Best Luxury SUV 2024: Elite Picks for Discerning Drivers
Looking for the ultimate blend of comfort, performance, and cutting-edge technology? Discover our top picks for the best luxury SUVs in 2024.
The best luxury SUV for 2024 offers unparalleled comfort, advanced technology, and powerful performance. Our top picks for 2024 include the Genesis GV70, BMW X5, and Mercedes-Benz GLE, each excelling in different areas for a truly premium driving experience.
Choosing a luxury SUV can feel overwhelming. You want something that feels special, something that makes every drive a pleasure. But with so many impressive options hitting the market, how do you know which one is truly the best? Don’t worry, we’re here to help. We’ve scoured the automotive landscape to bring you the elite picks for 2024. Get ready to explore vehicles that redefine automotive excellence. Let’s dive into the world of luxury SUVs and find your perfect match.
Why Choose a Luxury SUV in 2024?
Luxury SUVs have become incredibly popular for good reason. They offer a fantastic combination of versatility, comfort, and sophisticated features that traditional sedans often can’t match. In 2024, these vehicles are more advanced than ever, packed with the latest safety innovations, infotainment systems, and premium materials that make every journey feel like a first-class experience.
Think about it: you get the commanding presence and cargo space of an SUV, but with the refined ride, quiet cabin, and exquisite interior finishes you’d expect from a high-end car. They’re perfect for families needing space and safety, professionals wanting a stylish and comfortable commute, or anyone who simply appreciates the finer things in life. The 2024 models push the boundaries even further, offering more hybrid and electric options, smarter driver-assistance features, and more personalized cabin experiences.
Our Top Picks for the Best Luxury SUV 2024
After extensive research and considering various factors like performance, interior quality, technology, safety, and overall value, we’ve narrowed down the field to a few standout models. These vehicles consistently impress reviewers and drivers alike.
1. Genesis GV70: The Bold New Contender
The Genesis GV70 is a relatively new player in the luxury SUV segment, but it has quickly made a name for itself. It stands out with its distinctive “Athletic Elegance” design language, which gives it a unique and sporty look that’s sure to turn heads. But it’s not just about looks; the GV70 delivers a truly premium experience.
What Makes the GV70 Elite:
- Stunning Design: From its signature crest grille to its distinctive two-line headlights and taillights, the GV70 is undeniably stylish.
- Luxurious Interior: The cabin is a masterclass in modern luxury, featuring high-quality materials, a sleek dashboard layout, and an impressive 14.5-inch infotainment screen. The oval-shaped theme carries through the interior, creating a cohesive and elegant feel.
- Engaging Performance: Available with a potent twin-turbo V6 engine (in the Electrified GV70, it’s a powerful electric setup), the GV70 offers brisk acceleration and confident handling. The ride is comfortable, yet it can also feel sporty when you want it to.
- Advanced Technology: Features like a fingerprint reader for starting the car, a digital key that allows you to use your smartphone as a key, and a sophisticated driver-assistance suite come standard or are readily available.
- Exceptional Value: Genesis is known for offering a lot of luxury and features for the price, often undercutting competitors while providing a comparable or even superior experience.
The GV70 proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get world-class luxury and innovation. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking something a little different but equally sophisticated.
2. BMW X5: The Benchmark of Performance and Luxury
The BMW X5 has long been a benchmark in the mid-size luxury SUV class, and the 2024 model continues this legacy. It strikes a perfect balance between sporty driving dynamics, executive-level comfort, and cutting-edge technology, making it a perennial favorite.
Why the X5 Remains a Top Choice:
- Dynamic Driving Experience: True to BMW’s “Ultimate Driving Machine” ethos, the X5 offers sharp steering, composed handling, and a range of powerful engines, including potent inline-six and V8 options. The available xDrive all-wheel-drive system provides confidence in all conditions.
- Refined Interior: The cabin is spacious, impeccably built, and filled with premium materials. Expect comfortable seating, excellent ergonomics, and a quiet ride. The dashboard is dominated by BMW’s impressive iDrive infotainment system, displayed on large, crisp screens.
- Cutting-Edge Tech: BMW is at the forefront of automotive technology, and the X5 showcases this with features like advanced driver-assistance systems, a sophisticated voice control system, and seamless smartphone integration.
