SUVs are made to take us anywhere, and though some of the best off-roading SUVs do a stellar job of keeping us upright when we push it too far and helping us climb the rockiest and most arduous terrains, sometimes a little refinement and luxury is in order. We loveno-thrills SUVs that get the job done, but if you are looking for something with a bit more panache and plush comfort, this is where a smooth-riding luxury SUV could be key.
Boasting impressive off-road features, luxe cabins, and, most importantly here, comfortable and luscious comfort features that provide us with a smooth ride on most roads and terrains, some ofthe gold standard of luxury SUVs take things a step in the right direction in making us forget that we are driving over bad roads or the most pot-holed street.
This is why we are taking a look at the smoothest-riding SUVs today and have information about each model's performance specifications, trim options, pricing points, and what they feature that provide us with silky driving.
10 Underrated Luxury SUVs That Are Definitely Worth Buying
Are there any underrated luxury SUVs that you should consider buying? These ten seem to be overlooked but are packed with great features for you.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturers and other authoritative sources; J.D. Power, Car Survey.org, Repair Pal, and Car Edge. The following models of the smoothest-riding SUVs have all been selected because of the innovative features they boast that provide superior on-road comfort and buttery driving.
2025 Bentley Bentayga EWB Muliner
Yes, it costs $336,700, yes, it is massive, and yes, it does ooze opulence and high-society at first sight. The2025 Bentley Bentayga EWB Muliner is the epitome of luxury driving, for its exterior design, its uniquely plush interior, and because it has been designed to be one of the most comfortable and smooth-riding SUVs on the market.
Bentley models are all about giving you a first-class experience, and the Bentayga EWB Muliner is at the top of the chart for that. Boasting the Bentley Dynamic Ride system, which utilizes 48-volt tech to control body roll, air suspension with adaptive dampers that take care of cracks and bumps in the road, and rear-wheel steering that gives this 208.9-inch x 87.5-inch opulent beast a nimble feel, it is the height of luxury.
2025 Bentley Bentayga EWB Muliner
Engine | 4.0-Liter Twin-Turbocharged V-8 |
Transmission | Eight-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower | 542 Horsepower |
Torque | 568 LB-FT |
Driveline | All-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | 4.5 Seconds |
Top Speed | 180 MPH |
Towing Capacity | 7,716 LBS |
Inside has also been designed for comfort with whisper-quiet soundproofing and the standout interior comfort feature, Airline Seat Specification rear seats with reclining, massage, and climate controls that even adjust to your body temperature.
2025 Bentley Bentayga EWB Muliner
- A byword for luxury and style.
- Beautifully crafted interior.
- Serious power from a potent V-8.
2025 Bentley Bentayga EWB Muliner
- The starting price makes this luxury SUV reserved for drivers with big budgets.
- Can only achieve a combined MPG rating of 16 MPG.
- Some say that the interior tech features feel a little outdated.
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS Class
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS Class is once again protruding with the expected style and lavishness that the German automaker has got down to a tee. There are three Mercedes-Benz trims available for the 2024 lineup and oneultra-luxurious and bougie Mercedes-Maybach GLS trim to choose from.
- 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450.MSRP: $87,000.
- 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 580.MSRP: $112,000.
- 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS AMG GLS 63.MSRP: $145,850.
- 2024 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600.MSRP: $175,500.
The GLS 450 boasts the 3.0-liter inline-six, the GLS 580 boasts the 510-horsepower 4.0-liter V-8, and the AMG GLS 63 is equipped with a hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 for the most spirited ride. The 2024 Maybach GLS 600 comes equipped with a tuned 550-horsepower variant of the V-8 that the GLS 580 totes.
