Best Luxury SUVs in Canada: Our 16 Top Picks

• Subcompact/Compact Luxury SUV and Crossovers
• Mid-size Luxury SUVs
• Full-size Luxury SUVs
• Most Comfortable Luxury SUV
• Most Reliable Luxury SUV
• Most Affordable Luxury SUV

SUVs are in high demand in the mainstream world, and the premium variety is no exception. Luxury carmakers of all shapes and sizes have, over the years, equipped themselves with some sort of sport utility vehicle. Even Lamborghini, Bentley, Rolls-Royce and now Aston Martin sell SUVs. Indeed, the world has changed. It seems even high-revenue consumers prefer the lifted ride height, all-weather capability, and interior space of an SUV to a traditional luxury sedan. Modern lineups even include electric SUVs (EVs) to meet new demand.

Here are our top picks for luxury SUVs in all categories – including the best luxury midsize SUVs and special mentions for the most comfortable, most reliable, and most affordable models on the market today.

Subcompact/Compact Luxury SUV & Crossovers

4. MINI Countryman

2025 Mini Countryman | Photo: jetcityimage - stock.adobe.com 

Who is this for? Active families looking for a luxury subcompact crossover that stands out with style, but that’s also fun to drive and highly practical (with surprisingly good interior space for its size).

Why we like it:

• ✅ Cheerful looks, nimble handling and immensely fun to drive. It just looks so cool.
• ✅ A wide variety of drivetrain options, including a plug-in hybrid and a 302-horsepower John Cooper Works model (if you’re craving more power).
• ✅ The expected build quality and premium feel from the BMW Group.

Yes, it’s true, the MINI Countryman is a mechanical cousin to the BMW X1 and X2. But we feel that the MINI’s cheerful personality and quirkiness allow it to be considerably more interesting than its corporate relatives. No matter which Countryman you buy, you’ll be having loads of fun behind the wheel. From enjoyable chimes when opening the door, to playful graphics in the infotainment system, everything about this subcompact crossover screams “let’s go out there and have some fun!” Its exterior styling is undeniably unique, and that fun factor is hard to match.

If fuel efficiency is your thing, there’s a plug-in hybrid variant that’ll run on pure electricity for up to 30 kilometers. That’s enough to cover most people’s daily commutes without consuming a drop of petrol. Looking for a bit more oomph from the engine compartment? How about the 189-horsepower Cooper S. Not enough? Try the 302-horsepower John Cooper Works model. There’s a Countryman for every type of driver – and thanks to its compact SUV dimensions and available ALL4 all-wheel drive, it remains practical year-round.

3. Acura RDX

2025 Acura RDX | Photo: Acura 

Who is this for? Families looking for a compact luxury SUV with a sporty drive, but that won’t cost them an arm and a leg.

Why we like it:

• ✅ A good blend of sportiness and luxury at a reasonable price (it offers better value than many German rivals).
• ✅ Powerful and fuel-efficient turbocharged engine with nimble handling for its size.
• ✅ Highly effective Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system and a long list of standard features (including advanced safety tech like adaptive cruise control).

Ever since the Acura RDX was updated for its third generation, it has stepped up its game to the point where it has become a genuine contender to the German elite. Except, the RDX sells for several thousands of dollars less than a comparable Audi, BMW or Mercedes-Benz. There are so many things to like here – from the dynamic, NSX-inspired exterior design, to the highly effective Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system. Oh, did we mention its turbocharged four-cylinder engine was taken straight out of the Honda Civic Type R?

The RDX is quick off the line and fun to drive on a winding road, yet it’s also roomy, comfortable, and loaded with tech features (including an infotainment interface that mimics a tablet). It offers one of the highest cargo capacities in its class, so practicality is high. Furthermore, underneath its angular sheetmetal lies good old Honda DNA. This means your RDX should last a long time – given it’s been treated with the proper maintenance – and shouldn’t cost too much in running costs. All told, this Acura delivers performance and reliability, making it a smart choice for those seeking a sporty but sensible luxury compact SUV.

2. Volvo XC40

2025 Volvo XC40 Recharge | Photo: artographer34 - stock.adobe.com 

Who is this for? Young families, couples or empty nesters looking for a beautifully designed and well-built utility vehicle with a Swedish touch.

