The ultimate Audi crossover is convincingly sporty and properly useful.
Pros Suave and tech-savvy cabin, sporty and comfy ride, more useful than Audi sedans.
Cons Pricier than the more pragmatic Q7, distracting touchscreens, less fun to drive than Audi sedans.
The Audi Q8 is a luxurious, comfortable SUV but it isn't as sporty as its looks suggest, nor is it as practical as a Q7.
Pros Imposing looks Indulgent interior Advanced technology
Cons Numb handling Limited versatility Unproven ride comfort
Audi's Q7 is undoubtedly a practical three-row SUV, but maybe you find it to be a bit plain Jane when compared against sleeker rivals such as the Land Rover Range Rover or Porsche Cayenne.
Pros Comes well-equipped with many standard features Comfortable ride and seats for all passengers High-quality cabin Front and rear seats offer all-day comfort
Cons Less practical than the related Q7 New infotainment system can be distracting to use Throttle response is too slow in the default driving mode Limited interior storage space
The 2017 BMW X5 M returns with an updated iDrive system that includes touchscreen functionality. The Executive option package also now includes a Wi-Fi hot spot and wireless charging for compatible cellphones.
Pros Astounding acceleration Comprehensively equipped Upscale interior with excellent fit and finish.
Cons Touchy gas pedal Ride may be too firm for some tastes No third-row seat offered IDrive still requires too many clicks to accomplish everyday tasks.
Although the 2017 BMW X5 gets called a "sports-activity vehicle" or SAV by its maker, we know a luxury SUV when we see one. Going head to head against the Porsche Cayenne and Mercedes-Benz GLE, the 2017 X5 emphasizes the "sport" part of sport-utility vehicle. The resulting lineup of luxury SUV models includes a hybrid, a diesel, and even a fire-breathing M version, all of which are fun to drive. The X5 is big, but still midsize, so it's easy to manage through traffic and parking lots, while remaining roomy and comfortable at the same time. Note that the "utility" part doesn't extend as far off-road as you can go in a Land Rover or even a Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Pros If you want a luxury-sports sedan, but need the room of an SUV, then the BMW X5 should definitely be on your short list. With its wide range of powertrain options and excellent handling, there's an X5 for just about anyone willing to spend $50,000 or more.
Cons The X5's charms don't come cheap, and if you want a more luxurious ride -- that is, softer -- you might be better suited with a Lexus RX 350, Acura MDX or Audi Q7. If you need more room, check out the larger Mercedes-Benz GL or Infiniti QX80.
The BMW X5 M is now the undisputed king of high-performance SUVs – quicker than similar rivals such as the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, Range Rover Sport SVR and Mercedes GLE63. The X5 M is a combination of sports car performance and luxury SUV practicality and capability. That may sound like a great recipe at first, but it’s never going to drive like a proper sports car. The exterior styling of the X5 M isn’t in any way devastatingly attractive, although its brutal design is a match for its performance. If you absolutely have to have the fastest and most powerful luxury SUV, then the X5 M is a worthy alternative to the pricier Bentley Bentayga.
Pros Fabulous engine Superb handling Tons of technology
Cons Ageing styling Small rear seats Can get pricy with