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS Class Performance Specifications
Engine | 3.0-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Six Mild Hybrid | 4.0-Liter Twin-Turbo V-8 Mild-Hybrid | 4.0-Liter Turbocharged V-8 Mild Hybrid |
Transmission | Nine-Speed Automatic | Nine-Speed Automatic | Nine-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower | 375 Horsepower | 510 Horsepower | 603 Horsepower |
Torque | 369 LB-FT | 538 LB-FT | 627 LB-FT |
Driveline | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | 5.8 Seconds | 4.7 Seconds | 4.1 Seconds |
Towing Capacity | 7,700 LBS | 7,700 LBS | 7,700 LBS |
Whatever trim you opt for though, ride comfort is front and center. Every GLS comes equipped as standard with AIRMATIC air suspension, which smooths out bumps and adjusts to the road for a silky ride, while the E-Active Control (optional extra on the 450 but standard on the other trims) uses a set of cameras to read the road conditions ahead to adjust suspension and damping to the optimal level before you hit any rough patches.
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS Class Pros
- There is a lot of seating room across all three rows.
- Good amount of tech and driver assistant features.
- Posh interior design.
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS Class Cons
- High starting price.
- The maximum cargo capacity is just 84.9 cubic feet.
- Towing capacity doesn't increase with higher output engines.
2024 Range Rover (Standard Wheelbase and Long Wheelbase)
Land Rover has come a long way sincethe inspirational original Land Rover, which, though, has gone on to guide countless auto brands on how to create rugged, no-thrills SUVs, is not what you would call ultra-luxury.
Where Land Rover has hit the nail on the head in terms of style, comfort, and breezy driving is in the lineup of the2024 Range Rover. Available in both Standard Wheelbase (SWB) and Long Wheelbase (LWB) configurations, with a range of trims tailored to different tastes, which include the SE (SWB or seven-seat LWB), Autobiography (SWB, seven-seat LWB, or LWB), and SV (SWB or LWB), each trim offers us a blend of comfort, style, performance, luxury appointments, and high-end tech.
2024 Range Rover Performance Specifications
Engine | 3.0-Liter Twin-Turbocharged Inline-Six Hybrid | 4.4-Liter Turbocharged V-8 |
Transmission | Eight-Speed Automatic | Eight-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower | 394 Horsepower | 606 Horsepower |
Torque | 406 LB-FT | 553 LB-FT |
Driveline | Four-Wheel Drive | Four-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | 5.5 Seconds | 4.4 Seconds |
Towing Capacity | 8,200 LBS | 8,200 LBS |
The long wheelbase options provide the most cargo capacity, with up to 40.9 cubic feet of space behind the second row and up to 92.8 cubic feet with the second row folded down, but whatever option you buy, you can be assured of ride comfort and interior relaxation.
Boasting electronic air suspension with Dynamic Pro Response - a 48-volt active body roll control system, which adjusts suspension height and stiffness based on road conditions and driving speed. On highways, the suspension lowers for better stability, while on rougher terrain, it rises to provide extra ground clearance of up to 11.1 inches. To further enhance your comfort, the Range Rover features Adaptive Dampers which monitor road inputs and vehicle movements up to 500 times per second and ensure the suspension reacts quickly, while all-wheel steering improves both low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability.
2024 Range Rover Pros
- The hybrid option can achieve up to approximately 53 MPGe.
- Powerful engine options are available.
- A good mix of sporty, rugged, comfortable, and luxurious.
2024 Range Rover Cons
- The2024 Range Rover's starting price is $107,400.
- Third-row seating is handy, but some owners say it is cramped.
- Some owners say that the handling through corners is not the best.
The Best 5-Year-Old Luxury SUVs To Buy Ranked By Price
What are the top choices when you want to drive a five-year-old luxury SUV? Here are the top ten for you.
2024 Lincoln Navigator
TheLincoln Navigator is a beast of a vehicle, measuring 210 inches (L) x 79.9 inches (W) x 76.3 inches (H) and increasing to 229 inches in length if you opt for the Navigator L. But, despite its truck-like size, it sets the bar high for comfort and on-road easy.
