According to CBS News, SUVs sales make up 43% of the market share. This growing popularity is the reason so many automakers are turning to produce more innovative vehicles for their customers, but some of them are downright expensive. There’s a large selection of SUVs to choose from these days, so it requires more diligence to make sure you get what you want. Before you run out and purchase one of the most expensive SUVs, check this list to see if it’s worth its price.
The Most Expensive SUV Models Out There
1. 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum Max
This Ford is going to run you close to 80k, but it’s fully loaded with every convenience feature and luxury you desire. There’s an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot that supports as many as ten devices. There’s also a panoramic sunroof which makes you feel like you’re inside a convertible.
In the long-wheelbase setup, the Expedition Platinum Max offers intense amounts of space and comfort. It’s the perfect home away from home. In addition, the 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine produces 400 horsepower, 480 pound-feet of torque, and comes paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission.
You’ll have plenty of room to hold eight people or put down the third-row seat for more cargo room. The nice part about this setup is you can lower the seat down with the simple push of a button. No more fumbling with latches and levers while trying to muscle your way to more space.
The high-quality materials inside the cabin give it a sleek, expensive feel. Don’t let that fool you; this SUV has plenty of utility to back it up. In fact, it can tow up to 9,300, so don’t be afraid of getting it dirty. While you typically wouldn’t think of Ford as a brand to offer such a capable and luxurious SUV, we give the green light on this purchase.
2. 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk
When Dodge put together its 707-horsepower Challenger SRT Hellcat, no one imagined that that same supercharged HEMI V8 would find its way into a Grand Cherokee. To our surprise, this popular SUV received quite the upgrade and added price. The Grand Cherokee Trackhawk provides mind-blowing acceleration and incredible performance.
It’s 0 to 60 mph time is just 3.5 seconds, which means it could run side-by-side with the discontinued Dodge Viper if it wanted to. Sure it’s going to cost you over $85,000, but it’s worth every penny. Anyone who’s interested in performance will care that this SUV comes equipped with heavy-duty Brembo brakes, a Bilstein adaptive suspension, plus standard Quadra-Trac all-wheel-drive.
Don’t forget to take a peek inside this expensive SUV. It featured a user-friendly infotainment system, an 8.4-inch touchscreen, plus Nappa leather-trimmed seats with suede inserts.
3. 2018 Jaguar F-Pace SVR
Jaguar created their first SUV with the F-Pace. While it isn’t the most expensive SUV, it does rank up there at almost $80,000. Considering the high price, it’s interesting to see that it’s already become the brand’s best-selling model. To our surprise, the F-Pace makes up half of all Jaguar sales in the nation. That should tell you there’s something exceptional about it.
If you want to purchase a pricey SUV, you can’t go wrong with an F-Pace. This SUV features quick reflexes, sporty handling, and high-quality design. You might even think you’re sitting behind the wheel of a performance sedan instead of a people hauler.
While the cabin is awfully roomy, we were a little disappointed at the interior quality itself. Don’t get us wrong, it’s clear that money was put into it, but it feels slightly bland.
If your desire is for power, you won’t be disappointed at all. The SVR contains a 550-horsepower supercharged V8 under its hood. It’s the same one used in a company’s F-Type sports car.
4. 2018 Lincoln Navigator L Black Label
Another one of the most costly SUVs that’s worth every penny is this model Navigator. With styling features brought right from the Continental, the Navigator offers a luxurious SUV everyone will want. Of course, it does run close to 100k, so not everyone will be able to get their hands on one.
When you hear the name “Black Label,” you just know to expect fine styling and quality. This SUV doesn’t disappoint with its luxury touches. The Black Label trim represents the highest level you can find from the automaker and even offers some unique paint options as well. In addition, there are 30-way power adjustable front seats, so comfort isn’t lacking.
In fact, out of all the expensive SUVs in the world right now, these offer the most comfortable seating. It also isn’t afraid to show off its power. With a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6, it produces 450 horsepower and is paired with a competent four-wheel-drive system.
The L designation simply means that it’s the company’s extended wheelbase version, so you know there’s plenty of room inside. Not only are all the materials constructed from high-quality products, but the luxuries inside prove that it’s possible to build a high-end SUV.
