There are not many automotive markets as competitive as the midsize luxury SUV market. With offerings from big-name automotive brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Range Rover, how do they all stack up against each other and what makes each unique? 

From the rugged dependability of the Land Rover Defender to the first-in-class luxury of the Mercedes-Benz GLE, here are the 15 best luxury SUVs and Crossover SUVS for 2021. 

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### 1. BMW X5

![2021-bmw-x5-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/LmJD51EQC8L84bJghssUP/0994ccfb913222df23f0d361be61ec6c/2021-bmw-x5-ext.jpg)

New for 2021, BMW now offers the BMW X5 in a plug-in hybrid model known as the xDrive45e. The X5 series by BMW is known for its accumulation of sport, comfort, and technology, which is exactly what to look for in a midsize luxury SUV. 

![2021-bmw-x5-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/rKY7M6iLvtZxNDbcnZ4Gt/f862173cbdc028a61a4b009affd358ab/2021-bmw-x5-int.jpg)

Starting at an MSRP of $60,395, the X5 is offered with your choice of a 335-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six; 282-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with an 112-hp AC electric motor with a 389 combined horsepower; or a monster 523-hp twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 motor. 

Being a midsize luxury SUV, BMW offers a multitude of optional interior features such as massaging seats, heated armrests, and a Bowers & Wilkins surround-sound system. With an ample amount of space, the X5 offers seating for five or an added third row seat bumps seating up to seven. The X5 is offered in both RWD or AWD powertrains.  

[Browse BMW X5 listings here](https://www.autolist.com/bmw-x5#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 2. Mercedes-Benz GLE Class 

![2021-mercedes-benz-gle-class-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/3BCkrnOpWo7QB6YfoOsJwx/9d5cbd3f035440d8a40c657b2fc71a43/2021-mercedes-benz-gle-class-ext.jpg)

The GLE-class offered by Mercedes-Benz is the company's mid-level entry to the Mercedes-Benz lineup of compact SUVs. The GLE is offered in three differing engine opinions, which correspond with the offered trim levels. 

Engine options start with a 255-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four; mid-range 362-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, and the most powerful option of a 483-hp twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 with 21-hp AC electric motor producing an astounding 504 combined horsepower which is impressive for a compact SUV. 

![2021-mercedes-benz-gle-class-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/2Px42841z7WkAbYhqd0FDn/4ca0acf3a3cdcd79040a141fae46d51a/2021-mercedes-benz-gle-class-int.jpg)

New for 2021, the GLE is offered in both SUV and a coupe variant which offers a unique styling option for those who do not want the standard SUV look. Base MSRP for the GLE starts at $55,800 and quickly climbs from there depending on your choice of engine and trim level ending with the popular AMG trim level. 

The interior of the GLE is where the SUV truly shines as a luxury car, providing an ample amount of space for all passengers, and inclusive of a third-row option. The GLE is also equipped with an easy-to-use infotainment system compatible with both Apple Carplay and Android Auto.  

[Browse Mercedes-Benz GLE Class listings here](https://www.autolist.com/mercedes+benz-gle#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 3. Land Rover Defender

![2021-land-rover-defender-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/1Eu17gDu9MLX92ixzK0kXu/a838a8befe258b55035617f0be2ea097/2021-land-rover-defender-ext.jpg)

Off-road ruggedness is not exactly your first thought when looking to purchase a midsize luxury SUV but practicality is. The 2021 Land Rover Defender is equipped with an all-wheel-drive powertrain with locking differentials allowing for intense off-roading experiences.

![2021-land-rover-defender-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4xx4RYalJ7AMvlSKC0ahW9/ba399a4b21b28b276da804ff189164a1/2021-land-rover-defender-int.jpg)

With a base MSRP of $49,000 and a top-end price of $100,000, the Defender is by far the most capable SUV in its class. The towing capacity of the Defender is 7,716 - 8,201lbs. The Defender comes with three different engine options, either a 296-hp 2.0-liter turbo-four, a 395-hp turbocharged inline-six, or a 518-hp supercharged V-8.

