Newest tech makes SUVs worth waiting for

If you’re in the market for a newSUV, it’s important to know not only what’s available now but also what’s coming. Here are six SUVs going on sale in the next several months that we at Edmunds think are worth waiting for.

Why these six? One thing they have in common is the latest technology. On top of updated infotainment systems, every vehicle on this list offers a full suite of advanced safety features. Some have a few more tricks up their sleeves, and all offer something unique in the hopes of winning your hard-earned dollar.

VOLVO XC40

Volvo’s newest SUV is the subcompact 2019 XC40. It offers plenty of safety and technology features, and it’s been built to make the most of its available space. Some useful highlights include an integrated trash bin, a hook for holding takeout food, and door pockets that can fit a 15-inch laptop. Acceleration comes from a punchy 248-horsepower turbocharged engine. And a hybrid model is coming.

Volvo is also using the XC40 to pioneer its new subscription-based Care By Volvo service. Similar to a pay-as-you-go phone plan, consumers pay a fixed monthly fee to get the XC40 with nearly everything covered, including insurance, and the option to change to another vehicle in as little as one year.

The XC40 Momentum — the only trim available at launch — comes with a price tag of $35,200. Future base pricing starts at $33,200.

HYUNDAI SANTA FE AND SANTA FE XL

We have high hopes for the redesigned 2019 Santa Fe. The lineup includes a two-row compact SUV and the larger three-row Santa Fe XL. Both look modern and upscale inside and out and should be very competitive with SUVs fromHonda and Toyota.

Three engines will be available, including a 232- horsepower turbocharged gas engine and a 200-horsepower turbodiesel. The latter, along with optional load-leveling suspension, should make the Santa Fe a capable tow vehicle. The Santa Fe also offers a new Safe Exit Assist feature that can lock a door if it senses a passenger is about to swing it open in the path of an oncoming vehicle.

Pricing on either SUV is not yet available. The Santa Fe Sport currently goes for about $25,000 while the Santa Fe is $31,000.

ACURA RDX

The newest generation of Acura’s compact luxury SUV looks to be its biggest step forward. The 2019 RDX will feature Acura’s agility- enhancing all-wheel-drive system, a new look, lots of interior storage space and a nicely appointed cabin. Acura has also replaced the RDX’s dual-screen infotainment setup, which was clunky and outdated. The new system uses a clean, high-definition screen and a touchpad controller.

Further equipped with luxury features, such as a panoramic sunroof, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, a head-up display and a premium audio system, the RDX should be one of the best new Acuras in years.

No pricing information is available for the newest Acura RDX, but the current generation starts at $36,000.

SUBARU ASCENT

Those in need of a ca-

CYRIL ZINGARO — KEYSTONE VIA AP, FILE FILE- In this file photo the NewLexus UX is presented during the press day at the 88th Geneva International Motor Show in Geneva, Switzerland. The 2019Lexus UX is a high-tech subcompact SUV with aggressive styling.