Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize SUVs are similar in size and construction to Midsize SUVs. Most, in fact, are gilded versions of Midsize SUVs; though a few are exclusive upscale designs.

Our Best Buys include Acura MDX, Cadillac SRX, and Lexus RX. Our Recommended picks are Mercedes-Benz R-Class and Volvo XC90.

New or significantly redesigned models include Land Rover Range Rover Sport, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, and Saab 9-7X.

It may be tagged an '07 or an '08 model, but a redesigned X5 is due very soon. Late reports say it wraps cautiously evolved styling around a longer, wider and taller package with room for an available two-place fold-flush 3rd-row seat. The current engine trio will probably carry over with improvements, joined perhaps by BMW's new 300-hp twin-turbo 6-cyl. BMW also hints at a first-time U.S. diesel X5 with either a largish six or a smallish V8. There's also talk of a hot X5 M to take on Mercedes' high-performance ML63. Sources say all engines will mate to 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions and a new generation of BMW's all-wheel xDrive. Upper-end models reportedly have a standard height-adjustable air suspension. Options are said to include BMW's electronically-controlled Active Steering and the Active Roll Stabilization system designed to reduce body lean in corners.

The next X5's "L4" platform will also serve a luxury-performance crossover wagon to answer the Mercedes-Benz R-Class. Expected in calendar '07 or '08, it will be built in South Carolina alongside X5s, reportedly in 2-row "V5" and longer 3-row "V7" versions. Engineering is said to mix elements of the 5-Series and flagship 7-Series cars. L4 is also the reported basis for an AWD "Sport Activity Coupe" with a high stance and very sleek, 2-dr styling. Its timing is less clear, but signs seem to point to a mid-2008 U.S. debut.