Other compact luxury crossovers, SUVs
Porsche Macan
MSRP: $48,550 Get in a Macan, hit the gas, and any objections about a hot-rod compact crossover disappear. The 2017 10Best award-winning Macan is quicker and more capable onand off-road than its corporate cousin, the Audi Q5. The base engine is a 252-hp 2.0liter turbo inline-four. The S has a 340-hp twin-turbo V-6; the GTS makes 360. All-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic are standard on all. The S hit 60 mph in 5.1 seconds in our test, but the steering lacks feedback and brake pedal travel is long.
Mercedes-AMG GLC43 4MATIC / GLC63 4MATIC
MSRP: $55,895 For a perfect pairing of power and practicality, see Mercedes-AMG’s performance wagon, er, crossover. Induce heart palpitations with a 362-hp twin-turbo V-6 or full-on cardiac arrest with a 469-hp twin-turbo V-8. Both hook up to a nine-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. An available air suspension with adjustable damping and beefedup brakes further bolster its street cred. The interior boasts sport seats, red contrast stitching, and a flat-bottomed steering wheel with paddle shifters.
Jaguar F-Pace
MSRP: $43,060 The F-Pace brings Jaguar’s sexy styling and athletic moves to a crowded market and ends up in a compelling place. Powertrains include a standard 247-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four (also available with 296 hp), a 180-hp turbo-diesel 2.0-liter inlinefour, and a 380-hp supercharged 3.0-liter V-6. A rigid aluminum structure instills driving confidence through sharp steering and superb body control. The interior is roomy and cargo space is ample; an 11-speaker audio system is standard.
Alfa Romeo Stelvio
MSRP: $42,990 If you’re looking to add a little Italian flair to your grocery run, the Stelvio is hot enough to melt your gelato. Under the hood is a 280-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four driving all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic; Alfa claims a zero-to-60-mph time of 5.4 seconds. Inside, you’ll find a handsome interior with leather seats and a 6.5or 8.8-inch infotainment display. Automated emergency braking and adaptive cruise control are optional.