Characteristics of Luxury Electric SUVs
Whether a full-size SUV or a more urban-centric crossover, each of these cars have a top spot in their respective brand’s stable. This means that there is some trademark variety, but with competition being so fierce, there are also plenty of similarities, as no luxury EV SUV wants to be outdone.
- Style: In the world of luxury cars, looks matter - both inside and out. These vehicles all embody the stylistic ethos of their respective automakers, often boasting flagship status. Only the finest materials are used in construction, and genuine leather and wood trim are common.
- Comfort: These capacious people haulers are generally quite comfortable to begin with, with cushy suspensions that eat up bumps and cabins that are well insulated. However, the premium variants take things to the next level by including ultra-plush seats that often include heating in the front and back. Furthermore, the quiet electric powertrains make the ride even more serene.
- Power and range: An essential quality of the most luxurious electric SUVs is their potent but eco-friendly powertrains. Thanks to their size, SUVs have room for large battery packs that don’t infringe on the interior dimensions, and these days a 300-mile-plus range is competitive. Power is never lacking, either, with some models boasting in excess of 1,000 hp and lightning-quick acceleration.
- Practicality: Designed to accommodate whole families in comfort, these cars generally boast loads of room for people and their stuff. In fact, 7-seater SUVs are not uncommon, though even in relatively large vehicles, this means sacrificing a lot of trunk space. As for on-road practicality, most luxury EVs come with multiple motors and AWD as standard. However, the luxury focus means that these SUVs aren’t the best off-roaders.
- Price: While it is true that you will save a lot of money on fuel over the lifespan of these vehicles, their initial cost is quite high for many shoppers. Luxury SUVs come with loads of standard features, quality materials, and great powertrains, and you have to pay for all that value.
What to Consider When Buying a Luxury SUV That Is An EV
Even the best luxury electric SUVs come with a few caveats. You need to consider these strengths and weaknesses when buying a new car in comparison to other types of vehicles to determine if they are the best choice for your budget and lifestyle.
Pros
- Strong, quiet electric powertrains
- Extremely comfortable and plush interiors
- Superior levels of passenger and cargo space
- High safety ratings and commanding driving positions
- Loads of standard features
- No emissions and no fossil fuels used
- Extensive warranties and potential tax rebates
Cons
- Very expensive at the outset
- Recharge times can be frustrating
- Additional expenses include installing charging ports at home
- Towing capacities aren’t impressive and will decrease range
FAQs
What is the best luxury EV that is an SUV?
These are all very good cars with a lot to offer, but the Cadillac Lyriq stands out within the segment. Aside from its sophisticated and futuristic styling, it comes equipped with a capable but not overpowered powertrain that is good for 312 miles. The interior is beautifully appointed, and Cadillac play’s to the midsize SUV’s strengths by limiting it to a five-seater. Other names worth mentioning include the BMW iX, Volvo’s XC40 Recharge, the Audi e-tron, and the Genesis GV60.
What is the most affordable luxury electric SUV?
The Volvo XC40 is one of the most accessible of the premium electric SUVs, but it’s also on the small side, so it won’t appeal to shoppers who desire a little more practicality. Its overall fuel economy is also not all that impressive, so it may end up costing you more in the long run than something like the Genesis GV60, which is marginally more expensive upfront. However, the interior is one of the best in the class, and it rides exceptionally well.
Which luxury electric SUV has the longest range?
Unsurprisingly, it’s Tesla, with its years of experience in the EV market, that boasts the SUV with the longest range. The Tesla Model X can travel for up to 348 miles on a full charge, and while some may argue that Tesla isn’t a premium brand, its products are high quality and feel luxurious to pilot.