Why we like it:

• ✅ Beautiful Scandinavian design mixed with an impeccable fit and finish for a truly premium feel (inside and out).
• ✅ Punchy yet fuel-efficient turbocharged engine.
• ✅ Available in a fully electric Recharge version for eco-conscious buyers (one of the only electric vehicle options in this class).

The Volvo XC40 is hands down one of the most stylish subcompact luxury SUVs currently on sale. We love the Thor’s Hammer LED headlights and the clean, uncluttered exterior styling. This sexy Swede does so many things right. It’s a Volvo, which means it feels solidly built and safe on beaten roads, with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features (automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping aid, etc.). It’s also roomier inside than it looks on the outside. The cabin is quiet, the seats are comfortable and supportive (available in fine leather upholstery), and it comes with a clever Google-based infotainment system that operates just like a smartphone. We also love the strong performance provided by the turbocharged 2.0-litre T5 engine in higher trims.

Looking to save a few trees during your drive? Perhaps the all-electric XC40 Recharge could fit the bill. For 2024, a larger battery means it can now drive up to about 400 km on a charge (significantly more than before). Sure, it’s still a bit behind some rival electric SUVs in maximum range, but in this form the XC40 is quick – outputting 408 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of instant torque from its twin electric motors. That kind of thrust makes this compact SUV genuinely fun to drive, all while producing zero emissions in daily use.

1. BMW X3

2025 BMW X3 | Photo: jetcityimage - stock.adobe.com 

Who is this for? Drivers (and families) looking for a dynamic drive and a bit more muscle under the hood, without sacrificing practicality.

Why we like it:

• ✅ Drives like a sports sedan, with nimble handling and responsive steering, but with the added benefits of an SUV.
• ✅ One of the largest cargo areas in its class, plus a spacious rear seat.
• ✅ High-performance M40i and X3 M versions are available for enthusiasts seeking serious speed.

Even though BMW now sells seven sport utility vehicles, it hasn’t forgotten its roots. The X3 is the Ultimate Driving Machine in the same way the legendary BMW 3 Series is the queen of luxury sport sedans. The X3’s secret to driving like a sports car lies in the fact that it’s built like one: with its engine installed longitudinally and sending power to the rear wheels first (in true BMW fashion). Of course, all X3s in Canada are equipped with xDrive all-wheel drive for all-weather grip. Base models come with a punchy 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder good for 248 horsepower. But it’s in the M40i form that things really get interesting, thanks to a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six.

Mated to a 48-volt mild hybrid system, that engine pumps out a class-leading 382 horsepower, allowing the X3 to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.4 seconds. Did we mention there’s also an X3 M and X3 M Competition with 473 and 503 horsepower on tap? The X3 can truly be as tame or as wild as you want. Yet even with all that performance potential, this BMW remains practical and comfortable. It has generous interior space for passengers, excellent build quality, and loads of available tech features (like the latest iDrive infotainment and advanced driver aids). It’s this all-around excellence that makes the X3 our top pick among subcompact and compact luxury crossovers.

Mid-size Luxury SUVs

4. Genesis GV80

2025 Genesis GV80 | Photo: jetcityimage - stock.adobe.com 

Who is this for? Families looking for a unique luxury experience and better value than the usual German contenders.

Why we like it:

• ✅ Eye-catching design and distinctive exterior styling, with an interior that feels downright opulent.
• ✅ A lot of luxury for the price – it comes loaded with standard features and high-tech amenities.
• ✅ Powerful engine choices: a solid turbo four-cylinder or a fantastic 375-hp twin-turbo V6, both with all-wheel drive.

Genesis has been its own brand for just a few years, yet it’s already disturbing high-end German carmakers. With the GV80, Hyundai’s luxury division shows that it can also manufacture a proper seven-seater SUV capable of taking on the industry’s finest. No matter which version you choose, you’ll be getting a lot for your hard-earned money. With a base price around the mid-$60k mark, the GV80 comes very well equipped (panoramic sunroof, power leather seats, advanced safety aids, etc.) and is powered by a 300-horsepower 2.5-litre turbo four-cylinder engine. If that isn’t enough, an optional 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 pumps out 375 horsepower for those who want more power under the hood.

All trim levels come standard with all-wheel drive, and Genesis even provides a 5-year/100,000 km warranty along with a complimentary 5-year valet service. This means Genesis will come pick up your vehicle for maintenance or repairs wherever it’s located and drop off a courtesy vehicle in exchange – talk about customer-centric. The GV80’s cabin boasts plush leather upholstery, real wood trim and a massive infotainment display, creating a true luxury ambiance. And despite its hefty size, this SUV delivers a composed ride and confident handling. Genesis’ online sales model and all-inclusive pricing are also in tune with modern consumer trends, making the GV80 a better value proposition in the luxury midsize segment.

