2012 Land Rover Range Rover

Land Rover upgraded the engines, suspension, and interior of the Range Rover last year. It's now focused on special edition packages and options that can push the sticker price of a fully loaded model to $170,000, but even the lowliest Range Rover is among the most luxurious and exclusive SUVs in the world. Two 5.0-liter V-8 engines -- one normally aspirated and one supercharged -- provide plenty of power and consume fuel at the rate of 12 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway. Range Rovers look distinguished and drive well, and the cabin ambience exudes an air of traditional British luxury. Outward visibility is excellent thanks to the abundance of large windows, a relative rarity in the modern automotive landscape. A new Autobiography Ultimate Edition model really pushes the price envelop by offering a teak floor in the cargo area, iPads for rear passengers, and customized interiors that can be crafted according to an individual buyer's wishes. Exclusivity comes standard, simply because not many people are able to afford a Range Rover. It strikes a great balance between the capability of an SUV and the luxury that's typically only found in the biggest and most expensive luxury sedans. If you can't choose between these very different segments, the Range Rover won't feel the least bit like a compromise.