Luxury SUV's

dawks

Diamond Member
Oct 9, 1999
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Lets not yell at me for the high gas and fuel use stuff, I am well aware of it and that's not what I'm here for. I'd like to go more fuel efficient, but I want performance. And just a note, I'm not looking to rice or bling out. I don't need nor want attention. Just a nice comfortable ride.

So I'm looking at getting a higher end SUV, like an Acura MDX, BMW X5, Lexus R400H, Escalade, or similar. I'm in Canada and have to deal with nasty winters so I'd like something that rides a little higher, has all-wheel-drive, but I dont need a truck yet.

My parents have an 07 MDX and I love it. The 300hp V6 is really nice. However theres a few things I dont like such as the Navi and info center. I also dont like how the sound system works. It sounds good, but not the way I'd like it. Its tuned for different listening habits. Plus you can't buy the same that your parents get.. But I might get an 09 Elite if they make some changes and I dont find something I like as much elsewhere.

I've been looking at the 4.8i 350HP V8 BMW X5.. Its pretty nice, and I'd have to add some options, so it would cost ALOT... (close to $90,000 CND - yea we get raped good here). I'm curious to hear about their reliability and such. I have an 02 Civic, and now we have the Acura, and I'm really impressed with Honda's quality. They know vehicle engineering.

I've never been a big fan of the look of the Lexus, but I'm open to check it out if its worth while. I like the mileage the hybrid supposedly gets. The 268HP is a little on the slow side for what I'd want, but the mileage might make up for that.

And I haven't been a fan of domestics for a long time, but since GM is so desperate to sell, I could probably pick up an Escalade for a pretty decent price. Plus I might want to pull a boat or trailer, and that beastly 403HP V8 might come in handy.. Though for most of my driving it might just be a hassle. Parents have a 03 Yukon, which runs the same chassis as the Escalade (for the most part), and I HATE the rattle in the steering wheel while turning (from 4WD). I don't know if thats been fixed since its been around for a long time.

The MDX gets really good fuel efficiency (24mpg @ 65mph) considering its a 300hp with 18" rims and wide tires. And as I said, the numbers show pretty good fuel performance with the Lexus hybrid.

Comments?
 

desy

Diamond Member
Jan 13, 2000
5,447
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I'd look at getting one from the us
If there is more than 5G difference its worth looking at importing it and there are companies that specialize in getting it across for you
 

addinator

Member
Jul 11, 2005
160
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I'm not sure about canadian, but I'd certainly begin looking at a Range Rover Sport (supercharged or otherwise) if looking in the price range of a spec'd out x5. A fully equipped sport will run you from about 65 to 74 in the us, the supercharged pretty much being 71-74. They are really impressive cars IMO and deal with bad weather and adverse conditions exceptionally well... and they look sweet! :D
 

IronWing

No Lifer
Jul 20, 2001
73,272
34,665
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I rented an Escalade for a week. I also drove a Tahoe as a work truck for a while. IMHO, the Escalade is not sufficiently nicer than the Tahoe to pay any extra for it.
 

Emrys

Golden Member
Jul 5, 2002
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Have you looked at the Infiniti FX? It looks like it was updated for 2009.
 

Emrys

Golden Member
Jul 5, 2002
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Originally posted by: Mermaidman
Originally posted by: Emrys
Have you looked at the Infiniti FX? It looks like it was updated for 2009.
Is that a real SUV though?

Honestly any performance SUV I would question as a "real" SUV. If looking at performance though I would consider the FX over the BMW as I prefer its styling.
 

dawks

Diamond Member
Oct 9, 1999
5,071
2
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I guess it depends on your definition of 'performance'. Im not looking to race it on the track or at the stop light. But when I pass someone on a 2-lane highway, I want to pass them quickly.
Its more so I don't want a 4 banging 200hp.

I think its funny people are so concerned about the 1/4 mile times for their day-to-day street cars.
 

Gand1

Golden Member
Nov 17, 1999
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I too would check out the range Rover Sport.... I just don't know how thier reliability is... Most range rovers in the US seem to have problems and they kinda built like shit.
 

Dr. Detroit

Diamond Member
Sep 25, 2004
8,572
962
126
Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8
425HP 6.1L V8

Worth the test drive, you will forego some luxury for the price and at 425HP its pretty unbeatable in the performance department.

Saab 9-7X Aero
400HP 6.0L V8

You'd be suprised by Saab's transformation of the Trailblazer SS with much better quality materials.

If you are at all considering a Lexus RX - then go look at the Buick Enclave.