3. Porsche Cayenne

2025 Porsche Cayenne | Photo: Mason - stock.adobe.com 

Who is this for? Enthusiasts and luxury buyers who want a popular luxury SUV that drives like a sports car – without sacrificing everyday practicality.

Why we like it:

• ✅ Nimble handling and precise steering that’s nearly unmatched in the SUV world (it truly feels agile in corners).
• ✅ A range of powerful engines (turbo V6, V8, and even a plug-in hybrid) that deliver thrilling performance.
• ✅ Impeccable build quality, luxurious interior materials, and the prestige of the Porsche badge.

The Porsche Cayenne practically invented the performance luxury SUV formula, and it’s still the benchmark for driving enthusiasts. Despite a higher center of gravity, the Cayenne corners with sports-car poise – it’s not unusual to see it keeping up with smaller performance cars on a twisty backroad. In fact, few SUVs feel as solid and composed as the Cayenne, which lends it fabulous ride comfort and chassis control even when driven hard. The steering is direct and communicative, and when equipped with Porsche’s adaptive air suspension, the Cayenne manages to balance agility and comfort impressively well. In Sport or Sport+ mode, this SUV hunkers down and responds immediately to inputs, feeling like a big hot hatch. Yet it can also soften its suspension for a cushy ride in Comfort mode – a dual personality that’s very appealing.

Inside, the Cayenne offers a driver-focused cockpit trimmed in high-end materials. Rich leather, aluminum and carbon-fiber accents (depending on trim) give it a true luxury feel. There’s ample tech features too, from the crisp 12.3-inch touchscreen to available night vision and a full suite of driver aids. Being a Porsche, many extras are optional – you can add everything from massaging seats to adaptive cruise and even off-road kits – but even the base model feels special. And thanks to its mid-size dimensions, the Cayenne still provides seating for five and a usable cargo area for family duties. For those who desire sports-car performance and style in an SUV body, the Porsche Cayenne remains a top choice.

2. BMW X5

2025 BMW X5 | Photo: Franchesko Mirroni - stock.adobe.com 

Who is this for? Families who don’t need room for seven passengers and who are looking for a dynamic driving experience in a two-row luxury SUV.

Why we like it:

• ✅ A wide choice of powertrains, including a potent plug-in hybrid variant.
• ✅ Expected BMW build quality and a focus on driver enjoyment (it feels sporty yet still premium).
• ✅ High-performance M and M Competition models are available, and they are outright thrilling.

We like the X5 for the same reasons we love the smaller X3: it's a wonderful blend of luxury, quality, and performance. While the X5 offers only two rows of seats (it’s a five-passenger SUV by default), it compensates with a spacious and lavish interior, plus sharper handling than most rivals. There are several drivetrains to choose from, starting with a 335-horsepower turbocharged inline-six, all the way up to a tire-shredding 617-horsepower twin-turbo V8 in the X5 M Competition. Ironically, the most interesting version might be the xDrive45e plug-in hybrid. With up to ~50–60 kilometers of all-electric range, it’s one of the best in its class – besting even the Volvo XC90 Recharge. This PHEV puts down a combined 389 horsepower, allowing it to be properly quick off the line (0–100 km/h in the 5.0-second range). Then again, did you expect anything less from a BMW?

But apart from performance, the X5 is a jack of all trades. It’s roomy inside, comfortable, and built to a high standard with tech features like the latest iDrive infotainment system and an available Swarovski crystal gear selector (on higher trims). On beaten roads it feels rock solid, soaking up bumps without drama. Plus, when equipped with the factory towing package, the X5 will haul up to 7,200 pounds – useful for weekend toys. For those who want an SUV that drives like a sport sedan but still pampers its occupants, the X5 hits the sweet spot among luxury midsize SUVs.

1. Lexus RX

2025 Lexus RX | Photo: Franchesko Mirroni - stock.adobe.com 

Who is this for? Couples or families who prioritize comfort, reliability, and cutting-edge safety tech in a luxury SUV – basically anyone who wants a stress-free premium ownership experience.

