Gearheads have a long-standing aversion to SUVs and crossovers, and in some cases, it’s justified. Crossovers often represent a compromise over a traditional hatchback or sedan, trading sharp handling and performance for ride height and practicality. On top of that, there are so many of them on the road that it’s easy to tune out the noise entirely.
But even the most devoted car enthusiasts have to admit that some SUVs and crossovers break the mold. Whether it’s raw power, standout styling, or clever engineering, a growing number of these vehicles are built with driving excitement in mind. We’ve rounded up a mix of modern crossovers and SUVs that even the most skeptical gearheads might find themselves wanting to own.
What Made the List
For this list, we focused on modern SUVs and crossovers that offer something special for car enthusiasts, whether it’s thrilling performance, engineering innovation, or a design that captures attention. We considered both new and recent models, leaning toward those with sport-tuned suspensions, powerful engines, or enthusiast followings. While some are purpose-built performance machines, others earned their spot by being surprisingly fun to drive despite their size or segment.
We also acknowledge that, for many households, owning a crossover or SUV is simply more practical. Whether it’s hauling kids to school, navigating rough weather, or fitting in weekend adventures, these vehicles offer a level of versatility that sedans and coupes often can’t match. That’s why it’s exciting to see more automakers stepping up to provide options that blend everyday usability with genuine enthusiast appeal.
Jaguar F-Pace SVR
The Jaguar F-Pace SVR isn’t the most common SUV on the road, and that’s part of what makes it so appealing. While the standard F-Pace was already a stylish and capable entry in the premium SUV segment, the SVR version takes everything up a notch with serious performance and aggressive styling that actually works.
From the sculpted aero kit to the quad exhaust pipes, the SVR has the kind of presence that turns heads, and it backs it up with real muscle. Under the hood is a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 pushing out 567 horsepower, delivering a deep, snarling soundtrack and thrilling acceleration. It’s one of those rare performance SUVs that looks, feels, and sounds the part.
Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid Coupé With GT Package
The Porsche Cayenne has long been a standout among performance SUVs, and for sports car enthusiasts, it’s one of the most rewarding to drive. Porsche offers a Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid Coupé with GT package in certain markets, combining the Turbo E-Hybrid plug in hybrid powertrain with multiple chassis and aero elements derived from the Cayenne Turbo GT.
The result is a Frankenstein SUV in the most Porsche way possible. It is intended to deliver a Turbo GT style on road setup while producing a combined 729 hp and 700 lb ft of torque. That means this family hauler now produces more power than the original Lamborghini Aventador, a car still revered as one of the best-sounding exotics of all time.
Porsche Macan GTS
While we’re on the topic of Porsche SUVs, the Cayenne’s little brother deserves some attention, too. A new electric Macan may be taking the spotlight, but the gas-powered version is far from irrelevant, especially in GTS form. In markets where it is still sold, it is the top trim for the internal combustion Macan, delivering serious performance in a compact package.
Power comes from a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine producing 434 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque, which is capable of achieving a 0 to 60 mph time of about 4.3 seconds. It sounds great, pulls hard, and, more importantly, still drives like a proper Porsche. Even as a crossover, the Macan GTS maintains the brand’s signature balance of precision and fun.
Toyota Land Cruiser (250)
Toyota recently reintroduced the Land Cruiser to North America, and while the new model is slightly smaller than the global 300 Series, it still retains the same rugged DNA. Built on the same platform, the latest Land Cruiser remains true to its roots, boasting serious off-road capability and a reputation for long-term reliability.
The North American 250 Series comes standard with a 2.4-liter hybrid four-cylinder, permanent four-wheel drive, and available locking differentials. The engine produces 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. It may be more compact than its predecessor, but it’s just as capable off the beaten path, and just as durable, with a track record of running well past 250,000 miles.
Cadillac Escalade V-Series
We’re surprised it took GM this long to make it happen, but we’re sure glad it did. The current-generation Cadillac Escalade is finally available in V-Series form, bringing serious muscle to the luxury SUV game. While Dodge may have retired the Hellcats, Cadillac is keeping the supercharged V8 dream alive.
Under the hood sits a 6.2-liter supercharged V8, similar to the one found in the CT5-V Blackwing. It cranks out a staggering 682 horsepower and 653 lb-ft of torque, turning this full-size SUV into a straight-line missile. It’s big, it’s loud, and it’s a blast, precisely what a performance SUV should be.
Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat
Speaking of Hellcats, we can’t forget one of the wildest SUVs Dodge has ever built: the Durango SRT Hellcat. First unleashed in 2021, this beast is exactly what it sounds like: a three-row family hauler with a supercharged V8 under the hood.
