I’ve always fancied owning a luxury midsize SUV. I’m planning to get one sometime during fall. For now, I’m just scouring the market, trying to find what will best fit my needs, taste, and budget. I have four luxury midsize SUVs in mind, but at the moment, I haven’t settled on one because it all depends on how much the 2018 Mazda CX5 I’m using will yield in this volatile used cars market. I plan to sell my current car and top up my budget. That aside, here are four luxury midsize SUVs on my wishlist.
1. 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
As it’s the tradition of the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, this year’s model comes equipped with state-of-the-art technology, elegant styling, and a comfy interior. Dubbed the true successor of the M-class SUV, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-class is my favorite pick.
For the 2021 model, there are two new trims, GLE 53 and GLE 63 S, that tag along with 429hp and 603hp engines, respectively. Also, in 2021, the coupe variant will be making a return. At the moment, I have not decided on the trim I’ll go for, but probably, it will be the GLE 63 S.
My only concerns at the moment are the hefty price tag and the few things I don’t like about the German machine. It starts at $117,050, and the optional third-row seat isn’t very spacious, especially for adults.
2. 2021 BMW X5
BMW is the pioneer in the luxury midsize SUVs segment, and years down the line, the German car manufacturer has remained at the helm. The 2021 model of the BMW X5 has several trims; sDrive40i, xDrive40i, xDrive45i, and M50i. I prefer the xDrive40i, which is the most popular model, and besides the popularity, it’s within my budget.
Under the hood, the xDrive40i comes with a 3.0L 6-cylinder turbo gas/electric hybrid engine that delivers a whopping 335hp. It is complemented by an 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission.
But just like the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, the 2021 BMW X5 has a squeezed third-row seat and cargo space. Also, the steering feel is vague, according to several trusted sources.
3. 2021 Lincoln Aviator
The 2021 Lincoln Aviator is a masterpiece just like its predecessor. It boasts the traditional Aviator’s upscale design, inside and out, and lots of advanced features. There are five trims available; Standard, Reserve, Grand Touring, Black Label, and Black Label Grand Touring. My choice here is the Aviator Reserve, which offers excellent value for money considering its price tag.
The 2021 Lincoln Aviator Reserve is powered by a 3.0L twin-turbo premium unleaded V6 engine that produces an impressive 400hp. It is complemented by a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission.
The Lincoln Aviator Reserve has lots of positive talking points, but still, there are a few things that could have been improved. The headroom is slightly squeezed, and the handling is overly soft for a midsize SUV.
4. 2021 Audi Q8
The 2021 Audi Q8 comes without the optional third-row seats that other SUVs boast in favor of a coupe-like profile and bold bodywork. The 2021 model comes in three trims; Premium 55 TFSI Quattro, Premium Plus 55 TFSI Quattro, and Prestige 55 TFSI Quattro. My choice is the Premium 55 TFSI Quattro because it’s within my budget range and has a good mix of features and superb performance.
One thing about Audi Q8 is that the three trims come with the same engine, a 3.0L 6-cylinder turbo gas/electric motor that delivers a cool 335hp. It’s complemented by an 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission.
But then, the Audi Q8 has limited cargo space, and the infotainment system can be distracting at times, especially when driving at night.
As mentioned earlier, I have not settled on a particular luxury midsize SUV, but the list above has that one ultimate model that I’ll be hitting the road with for the next three years or so. I am really conscious of the maintenance costs associated with this particular vehicle, so I plan to be extra vigilant in checking the oil, brakes, tires, and other essentials regularly to ensure that I get the most out of my investment. I am also planning to invest in a few car covers (likely from a store with a really easy ordering process and a perfect fit) to protect my vehicle from the outside elements. This is important, especially during the winter months when I may not have the chance to drive the car or when I am out of town and the car is parked in a public area.
Just to mention, the list of my coveted luxury midsize SUVs in 2021, before narrowing it down to four, also had the 2020 Acura MDX, 2020 Infiniti QX60, 2021 Lexus RX 350, and 2020 BMW X5. But for one reason or another, these three SUVs had to be dropped.