America used to be a station-wagon-loving nation, but it and the rest of the world have since moved on and fallen in love with crossovers and SUVs instead. This newfound romance has led to the likes of Buick only selling one body style in the US, and as the market continues to grow, more manufacturers have launched their first SUVs or created more variants thereof. We've already had a great selection to browse throughout 2021, but more options are coming in 2022 with more tech and luxury than ever before. Excluding all-electric vehicles, these are the family-friendly crossovers and SUVs to keep an eye out for in the new year.
2022 Bentley Bentayga S
Powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, you'd think that the Bentley Bentayga has more than enough power, and it does, but wealthy buyers are looking for something sportier. Thus, the British brand is launching the Bentayga S for the 2022 model year with the same 542 horsepower we've become accustomed to but with refinements in the way the tall luxury vehicle handles. This is to be achieved through Bentley's Dynamic Ride active anti-roll control, along with 15% stiffer suspension. The exhaust has also been redeveloped for a more robust sound. At $219,800, it's certainly not cheap, but if you enjoy your luxury in a fun-to-drive package, it's certainly worth considering.
2022 Acura MDX Type S
If you like a premium SUV that is exciting to drive but don't want to go bankrupt, Acura has the answer in the form of the MDX Type S. This still isn't exactly a bargain, with a fully loaded model priced at over $70,000, but you certainly get a lot for your money. Acura's most powerful SUV ever produces 355 hp from its turbocharged V6 engine and can tow up to 5,000 pounds. Its clever AWD system combines with Brembo front brakes for responsive handling while the 10-speed automatic gearbox is a dream to use both when you're cruising calmly and when you're chasing sunsets. If you'd prefer something less extreme, the RDX is getting refreshed for the new year too.
2022 Lexus LX
Those who want their luxury SUVs to be brilliant off the beaten path rather than on it can prepare for the arrival of the Toyota Land Cruiser-based Lexus LX. We still don't have US pricing for the new off-roader, but as it boasts a full redesign, we wouldn't expect it to be very cheap. A 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 will send 409 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic to the 4WD system while Active Height Control with Adaptive Variable Suspension will give drivers "improved grip, traction, and control," says Lexus. It will be available in a new trim called Ultra Luxury with reclining rear seats and a "VIP seating experience" that offers up to 43 inches of legroom. Simply put, if you want supreme comfort in the ultimate luxury off-road package, look no further. Also joining us from the Lexus stable will be the NX, but getting hold of either will be a challenge.
2022 Maserati Grecale
Supply chain issues have affected the new SUV from Maserati too, the Grecale. Allegedly, this new luxury crossover will be based on the same platform that underpins Alfa Romeo's Stelvio, so it should be loads of fun to drive. As for what will motivate the new Maserati, the Italian automaker has kept powertrain details under wraps, but we expect AWD to feature and possibly a twin-turbo V6 engine. Where this engine will come from is yet to be determined, but the rumor mill has suggested everything from the Stelvio Quadrifoglio's 505-hp mill to the bespoke engine found in Maserati's MC20 supercar, although this seems highly unlikely. Whenever in 2022 it arrives and whatever engine it debuts with, it will have staunch competition in the form of the latest Porsche Macan.
2022 Jeep Wagoneer & Grand Wagoneer
The Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer will soon become common sights on American roads, but don't expect either to proliferate every parking lot you enter. Both recently got a price hike despite having just been launched, so the former now starts at over $70,000 while the latter starts at just under $90,000. If you can afford either, you're in for a treat though, as each comes standard with leather upholstery and loads of tech. In the Grand Wagoneer, you get up to 75 inches of screen space, guaranteeing peaceful road trips. With over up to 116.7 cubic feet of volume in the Wagoneer and up to 94.2 in the Grand Wagoneer, there's loads of room for luggage, skis, dogs, or anything else you could want on a vacation. Still, we'd hold back before placing an order, as a new engine seems to be on the way. Alternatively, a refreshed Grand Cherokee is also on offer.
Notable Mentions
Many of the vehicles we've covered here are rather pricy, but there are some budget beaters coming to the US too. Volkswagen's Taos is new for 2022 and will be joined by a refreshed version of its Tiguan big brother. Genesis will be launching its GV70 too, while Infiniti loyalists can look forward to the QX60 and QX55. Sticking with Asian offerings, the Toyota Corolla Cross is a solid effort at an affordable price. For those with exceptionally deep pockets and no interest in a Bentley, the Ferrari Purosangue, the marque's first-ever SUV, may yet be launched late in 2022 as a 2023 model. It is sure to be exciting, but so is Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT. These are all likely to be massive sales successes, so if you're over the idea of crossovers and SUVs, maybe move to somewhere with smaller streets. We recommend Bali.