2024 Luxury SUVs That Let You Pretend You’re Royalty (Without the Royal Price Tag)

The world of luxury SUVs has changed. Once upon a time, if you wanted to feel like royalty, you had to spend like it. Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Range Rover—all fabulous machines, but also the kind of cars that come with a price tag that requires you to seriously reconsider your life choices. But now, the tables have turned. In 2024, you can drive a luxury SUV that offers all the refinement, style, and opulence you could dream of without having to auction off a family heirloom or sell a kidney.

No longer do you need to have a royal title or a trust fund to enjoy the finer things in life. Carmakers have realized that regular people—people who like to have their cake and eat it too—want luxury, but they don’t want the financial fallout that comes with buying a hand-built British fortress on wheels. Enter the 2024 luxury SUVs that let you pretend you’re riding in splendor but without the royal price tag. Let’s dive in and see what’s on offer for those of us who want to live the good life without declaring bankruptcy.

1. 2024 Genesis GV80: Korean Opulence at a Fraction of the Price

When Genesis first broke off from Hyundai to become a luxury brand, no one knew what to expect. Fast forward a few years, and now Genesis is one of the most talked-about brands in the luxury market. The 2024 Genesis GV80 is the crown jewel of their lineup, and it’s a masterclass in how to create a luxury SUV that feels far more expensive than it is. I have done a full review of the GV80 you can find here.

Let’s start with the exterior. The GV80 looks like it was designed by someone who spent a lot of time studying Bentleys but didn’t have the budget to replicate the British behemoth down to the last stitch. But don’t let that fool you—this thing is a stunner. The large, imposing grille is unmistakable, and the split headlights give it a futuristic, yet regal look. From the side, the GV80’s sleek lines and muscular stance make it look far more expensive than it is. And the rear end? Clean, sophisticated, and modern, with taillights that look like they belong on a car twice the price.

Step inside, and the GV80 continues to impress. The materials are top-notch—leather, wood, and metal come together to create a cabin that feels like it was designed for someone who drinks champagne for breakfast. The seats are incredibly comfortable, with enough adjustments to make even the pickiest passengers happy. And the attention to detail is exceptional, with quilted leather door panels, a large panoramic sunroof, and even a “knurled” finish on the control dials that wouldn’t be out of place in a Bentley.

The tech is equally impressive. There’s a massive 14.5-inch touchscreen sitting in the middle of the dash, controlling everything from navigation to climate control. The digital instrument cluster is sharp and customizable, and Genesis has even thrown in a head-up display for good measure. You’ll also find wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 21-speaker Lexicon sound system that will make you feel like you’re at a private concert.

And the best part? The price. The GV80 starts at around $60,000. Yes, you read that right. For the same money you’d spend on a mid-range BMW X5, you can get a fully loaded GV80 that feels like it belongs in the upper echelons of the luxury SUV market. Genesis may not have the brand cachet of Mercedes or Audi, but trust me—when you’re behind the wheel of the GV80, you’ll feel like you’re in something far more exclusive.

2. 2024 Volvo XC90: Swedish Zen in SUV Form

If you’ve ever wanted to experience what it’s like to live in a perfectly designed Scandinavian home, complete with minimalist decor and more natural light than you ever thought possible, then the 2024 Volvo XC90 is your ride. Volvo has always been about understated luxury, and the XC90 is no exception. It’s the SUV for people who want to feel pampered but don’t feel the need to scream about it.

The exterior of the XC90 is all about clean lines and timeless design. It’s not flashy, but it’s certainly handsome. The signature Thor’s Hammer headlights give it an elegant front end, and the large, vertical grille adds just the right amount of presence without being overbearing. The side profile is sleek and uncluttered, and the rear is simple yet sophisticated. There’s nothing about the XC90 that feels overdone or ostentatious—it’s luxury that speaks softly but carries a big stick.

Inside, the XC90 is a sanctuary. Volvo has perfected the art of creating interiors that feel like a zen retreat. The materials are all top-quality—there’s real wood, leather, and metal throughout the cabin, and everything feels solid and well-made. The seats are some of the most comfortable you’ll find in any SUV, with excellent support and more adjustment options than you’ll ever need. And because this is a Volvo, the seats are heated, cooled, and offer a massage function that will leave you wondering why you didn’t go Swedish sooner.

The tech is as slick as the interior design. The XC90 features a portrait-oriented 9-inch touchscreen that controls everything from the navigation system to the climate settings. It’s responsive and easy to use, though the lack of physical buttons might be a bit of a learning curve for those who still cling to their old-school ways. There’s also a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that displays all the vital information, and Volvo’s semi-autonomous driving features (Pilot Assist) are among the best in the business.

And because this is a Volvo, safety is a top priority. The XC90 comes loaded with driver assistance features, from adaptive cruise control to lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking. It’s the kind of car that makes you feel safe, not just in terms of crash protection, but also in terms of avoiding crashes in the first place.

At around $60,000 to start, the XC90 offers a level of refinement and quality that rivals SUVs costing much more. It’s the perfect luxury SUV for those who appreciate Scandinavian design, comfort, and safety without the need to shout about it.

3. 2024 Lincoln Aviator: American Luxury with a Modern Twist

Lincoln has quietly been reinventing itself over the past few years, and the 2024 Lincoln Aviator is proof that they’re finally getting it right. This is American luxury done properly—big, bold, and confident, but with enough modern touches to keep it from feeling like a relic of the past. If you’ve ever wanted to drive an SUV that feels like a first-class lounge at 30,000 feet, the Aviator might just be your ticket.

