The 2017 Jaguar F-Pace ranks 2 out of 14 Luxury Compact SUVs. Very few rivals can match the brand-new Jaguar F-Pace when it comes to space, dynamic driving performance, and the prestige that comes with a Jaguar badge. Although Jaguar doesn't like to call it an SUV – they call it a practical sports car and performance crossover – the F-Pace is the first SUV for the luxury brand. The British carmaker says the F-Pace was built to be functional enough as a daily driver, but fun to drive on the weekend. It is spectacularly successful in both arenas. The F-Pace also has one of the largest cargo holds in the class. Additionally, its Land Rover parentage (Jaguar and Land Rover are owned by the same company and share some components) helps its off-road cred, making the F-Pace surprisingly practical for a little trail-riding. Overall, the F-Pace is an excellent SUV.
Pros Sports-car-like performance Excellent traction on slippery or gravel roads Spacious interior and cargo room
Cons Subpar acceleration with diesel engine
The 2017 Jaguar F-Pace does an excellent job of putting just as much emphasis on sport as on utility. Jaguar Land Rover is in the business of building excellent SUVs, but until now, those SUVs were the exclusive province of Land Rover. Even with Range Rovers and Discoverys sitting across the showroom, there's plenty of room for more vehicles in the broad spectrum that grabs everything from the Buick Encore to the Benz G-Class. And if a sort of automotive purity test is invoked, well, Porsche's proven that no brand can really thrive in the U.S. without some kind of crossover SUV in its lineup. This is all a convoluted way of explaining how we got to the first Jaguar crossover SUV in history, and as luck would have it, one of the most satisfying luxury utility vehicles of all.
Pros The SUV Jaguar's always wanted Sleek aluminum body Wide-screen InControl Touch Pro Turbodiesel or supercharged six Nimble, skillful handling
Cons Firm ride degrades on 22s Rearview camera a $400 option on base model Cockpit can be a subdued, dark affair
If you're looking for a luxury SUV that stands out in a crowd, the striking new 2017 Jaguar F-Pace is hard to ignore. It's more than just a pretty face as it's also great to drive, surprisingly practical, competitively priced and can even venture off road. It's a new SUV you don't want to overlook.
pros Spacious backseat and cargo area for the segment Sharper and more engaging to drive than most Supercharged V6 power at a four-cylinder price Fuel-efficient diesel engine option Higher-than-usual ground clearance and surprising off-road capability.
cons Gasoline engine is considerably less efficient than similarly priced rivals You might find the ride too firm over broken pavement V6's boisterous exhaust may get tiresome in day-to-day driving.
The 2017 Infiniti QX80 ranks 4 out of 8 Luxury Large SUVs. Despite a few weaknesses, the 2017 Infiniti QX80's strong performance, low base price, and elegant, well-equipped interior should meet your needs. However, it has the same disadvantage as most large SUVs: a cramped third row. Many of its rivals also use less fuel.
Pros Large cargo area Easy-to-use infotainment system High-quality interior Exciting acceleration
Cons Cramped third row Poor fuel economy
The 2017 Infiniti QX80's handling and fuel economy suffer for its size and weight, but it combines power, seating for eight, and towing capability in a luxurious package. The Infiniti QX80 is full-size traditional body-on-frame SUV that competes at the high end of the market. Formerly known as the QX56, the QX80's mechanicals might no longer be in vogue. All three models—QX80, QX80 AWD, and QX80 Limited—offer seating for up to eight and big V-8 power. A top rival for the Cadillac Escalade, the QX80 is the best Infiniti SUV to date and is superior to at least a few of its competitors.
Pros An upscale cabin Tough off-roading ability A genuine SUV Strong powertrain performance
Cons Finger-light steering Very thirsty Oversize front end a turnoff to some Gaudy fender vents
For some shoppers, a minivan just doesn't have the right capabilities. Even large, crossover-based SUVs won't do the trick. That's where hulking three-row, luxury vehicles such as the 2017 Infiniti QX80 come into play. With real towing power, high-quality interior appointments and a big-SUV attitude, the QX80 can shuttle your whole crew, and it can do it with style.Trailer sway control is now standard across the lineup. In-car Wi-Fi is now part of the optional Theater Package.
Pros Well-trimmed cabin that looks and feels truly luxurious Powerful V8 delivers strong acceleration and a high tow rating Tightly controlled handling that makes it feel smaller from behind the wheel
Cons Third-row seat is a tight fit for adults Ride quality gets choppy with optional 22-inch wheels
