Trying to narrow down good options for a replacement to our current midsize SUV - a Dodge Durango Citadel.

It's been great over the years and I hear the latest Durango has a much needed interior update, I'm looking for something else. It has to be an SUV, and it needs good storage space because I haul my bikes and big projects in the back when the +1 isn't driving it.

Some ideas:
- Lincoln Aviator
-- Like the idea of a vehicle that has focus - in this case comfort and "luxury" without sporting pretensions, and hybrid option.
-- American made, reputation since its 2001 debut has a lot of paint and quality issues

- Jeep Grand Cherokee L
-- Like the narrower profile, same switchgear as my current SUV (lol), like hybrid as an option
-- New engine, the base model "cheapness" shines through higher priced variants, Stellantis

- Mazda CX-9
-- Like that Mazda interiors are in that sudo-luxe space, more engaging to drive
-- A bit down on power, not enough storage behind the second row

- Genesis GV80
-- Like all the press, the looks, the repuation
-- Might also be too small in back?

- Volvo CX90
- Like the design aesthetic, complex power train has proven mostly reliable
- Seems like good space in back, but dated in current design

- Acura MDX
- I haven't paid much attention to Acura, but maybe it's time for a visit?

Other stuff? Fwiw BMW is out, and latest gen MB products I'm not so sure about, and ceiling is $100k.

 

We've got a 21 Grand Cherokee L (base model) as a work vehicle, got it in Jan/Fab. Decent car, no issues. Infotainment and cluster are a bit over designed and difficult at times, too many options for the cluster, and if you don't set up driver profiles it's a pita. The L definitely feels long when driving it, bit like a Suburban in that regard, it isn't small.

Volvo XC90 is a nice ride, we got an S60 in December and I really like it, very comfy cruiser so I'd guess the SUV would be equally good.

I love my 19 Discovery (not on your list) so much so I bought it when the lease ended last month.

 

Cannot go wrong with the Volvo. If you go that route, I would take the T5 Inscription loaded with air suspension and B&W stereo vs. a T6 with less options. On our 3rd Volvo in the last decade.

The Hyundai/Genesis is really sharp looking. Kind of Range Rover / DBX looking.

 

Lexus RX450h Plug In

Best in class for reliability and safety and also plug in hybrid because gas isn't getting cheaper. Expect supply to remain low in order to keep prices high. Energy companies have switched their strategy from growth to profitability and margins. They've cut back on cap-ex and exploration and are now focused on cost efficiency and margins. The aim is to continue keeping supply limited to keep the prices high.

 

I loathe CUV’s and SUV’s but after getting a loaner Pilot and then a Passport when I was getting mods done on my RL, man that AWD Passport was quite impressive. Excellent AWD system, handled well, same engine as my truck. Very impressive vehicle and for what it is, looks good.

 

In this space, I'd probably do the GV70/80. Or an Escalade if you want to get close to the $100k mark on a luxury or premium trim (if you find one).

 

If you ever want to haul any weight or tow a decent trailer skip the country club "SUVs" and get something like the Ford Expedition. Seats 8. Towing capacity in excess of 9000 pounds.

-- Chuck

 

Pretty sure he said mid-size SUV. Nothing about a 6000 lbs. Escalade is "mid-size"....

 

Can't go wrong with a pilot. If you need more off roading, 4runner but I would wait for the hybrid, in which case better put your name down now for one. Really pick your poison of hybrid Toyota SUV, or go full upscale with a Lexus.

If 100k was on deck for me for an suv, land cruiser although I'd probably hunt for the last gen.

My top picks are pilot and 4 runner. Pilot probably uses its interior space the best, best U in SUV, 4runner probably better S.

 

"Mid size" SUVs are no more capable than station wagons, they're like big sedans which is why you see them everywhere. If you just need seats and luggage space they're fine but if you need a SUV get a real one -- one of the so-called "Full size" models. Possible towing? No one ever wished for less towing capacity. But, you gotta make choices. I have two stalls in my garage and the S2000 fits in the smaller one (workbench, etc). The Expedition would fit in the other stall but "her" car is already there... Two people three cars. First world problem.

-- Chuck