Why we like it:

• ✅ Silky-smooth ride and whisper-quiet cabin – the RX is one of the most comfortable luxury SUVs in its class.
• ✅ Fully redesigned with bold exterior styling and an elegant, high-tech interior (huge infotainment screen, ambient lighting, etc.).
• ✅ Legendary Lexus build quality and dependability (a popular luxury SUV that’s known to run for years without issue).

The Lexus RX has long been the poster child of luxury when it comes to reliable SUVs. For 2023, Lexus completely overhauled its best-selling model, and the result is a midsize SUV that truly excels on multiple fronts. The new RX rides on a modern platform that delivers a supple, composed ride – it glides over potholes and rough pavement with ease, making every journey relaxing. The interior is even more impressive: it’s beautifully crafted with available semi-aniline leather, open-pore wood, and a massive 14-inch touchscreen packed with tech features. The cabin remains quiet even at highway speeds, and both rows of seats are supportive and plush. While the standard two-row RX seats five, the space is ample, and the versatile cargo area is perfect for day-to-day life.

Powering the RX is a range of advanced engines. The base RX 350 gets a 275-hp turbo four-cylinder, while the hybrid RX 350h offers superb fuel efficiency. For those who want more excitement, Lexus now offers the RX 500h F SPORT Performance – a unique turbocharged hybrid system making 367 hp combined, giving this SUV significantly more power and even all-wheel steering for sharper handling. It’s no sports car, but the RX now feels more agile than previous generations. And if an electric vehicle is on your radar, Lexus has also introduced the RZ (a separate model) to cater to EV buyers. Overall, the Lexus RX hits a wonderful balance: it’s luxurious, extremely practical, and one of the most reliable luxury SUVs you can buy. Little wonder it remains one of the most popular luxury SUVs in Canada year after year.

(Honourable mention: The Audi Q7 was our previous top pick in this category for its chic design and third-row seating. It’s still a great choice, especially if you need seven seats and love Audi’s tech. However, the Q7 is getting on in years, and the new Lexus RX edges it out in comfort and hybrid tech for 2024.)

Full-size Luxury SUVs

4. BMW X7

2025 BMW X7 | Photo: Belogorodov - stock.adobe.com 

Who is this for? Families looking for a more refined and sportier large luxury SUV experience (essentially, those who want a 7 Series sedan in SUV form).

Why we like it:

• ✅ The expected BMW driving dynamics, even in a three-row SUV – it’s surprisingly engaging to drive.
• ✅ The same level of comfort, luxury and style as a 7 Series executive sedan, but with extra ground clearance and space.
• ✅ High-performance M60i (formerly M50i) and Alpina XB7 models bring the full-size SUV into sports car territory.

Contrary to some other vehicles on this list, the BMW X7 isn’t based on a pickup truck platform – it’s a true unibody luxury SUV, which contributes to its superb on-road manners. Sure, it’s not as physically large as an Escalade or Navigator, but it’s still properly massive inside. The X7 has thick, supremely comfortable seats (available with plush quilted leather upholstery) that can be adjusted for all shapes and sizes, and even provide a soothing massage on the go. The second row can be configured with a bench for 7-passenger capacity or with second-row captain’s chairs for six passengers and an even more upscale experience. The third row is usable for adults on shorter trips, though we do wish there was a tad more legroom back there.

But none of that matters when you put this big guy through its paces. The X7 may be huge, but it doesn’t feel that way from behind the wheel. It drives just like any other BMW, meaning you feel deeply connected to the road. Body roll is well controlled and the steering is precise – you can hustle the X7 down a winding road with confidence (it has nimble handling for its size). We particularly like the V8 model (now called M60i) due to its 523-hp twin-turbocharged V8 – it gives the X7 the heart of a sports machine. And if you’re looking for even more exclusivity and performance, the Alpina XB7 cranks output up to 630 hp and adds unique style touches. In any form, the X7 delivers a comfortable, technology-packed and genuinely fun driving experience for you and your family.

3. Jeep Grand Wagoneer

2025 Jeep Wagoneer | Photo: Be Free - stock.adobe.com 

Who is this for? Large families who want all the comfort and opulence of a full-size SUV, combined with Jeep’s go-anywhere promise and off-road capability.

Why we like it:

• ✅ Massively ostentatious and retro-cool – the Grand Wagoneer has undeniable road presence.
• ✅ Loaded with modern technology and high-end creature comforts (McIntosh premium audio, up to five display screens, etc.).
• ✅ The expected Jeep all-weather and off-roading hardware (advanced 4x4 system with low range and adaptive air suspension).