- Versatile Practicality: With ample cargo space and a comfortable rear seat, the X5 is as practical as it is luxurious. It’s well-suited for family duties or weekend getaways.
- Plug-in Hybrid Option: The X5 xDrive50e offers impressive electric-only range, combining performance with efficiency for those looking to reduce their fuel consumption.
If you prioritize a driving experience that’s both engaging and comfortable, the BMW X5 is an exceptionally strong contender. It’s a masterclass in blending luxury, performance, and everyday usability.
3. Mercedes-Benz GLE: The Epitome of Smoothness and Sophistication
Mercedes-Benz has always been synonymous with luxury, and the GLE SUV is a prime example of the brand’s commitment to refinement and comfort. It offers a serene driving environment, a plush interior, and the latest in automotive technology.
What Sets the GLE Apart:
- Supreme Comfort: The GLE excels at providing a smooth and quiet ride, effortlessly gliding over road imperfections. The cabin is a sanctuary, insulated from outside noise and finished with exquisite materials.
- Elegant Interior Design: The interior design is a highlight, featuring flowing lines, ambient lighting, and the intuitive MBUX infotainment system, which uses voice commands and a large touchscreen to control most functions.
- Powerful and Efficient Engines: The GLE offers a range of engines, from a capable turbocharged four-cylinder to powerful inline-six and V8 options, including the potent AMG variants. There’s also a plug-in hybrid model for those seeking enhanced efficiency.
- Advanced Safety Features: Mercedes-Benz equips the GLE with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, providing peace of mind on every journey.
- Optional Third Row: For those needing extra passenger capacity, the GLE offers an optional third row, though it’s best suited for children or short trips.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is the perfect choice for drivers who prioritize a supremely comfortable and sophisticated experience. It’s an elegant statement of luxury and refinement.
Other Notable Luxury SUVs for 2024
While the GV70, X5, and GLE are our top picks, the luxury SUV market is rich with excellent options. Here are a few more that deserve a mention:
- Audi Q7: Known for its spacious interior, refined ride, and advanced technology, the Q7 is a strong contender, especially for families. Its quattro all-wheel-drive system is standard, offering excellent traction.
- Lexus RX: A long-time favorite for its reliability, comfort, and excellent build quality. The latest generation offers a more engaging driving experience and updated technology. The RX Hybrid is particularly noteworthy for its efficiency.
- Porsche Cayenne: For those who demand exhilarating performance without compromising on luxury, the Cayenne is in a class of its own. It offers sports-car-like handling in an SUV package, though it comes at a premium price.
- Volvo XC90: A stylish and safe option, the XC60 offers a minimalist Scandinavian interior, excellent safety ratings, and a comfortable ride. It’s a great choice for safety-conscious buyers.
Key Factors When Choosing Your Luxury SUV
Selecting the “best” luxury SUV is a personal decision, as different drivers prioritize different aspects. Here are some key factors to consider:
Performance and Powertrain
Luxury SUVs come with a variety of engine options, from efficient turbocharged four-cylinders to powerful V8s and electrified powertrains. Consider your driving needs: do you prioritize fuel economy, brisk acceleration, or towing capability? Many luxury SUVs now offer hybrid or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants, which can significantly improve fuel efficiency and offer a silent electric driving mode.
For example, the BMW X5 xDrive50e offers a compelling blend of performance and electric range, while the Genesis GV70 provides a potent twin-turbo V6 for those who crave power.
Interior Comfort and Quality
This is where luxury SUVs truly shine. Look for high-quality materials like genuine leather, real wood or metal trim, and soft-touch surfaces. Comfortable seating with ample adjustability, heating, ventilation, and massage functions can make a huge difference on long journeys. Pay attention to cabin noise levels – a quiet interior is a hallmark of luxury.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is renowned for its exceptionally quiet and plush cabin, while the Genesis GV70 impresses with its unique and high-end interior design.
Technology and Infotainment
Modern luxury SUVs are packed with technology. This includes large, high-resolution infotainment touchscreens, advanced navigation systems, premium audio systems, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and comprehensive driver-assistance features. Consider how intuitive the system is to use and whether it offers the connectivity and features you need.
