We return to the topic of SUVs / crossovers again, this time of the luxury class, to highlight the most worthy ones – the best luxury SUVs, as we think, of those presented on the market in the outgoing 2022.
Sport utility vehicles are very popular worldwide due to their versatility: they combine elements of both road-going passenger cars and off-road vehicles featuring raised ground clearance and four-wheel drive.
Today the “SUV” definition is blurred: it includes unibody crossovers, also called ‘CUVs’ or ‘crossover SUVs’, as well as body-on-frame off-road SUVs, or coupe SUVs.
Currently, vehicles of this type are the world’s largest automotive segment that accounted for 46 percent of the global passenger car market last year.
Best Luxury SUVs of 2022 and 2023:
Subcompact Luxury SUV
Mercedes-Benz GLB
- MSRP* $38,600-$49,950
- Fuel economy (combined MPG): 22-27
The vehicle features an upscale, stylish, and roomy interior, good gas mileage, two punchy turbocharged 2.0-liter i4 engines with 221 and 302 horsepower, an energetic AMG version, and an ample suite of the best technologies currently available on the market.
Compact Luxury SUV
- MSRP $42,900 – $55,000
- Fuel economy (combined MPG): 21-24
It is a true embodiment of the phrase “well-rounded”, as the model boasts powerful engines (a turbocharged 300-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder or a twin-turbo 3.5-liter 375-hp V6), confident handling, a smooth ride, a high-end driving feel, and a gorgeous interior packed with plenty of standard features.
Midsize Luxury SUV
Mercedes-Benz GLE
- MSRP $56,150-$116,850
- Fuel economy (combined MPG): 16-22
This is the excellence in almost all: design, cabin quality, ride, handling, and technologies including an MBUX system setting a new industry standard. The SUV offers a range of brawny engines for every taste – one four-cylinder unit, two V6s, and a searing V8.
Midsize 3-Row Luxury SUV
Audi Q7
- MSRP $57,500 – $88,500
- Fuel economy (combined MPG): 20-22
The car combines nimble steering, poised handling, and a refined ride with an elegant interior and high-end tech features. Someone will probably lack cargo space, and the 3rd-row seating could be roomier.
Two decent engine choices (both are turbocharged) include a 261-hp 4-cylinder with a 12-volt hybrid system and a 3.0-liter V6 that uses a 48-volt hybrid system to deliver 335 hp.
Large Luxury SUV
- MSRP $77,850 – $135,400
- Fuel economy (combined MPG): 15-20
The vehicle has one of the nicest interiors in the class with refined materials, ample space for adult passengers (even in the 3rd row) and cargo, a wealth of tech and safety features, but a bit tricky infotainment system.
The GLS’s hybridized 3.0-liter 362-hp V6 and 4.0-liter 483-hp V8 engines are strong and rather fuel-efficient for a vehicle of this size. The model combines luxury DNA with a relaxed ride and outstanding performance.
