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Roman Danaev
Luxurious SUVs have a way of catching your eye. But what makes them stand out from the rest is that unbeatable comfort and strong road presence. Take the Range Rover Sport or BMW X7, for example — these models provide both luxury and the ability to handle whatever comes their way. And that’s just the start, with plenty of other top SUVs out there offering the same impressive mix.
So, which car is the best? Below, we’ve rounded up the best luxury SUV models and one to skip.
BMW X7 – Spacious Elegance
Used model price | From £45,900 |
Body type | SUV |
Gearbox type | Automatic (8-speed) |
Doors | 5 |
Seats | 7 |
Performance | 0-60 mph in 3.9 to 7.0 seconds |
Engines | Inline-6 (petrol/diesel), V8, V8 Alpina-tuned |
Boot | 326 litres standard, 2,120 litres with seats down |
Segment | Premium and luxury |
Why this car? | Great to drive despite being a heavy car |
The BMW X7 is arguably the best luxury SUV and a powerhouse in every sense — massive size, bold looks, and that grille you can’t ignore. If your budget matches, this is it.
Despite its bulk, the car is surprisingly easy to handle, even on narrow streets. The xDrive40d diesel engine is the sweet spot for efficiency and power. It’s not sporty, but it’s nimble. Inside, it’s all luxury and tech, with BMW’s brilliant iDrive and a quiet cabin that makes third-row conversations effortless.
Range Rover Sport – Luxury and Versatility
Used model price | From £26,500 |
Body type | SUV |
Gearbox type | Automatic (8-speed) |
Doors | 5 |
Seats | 5 |
Performance | 0-60 mph in 4.3 to 6.8 seconds |
Engines | 2.0L inline-4 petrol, 3.0L inline-6 petrol and diesel, 5.0L V8 |
Boot | 703 litres standard, 1,680 litres with rear seats down |
Segment | Premium and luxury |
Why this car? | Capable, agreeable to drive |
Land Rover knows how to make the best luxury SUV, and the Range Rover Sport is a great example of their skill. You sit up high with a clear view of the road, while the raised centre console gives it a sporty edge. The ride is incredibly comfortable and relaxing.
The D300 diesel engine is the top pick because it’s smooth, powerful, and quick with 296bhp. There’s plenty of room in the back for taller passengers. If you need seven seats, the full-size Range Rover is the way to go.
Audi Q7 – Comfort Redefined
Used model price | From £31,200 |
Body type | SUV |
Gearbox type | Automatic (8-speed) |
Doors | 5 |
Seats | 7 |
Performance | 0-60 mph in 5.9 to 7.3 seconds |
Engines | 3.0L V6 petrol, 3.0L V6 diesel, 4.0L V8 |
Boot | 865 litres standard, 2,050 litres with rear seats down |
Segment | Premium and luxury |
Why this car? | Great looks and performance |
The Audi Q7 ticks all the boxes of the best luxury SUV because it’s spacious, refined, and surprisingly nimble for a seven-seater. Comfort steals the show — the suspension smooths out bumps and keeps long drives effortless. The car corners confidently, too.
Inside, the Q7 feels luxurious with soft-touch materials, glossy accents, and brushed metal finishes. There’s plenty of tech, though the touchscreen can be a bit tricky to use while driving.
BMW X5 – Balanced Innovation
Used model price | From £21,400 |
Body type | SUV |
Gearbox type | Automatic (8-speed) |
Doors | 5 |
Seats | 5, 7 |
Performance | 0-60 mph in 5.5 to 6.5 seconds |
Engines | 3.0L inline-6 petrol, 3.0L inline-6 diesel, 4.4L V8 |
Boot | 650 litres standard, 1,870 litres with rear seats down |
Segment | Premium and luxury |
Why this car? | Powerful powertrains, build quality |
The BMW X5 may not be a large luxury SUV like the X7, but that’s part of the appeal, especially since it’s much more affordable. Still, it doesn’t feel cheap and is one of the best luxury models on sale.
The interior is full of high-quality materials, even in places you might not see. The infotainment system is a standout, too. If you’re after something greener, the xDrive50e plug-in hybrid is a good pick.
Land Rover Defender – Rugged Luxury
Used model price | From £40,000 |
Body type | SUV |
Gearbox type | Automatic (8-speed), manual (6-speed) |
Doors | 5 |
Seats | 5-7 |
Performance | 0-60 mph in 4.9 to 8.1 seconds |
Engines | Inline-4, inline-6 (petrol/diesel), V8 |
Boot | 231 litres standard, 2,380 litres with seats down |
Segment | Premium and luxury |
Why this car? | Off-road prowess |
The modern Land Rover Defender is a big step up from the previous versions. Being one of the best luxury SUV models, the latest model offers a mix of premium materials and a smooth ride while still keeping its legendary off-road strength.
There are different sizes to choose from, but the seven-seat 110 is the best balance. With the D300 diesel engine, the vehicle has plenty of power, even with a full load. Also, the back seats offer lots of space.
BMW iX – A Technological Marvel
Used model price | From £42,900 |
Body type | SUV |
Gearbox type | Automatic (single-speed) |
Doors | 5 |
Seats | 5 |
Performance | 0-60 mph in 3.8 to 6.1 seconds |
Engines | Dual-motor (electric) |
Boot | 500 litres standard, 1,750 litres with seats down |
Segment | Premium and luxury |
Why this car? | A comprehensive set of luxury features |
The BMW iX may split opinions on its looks, but it’s hard to ignore how impressive it is. It’s fast, quiet, and packed with luxury.
The best luxury SUV is the xDrive50 model. With dual electric motors and a 108kWh battery, it offers a range of 382 miles. In real life, expect around 284 miles, which works for most drivers. Inside the car, you’ll see the minimalist design and premium materials.