BMW’s iDrive system in the X5 is considered one of the best, and Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX system in the GLE is equally impressive with its voice control capabilities.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount. Luxury SUVs typically come standard with a robust set of advanced safety and driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and 360-degree cameras. Check the safety ratings from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Practicality and Space
Consider your lifestyle. Do you need seating for five or seven? How much cargo space do you typically require? Look at the dimensions of the cargo area, the ease of folding down the rear seats, and the usability of the rear passenger space. Some luxury SUVs offer optional third rows, but these are often best suited for children.
Reliability and Maintenance Costs
While luxury vehicles often come with a higher price tag, consider their long-term reliability and potential maintenance costs. Brands like Lexus have a strong reputation for reliability, which can be a significant factor for many buyers.
Luxury SUV Pricing and Value
Luxury SUVs span a wide price range. While the initial purchase price is higher than mainstream vehicles, the value proposition comes from the superior build quality, advanced features, comfort, and often, stronger resale value. It’s important to compare not just the sticker price, but also the standard features included in each trim level.
For instance, Genesis has built its brand on offering exceptional value, providing a wealth of luxury features and technology at a price point that often undercuts its German rivals. This makes the GV70 a particularly compelling option for budget-conscious luxury seekers.
| Model | Estimated Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
| Genesis GV70 | ~$45,000 |
| BMW X5 | ~$65,000 |
| Mercedes-Benz GLE | ~$60,000 |
| Audi Q7 | ~$60,000 |
| Lexus RX | ~$48,000 |
| Porsche Cayenne | ~$80,000 |
| Volvo XC90 | ~$57,000 |
Note: Prices are estimates and can vary significantly based on trim level, options, and market conditions. Always consult official manufacturer websites or dealerships for the most accurate pricing.
The Future of Luxury SUVs
The automotive industry is rapidly evolving, and the luxury SUV segment is no exception. Electrification is a major trend, with most luxury brands offering compelling electric vehicle (EV) or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options. These powertrains provide instant torque, a quiet driving experience, and reduced emissions.
Expect to see even more advanced driver-assistance systems, including more sophisticated semi-autonomous driving capabilities. Over-the-air software updates will become more common, allowing vehicles to improve over time. Augmented reality head-up displays, personalized cabin experiences tailored to individual drivers, and advanced connectivity features will also play a larger role.
Brands like Tesla (with the Model X and Model Y), Lucid (with the upcoming Gravity SUV), and Rivian (with the R1S) are also pushing the boundaries of what an electric luxury SUV can be, focusing on performance, range, and innovative technology.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best luxury SUV for 2024?
The “best” luxury SUV for 2024 depends on your priorities. For a bold design and exceptional value, the Genesis GV70 is outstanding. For a blend of sporty performance and refined luxury, the BMW X5 is a top choice. For ultimate comfort and a serene driving experience, the Mercedes-Benz GLE excels.
Are luxury SUVs worth the extra cost?
Yes, often they are. Luxury SUVs typically offer superior build quality, more advanced technology, higher-quality materials, a more comfortable ride, and often better resale value than their non-luxury counterparts. They provide a more premium and enjoyable ownership experience.
Which luxury SUV has the most cargo space?
Cargo space varies significantly by model. Larger luxury SUVs like the Audi Q7, Volvo XC90, and BMW X7 (a larger sibling to the X5) generally offer the most cargo volume, especially with the third-row seats folded down. Mid-size options like the X5 and GLE offer ample space for most families.
Are luxury SUVs more reliable?
Historically, brands like Lexus have been known for exceptional reliability in the luxury segment. While German luxury brands (BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi) often lead in performance and technology, their long-term reliability can sometimes be less consistent than brands like Lexus. However, modern luxury SUVs are generally very well-built.
What are the best hybrid luxury SUVs for 2024?
Several excellent hybrid luxury SUVs are available. The Lexus RX Hybrid is a popular and reliable choice. The BMW X5 xDrive50e offers strong performance and a significant electric-only range. The Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e is another strong plug-in hybrid contender, offering a luxurious and efficient experience.
What is the most comfortable luxury SUV?
Comfort is subjective, but the Mercedes-Benz GLE is frequently praised for its exceptionally smooth and quiet ride, plush seating, and serene cabin