Let’s start with the design. The Aviator is unmistakably American in its proportions—it’s big, bold, and has the kind of road presence that commands respect. The front end features a large, chrome grille that manages to look classy rather than tacky, and the LED headlights add a touch of modern sophistication. The side profile is clean and elegant, with just the right amount of chrome accents to remind you that this is a luxury SUV. The rear is similarly elegant, with thin LED taillights that stretch across the width of the vehicle, giving it a wide, imposing stance.

Step inside, and you’re greeted by one of the most luxurious interiors in its class. Lincoln has clearly taken notes from the likes of Bentley and Rolls-Royce, because the Aviator’s cabin feels like a proper luxury experience. The materials are all high-quality—leather, wood, and brushed aluminum are everywhere, and the attention to detail is impressive. The seats are some of the best in the business, with heating, cooling, and massage functions that will make long drives feel like a spa day. There’s also an available 30-way power-adjustable seat, which is probably more adjustability than you’ll ever need, but hey, it’s nice to have options.

The tech is just as impressive. Lincoln’s SYNC 4 infotainment system is easy to use, with a large touchscreen that’s responsive and intuitive. There’s also a digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system that will make your favorite playlist sound like a live performance. And because this is Lincoln, the Aviator is loaded with luxury features like soft-close doors, an air suspension that adjusts based on road conditions, and a panoramic sunroof that bathes the cabin in natural light.

At around $55,000 to start, the Aviator offers a level of luxury and refinement that rivals much more expensive SUVs. It’s proof that American luxury is back, and it’s better than ever.

4. 2024 Audi Q7: German Engineering Meets Subtle Luxury

If you’re looking for an SUV that combines luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology without the pomp and circumstance, look no further than the 2024 Audi Q7. This is German engineering at its finest—refined, sophisticated, and effortlessly cool. The Q7 is for people who want to feel like royalty without having to shout about it.

The design of the Q7 is classic Audi—sleek, understated, and purposeful. The large front grille and sharp LED headlights give it an assertive front end, while the smooth lines and muscular proportions make it look both elegant and athletic. It’s not as bold or in-your-face as some of its competitors, but that’s exactly the point. The Q7 is all about understated luxury, the kind that doesn’t need to make a scene.

Inside, the Q7 is pure class. The materials are top-notch, with leather, wood, and aluminum creating a cabin that feels both modern and luxurious. The seats are incredibly comfortable, with plenty of adjustability and support for long drives. And because this is Audi, the attention to detail is second to none—everything you touch feels high-quality and thoughtfully designed.

The tech is cutting-edge, as you’d expect from Audi. The Q7 features Audi’s Virtual Cockpit, which replaces traditional gauges with a customizable digital display that shows everything from speed to navigation directions. There’s also a dual touchscreen setup for the infotainment system, which controls everything from the climate settings to the stereo. It’s intuitive, responsive, and feels very futuristic—just what you’d expect from a German luxury SUV.

And then there’s the performance. The Q7 is available with a range of engines, from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder to a 3.0-liter V6 with a mild-hybrid system. The V6, in particular, offers plenty of power, with smooth acceleration and a refined driving experience. The Q7 isn’t the sportiest SUV in its class, but it strikes a perfect balance between comfort and performance.

Starting at around $58,000, the Q7 offers a level of luxury and performance that rivals much more expensive SUVs. It’s the perfect choice for those who appreciate German engineering and understated elegance.

5. 2024 Lexus RX: Japanese Craftsmanship Meets Modern Luxury

Lexus has long been known for its bulletproof reliability and impeccable craftsmanship, and the 2024 Lexus RX continues that tradition while adding a healthy dose of modern luxury. This is the SUV for those who want a smooth, quiet, and refined driving experience without breaking the bank. It’s luxury, Japanese-style.

The exterior design of the RX is bold and distinctive. The large spindle grille dominates the front end, and while it’s a bit polarizing, it certainly gives the RX a unique look. The sharp LED headlights and sleek lines make it look modern and dynamic, while the muscular proportions give it a sense of presence on the road. It’s not the most traditional luxury SUV in terms of design, but it’s definitely eye-catching.

Inside, the RX is all about comfort and craftsmanship. The materials are top-quality, with leather, wood, and soft-touch plastics creating a cabin that feels both luxurious and durable. The seats are incredibly comfortable, with plenty of support for long drives, and there’s plenty of room for passengers in both the front and rear. The RX also features a large panoramic sunroof that adds to the sense of spaciousness inside the cabin.

The tech is modern and intuitive. The RX comes with a large touchscreen infotainment system that controls everything from navigation to climate control, and there’s also a digital instrument cluster that displays all the important information at a glance. The Mark Levinson premium audio system is one of the best in the business, and the RX also comes with a host of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.

Starting at around $50,000, the RX offers a level of luxury and refinement that’s hard to beat at this price point. It’s the perfect choice for those who want a smooth, quiet, and luxurious driving experience without the hassle of owning a European luxury SUV.

So, there you have it—the best luxury SUVs of 2024 that let you live like royalty without requiring a royal bank account. These SUVs offer all the refinement, comfort, and technology you could want, but at prices that make sense for those of us who don’t have a castle to mortgage.

Whether you’re drawn to the Korean opulence of the Genesis GV80, the Scandinavian sanctuary of the Volvo XC90, the American flair of the Lincoln Aviator, the German precision of the Audi Q7, or the Japanese craftsmanship of the Lexus RX, there’s a luxury SUV out there for you. So, go ahead—indulge a little. After all, who says you need a crown to ride in luxury?