Review of the Lexus RX (2009-2015)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £9,172 79%
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
used just
entire hybrid
Verdict on comparison: A comfortable and opulent secondhand SUV
Even though the RX450h falls short of living up to its green claims, it is still quite efficient, and the fact that it is a hybrid may protect you from some of the judgmental looks that come with owning a 4×4. The fact that this generation of RX was exempt from the Euro NCAP tests is the only reason it isn’t a Best Buy. We no longer provide Best Buy awards to vehicles that have been on the market for more than four years but have not undergone Euro NCAP testing.
Pros
convenient and opulent
Cons of hybrid technology
less green than anticipated
monotonous drive
Several aggravating flaws
Review of the Lexus RX (2015-)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £48,852 78%
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
newly available Full hybrid
Conclusion in comparison: Impressive Which? Best Buy
Although it has a slight Darth Vader vibe, the Lexus RX is a really outstanding luxury four-wheel drive. It is incredibly nicely crafted, loaded with great technology, roomy, and comfortable. Just be aware that it won’t compare to a Range Rover off-road.
Pros
incredibly well-made, cosy
Safe a lot of equipment Negatives
No PHEV or combustion-only options
Review of the Skoda Enyaq iV (2021-), no seven-seat variant
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context 78% £32,350
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
newly available Electric
Verdict in comparison: Our best electric SUV
The first electric SUV from Skoda receives the greatest rating for a large battery-powered SUV to date. It stays close to the tried-and-true brand formula of good value, high quality, and respectable standard specifications, but its appeal is also aided by a peaceful driving experience, a roomy cabin, and a practical driving range. Look no farther if you want an electric vehicle that is appropriate in any circumstance.
Pros
a roomy and useful interior
convenient and simple to drive
reasonable standard specifications
Cons
model with the broadest appeal not qualified for a plug-in vehicle grant
sluggish performance as compared to some competitors
Review of Suzuki Across (2021-
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £45,599 78%
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
new Plug-in hybrids are accessible (PHEV)
Verdict on comparison: A large family hybrid with superior performance
A welcome addition to the large SUV category is the Suzuki Across. Its plug-in hybrid configuration offers the best of both worlds, with potentially very cheap operating costs and high performance. There is a tonne of space inside, and Suzuki has a stellar reputation for dependability. It merits a Best Buy.
Strengthening performance
spacious and useful
Cons: good fuel efficiency
shoddy braking
failure to pass the hazard-avoidance test
no integrated sat nav
Review of the 2013–2018 BMW X5
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context 78% £21,086
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
exclusively uses gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
Verdict in comparison: a powerful full-size 4×4
The X5 features a variety of potent engines, excellent handling, and exceptional ride comfort. For five passengers, it has a lot of room, and there is also a seven-seat variant.
Pros
a plenty of room
Safe seven-seat option
Reasonably priced two-wheel drive
poor visibility throughout.
extreme boot sill
Expensive
Review of the Lexus NX (2014-2021)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £37,254 77%
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
newly available Full hybrid
Verdict comparison: Uncomfortable emission levels
Best Buy honour taken away. In our tests, we discovered that the Lexus NX emits so much CO (carbon monoxide) in addition to its subpar mpg ratings that we are unable to recommend it.
Pros
wonderful for city driving
Interior space High level of safety
Reliable\sCons
Fuel economy and emissions are disappointing.
low visibility in the rear
rigid ride
Review of the Audi Q7 e-tron (2016-2019)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context 76% £36,529
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
only used as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV)
Verdict in comparison: outstanding all-around performer
This luxury SUV is incredibly well-designed and powerful. Your use of the automobile will determine whether the Q7 e-tron hybrid is right for you. The plug-in rechargeable batteries of the electric motor system only make sense if you frequently travel short distances; otherwise, the diesel version makes more sense.
Pros
exemplary performance
Refined
Large interior, excellent amenities Negatives
narrow visibility
Bulk makes parking challenging.
