What's the least obnoxious large 4x4/SUV?

[white_goodman]

For the SUV haters, I'm sure that the answer is none of them and perhaps for some of those who own large SUVs, they might be offended at having their vehicles described as obnoxious but unfortunately, rightly or wrongly and probably not down to the vast majority of SUV drivers on PH, they do have a bit of a negative image amongst the general public. Aggressive, inconsiderate driving, selfish parking, blocking other motorist's views at junctions etc but I have to say having owned an old WJ Grand Cherokee over the winter a few years back, I do see the appeal. Mine was a 4 litre petrol straight six, so not quick and terrible on fuel but it did have a certain charm with its commanding driving position and the feeling of safety that imbues and very roomy, comfortable cabin. Terrible handling and reliability but for some reason, I still became fond of it and liked the sense that it would be able to handle anything thrown at it.

I've never been a huge SUV/4x4 fan, as I tend to favour performance and handling over comfort and off-road ability and have owned several estates and yawn...an MPV. However, I'm getting a bit bored with the same type of car, different manufacturer, so maybe time to give another SUV a go, as I hear they handle and go a lot better now and are significantly better on fuel. Small four-pot diesel SUVs such as the RAV4/CRV have absolutely no appeal for me but I could see the appeal of a larger SUV with decent power (V6 diesel) and some luxury. However, although I don't care what others think of my vehicle, I personally don't like the brash image of some of the larger (mainly German) SUVs. I've always been a fan of the Range Rover but it's still a little ostentatious and the high potential for bork scares me. So, what large SUVs offer decent power and luxury, 30+ mpg fuel economy without being too obnoxious?

Just thinking out loud, the obvious one is this...




but where's the power and luxury.

I've always rather liked these...



but not the new ones!

F-Pace is lovely but too expensive



as is the Volvo XC90 (although the old one might qualify)



VW Touareg perhaps but maybe not post diesel emissions scandal?



or maybe the good ol' Jeep Grand Cherokee, which still appeals in its current guise.



So, can you suggest me a 5 (or 7 seater) SUV with decent power, fuel economy and that well...isn't too obnoxious and any recommendations to buy/avoid for the above?

[CS Garth]

Ssangyong Rexton perhaps if you genuinely don't care about the badge. Not great cars perhaps but perfectly serviceable

[here_we_go]

I like my 2011 RX450h, with the older less aggressive Lexus grille.

It's got a goofy overbite look to it which takes some of the SUV smugness out if it.

It isn't the best handling thing ever tho.

[numtumfutunch]

[George Smiley]

Volvo XC60/90 / end thread

[white_goodman]

Paddy_N_Murphy said:

Budget ?

TBD...certainly not more than 30k.

[Plate spinner]

I'd say a Land Cruiser, never seen them driven aggressively. The occupants are normally on a peace keeping mission.

[67Dino]

Audi Allroad hands down. Looks like a regular estate car 99% of the time, but can be raised up at the push of a button when you need the extra clearance. Fast, smart, luxurious, and has very impressive 4-wheel drive capability too. We’re about to get our third...

[SystemParanoia]

Im sure if you try really hard you can pay £30k for one

[JoBlack]

Infiniti QX70.

[shielsy]

[bearman68]

Plate spinner said:

I'd say a Land Cruiser, never seen them driven aggressively. The occupants are normally on a peace keeping mission.

Great machines.

[shirt]

white_goodman said:

Paddy_N_Murphy said:

Budget ?

TBD...certainly not more than 30k.

disco 4 or l322 range rover vogue in a dark colour on sensible wheels.

the disco gets you most of the way to RR luxury but goes under the radar image wise. although in the uk you don't get the v8 so marks down for that.

[DSLiverpool]

Cayenne

[grumbledoak]

DSLiverpool said:

Cayenne

[cptsideways]

Plate spinner said:

I'd say a Land Cruiser, never seen them driven aggressively. The occupants are normally on a peace keeping mission.

Quote of the year

[marksx]

Are you wanting brand new?

Shogun?

[nurseholliday]

George Smiley said:

Volvo XC60/90 / end thread

The 90 is the size of a small house! It manages to dwarf anything else on the road bar a Q7 or a bus.

[davek_964]

grumbledoak said:

DSLiverpool said:

Cayenne

I love mine. It's far more fun than a car like that should be, plus practical and comfortable when needed.

[LordHaveMurci]

nurseholliday said:

George Smiley said:

Volvo XC60/90 / end thread

The 90 is the size of a small house! It manages to dwarf anything else on the road bar a Q7 or a bus.

It's a Volvo though so still manages to fly under the radar.

It & the Land Cruiser were my 1st thoughts.