The very best luxury SUVs maximise passenger comfort and refinement, deliver accessible and effortless performance, all without harming its versatility and practicality.
Here’s what we assessed:
1. Comfort and isolation
We tested each vehicle in a range of environments, from pockmarked urban streets to high-speed motorways. We paid particular attention to how effectively adaptive air suspension ironed out road imperfections and whether acoustic glazing and soundproofing successfully isolated passengers from the outside world at higher speeds.
2. Interior quality
We scrutinised every touchpoint, from the plushness of the materials to the tactility of the switchgear. We looked for high-quality materials – real wood, milled aluminium and glass – while assessing the fit and finish of panels to ensure there are no squeaks or rattles that could compromise the premium vibe.
3. Performance
We evaluated how seamlessly powertrains (whether V8, straight six, plug-in hybrid or electric) deliver their torque and assessed the responsiveness and smoothness of automatic gearboxes.
4. Versatility and practicality
We measured real-world passenger space in the rear – often the most important seat in this segment – and tested the ease of operation for folding seats and split tailgates. We also assessed the driving position and how well four-wheel steering systems help these large vehicles navigate tight city streets.
5. Technology
We evaluated the sophistication of the infotainment systems, looking for high-resolution displays that are intuitive and easy to operate on the move. We also assessed the quality of the on-board tech, from parking cameras to high-end surround-sound systems.
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