Meet the Top 7 Luxury Crossovers in This Year’s Lineup

Mixing the size of a sport utility vehicle with the easier handling of an automobile, top luxury crossovers can offer drivers the best of both worlds. For drivers and families looking for a new car, it can pay off to consider whether one of the top crossovers below is the right choice for you.

Since luxury crossovers are a relatively new introduction to the American auto market, many buyers are interested in understanding the difference between a crossover and an SUV. From an expert perspective, that contrast is straightforward: top crossovers are built on the chassis of a car, while SUVs are built on the platform of a truck.

[respa]

Beyond the fundamental distinction in platform, there are several other important differences that make crossovers popular. The 2016 crossovers have a taller profile, a higher center of gravity, and better driver visibility than cars. At the same time, they weigh less, handle better, and have a more stylish design than most SUVs. You can learn more about the key features of seven top 2016 crossovers below.

Audi Q5

The Audi Q5 is virtually the definition of a luxury crossover, distinguished by a high-end interior that provides both lots of comfort and a dash of style. Reviewers have lavished praise on the Q5’s handling — even saying that it gives the vehicle an “expensive” touch.

[respb]

Despite its relatively small size, the Q5’s interior design leaves plenty of room for passengers and luggage. Audi is also justifiably proud of the Q5’s Quattro all-wheel drive, a feature not shared by all luxury crossovers. However, some drivers have expressed disappointment that the Q5 doesn’t include more technology integration, such as USB ports.

The Q5’s fuel economy is better than most similarly-sized vehicles: 20 miles per gallon in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. And the $40,900 MSRP is well within an affordable range, especially since Audi is known as a make that holds its value well over time. Given all this, it should be no surprise that – with more than one million sold in just the last seven years – the Q5 has become Audi’s best-selling model in the United States.

HUANG Zheng / Shutterstock.com