The recipe for a noble full-size SUV is a hard one to crack even for long-time players in the auto industry. Given their sheer size, heft and number of people that they need to haul around, these large SUVs have more aspects to get right than a regular sedan or a compact SUV. It’s not to say other segments don’t require as much detail, it’s just to highlight the fact that with a mega SUV designed for families, it is imperative to nail features, space, comfort and capability.
Even rising costs for both new and used cars in the wake of the chip crisis and dealership markups, along with crazy high gas prices have not slowed down the sales of crossovers and SUVs and demand for large SUVs continues to remain strong. So now is the right time to check out the best models currently on the market, costing less than $100,000.
10 2023 Inifiniti QX80: $72,700
The Infiniti QX80, formerly called QX56, has shared the platform with the Nissan Y62 Patrol since 2010. Though the vehicle has received multiple facelifts over the years, the base still remains the same. The new Infiniti QX80 comes with a couple of new features such as a haptic signal via the steering wheel for the lane departure warning system. Besides little features here and there, there isn't much of an upgrade with the 2023 model (perhaps it didn’t require one).
The QX80 features the same tried and trusted 5.6-liter naturally aspirated V-8 unit that produces 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. Though not as spacious as the top contenders, the flagship Infiniti SUV still offers a decent amount of space. The car seats up to eight, and cargo space is stretchable to 95.1 cubic feet with second and third row folded down.
Additionally, the QX80 can tow up to 8500 pounds and load up to 1529 pounds The towing capacity is a couple of hundred pounds more than what you get with Escalade and Lexus LX. If you don’t want to deal with an upcharge, the Infiniti QX80 is one of the best options to consider in its segment.
9 2023 Genesis GV80: $55,800
Arguably, the most fulfilling large SUV you can get for around $60,000. The base model packs a 2.5-liter turbo-four which many reckon to be a disappointing entry spot for a grand vehicle of this standard. However, in reality, Genesis’ use of an average setup reflects its consideration towards less power-hungry people who still desire a premium SUV experience.
The Korean automaker is offering a more powerful 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 unit with the high-end model that puts out 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, the GV80 can tug up to 6000 pounds. As standard, you get five seats, however, with the optional third row, the seating capacity can be raised to seven. Access to the third row is comparatively easier, however, when all rows are in use, the cargo space will take a hit.
All in all, considering the GV80’s unmatched premium interiors and incredible safety ratings, the Genesis GV80 spells sensible luxury, right up the alley of several buyers. Due to it's merits, the GV80 has been compared to the Bentley Bentayga, making it a budget full-size luxury SUV.
8 2023 Volvo XC-90: $56,000
The standard XC90 B5 loads a 2.0-liter turbo inline-four engine under the hood which kicks out 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. With the top models, you get nearly double the power. However, the standard version offers the greatest value for your buck offering a suite of technology and safety features including a panoramic moonroof with a power sunshade, all-wheel drive, air purification system, rear parking sensors, and Volvo's Pilot Assist among many more. The inside of the SUV is upscale highlighted by ambient lighting and leatherette upholstery.
The IIHS conferred its highest Top Safety Pick+ award on the Volvo XC90 in 2022 for its fabulous safety features. Lane keeping aid - Pilot Assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking (both front and rear), blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beams besides adaptive cruise control are standard for each XC90 model. The XC90 offers enough space in every row though others in the competition enjoy more length and width.
7 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS: $81,800
If you don’t mind opening more satchels of notes, the Mercedes-Benz GLS is definitely worth checking out. The largest passenger vehicle in the Mercedes lineup, the GLS offers a great cocktail of space, power, and luxury. The entry-level 3.0-liter turbo inline-six engine with mild hybrid assist puts out 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS is swifter in response than most in the class accelerating to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds.
The SUV comes with a tremendous set of features as expected offering automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, and crosswind stability aid among many more. However, some are going to find the GLS’s UI a little hard to get a handle on. Though the vehicle offers plenty of space, the headroom for third-row passengers, in some cases, may not be enough. Take out these manageable issues, the GLS is the perfect luxury SUV, and it looks elegant too.
6 2023 BMW X7: $77,850
Launched in 2019, the BMW X7 received its biggest refresh in 2023 with upgrades involving powertrain, technology, and appearance. The base version is equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with a new 48-volt mild hybrid augmentation that’s capable of generating 375 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque - a large power bump over the previous model which stood at around 335 horsepower. The X7 offers plenty of leg- and headroom to front passengers, however, the third row might seem a bit cramped.
