Best Performance SUVs

For 2025, Audi fills in a notable gap in its electric vehicle lineup with the all-new Q6 e-tron. It's a compact SUV, which is somewhat rare among luxury EVs. While the Q6 is an excellent choice for most drivers, those who desire more performance and excitement have their own variant: the 2025 Audi SQ6 e-tron. Both models sit between the smaller Q4 e-tron and the larger Q8 e-tron, but the SQ6 makes a stout 483 horsepower compared to the Q6's 422 hp, and its sporty suspension is tuned for athletic cornering. In the next year or so, a raucous RSQ6 e-tron is expected with even more performance.

Among the new SQ6 e-tron's few rivals, there is one that was developed alongside it. The new Porsche Macan Electric shares a lot of the Audi's underpinnings but costs quite a bit more and offers more sporty variants. The Genesis Electrified GV70 offers decent performance, but doesn't match the Germans when it comes to luxury and refinement. Other competitors are larger and pricier alternatives: the BMW iX and Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV.

At least for now, the Audi SQ6 e-tron enjoys an advantageous position among luxury EVs. It returns a respectable amount of range, charges quicker than almost anything else, and is suitably practical for everyday use.

One of the original high-performance luxury SUVs, the Audi SQ5 continues to be a benchmark for the segment. Audi injects a potent dose of power into its popular Q5, with the 2025 SQ5 boasting a 349-horsepower turbocharged engine (up 148 hp from the Q5) that propels it to 60 mph in a brisk 4.7 seconds. Sharper handling and stronger brakes complement the engine upgrade, all while retaining Audi's legendary Quattro all-wheel-drive system. A Sportback body style adds a touch of style for those who prioritize aesthetics.

Beyond its athletic prowess, the SQ5 delivers luxury in spades. Typical Audi elegance graces the interior, with impeccable fit and finish throughout. Spacious and comfortable seating for five, along with a generous cargo area, solidify the SQ5's daily-driver credentials. Driver assistance tech rounds out the package. While the SQ5 offers a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and practicality, it faces stiff competition from established rivals like the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Porsche Macan, each offering its own take on the high-performance luxury crossover formula.

The Ford Explorer has been around for more than 30 years, and Ford says it has sold more than 8 million of these family-sized SUVs. Now in its sixth generation, the 2025 Explorer gets a major refresh with new styling, an upgraded cabin, and advanced technology.

The Explorer battles in one of the most competitive vehicle segments in the U.S.: the three-row SUV. The Explorer's strong rivals include the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, Toyota Grand Highlander, and Jeep Grand Cherokee L. In 2023, the popular Ford outsold almost all of its competition, and there's every reason to believe that success will continue with the updated 2025 Explorer.

With seating for up to seven passengers and plenty of cargo space, the Explorer provides a high level of comfort and utility. Four trims are offered: Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum, all well equipped with a long list of standard features. Four-wheel drive is available on all versions, and Ford offers the Explorer with a choice of two powerful engines, including a 400-horsepower EcoBoost turbocharged V6.

Ford's infotainment system is greatly improved, with a new Google-based operating system. It integrates popular features such as Google Maps and Google Assistant, and is displayed on a standard 13.2-inch touchscreen. The Explorer also comes with the latest advanced driver-assist features and, for the first time, is available with Ford's BlueCruise hands-free driving system.

Fully redesigned this year, the 2025 Mini Countryman is more prepared to compete in the crowded compact SUV segment. Already the largest vehicle in the Mini lineup, the new Countryman added a few more inches between the wheels to give it a larger, more practical cabin and a smoother ride. Mini didn't mess with tradition too much, however, as the suspension uses the same overall setup as previous Minis in order to deliver the precise, responsive handling the brand is known for. The new Countryman also benefits from the addition of standard all-wheel drive for sure-footed traction in a variety of conditions.

