We’ll be introducing our subjective and biased recommendations for the “cool cars” among crossover SUVs available for purchase as new cars as of 2024 (Reiwa 6) . You might see a car on the street that just seems “cool” for no apparent reason. We hope this will be helpful for anyone considering buying a car.
1. Porsche Cayenne
Porsche Japan has made major changes to its flagship SUV, the Cayenne Coupe, and began selling the Japanese model on April 18, 2023.
The exterior features the latest design, including high-resolution HD matrix LED headlights, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), 20-inch wheels, and front and rear park assist.
Interior changes include a 12.7-inch digital meter, a 12.3-inch infotainment system, and a 10.9-inch passenger display in front of the passenger seat . An air quality system is also included to filter pollutants from the air inside the car.
▼For more details, please refer to this article.
→ Porsche new Cayenne major minor change launches in Japan on April 18, 2023
2 Lamborghini Urus
Lamborghini unveiled the new Urus S, the successor to the Urus super SUV, on September 29, 2022 (local time). The Urus S is the world’s first super sports utility vehicle, combining the spirit of a super sports car with the practical functionality of an SUV. Equipped with a Lamborghini 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine, the Urus is a performance-oriented model that combines driving pleasure with incredible vehicle performance. Design, performance, driving dynamics, and unbridled emotion flow seamlessly through this forward-thinking model, embodying authentic Lamborghini DNA.
The Urus S is equipped with a 4.0L V8 twin-turbo engine that produces a maximum output of 666 CV (490 kW) at 6000 rpm and a maximum torque of 850 Nm at 2300-4500 rpm, achieving a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 305 km/h. It also has six drive modes and an EGO mode. It has the same power as the high-performance Urus Performante, but achieves a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 3.3 seconds .
The Urus S gets a variety of design tweaks, including a new front bumper that now comes standard with a matte black-painted stainless steel skid plate. The rear bumper is also new and comes with a matte black lower section. It’s brushed steel by default, but is available as a matte, shiny black, or bright chrome finish. Other options include a carbon hood, a carbon roof, and 22- and 23-inch wheel upgrades for buyers who feel the standard 21-inch rims don’t quite fit their squared arches. The interior hasn’t escaped the upgrade treatment, either. The basic dash architecture and control layout remain unchanged, and there are multiple new trim and color choices, including a two-tone Sportivo for those who want to keep things understated, and a two-tone sleek trim with bolder contrast color options and stitching.
Lamborghini’s new “Urus S” super SUV to be announced on September 29, 2022
3 Porsche Macan
The exterior is now even sharper, with a redesigned nose that emphasises the Macan’s wide body and makes it even more eye-catching on the road. The central section and other elements of the Macan GTS nose are finished in black, while the rear is particularly highlighted by the diffuser’s technical design. The front end features a new three-dimensional structure; side blades with a similar structure are available as an option. The Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) LED headlights and Sport Design exterior mirrors are standard on all models.
The new Macan is available in 14 colors, including the new Papaya Metallic and Gentian Blue Metallic, as well as Python Green for the Macan GTS equipped with the GTS Sport Package. The standard wheels are also larger: 19 inches for the Macan, 20 inches for the Macan S, and 21 inches for the Macan GTS. Seven new wheel designs are also available.
The interior has been significantly enhanced with a modernized center console. The new operating concept, featuring touch panels instead of tactile switches, gives the cockpit a clearer structure. The clearly organized control module features a new, more compact selector lever in the center. An analog clock atop the dashboard is also standard. Numerous packages with leather trim and contrast stitching in Gentian Blue, Papaya, or Crayon are available as options to add new color highlights to the interior. These functions and services can be controlled via the 10.9-inch full HD touch display of the Porsche Communication Management or via voice commands. The new multifunction GT sports steering wheel is taken from the 911.
New Porsche Macan with improved power output. Japan model. Orders open July 20, 2021.
