Here are six standout SUVs to choose from if you’re looking for a new ride this holiday season.
BMW X5
Price range: $67,000-$90,000
MPG: 23 city / 27 highway
0-60mph: 5.3 seconds
Cargo space: 72.3 cubic meters. feet
What I like: The mid-size BMW X5 costs a hefty $70,000. But this dream machine offers a choice of Boffo engines, exciting handling, and attractive features. Four trim levels include the plug-in hybrid and the pesky M60i (a whopping $20,000 more expensive for a V8-powered ride, but accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds). It’s spacious and has lots of room. And if you’re looking for some glitz, there’s a glass-framed shifter that looks like real crystal, massaging seats, a panoramic roof with recessed LED lighting, and a rear window shade. It also features the latest technology, including a 12.3-inch digital display, 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless charger, and 20-speaker Bowers & Wilkins stereo. Is it expensive? yes. worth it? Please drive one and see.
buick encore
Price range: $27,000-$34,000
MPG: 29 city / 31 highway
0-60mph: 8.8 seconds
Cargo space: 50.2 cubic meters. feet
What I like: Buick continues to hit the high notes with its brave designs, and the Encore, a brash subcompact, is no exception. It’s surprisingly lively, with comfortable seats, concise handling, and a classy cabin. Standard beaucoup features include remote start, LED headlights, smartphone integration, and the latest safety systems. Open up your wallet a little more and add bigger wheels, a 360-degree camera, a hands-free liftgate, Bose audio, and other great features. Big plus: lots of storage space. Unfortunately, it’s not the most peppy engine, but it’s capable enough that it never feels sluggish. Compared to luxury divas like the Audi Q3, BMW X1, and Mercedes GLA 250, the affordable Encore is truly Encore worthy.
gmc acadia
Price range: $44,000-$57,000
MPG: 20 city / 27 highway
0-60mph: 6.7 seconds
Cargo space: 97.5 cubic meters. feet
What I like: Redesigned for 2024, the third-generation Acadia is the best yet. This full-size version is bigger, more powerful, and packed with gizmos like hands-free driving assistance, wireless charging, Wi-Fi, and more. For off-road use, it has tighter suspension, all-terrain tires, and even steel skid plates. The only thing I didn’t like was the automatic braking system, which got ridiculously scary the first time I backed into the garage. The driver’s seat began to vibrate violently, even though there was nothing nearby. Then I slammed on the brakes. Most vehicles only beep or brake if they get too close to an object. But this one felt and sounded like a manic whoopee cushion. But yes, after driving the Acadia for a week, I missed seeing such strange alerts appear on my next test vehicle.
jeep grand cherokee
Price range: $37,000-$69,000
MPG: 19 city / 26 highway
0-60mph: 7.4 seconds
Cargo space: 70.8 cubic meters. feet
What I like: A brave chassis and an attractive ride. Earlier this year, I reviewed the mid-range Overland model. Now it’s time for the superlative Summit Reserve. This gung-ho SUV combines glitz, power, and luxury and left me very satisfied. For $69,000, it should be. This is BMW X5 territory, but the Jeep offers virtually the same comfort and advanced safety monitors. The seats could be less taut, but that’s a minor issue. You can’t beat the trailer towing package, either, including automatic headlight leveling, load-leveling rear suspension, and durable cooling and electrical systems.
lincoln nautilus
Price range: $52,000-$75,000
MPG: 21 city / 29 highway
0-60mph: 7.2 seconds
Cargo space: 71.3 cubic meters. feet
What I like: Lincoln previously appealed primarily to Gramps and G-MA, but is now targeting a younger audience. For the midsize Notorius, that means modern styling, a well-crafted interior, and eye-popping features like a 4-foot digital display. The giant screen is part of an expansive dashboard that extends all the way to the door panels. Handling and cornering are smooth yet sporty, especially on the new hybrid model. When the Nautilus was parked, we could indulge in sinful pleasures with a multisensory setup that integrated a panoramic screen, surround sound stereo, massaging seats, and fragrance diffuser for a true spa-like atmosphere. Truly Nirvana.
Subaru Forester
Base model: $29,000-$38,000
MPG: 26 city / 33 highway
0-60mph: 9.3 seconds
Cargo space: 74.2 cubic meters. feet
What I like: Something solid, steady, and certain. Thanks to all-wheel drive, the Forester’s handling is excellent, especially in rain or snow. And while this is no Speedster, the powerplant is a bit of a doozy, but fuel economy is better than most rivals. I test drove a mid-range Sport model with an all-weather package that includes 18-inch black-painted wheels, raised roof rails, fog lamps, a tinted rear window, and a windshield wiper de-icer. I did. Best of all, the cargo room was spacious enough for all my holiday shopping, including a very wicked costume for my husband, my very own Prince Fiyero.
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