When you think of SUVs, two images might spring to mind: one of rugged off-roaders scaling rocky trails like mountain goats and another of plush, leather-lined palaces on wheels ferrying CEOs to board meetings. Enter the luxurious workhorse SUVs — vehicles that can tow a boat, conquer a blizzard, and coddle you in heated massaging seats all day. Here are 24 of the finest SUVs that marry luxury with capability.
Range Rover
The original luxury off-roader, the Range Rover, has reigned supreme since its inception in 1970. Today’s model is an aristocrat’s dream, with supple leather, a floating touchscreen interface, and a smooth suspension system. And yet, beneath all this poshness, it’s still a beast. Plus, with a wading depth of nearly three feet and a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds, the Range Rover can take you anywhere—even if “anywhere” includes crossing a river.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Affectionately known as the “G-Wagon,” this boxy icon is as much a status symbol as it is a functional off-roader. The G-Class boasts a body-on-frame construction, contributing to its legendary durability and off-road prowess. Its three locking differentials—front, center, and rear—are rare even among dedicated off-roaders, making it nearly unstoppable on challenging terrains. Inside, it’s a leather-lined fortress, complete with a Burmester sound system and ambient lighting, so it is customizable and feels like a nightclub on wheels.
Toyota Land Cruiser
The Land Cruiser has a reputation for reliability that borders on mythological. The 200 series, launched in 2007, featured a V8 engine, KDSS suspension, and luxurious interiors, blending off-road prowess with comfort. Also, the 2021 Land Cruiser marked the final year for the 200 series in several markets, replaced by the 300 series, which boasts a twin-turbo V6 and advanced tech. With a towing capacity of 8,100 pounds, it’s also a capable workhorse that refuses to break a sweat.
BMW X7
The BMW X7 is the Bavarian automaker’s take on a three-row SUV that doesn’t skimp on luxury. As the largest member of BMW’s “X” lineup, it boasts a commanding road presence with a bold kidney grille and sleek adaptive LED headlights. Inside, the X7 offers seating for up to seven, swathed in premium materials such as Vernasca leather and fine wood trims. But don’t let the creature comforts fool you—with xDrive all-wheel drive and an optional V8, the X7 is equally adept at tackling snowy roads and towing trailers.
Audi Q8
The Audi Q8 is what happens when an SUV decides it’s too stylish for cargo pants. It is built on Volkswagen Group’s MLB Evo platform and shares its architecture with the Lamborghini Urus and Porsche Cayenne. Powertrain options include a robust 3.0L V6 turbocharged engine with mild-hybrid technology producing 335 hp and 369 lb.-ft of torque. Further, the Q8’s 60.7 cubic feet of cargo space with seats folded emphasizes practicality. With bold styling and advanced tech, the Audi Q8 bridges luxury, sportiness, and everyday utility.
Lexus LX
Think of the Lexus LX as the Land Cruiser’s posh cousin. It shares the same off-road DNA but swaps out rugged practicality for unparalleled luxury. Safety features include Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Its towing capacity reaches 8,000 pounds, catering to adventure enthusiasts. Plus, with its rugged capability and refined luxury blend, the LX remains a top choice for those seeking a versatile yet opulent SUV. Prices start around $90,000.
Porsche Cayenne
Porsche’s Cayenne may have raised eyebrows when it debuted, but today, it’s a cornerstone of luxury SUVs. Its design harmonizes sporty elegance with off-road ruggedness, drawing heavily from the brand’s sports car heritage. The signature sloping roofline and muscular wheel arches exude power, while the front fascia features unmistakable Porsche DNA, including four-point LED headlights and a prominent hood. Add a lush cabin with premium materials and intuitive tech, and you have a high-speed sanctuary that can still handle a snowy driveway.
Volvo XC90
The Volvo XC90 embodies Scandinavian elegance with a minimalist design and a focus on safety that feels like a warm hug. Inside, the XC90 is a masterclass in refined simplicity. Volvo’s designers used premium materials such as Nappa leather, genuine wood trims, and crystal gear shifters by Orrefors. A vertical Sensus touchscreen dominates the dashboard, replacing clutter buttons with a user-friendly interface. Plus, underneath it all, the XC90 boasts all-wheel drive and hybrid options, making it as capable as it is chic.
Cadillac Escalade
If bigger is better, the Cadillac Escalade reigns supreme. Key design features include the prominent shield-shaped grille, vertical LED headlights and taillights, and chrome accents that underscore its premium appeal. The 2021 redesign introduced a more refined, aerodynamic shape while retaining its commanding presence. Plus, its 6.2-liter V8 ensures it’s no slouch, whether you’re towing a yacht or escaping a crowded mall parking lot in record time.
Lincoln Navigator
The Lincoln Navigator is America’s answer to opulent SUVs. Its profile balances muscularity with elegance, incorporating clean lines, chrome accents, and large wheels (up to 22 inches) for an imposing stance. The Navigator’s signature illuminated Lincoln star and power-deployable running boards enhance its premium appeal. Yet, its twin-turbocharged V6 and 8,700-pound towing capacity prove it’s more than a pretty face.
Jeep Grand Wagoneer
Jeep’s foray into full-size luxury SUVs is a triumph. Initially launched in 1963, the Wagoneer was discontinued in 1991 before returning under the Stellantis umbrella. The new Grand Wagoneer boasts a 6.4-liter V8 engine producing 471 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It can also tow up to 9,000 pounds, making it perfect for adventure enthusiasts. It’s as comfortable climbing mountains as cruising highways.
