This guide is a compiled list of the top-performing 2008-model year 2008-model year midsize premium SUVs in J.D. Power and Associates’ key automotive research studies. The studies include the 2007 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), the 2007 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, and the 2007 Initial Quality Study (IQS). All models are listed alphabetically by manufacturer.
Audi Q7: When the Q7 rolled into Audi showrooms in 2007, it represented the first SUV from the German automaker. Unlike the Volkswagen Touareg and Porsche Cayenne, of which the Audi shares significant mechanical systems, the Q7 is designed primarily for the pavement—to transport up to 7 passengers in luxurious style. A choice of either 6- or 8-cylinder engines power the permanent all-wheel drive (AWD) system known as quattro, which sends power continuously to all four wheels. With the standard 3.6-liter engine, the Q7 earned EPA fuel-economy estimates of 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway. In the 2007 APEAL study, which gauges owner satisfaction with the performance, content, layout, and design of their vehicle, the Audi Q7 ranked among the top three models in its segment. For 2008, Audi simplified the options programs, added standard leather seating and a power tailgate to the 3.6 models, and made the Audi Navigation standard on all 4.2 Premium models.
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BMW X5: From its introduction in 2000, the BMW X5 was designed to handle like a sport sedan. With a wide stance, aggressive wheels, and permanent AWD, the X5 is decidedly more comfortable on the road than in dirt. The X5 ranked highest in its segment in the 2007 APEAL study. Available with a choice of either 6- or 8-cylinder power, and the option to seat up to 7 passengers, the X5 3.0si earned EPA fuel-economy estimates of 15 mpg city/21 mpg highway. Following the launch of the all-new, second-generation X5 in 2007, the 2008 model adds a standard panoramic moonroof and other minor cosmetic upgrades.
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Infiniti FX Series: When it arrived in showrooms in 2003, the FX was dramatically styled compared to the other traditional box-like SUVs on the marketplace. The FX also offered a 6- or 8-cylinder engine, choice of rear-wheel drive (RWD) or AWD, and plenty of innovative technology within its 5-passenger cabin. In the 2007 VDS, which measures problems experienced by original owners of three-year-old vehicles, the Infiniti FX ranked among the top three models in its segment. When the 6-cylinder FX35 RWD was tested by the EPA, it yielded fuel-economy estimates of 15 mpg city/22 mpg highway. Significantly updated inside and out for the 2006 model year, the 2008 model carries forth relatively unchanged with the exception of satellite radio—it is now standard.
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Lexus GX 470: One of three SUV offerings from Lexus, the GX 470 is the maker’s midsize premium model and easily masquerades as a competent off-road vehicle. All trim levels share the same 8-cylinder powerplant, full-time 4-wheel drive (4WD), a self-leveling rear air suspension, and 5-passenger seating. Proving a high level of new-vehicle quality during the first 90 days of ownership, the GX 470 ranked among the top three models in its segment in the 2007 IQS and ranked highest in segment in the 2007 VDS. For 2008, most of the changes to the GX 470 are cosmetic. They include a color-keyed front grille, chrome door handles, and new exterior colors. The Lexus earned EPA fuel-economy estimates of 14 mpg city/18 mpg highway.
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Lexus RX: Offering one of the most car-like rides of any SUV on the market, the Lexus RX 350 gives consumers a choice between a traditional gasoline engine and a hybrid gasoline/electric powerplant. In addition, the 5-passenger SUV is available with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or AWD, giving the driver additional confidence on slippery road surfaces or during inclement weather. In the 2007 IQS, the Lexus RX ranked highest in segment, with new owners reporting the lowest number of problems during the first 90 days. With a gasoline powerplant, the RX 350 earned EPA fuel-economy estimates of 18 mpg city/23 mpg highway. With the hybrid powerplant under its hood, the RX 400h rates among the top three models in its class for EPA fuel economy with estimates of 27 mpg city/24 mpg highway. (Hybrid vehicles are often more efficient in the city driving cycle.) In 2008, Lexus added more options to their RX series of SUVs, including available satellite radio, DVD rear-seat entertainment, and optional 18-inch wheels.
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Lincoln MKX: An all-new model in 2007, in an all-new segment for Lincoln, the MKX is a 5-passenger midsize premium crossover SUV. The MKX offers 6-cylinder power, and a choice of FWD or AWD. Unlike its predecessor, the truck-like Aviator, the MKX is designed to drive and handle with car-like dynamics. In the 2007 IQS, the Lincoln MKX ranked among the top three models in its segment. In crash testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Lincoln MKX earned a “Top Safety Pick” designation. The FWD MKX carries an EPA fuel-economy rating of 15 mpg city/22 mpg highway. The MKX received significant upgrades for 2008. These include Ford’s Sync system, satellite radio, reverse-sensing system, and 20-inch chrome wheels.
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Mercedes-Benz M-Class: Generally regarded as the first premium SUV on the market, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class (launched in 1998) sparked a slew of competitors from the likes of BMW, Lexus, Acura, and Audi. Although early generations were built on a truck-like, body-on-frame chassis, the current model is of a contemporary unibody construction. This platform earned a “Top Safety Pick” designation during crash testing from the IIHS. All 2008 Mercedes-Benz M-Class models feature 5-passenger seating and standard 4Matic, a Mercedes version of full-time AWD. Owners appreciate the performance and design of the M-Class, as the SUV ranked among the top three models in its segment in the 2007 APEAL study. In EPA fuel-economy testing, the ML350 4Matic is listed at 15 mpg city/20 mpg highway. For the 2008 model year, Mercedes added a new ML550 model.