The model at the top of the range called Alpina XB7 spits out a grand 630 horsepower and 590 in torque. The X7 enjoys state-of-the-art technology and safety features. Some highlights include blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and iPhone-as-a-key which allows the owners to leave their key behind. What's more, you get a 12.3-inch digital display for gauges and a massive 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen all housed under a single panel of glass. Check out our driven review of the 2023 BMW X7 xDrive 40i.
5 2023 GMC Yukon: $57,400
The premium squared-off design of Yukon has got many of us hooked. And, with spacious interiors and good enough strength, the new GMC Yukon may stand tall in a swelled-up segment. There are several engine options available, though the base Yukon features a 5.3 liter V-8 engine making 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. On the other hand, the high-end Denali versions have it to take on the best and the most luxurious in the class such as the GLS and X7. In terms of space, all three rows enjoy hefty room, and most won't have anything to complain about.
The Yukon with standard wheelbase has 25.5 cubic feet of space behind the third row and 72.6 cubic feet with the third row folded down which is more than enough to contain the supplies for a mega picnic. But, not all is right with the Yukon. Features such as blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control which are available in the standard package of other SUVs are going to cost you extra with the Yukon. With the much crowded $60,000 territory, some might find other options more comprehensive such as Tahoe, Escalade, or Suburban.
4 2023 Lexus LX 600: $87,815
Lexus has a great deal of experience in building mega SUVs, and their formula is a bit different from others. The body-on-frame SUV offers magnificent off-roading capabilities that are rare, to say the least, even in the full-size SUV segment. The LX 600 underwent a complete overhaul in 2022, and it improved big time in terms of bumping up power, weight reduction, and optimizing fuel economy. The 2023 model hasn’t seen any noteworthy upgrades.
The car uses a 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine kicking out 409 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque - which is good enough to suffice for even power-hungry drivers. In addition, the LX 600 can pull up to 6000 pounds. There is no dearth of safety and driver-assistance features such as standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian-and-bicyclist detection, adaptive cruise control, and pre-collision mitigation with pedestrian detection technology. What’s more, the LX 600 is tougher than all of its rivals. Plus, the LX fills the void left by Land Cruiser that exited US markets in 2021. Check out our review of the Lexus LX 600.
3 2023 Jeep Grand Wagoneer: $87,995
The Wagoneer is arguably the most complete large SUV with the classic Jeep soul. Equipped with a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that churns out 510 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque, the Grand Wagoneer offers a pretty flawless ride. Plus, it’s lightning-fast despite its grand size, the car hits 60 mph in just 5 seconds. But, you have to pay the price for the superb power in form of repugnant fuel economy which as per EPA ratings is at 14/19 mpg.
The Grand Wagoneer boasts an insane 9,750-pound towing capacity. The interior is posh with all the safety and technology elements that we have come to expect from modern vehicles of this standard. As far as the space is concerned, let's just say even the third row offers plenty of room. It's due to this ideal mix of capabilities in every department, many consider the Grand Wagoneer to be the best large SUV.
2 2023 Linocoln Navigator: $79,725
The Navigator employs a 3.5-liter V-6 engine which is one notch below from the V-8 used by other SUVs in the segment. Even so, the fuel economy is poor though the power is equally impressive as its V-8 counterparts. The Navigator puts out 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Plus, the SUV is properly quick accelerating from zero to 60 mph in a matter of fewer than six seconds.
The Navigator’s Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow package allows the SUV to tow up to 8,700 pounds which is no joke. The interior is spacious and radiates sheer luxury as one would expect from a Lincoln vehicle. However, the driving may feel a bit wobbly due to a soft suspension setup. It’s not too bad, but for the money you are shelling out, it feels a bit pesky. In the space department, the Lincoln pulls it off well. The long wheelbase models have plenty of cargo space even with the third-row seats in place.
1 2023 Cadillac Escalade: $79,795
As the granddaddy of posh and blingy full-size SUVs, the iconic Cadillac Escalade is as impressive as ever. With a humongous 6.2-liter V-8 unit producing 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, the Escalade feels like a breeze to cruise in. The Escalade’s less powerful trim features a 3.0-liter turbodiesel inline-six which produces 277 horsepower but the same 460 pound-feet of torque. The space is no concern for Escaladers. Passengers in all rows enjoy a comfortable amount of space while space can be stretched up to 121.0 cubic feet.
The legendary vehicle is full to the brim with high-tech features to make driving safer, easier, and more fun. The active-safety tech includes front automatic emergency braking, a surround-view camera system, lane-keep assist, front and rear parking sensors, and automatic high beams. What's more, the Escalade can tow upwards of 8,200 pounds.