Expensive
X5 (2007–2013) BMW review
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £8,119 76%
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
exclusively uses gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
Verdict on comparison: Huge 4×4 for experienced drivers
The X5 is one of the greatest on-road 4x4s and a Which? Best Buy. It has very sure-footed handling, albeit the ride can be a little twitchy on unsteady roads. The six-speed automatic transmission works smoothly, and the diesel engines are delicious, refined, and powerful. Even diesel models, though, still cost a much to operate.
Pros
Unexpectedly enjoyable to drive
efficient transmission
Very comfortable Cons
high levels of fuel use
large emissions of carbon dioxide
Review of the BMW iX3 (2021-
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £60,970 75%
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
newly available Electric
The fact that the iX3 feels so much like the X3 upon which it is built is not a drawback. It is remarkably roomy and comfy, filled with equipment, and enjoyable to drive. It has a respectable driving range without sacrificing performance, in great part because of its relative energy efficiency. It is a Which? Best Buy and a fantastic SUV.
Pros
complete equipment standards
excellent comfort
moderate use of energy
Cons
a minimal maximum towing capacity
only average stopping power
Review of the BMW X6 (2008-2014)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context: £13,277 75%
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
exclusively uses gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
Verdict on comparison: Huge 4×4 for experienced drivers
A large yet normally enjoyable to drive BMW is the X6. It has a lot of power, is comfortable to ride in, and is also extremely sporty. Despite being usually good on both counts, the X6’s coupé-like rear end reduces comfort and utility. There is also a tonne of innovative technologies.
Pros
Unexpectedly enjoyable to drive
efficient transmission
Very comfortable Cons
high levels of fuel use
large emissions of carbon dioxide
Review of the Honda CR-V (2007–2012)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £4,568 74%
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
exclusively uses gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
Verdict in comparison: The best crossover 4×4
Though it’s not a full-fledged off-roader, Honda’s 4×4 is a good fit for family living and is also quite economical. The CR-interior V’s room is one of its primary selling points. It’s also one of the easiest 4x4s to operate, with simple controls and a great driving position. Parking and rear visibility, however, can be challenging. This is a Which? Top Shop.
Pros
superior construction
Excellent Standard 4×4
Large cabin and boot Disadvantages
a poor view to the rear
inadequate pedestrian safety
substantial turning circle
Review of the Honda CR-V (2012–2018)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £9,255 74%
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
exclusively uses gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
Verdict in comparison: a roomy and comfortable SUV
The Honda CR-V is a wonderful option for a practical SUV since it provides a smooth ride and plenty of room for people and their luggage. Although individuals looking for an engaging driving experience may be dissatisfied, the extensive selection of safety features offered improves its function as a family hold-all.
Positives A smooth ride
massive boot
a modern diesel engine
Cons
Style that divides opinions
complicated media system
no seven-seater choice
Review of the 2008–2016 Audi Q5
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £8,107 74%
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
exclusively uses gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
Verdict in comparison: a premium SUV
The Q5 has several advantages because it’s sophisticated, mature, roomy, and strong. Because of its typical 4×4 system, it performs well in bad weather.
Pros Outstanding craftsmanship
Outstanding handling
Cons: Good value retention
Costly to run and purchase
firmly suspended
Cluttered dashboard
Review of the Toyota RAV4 (2016–2018)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £19,099 74%
Key featres
Medium-sized SUV
used just
entire hybrid
judgement in comparison: It has a secret.
It was very almost a Best Buy. When driving around town, it is incredibly fuel-efficient and roomy. But if you let it out of metropolitan limits, its fuel usage soars, it becomes extremely noisy, and to make matters worst, it emits so many dangerous emissions that Best Buy status has been revoked. Surprisingly, this petrol-hybrid Toyota RAV4 is cleaner and more efficient than the diesel version of the same vehicle.