Depending on your engine choice, the Defender has a very low MPG rating, and does not offer quite the interior you come to expect of a luxury SUV in 2021. Offered in both a two-door or four-door body design, the Defender seats up to six individuals or seven individuals based on the three-row SUV or two-row body style.   

[Browse Land Rover Defender listings here](https://www.autolist.com/land+rover-defender#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 4. Lexus RX 350

![2021-lexus-rx350-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/5ew0XyKUprOPi9WBNTfOv5/25c95192adef921ed8e3ec2072d47516/2021-lexus-rx350-ext.jpg)

The Lexus RX 350 is offered in two drivetrain configurations, either a front-wheel-drive option or an all-wheel-drive option. Both offerings seat 5-7 passengers and boast a 290hp engine offering 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. 

![2021-lexus-rx350-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/681KYBEvcpeOwKyyYIzYNy/1dbd59a4f1f42e3531b9ce21357d483a/2021-lexus-rx350-int.jpg)

 Lexus is known for its dependability and longevity. Built with industry-standard safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and power-folding/auto-dimming outside mirrors. The RX 350 is luxurious on the inside with plenty of cargo area and leg room for all passengers. 

The 2021 RX 350 has a base MSRP of $54,155 for the FWD model, with the top trim all-wheel-drive model starting at $56,840. The Lexus RX 350 has one of the lowest base model pricing in the midsize luxury SUV market, and ,with the options available upon purchase, the RX 350 is a bargain for what you pay for it.  

[Browse Lexus RX 350 listings here](https://www.autolist.com/lexus-rx+350#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 5. Porsche Cayenne 

![2021-porsche-cayenne-e-hybrid-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/1vhMUo9W3GtdlJyAeTS5O7/07654f7ca33223033ebdce45317cfaf0/2021-porsche-cayenne-e-hybrid-ext.jpg)

Porsche is a well-known brand in the sports car market. Similar to other sports car automotive brands, Porsche has stepped into the SUV manufacturing market offering a unique driving experience. The Porsche Cayenne has a base MSRP of $68,850 and is a great mixture of Porsche's sporty past and roomy SUV design of the present.

![2021-porsche-cayenne-e-hybrid-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/59xLovUptHYWVw5c7c8FWC/e3aab9d3f2ff685e4053f7aeaf381128/2021-porsche-cayenne-e-hybrid-int.jpg)

The Porsche Cayenne has cargo space behind the second row: 27 cubic feet in the Cayenne and 22 cubic feet in the offered E-Hybrid model. The Cayenne seats 4-5 passengers and is equipped with an AWD powertrain for all models offered. 

New for 2021, the Porsche Cayenne is offered in the GTS trim which starts with an MSRP of $107,300 and is equipped with a 453-hp 4.0-liter V-8 paired with an 8-speed automatic. The sporty style resembles Porches’ history of innovation and high-end design.  

[Browse Porsche Cayenne listings here](https://www.autolist.com/porsche-cayenne#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 6. Audi Q7

![2021-audi-q7](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4tbqowOvmKUwJd6yz2YVhA/54c3537f296081125fa13410e4f51e6f/2021-audi-q7.jpg)

In 2021, the Audi Q7 is now offered with more standard safety features than previous year's Audi models. With seating for seven, AWD is standard for all trim and power levels. Audi is a strong name in the automotive industry, and the Q7 is a great example of why. 

![2021-auqi-q7-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/3KsLkCANbXsftYX30C8iK1/382616290f0bab9d12e261dfb65212d1/2021-auqi-q7-int.jpg)

The base Audi Q7 Premium has a starting MSRP of $54,950. The Q7 gets even more expensive in higher trims, with the performance-oriented SQ7 topping $91,000. The engines offered on the Audi Q7 are a 248-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four, 335-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6, and a 500-hp twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8. 

