truck-based platform creates a firmer ride and less efficient packaging than many rivals, while the price has climbed into territory where competitors offer more refinement. Unless you specifically need its rugged capability, you'll likely get better value elsewhere.
