As SUVs are becoming more popular, carmakers around the globe are constantly looking to add new luxury features and upgrade existing tech to entice customers. Since SUVs fill the gap between sedans and trucks, they are designed to blend both worlds. As a result, SUVs have metamorphosed into machines that possess the driving dynamics of sedans yet haul and tow like trucks.
Luxury SUVs offer much more than all kinds of creature comforts - they come with powerful engines and finely tuned suspensions too. European automakers and their counterparts across the Atlantic are churning out more and more of these vehicles whose universal appeal lies in their practicality. All of these SUVs can ferry your family and their gear in comfort while towing equipment needed for a weekend getaway. Here's a list of five of the best European luxury SUVs and five from America that we'd prefer.
10 European SUV: 2021 Audi Q7
Currently, in its second generation which was unveiled in 2015, the Audi Q7 - Audi’s first SUV - is based on the Volkswagen Group MLB Evo platform. With prices ranging from $56,045 to $73,095, the 2021 Q7 offers a luxurious and generously equipped means of hauling your family around.
The heated and power-adjustable Valcona leather upholstered seats are also equipped with a massaging function for absolute comfort. Other luxury features in the top trim include power soft-closing doors, adaptive air suspension, a head-up display, and a 23-speaker stereo system.
9 European SUV: 2021 BMW X5
The fourth-generation X5 is built on the Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform and features a rich blend of luxury, sportiness, and practicality. A choice of three capable powertrains, all paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, gives the X5 good speed and quick acceleration.
Features in the quiet interior include quad-zone climate control, a head-up display, power-adjustable heated seats, and a heated steering wheel. Also available are remote start, proximity keyless entry, push-button start, hands-free parallel park assist, a hands-free power liftgate, and a 20-speaker audio system.
8 European SUV: 2021 Land Rover Defender 110
While maintaining the legacy of phenomenal off-roading on which it is built, the 2021 land rover Defender 110 also provides uncharacteristic smooth rides on the pavement. For everyday driving, the base 296 hp turbo 4-cylinder will suffice, while the optional mild-hybrid turbocharged 395 hp I-6 Is more suitable for the wilds.
The Defender boasts luxury features like tri-zone climate control, head-up display, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats. In addition to an air quality sensor and purification, a refrigerator is also provided to keep your drinks cold.
7 European SUV: 2021 Mercedes Benz GLS
The third generation of Mercedes-Benz GLS debuted in 2019 as a 2020 model and is offered in four trims for 2021. Each of the models parades a different power plant under the hood - each of which pairs with a 9-speed automatic transmission system. Materials used in the cabin are of the highest quality and include real wood trimming and real leather upholstery.
Heated/massaging seats, heated armrests, heated/cooled cupholders, multiple zones automatic climate control, infotainment interface for the back seats, and an optional console refrigerator are also provided.
6 European SUV: 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class (G-Wagon)
-Shown.jpg?q=50&fit=crop&w=750&dpr=1.5)
Presently in its second generation which was introduced at the 2018 North American International Auto Show, the G-Class has eveolved over the years, and is a status symbol with a credible off-road capability. Under the hood, it hides a 4-liter twin-turbo V8 making 416 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque while the cabin features a fine array of luxury fittings.
-Parked.jpg?q=50&fit=crop&w=750&dpr=1.5)
Standard features include a power-adjustable steering wheel and front seats, heated seats, ambient lighting, air purification system, remote start, and proximity keyless entry. Available options provide ventilated front seats with massage functions, a heated steering wheel, and 10-inch screens for rear seat occupants.
5 American SUV: 2021 GMC Yukon
Riding on the GMT T1XX platform, the 8-seater awe-inspiring GMC Yukon was redesigned and introduced in February 2020 for the 2021 model year. To move the over 5000 pounds juggernaut around, 3 engines are offered - 2 gas V8s making 355 hp and 420 hp, and a turbo-diesel generating 460 lb-ft of twist.
The luxury SUV provides creature comforts like leather upholstery, heated steering wheel, heated front, second-row seats, and power-folding third-row seats—optional packages include power-retractable assist steps and a rear-seat entertainment system to keep rear seat occupants busy.
4 American SUV: 2021 Lincoln Aviator
With a price tag of $52,665, and riding on the Ford CD platform, the Aviator is perhaps the best SUV from Lincoln. Apart from the user-friendly infotainment controls, the Aviator offers a lineup of all the luxuries that most people need.
It offers features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, quad-zone automatic climate control, soft-close doors, and a 28-speaker sound system. Considering its price, the Aviator is a much cheaper option that happens to carry more passengers and cargo than rivals like the BMW X5 and the Land Rover Defender 110
3 American SUV: 2021 Ford Bronco
After a protracted break from the automotive scene for 25 years, the Ford Bronco returns for the 6th generation more impressive and robust than ever. The all-new Bronco is offered in seven interesting flavors with prices ranging from $35,880-$61,110.
The Bronco offers a remote start, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control. With its removable body panels, soft top, and a cabin that can be hosed out after a hard day in the mud, the Bronco is a more rugged offroader.
2 American SUV: 2021 Cadillac Escalade
The fifth generation of Cadillac Escalade begins with the 2021 model which is offered in five trim levels loaded with the latest high-tech wonders. In addition to being more affordable than the Mercedes-Benz GLS, the Cadillac Escalade also has a higher maximum towing capacity.
Unlike the low-quality interior materials found in previous Escalades, the 2021 model boasts premium materials in the cabin. Standard features include remote start, proximity keyless entry, and tri-zone automatic climate control, while cabin air ionization and a refrigerator are available options.
1 American SUV: 2021 Lincoln Navigator
The fourth-generation Navigator is built on the Ford T3 platform and is presented in three trims while a long-wheelbase option is available on the top two trims. Under the massive hood, a twin-turbo V6 cranks out 450 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque to move the nearly 6000 pounds SUV.
In the quiet and lavish cabin, the Navigator is fitted with features like tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, and ventilated/power front seats. It also offers wireless device charging, six USB ports, two 10-inch touchscreens for the rear seats, and a 20-speaker stereo system.