The previous Countryman offered a wide range of trims, but the newest version was introduced with just two: the Cooper S and the high-performance John Cooper Works. The Cooper S is powered by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four cylinder that produces up to 241 horsepower, a huge jump over the previous Cooper S (189 hp). The John Cooper Works gets a more modest boost, from 301 to 312 horsepower. Both use a seven-speed automatic transmission. Mini claims that the Countryman John Cooper Works is capable of a zero to 60 mph time of just 5.4 seconds, which is quick for any vehicle, but especially a compact SUV.

In addition to the increased passenger room, the Countryman's cabin features an updated design that incorporates a 9.4-inch round touchscreen display in the center of the dash. Most features of the user interface can be controlled with voice activation, a nice plus given the unusual screen design. A mix of cloth and metallic trim gives the interior a modern feel that's a step above most competitors in the class. Mini also added a driver-assist feature that allows for hands-free driving at speeds under 37 mph.

Competition in the Countryman's category is fierce. On the low end, the Honda HR-V offers similar levels of driving enjoyment and functionality. On the luxury side, the BMW X2, Audi Q3, and Volvo XC40 provide high-quality cabins and refined performance. But none of them have the easily identifiable style of a Mini, so the Countryman still offers a one-of-a-kind mix of attributes that no other small SUV can match.

Acura’s first all-electric SUV, the 2024 ZDX is a competent and comfortable luxury crossover. Powering the ZDX is a 102 kWh battery that’s paired with one or two electric motors. With the single-motor setup, the ZDX optimizes range, offering an EPA-estimated 313 miles between charges. With the dual-motor configuration and in the high-performance Type S trim, the ZDX offers less range but much more power, faster acceleration, and a more dynamic driving experience. It’s the most powerful SUV Acura has ever produced. With sleek, modern styling, lots of room on the inside, and a comfortable ride, the ZDX has a lot to offer.

The ZDX has a quiet cabin and is enjoyable to drive, but its rivals have a significant advantage in some areas. The ZDX is pretty large, which means it easily holds five adults. But rival EV SUVs, such as the Kia EV9, have similar exterior dimensions and provide three rows of seating. Then there’s the issue of luxury, where the ZDX isn’t quite a class leader. Cabin materials, even on the top-trim ZDX Type S, are a bit underwhelming. There’s plenty of modern tech and a long list of standard safety features, but competitors like the BMW iX and Genesis Electrified GV70 feel a bit more upscale inside. Finally, range, especially on the high-performance Type S model, is below what we’d want in a big family SUV like the ZDX. None of these issues are deal-breakers, though, and we’d still advise shoppers to take a close look at the 2024 Acura ZDX.

The 2025 Maserati Grecale luxury SUV blends Italian style with high-end performance, positioning it as a compelling option in a crowded segment. As Maserati's answer to premium SUVs like the Porsche Macan, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLC, the Grecale aims to capture the attention of buyers seeking more than just utility. The Grecale distinguishes itself with its distinctive Maserati design, featuring sleek lines, a bold grille, and a refined interior that prioritizes high-quality materials and craftsmanship.

In terms of performance, the Grecale comes with a supercharged and turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering an engaging and smooth driving experience. This positions it well against the Macan, known for its dynamic handling, and the X3, which offers a balance of comfort and performance.

While the Grecale excels in performance and design, it has some drawbacks. Its cargo space is smaller than competitors like the Audi Q5, and rear legroom can feel cramped for taller passengers. Additionally, its pricing is higher than that of some rivals, making it a more exclusive choice. Nonetheless, the Grecale stands out for those seeking an SUV that delivers on both luxury and driving pleasure.

The 2024 Audi SQ8 e-tron sits near the very top of the electric SUV market. It’s the performance version of the Audi Q8 e-tron, and with a starting price just over $90,000 this SUV guarantees a level of exclusivity. The nearly 500-horsepower five-passenger EV comes in either a standard SUV body style or a more coupe-like Sportback model. How do you spot an SQ8 e-tron compared to the regular Q8 e-tron? Look for the slightly flared-out bodywork covering distinctive wheels and wider tires. The SQ8 e-tron looks muscular and performance-oriented, and has a number of significant upgrades over the standard model.

