Performance SUVs are highly divisive as they are powerful but they are very heavy and their aerodynamics are not that great. Even so, they are really effective. Some models perfectly mix the pace in a sports car with highly fashionable interiors. Strong full-performance SUVs are practically designed for people that want everything in their vehicle – 4WD, driver appeal, desirability, space and performance. Obviously, the price tag is also high. While muscle car manufacturers like Dodge try to enter the market with their SRT model, others clearly stand out as SUVs sports drivers need to consider.
Range Rover Sport SVR
For some people, this SUV is expensive, heavy and too flagrant. For others, it is a very hot SUV that brings sports driving to a whole new level. The diesel V8 engine is very quick and it is hard not to say that this model is one of the best on the market at the moment for those that love sports driving.
You will find it difficult to locate a driver that better mixes off-road talent, the SUV luxury, functional plushness and handling prowess. Also, many that drive the Range Rover Sport SVR say the experience is a lot of fun, which is rarely said about such vehicles.
Jaguar F-Pace SVR
As soon as Jaguar entered the SUV market, people anticipated the appearance of a performance SUV in the future. When it finally happened, it was truly impressive, an SUV with 4WD capability, sporting drivability, dynamic character and so much more.
F-Pace SVR stands out as a great car for those that want something practical that is also suitable for weekend getaways. The supercharged 5.0 liter V8 offers all the drama and speed needed for such a strong SUV, with exciting handling and much more than initially imagined.
Porsche Macan Turbo
In 2017, when Porsche updated the Macan, around 100,000 units were sold really fast just in that year. The exterior was not changed but the interior became much classier. Macan is seen as the younger sibling of the Cayenne but it does have wonderful handling and very high precision when driving.
The Turbo trim is powered by the 2.9 V6 turbo you see in the RS Audis, bringing in 400 bhp. The standard suspension is really good, offering wonderful motorway driving and you can choose out of different extras that you are going to appreciate. Although Macan Turbo is not so practical, it is dynamic.
Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio
The chassis of this SUV was created by the same person responsible for the Ferrari 458 Speciale. There is a great V6 option derived from the Maranello V8 and the SUV is overall revered in sports saloons. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio is an option that is not often considered by sports vehicle enthusiasts but this should change.
What is great with the SUV is that even if it is large, it drives like a small vehicle. It is also really fast and the only thing that it lacks is the ride sophistication and the onboard comfort you would expect from a luxury SUV.
Audi SQ7
The seven-seat luxury Audi SUV is brought to the level of a great option for drivers with the SQ7. The diesel V8 is wonderful due to its chassis. This is why the SUV needs to be mentioned on this list, alongside titans like the beautiful Range Rover Sport SVR.
The Audi SQ7 is not really a rival for the top sports SUVs out there in terms of performance and it does lack some control feedback. Even so, it is wonderful and you will want to explore the handling limits of the SUV at the end of the day.