Range Rover – Timeless Sophistication
Used model price | From £23,900 |
Body type | SUV |
Gearbox type | Automatic (8-speed) |
Doors | 5 |
Seats | 5-7 |
Performance | 0-60 mph in 4.4 to 7.9 seconds |
Engines | V6, V8 (gasoline/diesel), PHEV, mild hybrid |
Boot | 500-700 litres standard, 1,700 litres with seats down |
Segment | Premium and luxury |
Why this car? | Delivers the looks and performance |
The Range Rover has been a leader in luxury SUVs for years, and it’s still a top pick for many. If you like the bold look and incredible comfort, this one’s for you.
The best engine is the 296bhp D300. There are also more powerful diesels, plug-in hybrid versions, and a V8 petrol if you want extra performance. To get seven seats in the Range Rover, you’ll need the long-wheelbase model and pay extra.
Audi Q8 e-tron – Electric Excellence
Used model price | From £36,700 |
Body type | SUV |
Gearbox type | Automatic (single-speed) |
Doors | 5 |
Seats | 5 |
Performance | 0-60 mph in 5.6 to 5.9 seconds |
Engines | Dual-motor (electric) |
Boot | 569 litres standard, 1,635 litres with seats down |
Segment | Premium and luxury |
Why this car? | Modern interior packed with tech |
If you like the Audi Q7 but want electric power, the Q8 e-tron is a great choice. It’s just as roomy and luxurious, and there’s plenty of comfort for passengers in the back.
The 55 Quattro version is the one to consider for a long journey. It accelerates to 60mph in 5.4 seconds and, thanks to its 106kWh battery, can travel up to 330 miles on a full charge. Inside, the Q8 e-tron offers a premium experience with top-notch materials, making it a strong contender for the best luxury SUV.
Bentley Bentayga – Handcrafted Luxury
Used model price | From £52,500 |
Body type | SUV |
Gearbox type | Automatic (8-speed) |
Doors | 5 |
Seats | 4, 5 |
Performance | 0-60 mph in 3.5 to 5.2 seconds |
Engines | V8 petrol, W12 petrol, V6 hybrid |
Boot | 430 litres standard, 1,780 litres with the seats down |
Segment | Premium and luxury |
Why this car? | Wildly luxurious |
The Bentley Bentayga quickly became one of the brand’s top sellers, and it’s easy to see why it’s one of the best luxury SUV models.
It has the luxury you’d expect from a Bentley. The V8 S offers a more engaging drive, though there’s a bit more road noise than in the hybrid version. Even with its size, the Bentayga has great visibility thanks to a set of cameras. Inside, there’s plenty of space, making it feel more like a private lounge.
Rolls-Royce Cullinan – The Pinnacle of Opulence
Used model price | From £179,900 |
Body type | SUV |
Gearbox type | Automatic (8-speed) |
Doors | 5 |
Seats | 5 |
Performance | 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds |
Engines | 6.75L V12 (twin-turbocharged) |
Boot | 560 litres standard, 1,930 litres with the seats down |
Segment | Premium and luxury |
Why this car? | Undeniable exclusivity |
Sure, you could buy a house for the same price as this car, but it probably won’t come with lambswool mats and an interior like this. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan is not just about looks, though. It’s powered by a V12 engine and moves effortlessly, going from 0-62mph in just 5.2 seconds. And through it all, it’s smooth, quiet, and refined.
If you can afford it, the Cullinan is hard to beat. The price and running costs are steep, but for the right buyer, the best luxury SUV is worth it.
Maserati Levante – A Disappointment
Used model price | From £24,900 |
Body type | SUV |
Gearbox type | Automatic (8-speed) |
Doors | 5 |
Seats | 5 |
Performance | 0-60 mph in 3.8 to 5.8 seconds |
Engines | V6 petrol, V8 (petrol, twin-turbocharged) |
Boot | 580 litres standard, 1,600 litres with the seats down |
Segment | Premium and luxury |
Why this car? | Poor interior quality, bumpy ride |
The Maserati Levante offers plenty of space and a solid list of features, but it doesn’t quite live up to the driving experience you’d expect. The adjustable air suspension doesn’t stop it from feeling a bit unstable in the corners, even in its sportiest mode. The steering can be a little slow and imprecise, too.
On the outside, it looks like a luxury SUV, but take a closer look inside, and some of the plastics feel cheap.
Conclusion
Luxury SUVs offer the best interiors, a high standard of craftsmanship, and more comfort than most cars on the road.
But choosing the right SUV comes down to what matters most to you. If you’re looking for a smooth ride and cutting-edge technology, the BMW X7 could be just what you’re looking for. The Audi Q8 e-tron offers a quiet cabin and plenty of space for passengers. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan delivers a level of luxury that’s hard to beat, and these are just a few highlights.
There are plenty of options, so think about what matches your needs and style. To help make your choice simpler, check out detailed specs and financing options through Carplus. Hopefully, this gives you everything you need to choose the best luxury SUV on the market!
Contents
- BMW X7 – Spacious Elegance
- Range Rover Sport – Luxury and Versatility
- Audi Q7 – Comfort Redefined
- BMW X5 – Balanced Innovation
- Land Rover Defender – Rugged Luxury
- BMW iX – A Technological Marvel
- Range Rover – Timeless Sophistication
- Audi Q8 e-tron – Electric Excellence
- Bentley Bentayga – Handcrafted Luxury
- Rolls-Royce Cullinan – The Pinnacle of Opulence
- Maserati Levante – A Disappointment
- Conclusion
- FAQ
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Loan amount: | £16,000 |
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Length of loan: | 60 months |
Interest rate: | 12,9% |
Amount of interest | £5,793.84 |
Total payment: | £21,793.84 |