That 6.2-liter engine delivers 710 horsepower to all four wheels, putting it a few ponies ahead of the original 2015 Challenger Hellcat. Fuel economy? Practically nonexistent. But if anyone dares to say your family SUV is slow, you’ll have no trouble proving them wrong, with a smoky all-wheel-drive launch to back it up.
Range Rover Sport SV
The current lineup from Land Rover is full of desirable machines, and the Range Rover Sport is no exception. It combines sleek design, a high-end interior, and surprisingly sharp driving dynamics into one seriously appealing package.
True to its name, the Sport now comes in a high-performance SV trim that elevates the experience to another level. Powered by a BMW-sourced 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 pushing out 626 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, it’s built to thrill. And yes, this SUV even offers optional carbon fiber wheels. That’s not just sporty; that’s supercar territory.
Subaru Forester STI
For the second-generation Forester, Subaru decided to turn up the heat with an STI version, and the results were excellent. Sharing many WRX STI drivetrain components including the six-speed manual, this was far more than just a lifted grocery-getter. Factory output was commonly quoted as 265 PS, which is about 261 hp.
Wrapped in a practical, boxy wagon-like body, the Forester STI delivered everyday usability with rally-bred performance. Unfortunately, it was never sold outside of Japan, making it an actual forbidden fruit for enthusiasts elsewhere.
Volkswagen Touareg R
If you’ve ever wanted a Bentley Bentayga, Lamborghini Urus, or Porsche Cayenne, but without the flash or the six-figure price tag, the Volkswagen Touareg is your low-key alternative. Built on the same platform as its more extravagant siblings, the Touareg offers premium performance in a more understated package that doesn’t scream “crypto millionaire.”
The range-topping Touareg R features a plug-in hybrid turbocharged V6, producing a combined 455 horsepower. It’s quick, refined, and refreshingly subtle. Unfortunately, it’s also not available in the U.S., which means American gearheads are still left admiring it from afar.
Audi SQ8
The Audi SQ8 strikes a sweet spot between luxury and performance, particularly for enthusiasts seeking an SUV that flies under the radar. With clean lines, sharp detailing, and a subtle badge, it doesn’t scream for attention, but it definitely earns it once you get behind the wheel.
Under the hood is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, putting out 500 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. That’s enough to launch this big SUV from 0 to 60 in just over four seconds, all while wrapped in a plush, tech-packed cabin. It’s fast, refined, and just understated enough to surprise anyone who underestimates it at a red light.
Bentley Bentayga
The Bentley Bentayga is what happens when a luxury brand decides that no category should be off-limits, not even SUVs. This isn’t just about opulence, though. Beneath the quilted leather and wood veneers, the Bentayga is a legitimate performer with real capability and composure at speed.
Depending on the model year and trim, you can get anything from a turbocharged V6 plug in hybrid to a twin turbo W12 Bentayga Speed that was rated at 626 hp. Bentley ended W12 production in 2024, so that engine is now a used market play rather than a new order option. It’s fast in a straight line, surprisingly agile for its size, and easily one of the most comfortable performance SUVs on the market. Whether you’re carving up canyon roads or cruising to a five-star hotel, the Bentayga makes every mile feel first-class.
BMW X3 M
The BMW X3 M doesn’t just flirt with performance, it goes all in. This compact SUV brings severe heat to the segment, and it’s one of the most track-ready options in its class. It looks aggressive without being over the top, but the performance is anything but subtle.
Powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six, the X3 M makes up to 503 horsepower in Competition trim and can hit 0 to 60 in as little as 3.3 seconds in instrumented testing. It handles with the precision you’d expect from an M car, and its all-wheel-drive system delivers grip without sacrificing fun. It’s a proper M machine that just happens to have room for your dog and a trip to Costco.
Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio
Finally, we end with an oldie but a goodie. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio has been on the North American market since 2017. While it’s not the newest face in the crowd, it absolutely deserves the respect it still commands.
Powered by a Ferrari-derived 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 pushing out 505 horsepower, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio blends Italian flair with serious capability. It’s sharp, stylish, and surprisingly practical, but more importantly, it’s a blast to drive. It’s a shame Alfa is struggling to move them off dealer lots because this is one of the most unique and rewarding performance SUVs you can buy.
Practical Doesn’t Have to Be Boring
Crossovers and SUVs might not be the first choice for extreme car enthusiasts, but today’s lineup offers plenty that are genuinely fun to drive. Whether it’s the brute force of a supercharged V8, the balance of a hybrid performance setup, or the oddball charm of a limited-run special, there’s more variety than ever in the enthusiast SUV space.
For those who need a little more space or versatility but don’t want to give up driving excitement, these models prove you can have both. So next time someone says SUVs are boring, point them to this list, they might change their tune after a test drive.