With an average price and horsepower rating for the luxury midsize SUV class, the Q7 stands out in styling and interior design. Leather upholstery surrounds the cabin and the infotainment system supports both Apple Carplay and Android auto. Complete with quad-zone climate controls, cruise control, and a panoramic sunroof, the Q7 is a big contender in the luxury midsize SUV market.  

[Browse Audi Q7 listings here](https://www.autolist.com/audi-q7#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 7. Lincoln Aviator 

![2021-lincoln-aviator-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/6YWmVQGLEXywEvYTHeBvUU/d2775ac9ab2a2977bed6f02e17d31236/2021-lincoln-aviator-ext.jpg)

The Lincoln Aviator is just returning from a 15-year gap in production. The Aviator was reintroduced into the market in 2020 and does not have many significant changes in 2021. 

![2021-lincoln-aviator-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/51N6pbflIVjmaPOCvzS5sR/7a036c76ee6d89eaa9bf8ecbe88168ae/2021-lincoln-aviator-int.jpg)

The Aviator seats 6-7 and is a full-size three-row SUV that is offered in both RWD and AWD drivetrains. The Aviator is a bit heavier, thus less agile than other SUVs in its class but offers many interior luxuries that make up for the lack of speed. Luxuries such as metal accents, wood trim, and leather seats generate a comfortable cabin experience. 

The 2021 Aviator has a starting MSRP of $51,100. The midlevel Reserve and Grand Touring trim cost $57,110 and $69,070, respectively. Lincoln also offers an Aviator Black Label trim that retails for $78,865. 

[Browse Lincoln Aviator listings here](https://www.autolist.com/lincoln-aviator#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 8. Cadillac XT5

![2021-cadillac-xt5-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/V6XCEcv9o6qXoL5z4bJ3p/92662c9dc16788ae3b429035402013fc/2021-cadillac-xt5-ext.jpg)

The Cadillac XT5 has excellent fuel economy in comparison to other SUVs in the class. The cabin is roomy, and it seats five with a drivetrain option of FWD or AWD. Compared to the other SUVs in this class, however, the XT5 is lacking in interior design and material quality.

![2021-cadillac-xt5-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4EdWMDuuHDpk2aH36quKRU/bc2a65e68413a46993644a8c5b673836/2021-cadillac-xt5-int.jpg)

The XT5 is less agile with a 235-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, or the 310-hp V6 option. Most SUVs in the same class are outputting close to, if not more than, 500-hp. The XT5 does have, however, a great nine-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth shifts.

The base XT5 has a starting MSRP of $43,995 which is one of the lowest starting prices in the class. The XT5 Sport is the most expensive trim option, and it starts at $55,095. The top-end price of the XT5 comes in significantly lower than almost every other SUVs top end in its class.  

[Browse Cadillac XT5 listings here](https://www.autolist.com/cadillac-xt5#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 9. Maserati Levante 

![2021-maserati-levante](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4kyimW52tGbfn8o4SQrGYp/7ac24abbfffc6d03006e7158bd74bb7a/2021-maserati-levante.jpg)

The Maserati Levante is as close to a Ferrari SUV that you can get in 2021. The Levante is built utilizing Ferrari engine technology, essentially placing a Ferrari engine in an SUV body. 

The engine options for the Levante that offer differing driving dynamics are a 345-hp twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6; 424-hp twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6; 550-hp twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V-8; and a 590-hp twin-turbo V-8.

![2021-maserati-levante-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/2HSan30DzZ7xFrw7nPw0PX/c4198ca9577913fe8def854e8a3799e1/2021-maserati-levante-int.jpg)

Almost 600-hp in a stock SUV is incredible. The Maserati Levante has a base MSRP of $75,985 and with trim and engine options can climb to $151,485. The top-end model can run 0-60mph in 3.6 seconds, beating recorded 0-60 times of many sports cars on the market today.