Jeep isn’t typically a premium brand, but with the return of the Grand Wagoneer, it proved it can indeed build a high-end luxury SUV. The Grand Wagoneer is big. Very big. It rides on a robust body-on-frame chassis derived from the Ram 1500 pickup, and under its hood lies a massive 6.4-litre V8 that churns out 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. Yes, it’s a gas guzzler, but it’s also a heavy hauler – capable of towing up to 8,260 pounds. (Jeep has introduced a new turbocharged inline-6 and plans on adding a plug-in hybrid powertrain soon to help with fuel economy.) Meanwhile, drivers and passengers can relax inside the Grand Wagoneer’s equally grand cabin, which is adorned with leather upholstery, genuine wood, and even touches of knurled metal. The seats (for up to 7 or 8 passengers) are broad and plush, with available massage. And tech is everywhere: a 12-inch center touchscreen, digital gauges, a head-up display, night vision, and even an optional front-passenger interactive display are on the menu.

Where the Grand Wagoneer really shines is when you leave the pavement. It’s a Jeep in every respect, meaning it comes standard with the company’s famed Quadra-Drive II 4x4 system with a two-speed transfer case for serious off-road trails. Adjustable air suspension can raise the ride height to clear obstacles, and underbody skid plates protect vital bits. Of course, it also has all the modern safety aids (automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, etc.) to make highway cruising easy. Ostentatious, immensely capable, and unashamedly luxurious – the Grand Wagoneer is a remarkable fusion of old-school American SUV charm and new-school technology.

2. Lincoln Navigator

2025 Lincoln Navigator | Photo: Erman Gunes - stock.adobe.com 

Who is this for? Families who need all the capability of a full-size truck-based SUV but with the added comfort, style, and luxury of a Lincoln.

Why we like it:

• ✅ Unquestionable road presence – the Navigator’s bold design and sheer size make a statement.
• ✅ Class-leading towing capacity (up to 8,700 lbs) for those who need serious hauling ability.
• ✅ Twin-turbo “EcoBoost” V6 is strong yet more fuel-efficient than rival V8s, saving you at the pump (and on displacement taxes in some provinces).

The full-size luxury SUV war is so fierce that we could have given the Lincoln Navigator and the Cadillac Escalade a tie. That’s how good they both are. While we adore Lincoln’s execution, a few lesser cabin materials previously held it back just a bit relative to its Cadillac rival. Don’t worry though – the latest Navigator still feels plenty upscale. It offers massive, thronelike seats (Lincoln’s 30-way Perfect Position seats) and elegant wood trim inspired by yachts. You can even opt for second-row captain’s chairs to give rear passengers a first-class environment. The Navigator is built on the Ford F-150’s bones, which means its body-on-frame construction allows it to tow more than any competitor in this segment. An independent rear suspension, however, means it rides smoother and offers more third-row space than older truck-based SUVs.

Under the hood, you won’t find a V8 – and that’s okay. The Navigator’s 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 produces 440 horsepower and heaps of torque, delivering brisk acceleration even with a full load. It’s also notably quieter and more efficient than the big V8s in the Escalade or Grand Wagoneer, and if you live in a province that imposes extra tax on large-displacement engines, you’ll actually save money by not having eight cylinders. On the road, the Navigator is comfortable and composed, soaking up bumps with ease (adaptive damping helps here). It’s loaded with tech features as well, including Lincoln’s Co-Pilot360 safety suite (yes, adaptive cruise control is included) and an available Revel Ultima 20-speaker audio system. All in all, the Navigator delivers a better value proposition in the flagship SUV class – without skimping on the luxury experience.

1. Cadillac Escalade

2025 Cadillac Escalade | Photo: jetcityimage - stock.adobe.com 

Who is this for? Families (and individuals) who want the meanest-looking, most technologically advanced full-size luxury SUV currently on sale – the style icon that is the Escalade.

Why we like it:

• ✅ You’ll look like a superstar wherever you go – the Escalade’s bold design and sheer size exude VIP vibes.
• ✅ Crammed with innovative technology, from a 38-inch curved OLED dashboard to hands-free adaptive cruise control (Super Cruise).
• ✅ Two very different engine options available, including a hyper-efficient turbo-diesel inline-six.