Most of that work is in the chassis. Audi has retuned the suspension with thicker sway bars and firmer dampers. They’ve made the steering more responsive, as well. But the biggest change is the addition of a second electric motor on the rear axle. When combined with the single front axle motor, it allows this three-motor Audi to instantly send power and torque to the wheels in need. The SQ8 e-tron also has an additional 94 hp and 228 pound-feet of torque over the standard Q8 e-tron. These upgrades help this large and heavy EV tackle sweeping roads and tight corners with the athleticism of a much smaller vehicle. The brake regen system, which helps charge the battery as you slow down, isn’t as aggressive as in some other EVs. For example there’s no “one-pedal” drive mode in which drag from the regen system lets the driver cruise around town, rarely touching the brake pedal. The driver can amp up the regen temporarily by pulling on one of the steering wheel-mounted paddles.

The SQ8 e-tron cabin is fitted with beautiful textured carbon accents, rich-looking (and comfortable) quilted Valcona leather sport seats, and a sport steering wheel.

The SQ8 e-tron has few true rivals. The Tesla Model X Plaid, which costs just over $94,000, offers longer range and way more speed but is less comfortable and luxurious. The new Mercedes-Benz AMG EQS SUV delivers more power, speed, and range, but at more than $140,000, it's almost in another league.

The Escalade-V is Cadillac's take on the pinnacle of luxury and performance within the full-size SUV segment. As the high-performance variant of the iconic Escalade, it combines an opulent interior with a formidable powertrain, setting itself apart with its commanding presence and advanced technology. Powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine producing an impressive 682 horsepower, the Escalade-V accelerates with authority and offers a thrilling driving experience that few rivals can match.

In comparison to its competitors, the Escalade-V stands out for its raw power and luxurious appointments. The Mercedes-Benz GLS 63 delivers comparable performance but with a higher price tag, while the BMW X7 M60i offers a sportier, more agile driving experience but lacks the Escalade-V’s sheer size and commanding road presence. The Range Rover Autobiography emphasizes off-road capability and refined luxury, though it doesn't match the Escalade-V's outright performance.

Strengths of the Escalade-V include its powerful engine, sumptuous interior, and a wealth of standard features that cater to luxury buyers. However, its considerable size can be cumbersome in tight urban settings, and its fuel economy is notably poor compared to more efficient competitors. Additionally, the high price point can be a barrier for many, making it a choice for those who prioritize extreme luxury and performance over practicality. Despite these drawbacks, the Escalade-V remains a top choice for buyers seeking an ultra-luxurious and high-performing SUV.

To call the 2025 BMW X1 "entry-level" is to do it a disservice. While it is the German luxury brand’s smallest and most affordable SUV, it's also one of the best in its class, combining performance, space, and premium interior quality better than most of its rivals. All-wheel drive comes standard, enhancing handling on dry roads and traction when it's wet, and there's a choice of two power levels.

The X1 28i base trim is saucy enough with its 241-horsepower engine that zips it from zero to 60 mph in about 6 seconds. For more vigorous performance, the M35i trim generates 312 hp and sprints to 60 mph in about 5 seconds, matching the performance of the BMW Z4 sports car.

That’s more performance than offered by rivals such as the Audi Q3, Mercedes-Benz GLA, and Mercedes-Benz GLB. The X1's near-perfect balance of ride and handling is also hard for its competitors to match, although the Q3 comes close.

Inside, the X1 feels roomy, sharp and high-tech, with firm, supportive front seats, a widescreen display that incorporates digital gauges and center touchscreen, and the most cargo space in its class. The X1 also offers the most front headroom among its rivals — more even than the boxy GLB — while rear seat passengers enjoy plenty of legroom and headroom.

A small SUV with elegant exterior styling and a wide range of available options, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC is a class leader with all sorts of appeal. There are multiple available powertrains for the GLC, as well as multiple trim levels and available packages that allow for an impressive level of customization. The interior of the GLC is plush and welcoming, with a long list of standard features and top-notch materials quality. And for 2025, the GLC gets big updates in the way of two new powertrain options: a plug-in hybrid and an aggressively powerful AMG model.

