Fab Five SUVs at the LA Auto Show 2014

Today, we’re talking SUVs, starting with the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Cherokee is here in full force at the LA Auto Show, and there are rumors that it will get a new moniker next year - the Trackhawk. We named the Jeep Cherokee the SUV of the year in January and we’re still pleased with the Cherokee’s form and fit, including an upscale interior, a powerful lineup of engines, and more than ample off road capabilities. It does great on the highway and city streets too. We like it, no matter what it’s called.

Autobytel named the Land Rover Range Rover the 2014 Truck of the Year, and this new SUV from Land Rover – the Discovery Sport – definitely got our attention. It’s a beauty, blending luxury with off-road capability, and plenty of family-friendly features. Some argue it isn’t as aggressive off road as a number of its competitive counterparts, but I think it’s more than ample for people who want a fun driving experience in an elegant package.

The Infiniti QX80 is an enormous full-size luxury SUV with exceptional road presence, a personality trait that has been buttressed by its refresh for the current model year. The QX80 gains several exterior styling tweaks along with a substantially revised interior that culminates in the range-topping Limited trim. Mechanically, the Infiniti holds its course by carrying over last year’s 5.6-liter V-8 engine which generates 400 horsepower.

The new Ford Explorer debuted here, and it looks great. It’s got a new front grille and redesigned front headlamps, among other appealing updates. Under the hood is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, up from a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder in its predecessor, with the new motor generating a capable 270 horsepower. Check out the new Platinum trim level which nets buyers a bunch of amenities, including a 500-watt Sony audio system and interior LED lighting among others.

The Cadillac Escalade and its long-wheelbase companion, the Escalade ESV, have been fully updated to present luxury shoppers with a formidable do-everything option. In addition to offering room for as many as eight passengers across three rows, the Cadillac Escalade provides a new flat load floor that can accommodate up to 94.2 cubic feet of total cargo in the regular wheelbase model alone.

This is Michelle Naranjo with Autobytel and that’s your Fab Five SUVs of the 2014 LA Auto Show.
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