When we think of SUVs, usually it’s the nameplates from the Detroit three that jump to the fore, not the European SUVs. Mostly because Ford, GM, and the erstwhile Chrysler are what we equate with big, family cars, with or without luxury.
There are plenty of Japanese and European SUVs out there too, and just like with good old American SUVs, you’ll get both the good apples and some bad ones in the mix. Of course, while Japanese SUVs are all about precision, European SUVs are all about luxury matched with speed and good looks, and engines that are worth their weight in gold.
However, not all European SUVs are the kind you want, so on that note, here go five European SUVs that are worth every penny and five that you probably want to steer clear of. And here are the reasons why some of these European SUVs are awesome while the others are awful.
10 Worth Every Penny: Volkswagen Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a compact crossover that is a bit of a rare breed because it boasts three rows, which is something not many SUVs can say with pride. Of course, packing seven in a small crossover isn’t all that easy so only children should occupy the last row.
The tech is cool and clever and pretty updated, and it's an easy-to-drive car. While some do feel that its engine could have been better, everything else about this European SUV, including the amenities is a win-win.
9 Steer Clear Of: Land Rover Discovery Sport
The Land Rover Discovery Sport remains a good-looking SUV but if you compare it to the other European SUVs, or simply the other SUVs around, it tends to fall short in terms of power, acceleration, and even features.
The handling is also poor so while this is the entry-level Land Rover and does bear the same charm and aesthetics, the performance falls short of the price.
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8 Worth Every Penny: Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Yes, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is one pricey European SUV and comes in a very boxy design that makes people wonder why it's worth that exorbitant price tag. But Mercedes-Benz has so refined the SUV with a better chassis, suspension, and interior that it’s now a class apart.
The diesel engine is refined and values fuel economy but if you want an SUV that marries luxury to insanity, there’s the AMG G63 to consider with 577 horses that may never be needed, but YOLO.
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7 Steer Clear Of: Fiat 500X
One does not associate the Fiat 500 with an SUV. However, with the 500X, Fiat has made it into a European SUV, a subcompact crossover, with hints of Italian flair. The problem is that while this SUV is cute, it lacks utility and purpose.
The reliability ratings are not confidence-inspiring, and while the turbocharged engine is okay, the nine-speed transmission does not make driving a breeze. Overall, it’s an uninspiring SUV, and there are plenty of better models around unless you have a hankering for the Fiat 500. In any form.
6 Worth Every Penny: Audi Q5
Even the base model of the Audi Q5 comes with an all-wheel-drive and that makes this European SUV a winner in our eyes. This makes the ride of the Q5 a lot different from its counterparts, although the luxury and amenities bit is pretty similar to the competition.
The 2.0-liter engine offers plenty of power, letting the Q5 zip from 0-60 MPH in less than six seconds, and while we are not completely sold on that oversized grille, the Q5’s aesthetics are pleasing and elegant. As are the interiors.
Related: Here's What We Expect From The 2022 Audi Q5
5 Steer Clear Of: Volvo XC90
Not only does the 2021 XC90 rank as one of the least reliable 2021 models in the Consumer Reports list, but this European SUV also suffers from many, many problems in the drivetrain, suspension, brakes, and even the body.
The thing that may make public perspective sway in its favor is that when it works, it works very, very well. But just like the nursery rhyme of the little girl with the little curl, when the Volvo XC90 is bad, it is horrid. If you still have to have it, lease it.
4 Worth Every Penny: BMW X3
For a European SUV, or rather an SUV, the BMW X3 is awesome fun to drive, making it a complete driver’s car, and performing more like a sports sedan than an SUV. Zip down it on a straight highway to take in adventuring on mountain curves, the X3 is a willing partner.
It boasts plenty of power, enough aesthetics, and plenty of plush to please, even if it is not the best-looking of the lot. The engine is gutsy and the handling is nimble. Need anything more?
3 Steer Clear Of: Volvo XC60
The cheaper and smaller Volvo, the XC60, is not a better bet than its bigger and more expensive sibling. While this European SUV does have better reliability ratings, it too suffers from a poltergeist of problems, especially in the electricals.
It is getting better by the year though, so it would be a good idea to just wait for it to get rid of all the gremlins and then go for it. For now, the ones who have bought it, want to kick it to the curb.
2 Worthy Every Penny: Jaguar E-Pace
So yes, it's expensive, a bit more cramped, and not as zippy as its competitors. However, the Jaguar E-Pace has us sold on its looks, and we have to admit, this is one of the most beautiful European SUVs in the recent past.
The interiors have been bettered, a lot and the E-Pace is almost playful in its driving and handling, making it a great long-drive companion. For whatever faults it bears, Jaguar tends to do most repairs for free, and the amazing fun-to-drive it is; goes a long way in making up for any lags.
Related: Here's Everything You Need To Know About The New Jaguar E-Pace
1 Steer Clear Of: Volkswagen Atlas
If you are looking for a three-row SUV, do not look for the Volkswagen Atlas. This European SUV is yet to see a good day and suffers bad reliability ratings and consumer dissatisfaction. So sure, it looks good and had a lot more interior space than the competition.
But that’s where the good part ends. The bad part is that you cannot trust the Atlas, and if you cannot trust a family SUV to do its job, what’s the point of buying one?
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