The first of the two new powertrains comes in the GLC 350e. It’s a plug-in hybrid that offers impressive range (as much as 81 miles according to Mercedes) and a significant boost in power over the standard GLC 300. The 350e can also be charged at DC fast charging stations, which shortens charging times significantly. The second new powertrain is also a hybrid, but the execution is very different. The AMG GLC 63 S E Performance uses AMG hybrid performance technology along with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine to produce 671 horsepower. It won't arrive until later this year, but we expect it to offer some of the most impressive performance in the segment.

The GLC is undoubtedly impressive and it’s one of our top choices in the class, but there are other luxury SUVs worth checking out. We specifically recommend the Audi Q5, Genesis GV70, and BMW X3. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio and Volvo XC60 should also be on your list.

There’s no getting around the polarizing design of the BMW XM — you’ll either love or hate it. This bold SUV looks like nothing else on the road, which is fitting because there’s never been a BMW like the XM. Take the “X” from BMW’s line of SUVs and the “M” from its high-performance variants, add an incredibly powerful engine and plug-in hybrid system with EV range, and you have one of the most unique vehicles on the road today.

The XM is highlighted by its almost cartoonish proportions. It boasts flaring kidney grille nostrils and massive 23-inch wheels in a squat package punctuated by vertically stacked quad exhaust tips at the rear. The XM is longer than the more conventional BMW X5 midsize SUV, but the X5 boasts significantly more cargo capacity. That means the XM is larger, more powerful, and much more expensive but far less practical.

So, what's the point of the BMW XM? It's all about the power. The plug-in hybrid powertrain, which marries a twin-turbocharged V8 engine with a 25.7-kWh battery and electric motor, churns out a staggering 644 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. In the more exclusive XM Label models, these numbers are ramped up to a mind-blowing 738 hp and 738 lb-ft. This makes the BMW XM an incredibly fast SUV, capable of sprinting from 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds.

There are other plug-in hybrid luxury SUVs on the market, but none this brash. Other exotic performance SUVs are available, but none with a plug-in system and EV range. That makes the BMW XM an odd duck, but no one will accuse it of being boring. The BMW XM stands out from the crowd in a class that includes competition from Maserati, Lamborghini, and Aston Martin. That’s no small feat.

When the Hyundai Ioniq 5 debuted in 2022, it was met with overwhelming and nearly unanimous praise, and for good reason. With a starting price in the low $40,000 range, it was one of the most affordable all-electric compact SUVs on the market. For a few thousand more, you could get a larger battery pack that was estimated to return up to 303 miles on a single charge. That accessible price didn't mean you'd have to skimp elsewhere, as the Ioniq 5's funky modern styling, long list of standard features, and very generous warranty served to further its value.

Three years later, the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 solidifies its standing atop the class with several upgrades and additions. Most notably, the Ioniq 5 N brings a huge dose of high performance to the lineup with a bigger battery, a ton more power, and track-ready cornering abilities. With a price tag some $25,000 higher than the base model, this new N model isn't cheap, but it delivers a nearly unbeatable bang for your buck.

If the updated Korean-market vehicles are any indication, the supporting Ioniq 5 models will be even more desirable than before, thanks to a larger battery capacity that will likely increase range. A minor styling refresh may also make its way to our shores. We fully expect the Ioniq 5's unusually quick recharge capabilities to return, too.

As good as the Ioniq 5 is, it's not the only choice. The Tesla Model Y may be set for a significant refresh, a la the Model 3 sedan. The Volkswagen ID.4 is also a worthy alternative, and like the Tesla, it's eligible for some desirable tax credits. The Ford Mustang Mach-E and the new Volvo EX30 are not eligible for those incentives, but remain solid choices, nonetheless. The most direct rival comes from the related Kia EV6, which also has a higher performing EV6 GT model that delivers thrills on a slightly lower level than the Ioniq 5 N.

