Lexus is making quite the splash in the luxury SUV market with its Lexus GX model which comes with plenty of standard equipment to satisfy the majority of customers shopping in this category.
This sport utility vehicle comes standard with wheels measuring 18 inches in diameter, and all trim levels come furnished with exterior conveniences.
Now, the number of available models in the luxury SUV market is overwhelming due to the increasing number of clients who are purchasing SUVs. So if you’re interested in purchasing a vehicle that is not a Lexus GX, here are 12 choices that you can consider.
1. BMW X5
The X5 is available with one of three unique powertrains, each of which is connected with a different model, and the price starts at $61,595. A 335-horsepower turbocharged inline-six engine is standard in all X5 models that bear the sDrive40i or xDrive40i name.
The plug-in hybrid xDrive45e is equipped with a turbocharged inline-six engine as well as an electric motor; together, these two powertrain components provide 389 horsepower. All three engines are connected to an eight-speed automatic gearbox, ensuring that drivers will never be short of power, no matter the conditions.
After getting seated inside, passengers are greeted with a cabin that is outfitted with high-quality materials throughout, an abundance of charging ports for electronic devices, and a plethora of other luxury amenities, depending on the customization choices that were selected.
Related: 15 SUVs similar to BMW X5
2. Touareg
Since its introduction in 2002, the Volkswagen Touareg has been produced in three distinct versions, each of which has earned a Highly Commended award in the car sales Car of the Year competition. Additionally, it is only available with turbo-diesel propulsion and comes in two different trim levels.
The Volkswagen Touareg is only available with seating for five people, although it is a rather big sport utility vehicle. There are four different engine choices, but the VW’s 3.0-liter diesel engine with 231 horsepower is the best choice for the majority of customers.
This turbocharged 3.6-liter V6 engine has enough muscle to tow hefty loads or accelerate quickly through traffic that is moving slowly. Around town, it is quite peaceful, and while traveling at highway speeds, hardly any sound can be heard at all.
However, due to the superb practicality of the Volkswagen Touareg, you won’t need to be concerned about a few bits of plastic that may be scratchy.
There is sufficient room for extremely tall people in both the front and back seats of the vehicle, and except for the tray that is located beneath the armrest, all of the compartments and storage bins are rather spacious.
3. Audi Q7
If you’re concerned about capacity, the three-row Audi Q7 offers enough of it. Even if it is not designed for extreme off-roading, the Audi Q7 will be a far greater pleasure to drive on actual roads than a Lexus GX ever could.
The A4 sedan’s very potent turbocharged four-cylinder powerplant, which produces 261 horsepower, has been passed down to the Q7 SUV.
This configuration, which may be found in models with the number 45, is a hybrid system that operates on 12 volts. The sophisticated LED matrix headlights that were previously only available on the Prestige model of the Audi Q7 are now available as an upgrade option on the Premium Plus and come standard on the Prestige model, which also gains a new remote parking capability.
The Audi Q7 2023 is a family-friendly SUV that handles like a sports sedan and is equipped with three rows of seating for passengers. As a result of its interior being outfitted with high-end materials and a variety of digital extras, it will also appeal to those who have a taste for luxury goods and cutting-edge technology.
A turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 261 horsepower, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive are included as standard equipment. The highest towing capacity of the Q7 is 7000 pounds when equipped with the optional extra powerful 335 horsepower turbocharged V-6 engine.
4. Volvo XC90 V8
The Volvo XC90 continues to solidify its place as one of the most popular SUV models available in the premium market with the ability to generate 315 horsepower and torque, and being one of its most prominent features, this is the most significant quality of a V8 engine.
The consumer base for the Volvo XC90 may be expanding even further thanks to an all-new powertrain that comes equipped with a V8 engine, a 6-speed automated gearbox, and the most up-to-date all-wheel drive system.
On the inside, the basic cabin hasn’t been changed all that much throughout the years and the overall atmosphere is not nearly as exclusive even though the quality of the materials used is impressive.
The driving stance of Volvo is regarded to have a lower center of gravity since it is lower and much more traditional than that of any of its competitors. This makes it one of the most enjoyable vehicles to drive.
5. Infiniti QX80
The QX80 is available with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive along with a seven-speed automatic gearbox and a 5.6-liter V-8 engine that produces 400 horsepower.
To put it more simply, the QX80 gets terrible mileage per gallon. Even the most fuel-efficient model gets just 14 miles per gallon in the city and 20 miles per hour on the interstate. Its competitors have much higher ratings.
The center stack has ultimately been updated to fit a contemporary display that has controls that are easier to operate, and the HVAC system gets a new arrangement that incorporates physical knobs for regulating the temperature in each of the two climatic zones.
In addition, for the 2022 model year, the QX80 will get an all-new infotainment system as well as a redesigned center stack.
6. Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner may be purchased for the price of $39,000 at present. That’s because the 4Runner is more reminiscent of an old-school truck than a modern-day automobile; it is built on a pickup truck chassis and has impressive off-road capabilities.
Its most powerful versions have more underbody protection, an electronically locking rear axle, updated suspension components, and knobby tires, among other enhancements.
Every model comes standard with either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, as well as a 270-horsepower V-6 engine and an automatic gearbox. Unfortunately, when compared to the powertrains that are found in body-on-frame competitors, that one is a relic.
The inside of the truck offers sufficient room for both passengers and freight, however, the materials used to construct the cabin are unremarkable.
This SUV is built on a truck, and it handles and rides like a truck when driven on standard roads. The handling is sloppy, and the ride is rough. The 4Runner is capable of going places that many of its contemporaries are unable to go but other than those specific use cases, it is unquestionably outmoded.