Positives Quick throughout town
quiet and simple to operate
Large and cosy interior Negatives
When travelling at greater speeds, the motorway has low fuel economy.
high emissions of carbon monoxide.
2019-present Toyota RAV4 review
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £29,711 74%
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
newly available Full hybrid
Verdict in comparison: a responsive and well-equipped hybrid SUV
The new mid-size Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is a pleasant vehicle. It’s well-built, cosy, and simple to live with. There aren’t many drawbacks, with the exception of its annoying infotainment system, other than its reasonable practicality and the potential for good fuel economy in town thanks to its hybrid motor.
Pros
minimal CO2 emissions
Hybrid drivetrain improves town efficiency
convenient and simple to drive
Cons
Not the most enjoyable SUV to operate
Clunky infotainment system
Quite expensive list prices.
Review of the Volkswagen Touareg (2010–2018)
Price from Test ScoreShow Context: £12,103 74%
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
exclusively uses gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
Verdict in comparison: a large, strong, and comfortable 4×4
The Touareg stands out as a genuine premium player thanks to its enormous interior space and high construction quality. Lots of technology and a simple design add to the appeal. Long trips are never uncomfortable thanks to the pleasant cabin. The Touareg is a large SUV that drives quite well, albeit a little monotonously, and has powerful engines.
Pros\sRefined\sComfortable
a choice of air suspension
good fuel efficiency
Excellent Cons
boring to drive
Unable to go off-road as well as some 4x4s
Review of the Mercedes-Benz GLE Plug-in Hybrid (2020-)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context £63,778 74%
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
new Plug-in hybrids are accessible (PHEV)
Verdict in comparison: a premium hybrid
The GLE 350 de plug-in hybrid qualifies as a Which? Best Buy, just like the conventional model does. Even though its overall energy consumption is still very high, it combines all the advantages of a premium SUV—including enormous space and tonnes of comfort—with lower potential fuel expenses than a standard diesel.
Pros
giant boot
many safety supplies
Comfortable
Strong and sophisticated
Low official CO2 number
Feels awkward
a poor view to the rear
Thirsty
Review of the Volkswagen ID.4 (2021-
Price from Test ScoreShow Context £34,596 74%
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
newly available Electric
VW’s ID.4 is a very attractive family vehicle. It offers an incredible range of capabilities, including significant interior room, high performance, and a very comfortable ride, in addition to the benefits of electric vehicles, such as cheap operating costs, simplicity of operation, and absence of tailpipe emissions. This capable SUV received a meritorious Which? Top Shop.
Positives A smooth ride
a wide range
Well-equipped\sSafe\sCons
Pricey
A difficult entertainment system with poor cabin materials
Review of the Porsche Cayenne (2010–2018)
Price from Test ScoreShow Context £18,855 73%
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
exclusively uses gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrid
Verdict on comparison: Sports SUV of choice
The Cayenne is the most luxury 4×4 and the sharpest to drive; it resembles a high-performance sports car in the form of a family-sized SUV. However, the cost of ownership and operation are undoubtedly high, and some rivals offer a wider range of safety features.
Pros
excellent dynamics and handling
strong diesels
giant boot
Cabin of luxury Cons
extremely pricey to purchase and maintain
limited visibility
Pricey alternatives
Review of the Peugeot 3008 Plug-in Hybrid (2020-)
Price based on Test ScoreShow Context 73% £33,573
key attributes
Medium-sized SUV
new Plug-in hybrids are accessible (PHEV)
Peugeot’s 3008 hybrid has a variety of features. It has excellent straight-line performance, is simple to drive, and has a large interior. The considerable amount of equipment is combined with a well-built cabin that is both cosy and fashionable. Your running costs should be cheap if most of your trips are brief. It’s a fantastic option despite its expensive price of purchasing.
Positive performance.
fantastic cabin
Large passenger capacity Safe Cons
once the battery is gone, thirsty
lesser boot than the standard 3008