The Cadillac Escalade is the king of the hill in this segment. For starters, it looks properly cool, reminding everyone that someone important is likely sitting inside. There’s also a lot of flexibility in how you can configure it compared to its rivals. For instance, Cadillac offers two wheelbase options: the standard Escalade and the extended Escalade ESV for those who need even more cargo room behind the third row. Power comes from a tried-and-true 6.2-litre V8 (420 hp) complete with Dynamic Fuel Management that can shut off cylinders to save fuel when cruising. If fuel economy is a priority, there’s also a smooth Duramax 3.0-litre turbo-diesel six-cylinder that packs a stout 460 lb-ft of torque.

But while the Escalade can’t tow quite as much as the Navigator (max 8,200 lbs vs 8,700), it makes up for it with its class-leading technology and interior space. Slide inside and you’re greeted by a curved OLED display spanning the dash – with stunning graphics for the instrument cluster and infotainment. The Escalade also offers tech features like augmented-reality navigation and the acclaimed Super Cruise system, which allows for true hands-free driving on compatible highways. Just like the Navigator, it’s fitted with an independent rear suspension, giving way to a cavernous third row that adults can actually enjoy. And if the standard Escalade isn’t flashy enough, Cadillac now offers the Escalade-V: a 682-hp supercharged V8 version that sounds like a muscle car and launches like a rocket. In any guise, the Escalade seamlessly blends old-school luxury (plush ride, leather upholstery, and a whisper-quiet cabin) with high-tech innovation. It’s no wonder this SUV is a default choice for celebrities, executives, and anyone who simply wants the best of the best in a full-size luxury SUV.

 

Most Comfortable Luxury SUV

Land Rover Range Rover (Full-Size)

2025 Range Rover | Photo: jetcityimage - stock.adobe.com 

Who is this for? Luxury buyers who want the absolute pinnacle of comfort and refinement in an SUV – essentially those who desire a first-class travel experience on four wheels.

Why we like it:

• ✅ Unbelievably smooth, quiet, and plush ride quality – it’s like driving a leather-lined cloud.
• ✅ Sumptuous interior with first-class seating (available massage, reclining rear seats, even power deployable footrests in top trims).
• ✅ Capable of serious off-road capability when needed, yet utterly composed on the street.

When it comes to pure comfort, the Range Rover has long set the benchmark. The latest generation of this British icon takes it even further, with a whisper-quiet cabin and an air suspension that all but erases potholes and bumps. In fact, the experience of driving or riding in a Range Rover can be transcendent. One reviewer described a two-hour trip in the new Range Rover as “one of the most comfortable, relaxing, and luxurious drives I’ve ever done”, likening it to flying first class. That pretty much sums it up – the Range Rover makes you feel like a VIP with every mile. Little details like double-glazed acoustic glass, active noise cancellation, and fragranced cabin air filters ensure an oasis-like environment inside.

The seats are decadently plush, wrapped in rich leathers (or sustainable luxury fabrics), and can be equipped with heating, ventilation, multiple massage programs and even second-row captain’s chairs in some configurations. In long-wheelbase models, rear passengers can stretch out with limo-like legroom. Up front, the driver is coddled by high-tech displays and a commanding view of the road. Despite all this ultra-luxury, the Range Rover hasn’t lost its adventurous spirit – with a twist of the terrain knob, it can raise up on its suspension and wade through water or crawl over rocky trails that would stop lesser luxury SUVs. Whether you’re cruising the highway or venturing off the beaten path, the Range Rover delivers an exquisite ride. If cossetting comfort and do-it-all capability are top priorities, this is the most comfortable luxury SUV money can buy.

(Notable alternatives: The Mercedes-Benz GLS is often called the “S-Class of SUVs” and offers a similarly cushy ride and expansive luxury. Even the swoopy Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe can deliver a plush experience with its available air suspension – and adds a dose of sporty style in the process. But for sheer couch-on-wheels comfort, the Range Rover still takes the throne.)

Most Reliable Luxury SUV

Lexus GX

2025 Lexus GX | Photo: Lexus 

Who is this for? Buyers who want a luxury SUV that they can depend on for the long haul – including families or adventurers who need proven durability and maybe a bit of off-roading on the side.

Why we like it:

• ✅ Built on rugged, time-tested foundations (shares DNA with the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado) – this SUV is extremely reliable and built to last.
• ✅ Capable on and off-road with a traditional body-on-frame design, robust 4x4 hardware, and Multi-Terrain Select modes.
• ✅ Old-school V6 powertrain that favors longevity over cutting-edge complexity, plus a refreshingly simple and tough interior.

