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Gearheads have a long-standing aversion to SUVs and crossovers, and in some instances, it’s justified. Crossovers typically characterize a compromise over a conventional hatchback or sedan, buying and selling sharp dealing with and efficiency for journey top and practicality. On high of that, there are such a lot of of them on the highway that it’s simple to tune out the noise totally.
However even probably the most devoted automotive fanatics need to admit that some SUVs and crossovers break the mould. Whether or not it’s uncooked energy, standout styling, or intelligent engineering, a rising variety of these automobiles are constructed with driving pleasure in thoughts. We’ve rounded up a mixture of trendy crossovers and SUVs that even probably the most skeptical gearheads would possibly discover themselves eager to personal.
What Made the Record
For this record, we centered on trendy SUVs and crossovers that provide one thing particular for automotive fanatics, whether or not it’s thrilling efficiency, engineering innovation, or a design that captures consideration. We thought-about each new and up to date fashions, leaning towards these with sport-tuned suspensions, highly effective engines, or fanatic followings. Whereas some are purpose-built efficiency machines, others earned their spot by being surprisingly enjoyable to drive regardless of their measurement or section.
We additionally acknowledge that, for a lot of households, proudly owning a crossover or SUV is solely extra sensible. Whether or not it’s hauling children to high school, navigating tough climate, or becoming in weekend adventures, these automobiles supply a stage of versatility that sedans and coupes typically can’t match. That’s why it’s thrilling to see extra automakers stepping as much as present choices that mix on a regular basis usability with real fanatic enchantment.
Jaguar F-Tempo SVR
The Jaguar F-Tempo SVR isn’t the commonest SUV on the highway, and that’s a part of what makes it so interesting. Whereas the usual F-Tempo was already a classy and succesful entry within the premium SUV section, the SVR model takes all the pieces up a notch with severe efficiency and aggressive styling that truly works.
From the sculpted aero package to the quad exhaust pipes, the SVR has the sort of presence that turns heads—and it backs it up with actual muscle. Below the hood is a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 pushing out 567 horsepower, delivering a deep, snarling soundtrack and thrilling acceleration. It’s a type of uncommon efficiency SUVs that appears, feels, and sounds the half.
Porsche Cayenne e-Hybrid w/ Turbo GT Bundle
The Porsche Cayenne has lengthy been a standout amongst efficiency SUVs, and for sports activities automotive fanatics, it’s one of the crucial rewarding to drive. The newest model takes issues to a completely new stage by mixing the sharp dealing with dynamics of the Turbo GT with the electrified muscle of the Cayenne e-Hybrid.
The result’s a Frankenstein SUV in probably the most Porsche method attainable. It delivers the identical track-ready suspension and driving really feel because the Turbo GT however with a staggering 729 horsepower and 700 lb-ft of torque. Which means this household hauler now produces extra energy than the unique Lamborghini Aventador, a automotive nonetheless revered as one of many best-sounding exotics of all time.
Porsche Macan GTS
Whereas we’re on the subject of Porsche SUVs, the Cayenne’s little brother deserves some consideration, too. A brand new electrical Macan could also be taking the highlight, however the gas-powered model is much from irrelevant, particularly in GTS kind. It’s at the moment the top-tier inside combustion Macan, delivering severe efficiency in a compact bundle.
Energy comes from a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine producing 434 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque, which is able to attaining a 0-60 time below 4 seconds. It sounds nice, pulls exhausting, and, extra importantly, nonetheless drives like a correct Porsche. Whilst a crossover, the Macan GTS maintains the model’s signature steadiness of precision and enjoyable.
Toyota Land Cruiser (250)
Toyota just lately reintroduced the Land Cruiser to North America, and whereas the brand new mannequin is barely smaller than the worldwide 300 Sequence, it nonetheless retains the identical rugged DNA. Constructed on the identical platform, the newest Land Cruiser stays true to its roots, boasting severe off-road functionality and a popularity for long-term reliability.
The North American 250 Sequence comes commonplace with a 2.4-liter hybrid four-cylinder, everlasting four-wheel drive, and accessible locking differentials. The engine produces 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. It might be extra compact than its predecessor, but it surely’s simply as succesful off the crushed path—and simply as sturdy, with a observe file of operating properly previous 250,000 miles.
Cadillac Escalade V-Sequence
We’re shocked it took GM this lengthy to make it occur, however we’re positive glad it did. The present-generation Cadillac Escalade is lastly accessible in V-Sequence kind, bringing severe muscle to the posh SUV sport. Whereas Dodge could have retired the Hellcats, Cadillac is protecting the supercharged V8 dream alive.
Below the hood sits a 6.2-liter supercharged V8, much like the one discovered within the CT5-V Blackwing. It cranks out a staggering 682 horsepower and 653 lb-ft of torque, turning this full-size SUV right into a straight-line missile. It’s massive, it’s loud, and it’s a blast — exactly what a efficiency SUV needs to be.
Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat
Talking of Hellcats, we are able to’t neglect one of many wildest SUVs Dodge has ever constructed: the Durango SRT Hellcat. First unleashed in 2021, this beast is precisely what it appears like: a three-row household hauler with a supercharged V8 below the hood.
