Long gone are the days of SUVs only being for the rough and rugged terrain of the outback. Whether it is to transport the family, carry the dogs or simply to just ride up high – SUVs can assume many roles. If you are in the market for one, the top 5 SUVs for 2012 are as follows:
5. BMW X6M – $90,000
BMW’s X6 M is the high powered equivalent to the X6 crossover SUV. With a twin-turbo 4.4 liter V8 engine, the X6 M uses many of the same conventions as the X5. Equipped with 555 horsepower, this SUV also gets 12 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway.
4. Lincoln Navigator – $59,000
This full-size SUV has enough seating for 8 comfortably and includes a folding third row. With 310 hp and 5.4 liter V8, the Navigator gets 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. Typically pegged as a luxury SUV, there are many options that can be added to this vehicle.
3. Porsche Cayenne Turbo – $107,000
This luxury class SUV has 4.8L V8 engine, 500 hp and an 8 speed automatic transmission. The Porsche Cayenne gets 15 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. In addition, this 2011 Motor Trend SUV of the Year has seen small upgrades to its exterior. The 2012 has black headlight surrounds and tinted tail lights.
2. Toyota Land Cruiser – $65,970
The 2012 Toyota Land Cruiser is a full size SUV that offers seating for eight. This SUV has a standard 5.7 liter V8 engine and 10 airbags for safety. The large SUV offers 13 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway. The Land Cruisers off road capabilities have evolved to a more suburban terrain. With 381 hp, the Land Cruiser is able to achieve good acceleration speeds for the size it is carrying.
1. Mercedes – Benz M Class ML350 – $49,865
The ML350 tops the first for the top SUVs of 2012. This luxury SUV has a 7 speed automatic transmission, 3.5L V8 engine and comes standard with awd. This SUV boasts 17/19/22 city and highway mpg combined. In addition, the 19 inch wheels, power lift gate, sunroof and many other features make this model a definite Mercedes Benz.
The top 5 SUVs of 2012 have many things in common. The major differences of course come in price and style as well as pricing for car insurance. The choice is up to the customer as to which type of SUV best suits their needs and lifestyle.