At the heart of the Navigator's buttery ride is adaptive suspension with road preview, which, like some of the other models, reads the road ahead to adjust for imperfections. But what sets it apart from some of the others is the showcased independent rear suspension.
2024 Lincoln Navigator Performance Specifications
Engine | 3.5-Liter V-6 |
Transmission | Ten-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower | 440 Horsepower |
Torque | 510 LB-FT |
Driveline | Four-Wheel Drive |
Towing Capacity | 8,100 LBS |
Incredible vehicle. Comfortable, spacious, smooth and well-appointed. Performs well (mainly mountain driving) for its size. Love it. After several Land Cruisers and MB SUVs, I am happy to have found Lincoln.
- Owner review of their 2024 Lincoln Navigator on Kelley Blue Book
By utilizing independent rear suspension, Cadillac has ensured that body roll is minimized and stability is maximized, especially when it is loaded up with the maximum amount of stuff and passengers. Combined with Lincoln's Electronic Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS), the Navigator delivers precise handling for its size.
2024 Lincoln Navigator Pros
- Powerful engine under the hood.
- Good towing capacity.
- Luxurious interior appointments make the Navigator even more comfortable.
2024 Lincoln Navigator Cons
- Only one engine option.
- Can achieve only 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway.
- Massive size doesn't make it ideal for city driving.
2024 Rolls-Royce Cullinan
With a starting price of $389,000, the 2024Rolls-Royce Cullinan is in the high league with its luxury counterpart British marque Bentley when it comes to eye-watering pricing. But like some of thebest luxury SUVs, it is made to be a pleasant and grand place to be on most road surfaces.
2024 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Performance Specifications
Engine | 6.8 Turbocharged-Liter V-12 |
Transmission | Eight-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower | 600 Horsepower |
Torque | 664 LB-FT |
Driveline | All-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | 4.5 Seconds |
Top Speed | 155 MPH |
Towing Capacity | 7,300 LBS |
At its core is self-leveling air suspension, which utilizes a Flagbearer camera system to scan and adjust to road conditions to maintain a silky ride and uses GPS data to pre-empt what gear you should be in to exit a corner, while four-wheel steering improves comfort levels and enhances the agility and maneuverability of this hulking 5,463-pound beast.
Additionally, inside the cabin, noise-dampening technology and acoustic glass create an ultra-quiet and serene environment while you enjoy relaxation from a smooth ride and heated, ventilated, and massaging seats.
2024 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Pros
- Very powerful engine.
- The height of luxurious driving.
- A very exclusive SUV to own.
2024 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Cons
- Incredibly high starting price.
- Can only muster a measly 14 combined MPG.
- It can cost you up to $2,000 just for an oil change.
2024 BMW X7
Combining luxury, advanced technology, and superb engineering for the last six years, theBMW X7 is continuing its high-end praise with a flagship luxury SUV that is designed to make you feel like you're driving in a palace. Available in two options, the xDrive40i and the performance-orientated M60i, the X7 is everything in one luxurious package.
In the cabin, the X7 boasts premium materials for the upholstery and surrounds, a curved display with a 12.3-inch driver screen and 14.9-inch infotainment screen, and BMW's iDrive 8 system for easy control of all your entertainment and driving info needs.
2024 BMW X7 Performance Specifications
Engine | 3.0-Liter Twin-Turbocharged Inline-Six Mild Hybrid | 4.4-Liter Turbocharged V-8 |
Transmission | Eight-Speed Automatic | Eight-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower | 375 Horsepower | 523 Horsepower |
Torque | 398 LB-FT | 553 LB-FT |
Driveline | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | 5.6 Seconds | 4.5 Seconds |
Payload Capacity | 1,261 LBS | 1,230 LBS |
To keep you comfortable on the road, the X7 has also got you covered. A key feature is a two-axle air suspension setup, which automatically alters ride height and damping to provide luxe comfort. The Dynamic Damper Control works with the suspension to fine-tune shock absorbers to soak up bumps, while the optional Active Comfort Drive with Road Preview and Dynamic Handling Package ($3,300 extra) takes things a step further.
