Best New Midsize SUVs

How It Made The List

The Porsche Cayenne GTS Coupe elevates the already stylish and capable Cayenne Coupe to a new level of performance and athleticism. Its heart beats with a potent twin-turbocharged V8 engine, delivering 453 horsepower and rocketing the SUV from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.2 seconds with the Sport Chrono Package.

This exhilarating performance is complemented by a sport-tuned suspension, sharper steering, and a lowered ride height, ensuring an engaging and dynamic driving experience that lives up to the GTS badge.

Beyond its impressive performance credentials, the Cayenne GTS Coupe exudes a distinct sporty aura. Its sleek silhouette is accentuated by blacked-out exterior accents, a unique rear spoiler, and distinctive wheel options.

Inside, the cabin is a haven of luxury and sportiness, featuring premium materials, supportive sport seats, and a driver-focused cockpit with a host of advanced technology features.

How It Made The List

The 2025 BMW X5 M returns as a dominant force in the high-performance SUV arena, wielding impressive power and technology to deliver a thrilling driving experience. Under the hood, a familiar 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine gets an upgrade with 48V mild-hybrid technology, boosting output to a formidable 617 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. This allows the X5 M to rocket from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 3.7 seconds, accompanied by a soundtrack that's sure to excite any enthusiast.

But the X5 M's capabilities extend far beyond straight-line speed. Its sophisticated chassis features adaptive M suspension, active roll stabilization, and rear-wheel steering, working in harmony to provide exceptional handling and agility. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system with an active M differential further enhances grip and control, allowing the X5 M to confidently tackle corners with remarkable composure.

Inside the cabin, the X5 M offers a luxurious and technologically advanced environment. The BMW Curved Display dominates the dashboard, integrating a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen.

How It Made The List

The Audi RS Q8 is the fastest version of the Q8 SUV and also the only RS-badged Audi SUV on the North American market. It's also among the quickest SUVs around the Nordschleife too, meaning that it's quite agile for an SUV you can ferry the kids to-and-from school in.

The RS Q8 comes with a six-figure price tag, but its performance, styling, and feature content are worth the investment—if you value white-hot SUVs, of course. All RS Q8 models come with a standard adaptive air suspension system, 22-inch wheels, heated-and-cooled front seats, and a 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo system. We'd go with the top-spec Performance trim to uncork the higher 631 horsepower rating. When you're spending this kind of money, why not go all the way?

The RS Q8 receives a styling refresh for 2025 to bring it in line with the Q8 and SQ8 models, which were facelifted last year. But the real treat is the new 631-hp Performance trim. The Performance model not only offers more horsepower, but it also comes with a self-locking center differential, a specially-tuned exhaust system, and a unique suspension.

How It Made The List

The 2025 Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S Coupe is a high-performance luxury SUV that seamlessly blends exhilarating power, athletic handling, and opulent comfort. Under the hood lies a handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, augmented by a mild hybrid system, producing a staggering 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque.

But the GLE63 S Coupe is more than just a straight-line speedster. AMG's performance enhancements, including a sport-tuned air suspension, active roll stabilization, and an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential, ensure agile handling and precise cornering. The exterior design is a study in aggressive elegance, with a sleek coupe-like roofline, flared wheel arches, and quad exhaust tips hinting at the performance within.

Early reviews from journalists are overwhelmingly positive. Many praise the GLE63 S Coupe's effortless acceleration, sharp handling, and luxurious appointments. Car and Driver notes its "impressive blend of performance and comfort," while MotorTrend highlights its "remarkable agility for its size."

How It Made The List

The 2025 Land Rover Range Rover Sport continues to impress as a luxurious and capable SUV that excels both on and off the road. This latest iteration builds upon its predecessor's strengths with refined styling, enhanced technology, and a range of powerful and efficient powertrain options, including mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. The exterior design is evolutionary, with subtle updates that give it a more modern and sophisticated appearance. Inside, the Range Rover Sport boasts a luxurious cabin with high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and Land Rover's latest Pivi Pro infotainment system.

One of the key highlights of the 2025 Range Rover Sport is its impressive off-road capability. With its advanced Terrain Response 2 system, adjustable air suspension, and impressive ground clearance, the Range Rover Sport can tackle challenging terrain with ease.

