When it comes to luxury SUVs, you don't have to sacrifice thrills to get decent fuel economy. Turns out some of the most fuel-efficient choices in this segment are also among those that are the most fun to drive.
Our colleagues over at AutoObserver recently took a look at luxury SUVs that offer the best and worst monthly fuel cost. Within the segment, there's a pretty vast divide between the sippers and the guzzlers, so making an informed choice can have a fairly big impact on your monthly fuel expenditures.
These four picks offer an engaging driving experience along with fuel economy that won't kick you in the knees.
1: BMW X5 Diesel
The X5 seems to exist purely to shatter people's preconceived notions of what a crossover can be. It's arguably the most impressive athlete of its segment, in addition to offering a high-end cabin and all the amenities a demanding luxury-car shopper could hope for. Fuel efficiency isn't the only reason to choose the diesel model; there's also that thundering 425 pound-feet of torque to consider.
2: Audi Q5
For a segment that didn't exist until just a couple of years ago, the premium compact SUV class is thick with some pretty impressive choices. Among the very best is the Audi Q5, whose sharp composure on pavement translates into a driving experience that's memorable for all the right reasons. And since this is an Audi, you also get a rich, class-leading interior.
3: Volvo XC60
The XC60 may not be quite as entertaining as the first two picks on this list, but this Volvo makes up for it with all-around competence. Its got the ample cargo capacity of a great family hauler, and its cabin is imbued with Volvo's singular brand of Scandinavian cool. Ride quality is softer than the X5's and Q5's, making this one to consider if you want an enjoyable luxury SUV that keeps things comfortable during the commute.
4: Lincoln MKX
A 2011 upgrade has made the MKX a real contender in the luxury crossover segment. Yes, ride quality is Lincoln-plush, but handling is far from wallowy, with the MKX maintaining its buttoned-up demeanor in and out of curves. This Lincoln is good-looking both inside and out, with a handsome cabin, and bold sheet metal that makes it one of the most stylish and visually interesting picks in this segment.
Which crossovers get your vote for engaging handling?
firstwagon says:
09:31 AM, 06/19/11
I'm sure they all can handle fine. Which one tows the most?
smallfield says:
11:31 AM, 06/19/11
Don't they all tow the same... Nothing.
I've never seen any of the above on the road towing anything.
billt9 says:
12:06 PM, 06/19/11
Americans often travel with their horses across the great west, and thus necessitate towing.
rx450h 3500 lb
rx450h AWD 3500 lb
escalade hybrid 5800 lb
escalade hybrid 4WD 5580 lb
MKX FWD 3500 lb
XC60 FWD 3300 lb
Q5 AWD 4400 lb
ML450 hybrid AWD 5000 lb
X5 diesel AWD may tow other vehicles
blueguydotcom says:
04:53 PM, 06/19/11
Fun to drive is a stretch with this crew.
DLu says:
07:24 PM, 06/19/11
"Fun to drive is a stretch with this crew." +1 bluegydotcom
albook says:
08:26 PM, 06/19/11
Who cares....
bassrockerx says:
08:48 PM, 06/19/11
Would be hard to pick between the volvo and the bmw. If I can get the bmw with a manual then that one if both automatic then probably the volvo
saturn95 says:
10:09 PM, 06/19/11
I'll take the 5 Series touring with AWD, much more sport with just as much utility as these "sport-utility vehicles"
What, they don't sell that here anymore?
Oh well, I guess they don't... grumble grumble BMW beancounters grumble grumble. Fine, I guess I'll take the Volvo, looks the best and doesn't drive terribly.
bassrockerx says:
04:13 AM, 06/20/11
I couldent be seen in any lincoln unless I was 60 years old and thee audi looks like its trying to compensate. Why wasent the acura on this list? Neighbor has one and its a hoot
kevm14 says:
05:39 AM, 06/20/11
If you tow 3500lbs+ with any regularity, wouldn't you want a body on frame-type SUV? Or are the new breed of "SUVs" adequate?
jonmc says:
06:22 AM, 06/20/11
Dear Warren Clarke,
I look forward to your response to the following comment. How is the 2011 VW Touareg TDI not on this list? With a 19/28mpg rating, a towing capacity of 7700lbs, and a cost less than the X5 while still having incredible content/options stock.
Please explain as it makes NO SENSE AT ALL.
transpower says:
07:54 AM, 06/20/11
Please, how about an Audi Q5 Diesel-Electric Hybrid? With Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Tires!
greenpony says:
09:47 AM, 06/20/11
Dear jonmc,
It must not be fun to drive.
Love,
greenpony
brn says:
04:31 PM, 06/20/11
jonmc, it's a list of Luxury SUVs. Audi is a luxury vehicle brand. VW is not.
DLu says:
07:25 PM, 06/20/11
Ugh, I cannot believe the term "Fun-To-Drive" is applicable to the Lexus RX/LX or the Escalade?!?!?!?! Heck, our freaking Sienna is at least just as fun to drive then! I turned the traction/stability off and had a lot of AWD drift fun in the snow last winter (closed course etc).
smallfield says:
03:44 AM, 06/21/11
"Americans often travel with their horses across the great west, and thus necessitate towing."
Wasn't saying they couldn't. Just the drivers don't tow with these. But like the horses comment.
jonmc says:
06:13 AM, 06/21/11
BRN and Greenpony,
You've got to be kidding me. Have you driven these cars? The Lincoln and Volvo cannot compare to the VW in terms of enjoyment.
As for the comment about luxury, look at the content/options in the vehicles before assuming a car is or is not luxury. A brand name does not denote luxury; if it did then we all must "assume" the Hyundia Genesis is not a luxury car.
The simple fact is that the story is horribly flawed.
Regards.
jonmc says:
06:15 AM, 06/21/11
Equus, not Genesis. Mis-typed.
piredon says:
07:39 AM, 06/21/11
I actually own the X5 diesel. I wouldn't describe it as "fun to drive." It's a surprisingly capable handler considering it weighs around 5200 lbs dry. It's more capable than it has a right to be, and it can downright hustle on back roads. But the experience isn't what I'd call fun. My previous car, an Infiniti G35, was not terribly more capable, but was a hell of a lot more fun.
Here are some reasons why I went with the x5: I've seen average fuel economy of 25 mpg, over the life of the vehicle, no joke. I got 20 mpg in the G35. It's surprising quick off the line, and is surprisingly smooth at high(well, for a diesel) revs. It's incredibly stable at speed. The ride is firm, but perfectly acceptable for me. It holds a reasonable amount of stuff. Certainly more than any sedan. I do not tow with it.
In other words, it's capable. But it's not really that much fun...still hoping for a 335d wagon someday.
brn says:
04:24 PM, 06/21/11
jonmc, VW decided to promote VW has a everyman's brand and Audi as a luxury brand. VW decides what brand goes on one vehicle vs the other. If you disagree, the complaint should be with VW, not AutoObserver.