Utilizing cameras to scan the road ahead, it pings information to the damping controller to adjust your suspension ahead of time, so when you hit a hole in the road, you don't even notice it is there.
2024 BMW X7 Pros
- Huge amount of power and performance credentials from the M60i trim.
- Great tech and displays.
- Very stylish interior design.
2024 BMW X7 Cons
- An expensive starting price for the xDrive40i of $81,900, and the M60i costs even more: $108,700.
- Lots of features in the infotainment system may be too much.
- Maximum cargo capacity is 90.4 cubic feet but some of its rivals have more space.
Which Electric SUV Is The Most Comfortable Right Now?
If someone asks which electric SUV is most comfortable on the road, what do you tell them? We know the SUV segment is rapidly expanding, so we wonder which brand and model do things right. Do you have any suggestions?
2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ
The Cadillac Escalade has been the flagship luxury SUV for the almighty American brand for decades now, and as we see a transition in the SUV world toward fully electric SUVs, the Cadillac is not being left behind.
The2025 Escalade IQ not only looks to part as a road-domineering beast but is also set up to ensure you feel like you are driving on air, whether you take it. Boasting Air Ride Adaptive Suspension (ARAS), this standout feature utilizes air springs that automatically adjust to road conditions. The ARAS system allows the Escalade IQ to alter its ride height, lowering it at high speeds for better aerodynamics or raising it for more ground clearance (up to 6.9 inches).
2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Performance Specifications
Motor | Dual-Motor |
Transmission | Direct Drive |
Horsepower | 750 Horsepower |
Torque | 785 LB-FT |
Driveline | All-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | <5 Seconds |
Top Speed | Unverified |
Towing Capacity | 8,000 LBS |
Payload Capacity | Unverified |
Magnetic Ride Control works in tandem with the air suspension, adjusting shock absorbers in real time to enhance ride comfort and handling. Reacting nearly instantly to changes in the road, it provides you with an ultra-smooth, almost gliding feel over even the best examples of poorly maintained roads.
2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Pros
- Very fast for its size.
- Plush inside and out.
- Good towing capability.
2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Cons
- The starting price is $129,000.
- Could be tricky to drive in the city with dimensions of 224.3 inches (L) x 76.1 inches (W) x 94.1 inches (H).
- Cadillac has a reliability rating of just 3 out of 5, putting them 26th out of 32 car brands, that, plus new EV tech, could mean some teething problems.
2024 Audi Q8 e-Tron
Boasting anoverall score (based on owner feedback) of 74 out of 100, a sleek and plush-looking exterior, and a tech-filled interior, the 2024 Q8 e-Tron goes a long way in providing a luxurious, head-turning, and supple ride. Inside, the2024 Q8 e-Tron boasts Virtual Cockpit Plus - a slick 12.3-inch digital display that shows you everything from navigation to driving info. Plus, there are two touchscreens equipped: a 10.1-inch screen for infotainment and an 8.6-inch screen for adjusting the cabin climate.
2024 Audi Q8 e-Tron Performance Specifications
Motor | Dual-Motor |
Transmission | Direct Drive |
Horsepower | 402 Horsepower |
Torque | 490 LB-FT |
Driveline | All-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | 5.4 Seconds |
Top Speed | 124 MPH |
Towing Capacity | 4,000 LBS |
Payload Capacity | 595 LBS |
When it comes to ride comfort, the Q8 e-Tron's adaptive air suspension keeps things smooth by adjusting stiffness and feedback based on the road below you, while Audi's Drive Select System with modes like Comfort, Efficiency, Dynamic, Allroad, and Offroad lets you choose how you want this luxury SUV to feel.
Comfort mode makes everything feel soft and cushy, while Offroad bumps up the ride height to up to 9.8 inches for rougher terrain, and Dynamic mode gives the e-Tron a sportier feel with sharper responses.