It was just a few years ago that Aston Martin added an SUV to its lineup, joining time-honored luxury/performance brands like Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Lamborghini, and Porsche. The DBX was pure Aston Martin, boasting a sleek exterior design, lavish cabin, and exceptional performance, and it quickly became the marque's best seller. As the landscape in this exclusive market changes, so does the Aston, which gets a significant refresh for the 2025 model year.

The 2025 Aston Martin DBX lineup has been trimmed to the top-level DBX707. Boasting almost 700 horsepower and performance akin to a sports car, as well as a price tag well into the triple digits, the Aston Martin DBX707 has limited but strong competitors. These include the Lamborghini Urus, Bentley Bentayga, Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT, and Ferrari Purosangue – not bad company to keep.

Exterior styling updates for the new model year are somewhat subtle. The DBX gets a new badge, flush door handles, new rearview mirrors, and an updated rear spoiler, but with its bold grille, familiar headlights, and vented hood, it still looks like an Aston Martin. Noticeable but not visible changes include the revised steering calibration, exhaust, and suspension.

The DBX's cabin has been refreshed for a more modern look. The revised dashboard is built around a new, larger display screen running the brand's latest infotainment system. A new steering wheel adds a sportier flair, while the controls in the center console are much more attractive and intuitive.

It may carry a high price, but for those with the means, the 2025 Aston Martin DBX707 is an absolute joy to experience firsthand.

Subcompact luxury SUVs might be considered the gateway drug to a brand's larger, pricier models. Luxury brands certainly think of subcompacts as an opportunity to distill a brand's performance, quality, and refinement into a pint-sized package that's aspirational but still relatively affordable.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA has served that role since its debut a decade ago, but this second-generation GLA (introduced in 2021) most fully delivers on the Benz premium promise. Where its predecessor rode rough and shifted gears awkwardly, the current GLA benefits from Mercedes tinkering and now offers the smooth and quiet ride you could expect from Benz's bread-and-butter C-Class sedan. Engine and handling performance are lively in the GLA 250 base trim, if not exactly pulse-raising. But what's sacrificed in performance is gained in class-leading fuel economy. The AMG GLA 35 trim and its 302-horsepower engine, meanwhile, offer a pathway to bigger thrills.

The GLA also offers one of the nicest interiors in the class, with high-quality materials and soft-touch surfaces. A dash-spanning widescreen display that combines dual 12.3-inch monitors — one for the driver's digital gauges and instruments, one for infotainment — is among the cabin's highlights, along with Mercedes signatures, like the "turbine"-style air vents and 64-color customizable ambient interior lighting. Only the GLA's cargo capacity comes up short relative to its rivals.

Subcompact luxury SUVs are an increasingly competitive class though, and there's no shortage of choices. The BMW X1 and Audi Q3 are the Benz's toughest challengers, both offering more cargo capacity and more athletic handling. The Volvo XC40 is a different, but no less elegant, take on European luxury. The Lexus NX, Jaguar E-Pace, and Cadillac XT4 also deliver budget luxury indulgence.

Those seeking the ultimate in luxury and driving performance have several options in the SUV segment, giving them extra utility over a sports sedan. The Audi RS Q8 embodies this wisdom, a superlative midsize crossover that does nothing in half measures. Packing a 631-horsepower V8, the RS Q8 accelerates like a supercar. It meets the asphalt with thick tires and a clever air suspension that can switch from pothole-absorbing comfort to racetrack-stiff at the touch of a button. Meanwhile, passengers will want for nothing, with a large cabin packed with lovely materials, premium technology, and enough sporty accents to inspire a quick detour through the hills.

There are other super-SUVs with formidable power and six-figure price tags, such as the BMW X5 M, Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 63 S, and Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT. The RS Q8 can match its rivals in power, comfort, and utility, but it stands out from the pack by not standing out. With a subdued exterior design, the RS Q8 flies under the radar, making it the right choice for enthusiasts who don't want to draw any more attention than the RS Q8's lively exhaust note already brings.

And Audi has another secret ace up its sleeve. Sharing its platform and twin-turbo engine with the Lamborghini Urus, the RS Q8 offers most of the Italian's exotic performance at a $100,000 discount.