Journalists have been largely positive in their assessments of the 2025 Range Rover Sport. Car and Driver praises its "luxurious interior," "refined ride," and "impressive off-road capability," while MotorTrend highlights its "powerful engines," "agile handling," and "user-friendly technology."

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The Rivian R1S Tri-Motor is the performance-focused variant of Rivian's impressive electric SUV, and it's making waves with its potent blend of capability, technology, and sustainable driving. Equipped with three electric motors generating a combined output of over 835 horsepower and 908 lb-ft of torque, the R1S Tri-Motor delivers breathtaking acceleration, launching from 0 to 60 mph in around 3 seconds.

But the R1S Tri-Motor is more than just a speed demon. It offers a spacious and luxurious interior with seating for up to seven passengers, making it a practical choice for families and adventurers alike. The cabin is packed with technology, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. Rivian's commitment to sustainability is evident throughout the vehicle, from its recycled materials to its vegan leather upholstery.

Journalists have been largely impressed with the R1S Tri-Motor, praising its exceptional performance, off-road capability, and luxurious amenities. Car and Driver calls it "a surprisingly versatile SUV with speed to spare," while

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The Genesis GV80 has made a significant impact on the luxury SUV market since its debut, offering a compelling blend of style, performance, and value. For 2025, Genesis has given the GV80 a refresh with a focus on enhancing technology and refining the driving experience. The exterior receives subtle updates, including redesigned headlights and a revised grille, while the interior boasts a significant upgrade with a new, curved OLED display that spans the dashboard.

Under the hood, it offers a choice of two engines: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 300 horsepower and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 generating 375 horsepower. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Genesis has also focused on improving the GV80's ride and handling.

Car and Driver notes that "the GV80's cabin is a standout, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system."MotorTrend highlights the GV80's "smooth and powerful engines" and "comfortable ride," while also praising its "impressive value proposition."

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The 2025 Audi SQ7 is a luxury SUV that seamlessly blends performance, practicality, and style. Under the hood, you'll find a powerful twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, delivering an impressive 500 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque. This translates to exhilarating acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of just 3.8 seconds. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi's signature Quattro all-wheel drive system.

Beyond its performance capabilities, the SQ7 boasts a refined and spacious interior. With three rows of seating, it comfortably accommodates up to seven passengers. The cabin is meticulously crafted with premium materials and features a host of technology, including a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system.

Audi has revealed refreshed versions of the Q7 and SQ7 for 2025 model year. It gets new front and rear fascia with a reshaped grille, higher mounted headlights, and new daytime running-lights. A new front spoiler and color-framed air intakes while the rear gets a new diffuser and revised taillamps.

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The Lotus Eletre is a groundbreaking vehicle that marks a significant departure for the British automaker, renowned for its lightweight sports cars. This all-electric SUV is Lotus's first foray into the SUV market, and it's making a bold statement with its striking design, cutting-edge technology, and impressive performance capabilities. The Eletre's aerodynamic silhouette and sculpted lines not only enhance its visual appeal but also contribute to its impressive efficiency and range.

Under the skin, the Eletre boasts a powerful electric powertrain with dual motors. For those seeking even more exhilarating performance, the range-topping Eletre R unleashes a staggering 905 horsepower and 726 lb-ft of torque, propelling it from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 2.95 seconds. The Eletre R also features a unique two-speed gearbox on the rear axle, enhancing both acceleration and efficiency.

Inside the cabin, the Eletre offers a luxurious and technologically advanced environment. The Eletre is all-new for 2025. There are three variants at launch.

How It Made The List

The BMW X5 M60i sits near the top of the X5 lineup, offering a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and technology for drivers who crave a more exhilarating experience. Under the hood lies a potent 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, delivering a robust 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse, paired with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system, launches the X5 M60i from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.3 seconds.  

But the X5 M60i is more than just a straight-line missile. It boasts impressive handling capabilities thanks to its sport-tuned suspension, adaptive M suspension, and an electronically controlled rear differential. This translates to a confident and engaging driving experience, whether navigating city streets or tackling winding backroads. The exterior design is subtly aggressive, with unique M Sport styling cues that hint at its performance potential.  

Inside the cabin, the X5 M60i offers a luxurious and technologically advanced environment. Premium materials, comfortable seating, and a wealth of standard features create a refined atmosphere. The iDrive infotainment system, with its intuitive interface and large touchscreen display, provides seamless control of various vehicle functions and entertainment options.