Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) remain a highly desired class of vehicles across the world.
That is due to the comfort, performance, and prestige they bring to the table. An SUV is an elevated vehicle whose body mildly resembles that of a hatchback but without a trunk. Today’s SUVs fall into two categories; the standard and the mid-size SUV.
Most city dwellers with a small family tend to go for mid-size sports utility vehicles. This preference is especially so where the buyer is keen on having a car with decent ground clearance.
However, from an ever-expanding fleet of mid-size SUVs, how do you know which one is best for you? While a lot is dependent on personal preferences and tastes, the following are five of the most popular budgets and luxury midsize SUVs you can buy or hire today.
1.PORSCHE CAYENNE
Porsche Cayenne is a gorgeous SUV built to give you immense driving pleasure. It is one of the cars with rave reviews where driving pleasure is concerned.
Available in six trims, you can drive a Porsche Cayenne base model or E-hybrid. Alternatively, you could opt for the S model, the GTS, Turbo, or the Turbo S E-Hybrid. The GTS, Turbo, and Turbo S E-hybrid models carry potent turbocharged 4-liter V8 engines, while the rest sport 3-liter engines, with the S model being the only variant with a 2.9-liter engine.
Another impressive quality about the Cayenne is that its manufacturer has availed a variety of interior options. The Burmester entertainment system features up to 21-speakers and is bound to make being stuck in traffic that much less tedious.
The car’s 360-degree camera system makes parking in tight spaces a breeze. Other valuable features include the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), an anti-roll system that helps keep the car steady while cornering.
2.HYUNDAI SANTA FE
At first glance, the most striking aspect of the Hyundai Santa Fe is its futuristic design cues. The narrow projector headlights and large front grille leave no doubt that this is a car designed for the modern-day.
Depending on the trim you choose, these headlights can either have LED accents or be full LED lights. Regardless, they are well suited for every low visibility situation you throw at them.
Santa Fe comes in four variants, the SE, The SEL, Limited, and Calligraphy as far as trim levels are concerned. The Hyundai Santa Fe has unique highlights for each trim level.
While the SE model comes with LED headlights, for example, the SEL model sports heated front seats, heated side mirrors, a power-adjustable seat, among other features.
Meanwhile, the Limited edition brings you heated rear seats, a 360-degree camera system, parking, and rain-sensing wipers. On the other hand, the Calligraphy version includes a heads-up display, larger wheels, and ambient interior lighting.
3. AUDI Q8
The Audi Q8 is a sleek mid-size SUV with sporty styling features. Unlike its close mechanical relative, the Audi Q7, the Audi Q8 only has two-row seating and accommodates five occupants.
It is available in three trims, the Premium model, Premium Plus, and Prestige.
Since it comes from top-quality materials, the Audi Q8 has an interior with heated front seats, which have ventilation.
Unlike most contenders in its class, the Audi Q8 packs a cache of welcome surprises as far as comfort and convenience are concerned. First off is the adaptive and responsive suspension system, which reacts to specific road conditions and always ensures a smooth ride on or off-road.
The occupants will also enjoy the benefit of a three-zone automatic climate control system as well as a panoramic sunroof.
Premium Plus buyers will also enjoy heated rear seats, four-zone automatic climate control system, while purchasers of the Prestige variant receive a head-up display as well.
4. LEXUS RX350
The Lexus RX 350 debuted into the market as a 5-seater vehicle but now also includes the RX L, a 7-seater variant.
Available in All-Wheel Drive, this vehicle also comes with an interior that features plush leatherette upholstery. The automatic dual climate control system further enhances your comfort.
Enjoy premium entertainment delivered via its 9-speaker sound system, with its controls on an 8-inch screen.
The dynamic infotainment system has several connectivity capabilities, including Bluetooth and Amazon Alexa connectivity. Also, it is both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto enabled. Therefore, there is no reason why you cannot enjoy optimal entertainment.
Competing in the same market as the BMW X5, the Lexus RX 350 carries all the major modern tech offered by vehicles in its class. That includes rain-sensing windshield wipers, lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning system, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision warning, coupled with automatic emergency braking.
5. NISSAN PATHFINDER
The Nissan Pathfinder is an excellent choice for families or individuals who love off-roading. Its impressive towing capability is one of its highlight features.
Besides, the vehicle has tons of room for passengers and cargo thanks to its spacious three-row seats and 16.2 cubic feet of cargo space.
When you fold the third-row seats, the cargo area expands to 47.4 cubic feet. For even more room, you can fold the second-row seats as well, leaving a vast 79.5 cubic feet worth of cargo room.
The vehicle is available in four trims, the S, SV, SL, and Platinum. Automatic emergency braking and parking sensors are standard no matter the trim you choose.
Although the standard drivetrain is Front Wheel Drive, All-wheel drive options are also available and feature hill descent control to give you added traction when moving downhill.