7. Toyota Sequoia
Sequoia has one of the most expensive base pricing when compared to the majority of its counterparts in its class. Even though its most luxurious trim level is available for less than $70,000. When compared to the Toyota Sequoia, rear-seat passengers in the Lexus GX 460 may feel as if they have somewhat less space to move about in.
Because both the Toyota Sequoia and the Lexus GX 460 are capable of traveling comparable distances on a single tank of fuel, you can expect to make approximately the same number of trips to the gas station while operating either vehicle.
8. Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTec
The Mercedes-Benz M-class price that you pay is determined, in part, by the trim level that you choose when purchasing the vehicle. The most recent versions may cost as much as $119,350, which is the highest end of the price range of $35,700 to $119,500.
The model lineup is available in a wide variety of body styles, with specifications ranging from the engine to the gearbox. The Mercedes-Benz ML 350 comes with several different wheel configurations, as well as a wide selection of tires to choose from.
When it comes to the wheels and tires, an SUV in 2015 might have wheels starting at 20×9 inches and tires measuring 265×45 R20.
9. Land Rover LR4
The Land Rover brand has a solid reputation in the area of sport utility vehicles (SUVs), and its vehicles are both highly competent and flexible.
Those who lead an unconventional lifestyle would adore the opportunity to make use of this vehicle in their pursuits. It has a 3.0-liter V6 engine that generates 340 horsepower and is paired with an eight-speed automated gearbox.
Additionally, it drives all four wheels. It can function flawlessly both at home and even on excursions into the wild. The Land Rover LR 4 Plus provides its customers with a selection of off-road accessories, including an adjustable air suspension, a hill descent suspension, as well as a Terrain response system. It can accommodate as many as seven people and is outfitted with opulent interiors.
The overall aspect of the design is rather daring. It is endowed with a front grille, mirrors, plus bumper that offer an excellent finish to this one-of-a-kind design, and the front lights help to bring it to the forefront of people’s minds. This vehicle comes in for $51,895 on average.
10. Toyota Highlander
Although it has a lot to offer, the Highlander is merely a middle-of-the-pack competitor in the very competitive market for mid-size SUVs, which includes more than two dozen different models.
There are eleven different trims available for your selection. There is the choice of a hybrid or non-hybrid engine, and front-wheel drive comes standard but all-wheel drive may be added as an option.
The Highlander’s driving style might use a little more pep in its step, however, the handling and ride quality are excellent no matter which model you choose. Even the most basic model, the L, comes standard with several contemporary comforts, user-friendly entertainment systems, and a variety of driver aid technologies.
The cabin is beautifully outfitted. The Limited and Platinum editions have a sophisticated appearance that is reminiscent of a Lexus, thanks to the luxurious leather interior, high-end JBL sound system, and extra technological amenities.
Related: 10 Similar Cars to the Toyota Highlander
11. Lexus LX 570
The Lexus LX 570 begins for $88,245, including destination charges. A dual-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 engine provides the propulsion for the Lexus LX600 with an engine that generates 409 hp as well as 479 pound-feet of torque.
The base model comes equipped with both a 10-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive. The latest generation of the Toyota Land Cruiser, which is mechanically similar to the LX, was the first vehicle to debut with this powerplant.
The new LX has been given a facelift that is both contemporary and opulent, and it now has a spacious center console that sits between the front seats to provide a comfortable cockpit experience.
The LX has a luxurious atmosphere in addition to its high-end look thanks to its quilted leather seating, leather dashboard, wood trim, as well as smoked-chrome highlights.
12. Volkswagen Touareg TDI
Once it is outfitted with the most desired extras, the Volkswagen Touareg V8 TDI may cross the threshold into the six-figure price range. Its base price in Germany, which includes the value-added tax of 19 percent, is comparable to slightly under $83,000.
An eight-speed automatic gearbox with a torque-converter distributes the 416 hp as well as 664 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels. These figures are attainable from a speed somewhat higher than the idle speed.
This car gives a vicious performance all through. V-8 diesel does deliver good fuel efficiency for a 2.6-ton SUV. It has a rating of 31.8 miles per gallon when using the European cycle.
13. Land Rover Discovery
This is one of the best alternatives to the Lexus GX, and its starting price of $57,850 makes it quite competitive in the market. This particular vehicle has 355 horsepower at its disposal.
In addition to that, it has custom wheels measuring 22 inches and heated seats in all three rows. In addition, the vehicle is decked out in a one-of-a-kind grille and has a few distinctive symbols.
This automobile also comes with additional characteristics such as adaptive cruise control, a three-zone automated temperature system, and a meridian radio system, all of which contribute to the vehicle’s standing as an outstanding option among those available for consideration.
Additionally, all-wheel drive is a standard feature on some car models. However, you have the option of selecting between a turbocharged four-liter cylinder with 296 horsepower or a turbocharged three-point-five-liter inline six-cylinder with 355 horsepower. The latter makes use of a hybrid system that operates at 48 volts.
14. Jeep Grande Cherokee L
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has never been anything but a large vehicle. However, it is not large enough to accommodate over five people at a time.
This is where the brand-new model, which is the fifth generation overall, comes into play. Jeep’s first-ever seven-seat model of their flagship SUV is now available, and it’s called the Grand Cherokee L.
There is no denying the size of this automobile; photos of the inside show that room and comfort are abundant for both passengers and freight. The enormous exterior continues into the enormous interior.
The reported consumption for the 160kW is 5.8 liters per 100 kilometers, whereas the estimated consumption for the 200kW is just slightly higher at 5.9 liters per 100 kilometers. During our time with a 200kW vehicle, we had a few options installed, and the resulting average fuel consumption was 8.2L/100km.