The VW faces an uphill struggle against brand laden rivals, but is actually just as good.
Pros Sophisticated and high-tech interior plus engines for all situations in the pipeline
Cons Same-price rivals wear more premium badges
Pros Good value in lower trim levels Spacious inside for up to five people Excellent towing capabilities
Cons Cheap-feeling interior plastics Fussy infotainment system No seven-seat option
The 2020 Volkswagen Touareg V8 TDI is expensive, but it also has a very special diesel V-8 under the hood.
Pros Fast enough for the autobahn, diesel efficiency, premium-brand levels of luxury and refinement.
Cons Garish chrome grille; an Alcantara headliner would be nice; we'd love to have it here, but it's premium-brand money.
Pros Refined and silky inline-six, punchy acceleration, modern and high-budget interior.
Cons Opting for the coupe version costs $4150 and reduces practicality, optional extras can bring the total to more than six figures, BMW offers a twin-turbo V-8 at this price point.
Fully redesigned for 2021.AMG GLE 53 makes 429 hp from a turbo inline six-cylinder.AMG GLE 63 S cranks out 603 hp from a twin-turbo V8.EQ Boost adds up to 21 hp and 184 lb-ft.
Pros Premium-feeling well-trimmed interior Many standard safety and technology features Effortless acceleration from either engine
Cons Roofline compromises backseat headroom Cargo space is similar to a compact SUV's Only two trim levels available On-road performance abilities limit off-road capability
Pros Super smooth inline-six Stunning interior Capable handling Good list of standard options Improved styling over previous generation
Cons It can get expensive when you add options Limited practicality compared to GLE SUV Fuel consumption suffers under hard driving