Tesla Model X
The Tesla Model X combines electric efficiency with futuristic luxury. Released in 2015, it’s a spacious vehicle that blends performance with eco-friendliness. The Model X offers a range of up to 348 miles on a single charge, depending on the variant, and is equipped with all-wheel drive across its lineup. It boasts impressive acceleration, with the “Plaid” version reaching 0-60 mph in just 2.5 seconds, making it one of the fastest SUVs in the world.
Genesis GV80
Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury arm, hit a home run with the GV80. The interior features premium materials like leather, wood, and metal accents paired with a 14.5-inch infotainment screen. It also offers driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision warning. The GV80’s ride is smooth, thanks to its advanced suspension system, while the cabin is incredibly quiet, making it a top choice for comfort.
Land Rover Defender
The Defender’s return was met with much fanfare, and for good reason. The 2020 redesign marked a significant shift, combining modern luxury with off-road prowess, including advanced tech features and a more refined interior. It offers various engine options, including hybrid variants. Also, today, the Defender remains a favorite for enthusiasts seeking a blend of rugged durability and sophistication, reflecting Land Rover’s commitment to high-performance vehicles.
Bentley Bentayga
The Bentley Bentayga takes luxury to stratospheric levels. Inside, it’s less car and more five-star hotel lounge, boasting diamond-quilted seats, polished veneers, and enough gadgets to make Q jealous. But it’s not just about pampering—it can tow 7,700 lbs. and handle rocky trails while keeping your champagne flutes steady. Prices start at around $200,000, climbing faster than its speedometer with customizations.
Rolls-Royce Cullinan
As the world’s most luxurious SUV, the Rolls-Royce Cullinan is in a league of its own. Despite its $350,000+ price tag, the Cullinan doesn’t shy away from off-road adventures, offering adjustable suspension and all-wheel drive. It’s like wearing a tux to a mud fight—but winning. Fancy extras? How about a built-in champagne cooler or the “Viewing Suite,” pop-out seats for tailgating (if you’re into posh picnics)? In short, it’s an aristocrat with a wild streak, proving luxury and utility can coexist if your wallet is deep enough.
Aston Martin DBX
The DBX is Aston Martin’s first SUV, and it does not disappoint. Inside, it’s like stepping into a private jet, with leather, wood, and metal accents meticulously crafted for maximum poshness. It has a 632-liter boot, so your golf clubs won’t have to fight for legroom. And, despite its size, it handles corners like it’s wearing a tux on a track day. Starting at around $192,000, it’s not cheap, but who said luxury comes with discounts?
Infiniti QX80
The Infiniti QX80 is a full-size SUV that emphasizes comfort and elegance. The QX80’s design is… let’s call it “bold.” With a grille the size of a billboard and enough chrome to blind passing motorists, it doesn’t whisper luxury—it yells it. Fuel efficiency? Well, at 15 mpg combined, it prefers sips like a camel, but luxury has its costs. Also, starting around $72,000, it’s a splurge—but one that makes every drive feel like a red carpet event.
Maserati Levante
The Maserati Levante is a head-turner with Italian flair. Under the hood, you’ll find a range of engines, from a mild V6 to a fire-breathing 580-hp V8 in the Levante Trofeo, capable of sprinting to 60 mph faster than you can say “spaghetti carbonara” (well, almost). Inside, it’s all about opulent leather, polished wood, and tech that whispers luxury. And, while it has off-road capabilities, let’s be honest—most Levantes will never see a dirt trail.
Chevrolet Tahoe High Country
Chevrolet’s Tahoe High Country trim elevates this SUV to luxury status. Outside, its imposing grille and exclusive 22-inch wheels scream, “I own the road.” The Magnetic Ride Control and air suspension ensure the ride feels less like a stagecoach and more like a cloud. With over 122 cubic feet of cargo space, it’s perfect for hauling groceries, camping gear, or your kid’s soccer team.
Ford Expedition Platinum
The Ford Expedition Platinum is the Rolls-Royce of full-size SUVs—minus the price tag but with all the swagger. Packing a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine that roars out 400 horsepower, it’s a highway beast and a towing champ (up to 9,300 pounds, if you’re feeling adventurous). Plus, inside, it’s a five-star hotel on wheels, boasting leather seats so plush you’ll feel like royalty, a Bang & Olufsen sound system to turn traffic jams into concerts, and more tech than a Silicon Valley startup.
GMC Yukon Denali
The Yukon Denali is GMC’s flagship SUV, and it shows. It can tow up to 8,400 pounds, so if you’ve got a boat, trailer, or maybe a tiny house, the Yukon’s got your back. And thanks to its Magnetic Ride Control, it drives like butter on toast, even if you’re hauling all that. For 2024, GMC packed it with tech, including Google Built-In and a camera system so advanced it’s your copilot. Sure, it’s a gas guzzler, but who cares? Style and size matter more.
Rivian R1S
Rivian’s R1S is an all-electric SUV designed for adventure. This all-electric adventure mobile boasts a range of up to 390 miles, depending on the configuration, and can tow up to 7,700 pounds. Need speed? Its quad-motor setup delivers a whopping 835 horsepower, zipping from 0 to 60 mph in about 3 seconds—quicker than your excuses for skipping leg day. And, starting at around $78,000, it’s not cheap.
Volkswagen Touareg
The Volkswagen Touareg might not have the flashiest badge, but it delivers understated luxury in spades. Under the hood, Touareg’s powertrains range from efficient diesel to fiery V8s, plus a planet-loving plug-in hybrid. It’s not all brawn; the cabin is a tech wonderland featuring a 15-inch Innovision Cockpit that makes you feel like a spaceship pilot. This suave beast has shared DNA with Porsche and Audi, making it the cool cousin at family gatherings. And, though it’s no longer sold in the U.S. as of 2017 (R.I.P.), it still turns heads worldwide.
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