5. 2018 BMW X5 M
Breaking through the 100k price range, this option from BMW surely stands out on the road. Because they wanted to continue building “the ultimate driving machine,” they also changed with the times to manufacturer this X5.
With all the hype about the company’s i8, this costly SUV offers 200 more horsepower to bring the number to 567. That power is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, sport-tuned suspension, and 21-inch alloy wheels with superior grip.
There’s also a launch control and leather-covered front seats. As you make your way around turns, you’ll feel the side bolsters working to keep you in place. You might also be interested in the X6 M which features the exact same powertrain but offers a tapering tail and lowered roof design.
6. 2019 Porsche Cayenne Turbo
It should come as no surprise to see a Porsche on our list of expensive SUVs. In fact, they were one of the first to release an SUV back in 2003. Since then, this vehicle has continued to grow in popularity, but is it worth it’s almost $125,000 price tag?
This model year brought with it a complete redesign. In addition, it drives like a sports car and offers exceptional amounts of explosive power. That’s because it’s equipped with a twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces 541 horsepower. All the while, drivers and passengers relax in the upscale cabin.
Many people fall in love with the functional, yet attractive interior. It’s overflowing in extravagant trim and practical convenience features. Not only does it come with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, 21-speaker Burmester sound system, and quad-zone automatic climate control, but there’s virtually no cabin noise while driving.
7. 2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD Plug-In Hybrid Excellence
If the word “excellence” shows up inside the name of an expensive SUV, you better take a second look. This Volvo XC90 features accommodations suitable for all business-class executives. Four bucket seats include superior ventilation, heat, plus massage functions. With the rear beverage cooler, you can store your favorite drinks. Plus, it comes with crystal glasses. While this alone doesn’t justify the $105,000 price, there’s plenty of other reasons to take a look at this vehicle.
The first reason is that this SUV features a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The electric motor works together with a supercharged and turbocharged four-cylinder engine to produce 440 horsepower. The only downside to this model is that the power mode only runs alone for less than 20 miles.
8. 2019 Lamborghini Urus
This isn’t Lamborghini’s first SUV. In fact, they have a reputation for expensive SUVs if you remember back to the LM002 which featured a V12 engine. Because it was made in the 1980s, it sure was ahead of its time. Now, the Italian automaker offers up the Urus, which is ideal for any family that wants to also drive a supercar.
This SUV is edgy and will set you back 200k. It’s powered by a twin-turbo V8 engine that outputs 641 horsepower. In addition, it comes complete with four-wheel-drive, an air suspension, and carbon-ceramic brakes which stop on a dime.
Because it’s a Lamborghini, you know the cabin has plenty of luxuries. There’s even a starter button located under a red flap placed on the center console. This allows everyone to feel like they’re launching a high-powered rocket.
9. 2018 Bentley Bentayga
If you have an SUV that’s powered by a 6.0-liter W12 engine and 600 horsepower, you better believe it’s worth a $229,000 price. That’s what we found in the Bentley Bentayga, and we simply can’t say enough good about it.
This SUV offers a top speed of 187 mph and was also one of the most highly priced SUVs in the world (until we reach #10 of course). The Bentayga offers up the same broad appearance and power that their sedan and coupe models contain.
You could save a little money by opting for the turbocharged V8 engine instead. This motor only produces 542 horsepower, so we can’t fully understand why someone would downgrade. With that said, all models come complete with four-wheel-drive and lots of customization options.
10. 2019 Rolls-Royce Cullinan
The Rolls-Royce Cullinan isn’t just the most expensive SUV in the world, but also the most luxurious. It’s named after the largest uncut diamond, and it delivers on all the high expectations set up for it. Starting at $325,000, this SUV features a 6.75-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine that produces 563 horsepower.
It also comes with four-wheel-drive and sporty performance. While that might seem odd for a Rolls-Royce, it actually suits customers perfectly. There’s also no limit to the number of options available. You might feel like you’ve stepped into a Bond film when you add on the Event Seating package. This comes with twin foldable seats and a retractable table in the rear compartment. We aren’t sure you would desire to take a Rolls-Royce SUV tailgating, but if you wanted to, you could.
