Drive Car of the Year 2024: Best Luxury Off-Road SUVs Under $150K Category Announced
The Drive Car of the Year 2024 awards are in full swing, with testing currently underway to determine the best vehicles in each category. With over 200 new cars being tested each year, Drive remains the most trusted advisor for Australian new car buyers, ensuring that only the best of the best are recognized and rewarded for their excellence. In the Best Luxury Off-Road SUV Under $150K category, prestigious 4WD vehicles, including large and extra-large models priced under $150,000, are being evaluated for their performance, capabilities, and overall appeal to adventurous Australian families.
Defining the Category
This category is aimed at families who desire both style and adventure, seeking vehicles that offer both luxury and off-road capabilities without compromise. The contenders for this category include a range of luxury off-road models, all under consideration for their ability to tackle tough terrain while still offering style, comfort, and advanced technology. These vehicles must possess the mechanical and electronic systems necessary for off-road exploration, while also maintaining a high level of comfort, safety, and luxury features.
Eligible Contenders
Contenders in the Best Luxury Off-Road SUV Under $150K category must meet specific criteria to be considered for the award. To be eligible, a vehicle must be completely new or significantly updated, be on sale before December 31, 2023, and have retail examples available for Drive to conduct road testing before the deadline. Eligible contenders for this year’s award include Ineos Grenadier, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Land Rover Defender, Land Rover Discovery, Land Rover Discovery Sport, Land Rover Range Rover Sport, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz G-Class, Nissan Patrol Warrior, Range Rover, Toyota Land Cruiser, and Toyota Prado.
Competition Overview
With the introduction of a price cap in this category for 2024, the competition promises to be even more intense than in previous years. The Ineos Grenadier offers an interesting take on the iconic boxy SUV and is considered by many as the spiritual successor to the original Land Rover. The Jeep Grand Cherokee has ascended to luxury status, with most models well beyond $100k, making it a strong competitor in the category. Other contenders such as the Nissan Patrol Warrior, Toyota Land Cruiser, and Land Rover models, among others, are also expected to make a strong impression on the judges.
Judging Process and Final Announcements
The judging process for the Best Luxury Off-Road SUV Under $150K category is rigorous, with 11 experienced judges analyzing each vehicle’s performance, features, and overall appeal. The finalists, all of which must meet buyers’ expectations for a cost-effective urban engine, will be announced before the final winners in each category are revealed in February 2024. One thing is for certain: this category promises to be one of the toughest faced by the judging panel.
Drive Car of the Year 2024 aims to recognize and reward the best vehicles in each category, providing Australian new car buyers with valuable insights and recommendations. Stay tuned for updates on the finalists and winners of the Best Luxury Off-Road SUV Under $150K category as Drive continues its testing and evaluation process. For trusted, expert reviews of new cars and the best new car rewards program in Australia, visit the Drive website.