The Maserati Levante seats 5 and has a fuel economy of 15 city MPG and 21 highway MPG. The Levante is only offered in AWD, delivering all of its power to all four wheels. Maserati focuses a lot of their attention on the speed and handling of the Levante, leaving a roomy feel left to be desired. 

[Browse Maserati Levante listings here](https://www.autolist.com/maserati-levante#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 10. Audi Q8

![2021-audi-q8-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/lV7UKyMy5WoBupTQTYyGZ/46775d65cf4e7ed5eb2189160aa38fc8/2021-audi-q8-ext.jpg)

Audi made it on the list again, but this time in their Q8 which is a step up from the previously reviewed Q7. The Q8 is offered with beefier engine choices, but less cargo space than the Q7. The Q8 also starts at an MSRP of $69,295 which is over $10,000 more than the base Q7.

![2021-audi-q8-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/Gp9qghxPrnXSUNCQYBZSG/079712788ab36931f85ebcbefd7fa98d/2021-audi-q8-int.jpg)

The Audi Q8 is equipped with an AWD drivetrain standard and seats five comfortably. At the highest trim level, the Q8 comes packed with 591-hp, which is the most in its class, beating the Ferrari-inspired Maserati Levante by 1-hp.

The interior of the Q8 is designed with luxury in mind, offering spacious seating and a user-friendly infotainment system. The ride quality and handling are what you can expect from an AWD luxury SUV. Complete with blind-spot monitoring, navigation, heated seats, and a power tailgate the Q8 is a contender in the space.  

[Browse Audi Q8 listings here](https://www.autolist.com/audi-q8#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 11. Volvo XC90

![2021-volvo-xc90](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4crykNxVSH7770YigI64x1/6cc1bdd4e3953bd6c306006b8465fbe3/2021-volvo-xc90.jpg)

The Volvo XC90 is offered in both AWD and FWD with similar engines across the various models. Engine options for the XC90 are a 250-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four; 316-hp turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter turbo inline-four; 313-hp turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter inline-four with 87-hp AC electric motor, with 400-hp.

![2021-volvo-xc90-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/3Qz0U57bNMBRisGVY8SmQd/c869dcc4801481032883bb95ff8fca90/2021-volvo-xc90-int.jpg)

The Volvo XC90 seats 6-7 with lots of cargo and seating space. No matter your choice of engine type, the Volvo achieves great gas mileage and offers many safety features standard. New for 2021, the Volvo XC90 is equipped with adaptive headlights, front parking sensors, and a smartphone charging pad. 

The ride quality of the XC90 suffers when used in conjunction with larger wheels. The XC90 has a base MSRP of $50,095 and tops out at $63,450.  

[Browse Volvo XC90 listings here](https://www.autolist.com/volvo-xc90#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

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### 12. Acura MDX

![2020-acura-mdx-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/1JAPTjwCvDke1EYtPbvb8b/d25b5a84a1f322bd0ced6d2017e8445d/2020-acura-mdx-ext.jpg)

The Acura MDX is a prime example of a crossover SUV offered in both AWD and FWD drivetrains, with a max seating capacity of 7 and above-average cargo space. The base MSRP of the MDX is $46,900 and the top trim will set you back $60,000.

![2020-acura-mdx-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/6jkEYthXpRz6v3jofSUoOT/5c43e4410ba9eceb6b4a8dd4c47d1787/2020-acura-mdx-int.jpg)

Cargo space behind the second row of seats is 48 cubic feet with an additional 18 cubic feet of space behind the third row. Fuel economy in the MDX is 26 mpg highway, which is impressive for the weight and size of the vehicle.

The interior is high quality, but not as high-end as some of the other car brands in the segment. The infotainment system in the MDX is a 12.3-inch display, a touchpad controller, a nine-speaker stereo, satellite radio, HD Radio, USB ports, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hot spot, wireless device charging, Amazon Alexa, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible. 

