Acura RDX
Highlights: Honda’s first turbocharged production engine in North America finds its way into the new entry-level luxury SUV.
Base price: $33,610
What’s next: Nothing for this new entry.
AutoWeek‘s opinion: With Honda’s first turbocharged engine and a host of standard luxuries, the newest Acura should be a hit.
Acura MDX
Highlights: In designing the second-generation MDX, Acura strived for a sportier-looking and -riding SUV. Cleaner sheet metal, a more driver-oriented interior and a new 3.7-liter, 300-hp V6 result.
Base price: $40,665
What’s next: Not much after this year’s major redo.
AutoWeek‘s opinion: Newfound power and fresh styling will help keep Acura in the thick of the luxury SUV battle.
Audi Q7
Highlights: Designed for the U.S. market, Q7 shares platforms with the VW Touareg. Base power comes from a 3.6-liter V6, while high-line models get a 4.2-liter, 350-hp V8. Quattro AWD is standard.
Base price: $40,620
What’s next: Diesel-powered hybrid in 2008. Smaller Q5 expected in 2009.
AutoWeek‘s opinion: A brilliantly executed SUV inside and out.
BMW X5
Highlights: A larger, second-generation X5 arrives for ’07, now able to accommodate seven passengers with optional third-row seating. Engines include a 3.0-liter, 272-hp I6 and a 4.8-liter, 355-hp V8.
Base price: $46,595
What’s next: Nothing for now.
AutoWeek‘s opinion: One of the best-handling SUVs on the market.
Ford Explorer Sport Trac
Highlights: The Sport Trac returns after a year’s layoff with a new 292-hp V8 and a cleaner V6 engine option. Borrowing Explorer and F-150 styling, the SUT features a composite cargo bed, two-tier storage system, three integrated storage bins and improved ride quality, thanks to a new stiffer frame and rear independent suspension.
Base price: $24,940
What’s next: Do not expect anything major for a few years.
AutoWeek‘s opinion: Honda Ridgeline-like utility and innovation but in need of sportier flair.
Land Rover LR2
Highlights: New entry-level SUV built on the Volvo S40’s platform with a 3.2-liter, 230-hp inline-six. The junior Rover features independent suspension providing agile handling and comfortable on-road manners. All LR2s are equipped with standard Roll Stability Control.
Base price: $39,000 (est.)
What’s next: New vehicle, so no changes.
AutoWeek‘s opinion: Land Rover’s latest looks poised to steal sales from BMW’s X3.
Lexus RX 350/RX 400h
Highlights: New 3.5-liter, 270-hp V6 signifies the new RX 350 badge. Six-disc in-dash CD changer and acoustic glass windshield are standard. Rear-seat entertainment screens upgraded to nine-inch unit, and a Mark Levinson 11-speaker premium audio system is a new option. The hybrid adds a center console coin holder and available wood interior trim.
Base price: $38,095
What’s next: The next RX arrives next year.
AutoWeek‘s opinion: Lexus has the formula down pat for the luxury SUV, and the hybrid is the only way to go if you’re looking for a high-end hybrid SUV, for now.
Also to consider
BMW X3; Buick Rainier; Chevrolet TrailBlazer; Ford Explorer; GMC Envoy; Honda Pilot; Hummer H3; Jeep Grand Cherokee; Land Rover Range Rover, Range Rover Sport; Mercedes-Benz M-Class; Mercury Mountaineer; Nissan Murano; Porsche Cayenne; Saab 9-7X; Toyota 4Runner, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid; Volkswagen Touareg; Volvo XC90