That 6.2-liter engine delivers 710 horsepower to all 4 wheels, placing it a couple of ponies forward of the unique 2015 Challenger Hellcat. Gasoline economic system? Virtually nonexistent. But when anybody dares to say your loved ones SUV is gradual, you’ll don’t have any hassle proving them fallacious—with a smoky all-wheel-drive launch to again it up.
Vary Rover Sport SV
The present lineup from Land Rover is filled with fascinating machines, and the Vary Rover Sport isn’t any exception. It combines glossy design, a high-end inside, and surprisingly sharp driving dynamics into one significantly interesting bundle.
True to its identify, the Sport now is available in a high-performance SV trim that elevates the expertise to a different stage. Powered by a BMW-sourced 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 pushing out 626 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, it’s constructed to thrill. And sure, this SUV even gives non-obligatory carbon fiber wheels. That’s not simply sporty; that’s supercar territory.
Subaru Forester STI
For the second-generation Forester, Subaru determined to show up the warmth with an STI model, and the outcomes had been glorious. Borrowing the two.5-liter turbocharged boxer engine and six-speed guide from the Impreza WRX STI, this was excess of only a lifted grocery-getter. It produced round 265 horsepower.
Wrapped in a sensible, boxy wagon-like physique, the Forester STI delivered on a regular basis usability with rally-bred efficiency. Sadly, it was by no means bought exterior of Japan, making it an precise forbidden fruit for fanatics elsewhere.
Volkswagen Touareg R
If you happen to’ve ever wished a Bentley Bentayga, Lamborghini Urus, or Porsche Cayenne—however with out the flash or the six-figure price ticket—the Volkswagen Touareg is your low-key various. Constructed on the identical platform as its extra extravagant siblings, the Touareg gives premium efficiency in a extra understated bundle that doesn’t scream “crypto millionaire.”
The range-topping Touareg R incorporates a plug-in hybrid turbocharged V6, producing a mixed 455 horsepower. It’s fast, refined, and refreshingly refined. Sadly, it’s additionally not accessible within the U.S., which implies American gearheads are nonetheless left admiring it from afar.
Audi SQ8
The Audi SQ8 strikes a candy spot between luxurious and efficiency, significantly for fanatics searching for an SUV that flies below the radar. With clear traces, sharp detailing, and a refined badge, it doesn’t scream for consideration, but it surely undoubtedly earns it when you get behind the wheel.
Below the hood is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, placing out 500 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. That’s sufficient to launch this massive SUV from 0 to 60 in simply over 4 seconds, all whereas wrapped in a luxurious, tech-packed cabin. It’s quick, refined, and simply understated sufficient to shock anybody who underestimates it at a pink gentle.
Bentley Bentayga
The Bentley Bentayga is what occurs when a luxurious model decides that no class needs to be off-limits, not even SUVs. This isn’t nearly opulence, although. Beneath the quilted leather-based and wooden veneers, the Bentayga is a professional performer with actual functionality and composure at pace.
Relying on the mannequin, you will get something from a turbocharged V6 hybrid to a twin-turbo W12 with 626 horsepower. Though the W12 manufacturing led to 2024, you can nonetheless discover used fashions with that engine. It’s quick in a straight line, surprisingly agile for its measurement, and simply one of the crucial comfy efficiency SUVs in the marketplace. Whether or not you’re carving up canyon roads or cruising to a five-star lodge, the Bentayga makes each mile really feel first-class.
BMW X3 M
The BMW X3 M doesn’t simply flirt with efficiency — it goes all in. This compact SUV brings extreme warmth to the section, and it’s one of the crucial track-ready choices in its class. It appears aggressive with out being excessive, however the efficiency is something however refined.
Powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six, the X3 M makes as much as 503 horsepower in Competitors trim and rockets from 0 to 60 in simply 3.3 seconds. It handles with the precision you’d count on from an M automotive, and its all-wheel-drive system delivers grip with out sacrificing enjoyable. It’s a correct M machine that simply occurs to have room on your canine and a visit to Costco.
Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio
Lastly, we finish with an oldie however a goodie. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio has been on the North American market since 2017. Whereas it’s not the most recent face within the crowd, it completely deserves the respect it nonetheless instructions.
Powered by a Ferrari-derived 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 pushing out 505 horsepower, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio blends Italian aptitude with severe functionality. It’s sharp, fashionable, and surprisingly sensible, however extra importantly, it’s a blast to drive. It’s a disgrace Alfa is struggling to maneuver them off seller tons as a result of this is among the most original and rewarding efficiency SUVs you should purchase.
Sensible Doesn’t Must Be Boring
Crossovers and SUVs may not be the primary selection for excessive automotive fanatics, however right this moment’s lineup gives lots which can be genuinely enjoyable to drive. Whether or not it’s the brute pressure of a supercharged V8, the steadiness of a hybrid efficiency setup, or the oddball appeal of a limited-run particular, there’s extra selection than ever within the fanatic SUV area.
For many who want a bit more room or versatility however don’t need to hand over driving pleasure, these fashions show you’ll be able to have each. So subsequent time somebody says SUVs are boring, level them to this record—they may change their tune after a check drive.
