Luxury is no longer strictly defined as a big, cushy sedan. The luxury crossover and SUV segments have changed all that, and since so many of them are well-appointed, comfy, and capacious cruisers, shoppers flock to them for both status and practicality. And they no longer have to be massive to haul 7-passengers. Here are the cream-of-the-crop luxury three-row crossovers this year.
2017 Land Rover Discovery
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Best for the off-roader |
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Land Rover still felt like a staid brand that doesn't change too much in terms of design, until the release of the Evoque and the all-new Discovery. In terms of design, the Discovery is their most radical departure to date. It drives well, feel luxurious, and it looks different from the rest of the lineup. Good thing it still has serious off-road capability and iconic British luxury for seven passengers. Though the infotainment system could use some refinement, everything else is pretty much top notch.
2017 Acura MDX
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The third generation of the MDX is the best ever, and for good reason. Not only does it have more interior room, the driving dynamics are truly superb thanks to the latest version of Acura's available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive that makes this MDX a sharp handler. The V6 engine is potent, as well as efficient, too.
2017 Volvo XC90
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Best for the designer |
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We laud the XC90 not just because it makes such a huge statement for the Swedish brand but because of the way it goes about it. The powerful four-cylinder engines can be turbocharged, turbo- and supercharged, and even add plug-in electric power to the mix. The interior is one of the best in the industry with a revolutionary Sensus infotainment system, and solid driving manners. The Swedes have redefined themselves in a very good way.
2017 Audi Q7
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Best for the enthusiast |
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Though the Q7 might not be the most dramatic luxury crossover (the exterior is admittedly a bit dull), it has more competence on the road than just about any candidate here. Drop either the 2.0T or the 3.0T into the twisties, and it hangs on like a sports car with pretty good steering, to boot. And the interior is both luxurious and sporty at the same time. The in-car tech is top notch, as are the fit and finish, but it really is the driving experience that makes the Q7 stand out in this crowd.
2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Class
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Best for the executive |
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If you want a luxury steed that has just about everything, the GLS is an excellent choice. The latest generation isn't just beautiful to look at but also available with cutting-edge safety technology like radar-based active brake assist and Distance Pilot DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control includes advanced Steering Pilot. There's huge amounts of room inside, and the GLS is truly quiet on the road.
Why choose luxury crossover over a luxury sedan?
- Available or standard all-wheel drive on most models.
- Greater passenger and cargo capacity.
- Most models have the same luxury appointments and tech as sedan counterparts.