Expensive SUVs that Aren’t Worth it
Now that we’ve examined the top ten expensive SUVs we recommend, it’s time to take a look at the duds. Here are five expensive SUVs that we can’t endorse.
1. 2018 Maserati Levante
Maserati isn’t doing well and this SUV proves they’re becoming desperate. They want to increase sales so they hopped aboard the SUV bandwagon, but it’s simply not worth the lavish price. Over the past few years, the Italian brand’s quality suffered. They just aren’t building their vehicles the way they once did. With that lowered quality, you would think the prices would start to come down, but they haven’t.
Maybe Maserati is attempting to infiltrate the mainstream market, but then the prices need to reflect that. With all the luxury automakers offering expensive SUVs, there’s no reason even to consider purchasing this model. Opt for Bentley, Lamborghini, or Porsche instead.
2. 2017 Tesla Model X
We are crazy for Tesla and love what they’ve created, but the Model X is a slight disappointment. Sure, there are some neat features and gadgets inside. On top of that, it does have some crazy acceleration, especially for an electric vehicle. With that said, the Model X just doesn’t stack up the way it should considering it costs almost $80,000.
As they continue to produce it, we are convinced they’ll work out the bugs and increase the quality. For the first few model years, we simply can’t get behind it. As of now, it features some strange noises, poor-quality brakes, and expensive repair bills.
If you’re dead set on owning one, wait for just a few more model years to reach production. Your bank account will thank you.
3. 2017 Range Rover Supercharged SV Autobiography Dynamic
That’s a mouthful! This special edition Land Rover Range Rover sets consumers back almost $200,000 making it one of the most expensive SUVs to purchase. The problem is that this SUV doesn’t offer too much more than it’s cheaper counterparts.
Sure, it has some additional power, a comfortable interior, and decent off-road capability. The reality is that you could purchase the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk which is a better option. Not only that, you would save more than 100k to do that. It once was the fastest SUV to purchase, but not anymore.
The bottom line is that this SUV doesn’t feature anything special that warrants the high price. Save your money and buy something cheaper.
4. 2019 Toyota Land Cruiser
Don’t get us wrong; we aren’t opposed to the Land Cruiser. It’s a decent SUV and offers everything you need. What we do resist is the price. Starting at 85k is just ridiculous for what you receive. There’s really nothing special to set it apart from a $40,000 SUV. That’s why you aren’t going to see an overwhelming amount of this big-budget SUV on the roads.
The SUV isn’t just ordinary looking, but there’s nothing special about its performance either. On top of that, the back seat is slightly cramped and it’s not at all aerodynamic. We also aren’t fond of the lack of trunk space. Sure, it performs well off-road, but you can get that from many other SUVs at half the base price.
5. 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL63 AMG
This is one of the most expensive models from the past few years, and there’s plenty to be found online. Even though it’s a few years old, the price continues to stay high, but it’s simply not worth it. Not only does it disappoint from an appearance standpoint, but it also doesn’t feature anything special inside.
It came with some options such as an off-road mode and sunroof, but those things should have been expected with a luxury SUV. With that said, it is a reliable SUV and offers plenty of power. We just can’t get behind the expensive price for something that should’ve only cost about $50,000 in the first place. The Mercedes-AMG G63 on the other hand…that’s a real utility vehicle we can fully support!
Final Thoughts
If you want to invest in one of the most expensive SUVs on the market, make sure you read your reviews carefully. Just because the price is high doesn’t mean it has everything you want. Many times, you’re simply paying for a name even if that company doesn’t deliver the performance, options, or appearance. If you’re going to spend 100k or more on an SUV, it better be well worth it.
Consider the equipment and trim level. Do you want all-wheel drive, or do you need four-wheel drive? If you can’t immediately tell the difference between a Land Rover Range Rover Sport and a Cadillac Escalade or Mercedes-Benz G-Class, then you probably shouldn’t be so ready to hand over a large amount of cash on an expensive SUV until you’ve done all of your research! Get clued up first, then go shopping.