2024 Audi Q8 e-Tron Pros
- Owners have complemented the quiet cabin.
- Smooth-feeling engine under the hood.
- Reasonably high MPGe of 87 MPGe.
2024 Audi Q8 e-Tron Cons
- Some owners have complained about the driver's assistance features.
- Low driving range of up to 285 miles from a single charge.
- Base price is $74,400.
2024 Genesis GV80
Asone of the market leaders in innovation, and beating the likes of Lexus for three years in a row, you would expect a Genesis model to be filled to the brim with features to keep you comfortable. You'd be right and the 2024 GV80 does just that.
The 2024 GV80 is all about keeping you comfortable and in control, no matter what the journey. Boasting a high-tech suspension system with Road Preview that uses cameras to spot holes and divots in the road and adjust the dampers before you hit them, making most road surfaces feel smooth.
2024 Genesis GV80 Performance Specifications
Engine | 2.5-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four | 3.5-Liter Turbocharged V-8 |
Transmission | Eight-Speed Automatic | Eight-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower | 300 Horsepower | 375 Horsepower |
Torque | 311 LB-FT | 391 LB-FT |
Driveline | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | Unverified | Unverified |
Top Speed | Unverified | Unverified |
Towing Capacity | 6,000 LBS | 6,000 LBS |
Payload Capacity | Unverified | Unverified |
The GV80 also comes equipped with multiple driving modes, including Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Custom, that adjust spring stiffness, throttle response, and steering feel, while the "Off-Road" mode allows you to tackle even tougher terrain in comfort. This is thanks to the "Off-Road" mode, fine-tuning the GV80's stability and traction control, optimizing power through the all-wheel drive system to ensure maximum grip, and the suspension adapting over rough terrain to provide different ground clearances (depending on what is below you) and stiffening or slackening the feel of the suspension.
2024 Genesis GV80 Pros
- Owners have complimented the quiet cabin.
- Relatively low starting price of $57,500 for all that luxury.
- Good corrosion warranty from Genesis; 7 years/unlimited miles,
2024 Genesis GV80 Cons
- Cramped third-row.
- Only achieves a combined MPG rating of 20 MPG.
- Some owners have complained about a tricky-to-use infotainment system.
10 SUVs That Blend Comfort And Performance To Perfection
Some vehicles just feel right, and these ten SUVs have an incredible package of performance and comfort to improve your driving experience.
2024 Lexus LX 600
The2024 Lexus LX 600 is made for more than just delivery style, luxe driving, and poise; it also boasts an extremely plush suspension setup that smooths out the bumps in the road.
Showcasing Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) that adjusts on the fly, softening bumps and keeping the ride steady, while the Active Height Control (AHC) system adds another layer of comfort by automatically changing ride height depending on how fast you are driving and what kind of road you are on.
2024 Lexus LX 600 Performance Specifications
Engine | 3.4-Liter Turbocharged V-Six |
Transmission | Ten-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower | 409 Horsepower |
Torque | 479 LB-FT |
Driveline | Four-Wheel Drive |
0-60 MPH | 6.9 Seconds |
Top Speed | 130 MPH |
Towing Capacity | 8,000 LBS |
Payload Capacity | 1,565 LBS |
Alongside that, the multi-link system in the rear and a double-wishbone setup in the front are finely tuned to absorb shocks and keep the cabin peaceful. Additionally, thanks to the LX 600's equipped electronically-controlled shocks, you can glide over uneven surfaces without a hitch, while the body-on-frame design further reduces vibrations so you can enjoy peace and quiet whether you are commuting through the city or enjoying some light off-roading.
2024 Lexus LX 600 Pros
- Decent ground clearance of 7.9 inches.
- Very stylish interior.
- A good amount of tech is included.
2024 Lexus LX 600 Cons
- Only boasts 66 cubic feet of cargo space with seats folded down.
- The third row doesn't fold flat.
- Can only achieve 19 combined MPG.