[Browse Acura MDX listings here](https://www.autolist.com/acura-mdx#year_min=2020&year_max=2020).

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### 13. Land Rover Range Rover Velar 

![2020-land-rover-range-rover-velar-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/5KiBcVgWZnZ6yZUGLwjIDA/a02497c8d231bd37d4d68e3da210fa59/2020-land-rover-range-rover-velar-ext.jpg)

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Velar offers 4 wheel drive, seating for five, and a new turbocharged inline 6 engine. Range Rover discontinued the use of the supercharged V8 engine in 2021 and offers better fuel economy in the Velar because of it.

![2020-land-rover-range-rover-velar-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/4ZcEYencHQO5IZ8nUqZGIl/f1811a7528f0f6453996ed56af438d12/2020-land-rover-range-rover-velar-int.jpg)

Range Rover is well known for its luxurious interiors and off-roading capability. The new Velar continues this tradition for Range Rover, offering a base model with an MSRP of $56,900 and a fully loaded option priced at $110,000.

New for 2021, the Velar offers a surround-view parking camera system, and new infotainment software. With quick acceleration and well-balanced handling, the Velar is a leading choice for the midsize luxury SUV. 

[Browse Land Rover Range Rover Velar listings here](https://www.autolist.com/land+rover-range+rover+velar#year_min=2020&year_max=2020).

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### 14. Infiniti QX60

![2020-infiniti-qx-60-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/6TfL6ysZPt8nG6ooIVNxdK/13f297af050e27da8c3d12f27745a6d7/2020-infiniti-qx-60-ext.jpg)

The Infiniti QX60 is a reasonably priced luxury SUV with a base MSRP of $45,375. The QX60 is offered in both FWD and AWD with only one engine choice of a 295-hp 3.5-liter V-6.

![2020-infiniti-qx-60-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/9b4Cu37NgvZu6RkcLfAiQ/cf80750a2338efc8e2540e14856e58f2/2020-infiniti-qx-60-int.jpg)

The QX60 finds itself in the middle of the pack of luxury SUVs, not having the same elaborate interiors, speed, or trim level options as other SUVs in its class. The infotainment system is outdated, and the controls found within the vehicle are not exactly user-friendly. 

The QX60 seats seven through being equipped with a third row. Cargo space is generous with 40 cubic feet behind the second row, and 16 cubic feet behind the third row of seating.   

[Browse Infiniti QX60 listings here](https://www.autolist.com/infiniti-qx60#year_min=2020&year_max=2020).

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### 15. Lincoln Nautilus 

![2021-lincoln-nautilus-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/21Ct2295ly95uOH2HoLDEh/0c8cf0a0fb92adb5c02669a54b44bace/2021-lincoln-nautilus-ext.jpg)

Last on the list is the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus. The Nautilus is built with a comfortable, quiet cabin with a nice cushioned feeling ride. Lending itself well to long road trips, this full-size SUV is offered in both FWD or AWD. The Nautilus achieves an impressive fuel economy of 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

![2021-lincoln-nautilus-int](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/5KAmHWGOapBdqtxRuxZfzL/0dc22f590ee051e299a6d760151a289b/2021-lincoln-nautilus-int.jpg)

The Lincoln Nautilus is offered in a 250-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four, or a 335-hp twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6. Most of the rivals to the Nautilus offer a more sporty feel, but the Nautilus does offer more technology features. 

Tech features such as infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, optional ultra comfort seats that are 22-way adjustable with an included lumbar massage. Safety features include automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, active parking assist, and lane-departure warning.  

The Lincoln Nautilus has a base MSRP of $42,035 with limited trim options. 

[Browse Lincoln Nautilus listings here](https://www.autolist.com/lincoln-nautilus#year_min=2021&year_max=2021).

Are you looking to purchase a new SUV but are not sure which brands to consider? This article reviews the top 15  midsize luxury SUVs for 2021.

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