Luxury Family Suv VERIFIED

As family transport for affluent new-vehicle buyers, however, the R1S will be judged largely on its suitability for suburban duties like school runs, after-school event shuttling, big-box store visits and longer family trips to relatives or getaway spots. Its front seats are comfortable, and the middle row works for real adults, with adjustable backrests and heated seat surfaces. As in most vehicles beyond some minivans, the third row will likely be confined to kids.

luxury family suv

Overall, the Rivian R1S is a handsome, comfortable and capable family SUV that will likely start appearing in affluent households as soon as the company can deliver them. A mid-size SUV is a sweet spot in the market second only to compact crossovers, so the company could well sell more R1S SUVs than R1T mid-size pickup trucks.

The Cadillac's interior is attractive and uses high-quality materials, but it doesn't offer the true luxury of the competing Lincoln Aviator. Powered by a choice of two strong, responsive engines, the XT6 is not especially performance-focused. Buyers looking for a sportier feel should also consider the Acura MDX.

The MDX is an excellent example of the quality and value that the Acura marque represents. Slotting above the smaller Acura RDX in the brand's product range, this three-row midsize luxury SUV offers an attractive cabin with ample room for passengers and cargo. You can slide and recline the second-row seats, and you can remove the center seat in that row for easy third-row access. Driving dynamics are smooth and refined. And this Acura has a lower base price than its BMW X5 rival.

On a less flattering note, the MDX's trackpad-based infotainment interface can be tricky to use. And unlike the Lexus RX, Acura's SUV doesn't offer a gas-sipping hybrid variant. Those quibbles aside, the MDX is an easy pick if you're looking for a midsize luxury SUV that's universally competent and reasonably priced.

Ever since its debut more than 20 years ago, the Cadillac Escalade has established itself as the one to choose if you like your SUVs brash, bold, and dripping with luxury. The current model reflects that formula, capturing attention with its chiseled, angular exterior and a deluxe cabin packed with technology. This Cadillac also delivers big rewards in practical areas. For example, it has one of the roomiest third rows in its class, and it tows more than rivals such as the BMW X7. And it has more cargo space than the Lincoln Navigator.

The Escalade comes with a standard V8; it's potent, but the trade-off is poor fuel economy. A more efficient turbodiesel power plant is an option. Overall, if you're looking for a luxury SUV that's spacious, stylish, and muscular enough to tow heavy loads, the Escalade will likely satisfy.

The Land Rover brand shows that luxury and ruggedness are not mutually exclusive. The Defender is one of the most off-road-friendly vehicles in the Land Rover lineup; it's confident and eager when taken down steep trails and perilous ravines. And the scrappy Defender offers all the tech you need to make off-roading safer and easier. For example, it comes standard with a water depth sensor for crossing streams. You won't find tech like that on competing midsize luxury SUVs such as the Lexus RX or Audi Q8. 041b061a72