The Lexus GX has a well-earned reputation for being one of the most reliable luxury SUVs ever. It’s essentially a luxurious wolf in rugged sheep’s clothing: under the wood and leather, the GX rides on a proven truck-like platform that has been conquering trails (and city streets) for years. “The Lexus GX regularly receives high marks for reliability. It’s more than capable on and off-road with an old-school frame and luxurious touches...quiet, powerful, and most importantly, extremely reliable.” That sums it up nicely. You can subject the GX to tough conditions, long road trips, and years of daily use with minimal worries – it will just keep going. Lexus’s renowned build quality and Toyota engineering mean maintenance costs stay reasonable and unexpected problems are rare.

Power comes from a 4.6-litre V8 in older models (or a new twin-turbo V6 in the latest redesign), delivering smooth if not class-leading performance. What you won’t get in the GX is cutting-edge tech or ultra-modern styling – this SUV sticks with a more traditional formula. But many owners see that as a plus: fewer gimmicks mean fewer things to go wrong. It still includes modern safety features (yes, adaptive cruise control and automated braking are available) and plenty of luxury, like available Mark Levinson audio and semi-aniline leather seats. Think of the GX as an off-road-capable tank in a tuxedo. From tackling snow-covered roads to towing a boat to simply shuttling the kids around day in and day out, the Lexus GX will do it all with stoic reliability. It’s the luxury SUV you can trust to never let you down – and that peace of mind is priceless.

(Honourable mentions: The Lexus RX (above) is another reliability champ, with its smooth ride and quality earning it the title of “poster child of luxury reliability”. For a more car-like crossover that’s dependable, consider the Acura MDX or RDX – Acuras benefit from Honda’s reliability ethos while still offering luxury appointments. But for bulletproof toughness, the GX remains a standout.)

Most Affordable Luxury SUV

When it comes to entry-level luxury on a budget, the smallest SUVs offer the best value. In Canada, subcompact models like the Lexus UX and Audi Q3 are among the most affordable luxury SUVs you can buy new. For example, the 2025 Lexus UX 250h (hybrid) starts in the low $40,000s and is arguably the best cheap luxury SUV available in Canada. It delivers upscale touches like a quiet, well-finished cabin and available leather, plus the benefit of Lexus' legendary reliability and resale value. As a bonus, the UX comes standard with all-wheel drive and returns incredible fuel economy (it’s a full hybrid), so you’ll save money at the pumps too. It’s not the fastest or roomiest SUV, but it nails the essentials for an urban runabout with a premium badge.

2025 Lexus UX 250h | Photo: Lexus 

A close competitor is the Audi Q3, with a starting price just over $42,000. You get Audi’s signature style, a slick digital cockpit, and Quattro all-wheel drive standard, giving you confidence in any weather. The Q3’s interior space is cozy but adequate for a small family, and the materials and design feel genuinely upscale for the price. Other honorable mentions in the affordable luxury arena include the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA/GLB, which hover in the mid-$40k range and offer the driving dynamics and tech features those brands are known for.

2025 Audi Q3 | Photo: Audi 

These entry-level luxury crossovers prove you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy a taste of the high life. They come with a solid roster of modern tech features (think adaptive cruise, panoramic roofs, and advanced infotainment) and the cachet of a luxury nameplate – all while being easier on your wallet. Sure, they might not have the sheer power or size of their larger stablemates, but for many buyers, a compact SUV like the UX or Q3 represents a better value proposition: all the luxury you actually need, at a price you can manage. And down the road, you’ll appreciate that these smaller SUVs tend to be more fuel-efficient and affordable to maintain, making the joy of luxury ownership that much more attainable.

Conclusion: Whether you prioritize nimble handling, cutting-edge technology, exterior styling, rugged off-road capability, or simply a plush ride with massaging seats, the luxury SUV market in Canada has something for you. From efficient hybrid electric SUVs to thunderous V8-powered land yachts, and from city-friendly compact SUVs to family midsize SUVs and three-row giants, our top picks cover the full spectrum. The key is to decide what matters most to you – be it performance, comfort, reliability, or value – and take a few test drives. These luxury SUVs are the best of the best in their respective niches, and each one is a compelling choice in its own way. Happy SUV shopping!

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