Porsche will be completely redesigning its compact SUV sports car, the Macan, discontinuing the gasoline engine model and introducing the all-electric Macan EV, which will be released in 2024. Two grades will be available: the Macan 4 and the Macan Turbo. It is faster than the Macan Turbo and the 911 GT3 . It is Porsche’s first model to use the new platform, the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) . It is equipped with an augmented reality (AR) head-up display that can project navigation instructions on a triple screen.
The new Macan measures 4,786mm long, 2,151mm wide, and has a wheelbase of 2,893mm tall. It’s 58mm longer, 76.2mm taller, and 86mm longer than the previous Macan. It resembles the Cayenne Coupe, with a coupe-like sloping roofline that slopes steeply toward the rear, and wide fenders that conceal its EV underpinnings.
The new Macan EV’s expanded footprint also increases interior space: rear passengers get more legroom, and the all-new Macan offers an additional 4.4 cubic feet of storage space in comparison.
Of the additional cargo space, 2.9 cubic feet is under the hood.
The new Macan features a new interior that makes extensive use of up to three screens . It features a new 12.6-inch digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel and a dash-mounted toggle gear selector between the 10.9-inch main infotainment screen. An optional third screen above the glovebox, also 10.9 inches, allows passengers to stream videos and use apps like TikTok.
This can be done whether the car is moving or stationary, as the screen’s surface prevents the driver from looking in. It features a new augmented reality head-up display that can project navigation images onto the road.
The instrument cluster features four different modes: Classic, Map, Full Map, and Pure. Classic mode resembles a traditional instrument cluster, but the two map modes display navigation information. Meanwhile, Pure mode uses arrows to display only “critical driving information, such as speed, traffic signs, and navigation.” The digital instrument cluster features a large 16.8-inch display with a “coated, vapor-deposited polarizing filter” that gives it real glass and anti-reflective properties. Beneath the infotainment system is a lamp-like center console featuring two rectangular air vents and an 8.4-inch touchscreen with haptic feedback. Climate control settings and heated/ventilated front seats are easily accessible, and the screen features handwriting recognition technology, allowing users to easily enter addresses into the navigation system.
The passenger side has a central 10.9-inch infotainment display with voice control technology for “Hey Porsche” and apps such as navigation.
▼For more details, please refer to this article.
4. Land Rover “Range Rover”
Land Rover announced the full redesign of the new fifth-generation Range Rover as a 2022 model at 3:40 PM EST on October 26, 2021. Land Rover has fully redesigned the new fifth-generation Range Rover, with the Japanese model released on January 17, 2022. Land Rover’s first electric vehicle (BEV) is scheduled to be added to the lineup in 2024 .
The new Range Rover is built around a new architecture called MLA-Flex (flexible Modular Longitudinal Architecture). With this full model change, the powertrain will be available in three versions: MHEV (mild hybrid), PHEV (plug-in hybrid), and BEV (battery electric vehicle). Two body types are available: standard wheelbase (SWB) and long wheelbase (LWB).
There’s a 13.7-inch digital gauge cluster and a 13.1-inch Pivo Pro infotainment screen, which for the first time features haptic feedback. There’s an option for an 11.4-inch touchscreen. Other gadget headlines include Amazon Alexa voice AI, over-the-air update capability, and active noise cancellation via the Meridian sound system that comes with higher trim grades, including the First Edition.
▼For more details, please refer to this article.
→ Land Rover New Range Rover Fully Redesigned 2022 Model World Premiere on October 26, 2021
→ Land Rover New Range Rover Fully Redesigned Japan Model Released January 17, 2022
5 Land Rover “Defender”
Land Rover began accepting orders for the new 2022 Defender model on June 28, 2021. The 2022 limited edition grade, the XS Edition, will also be introduced. The new Defender is available in a 5+2 seating configuration, and will be released with four different accessory packs: Explorer, Adventure, Country, and Urban. In addition, customers can choose from 170 accessories. The lineup also includes the Defender 90 and highly versatile and durable commercial models.
Developed to be the world’s most technologically advanced off-road vehicle, it combines a new body structure with all-new technology and proven hardware.
The all-aluminum D7x platform is based on the new D7x architecture, a lightweight all-aluminum monocoque structure that is three times stiffer than a conventional body-on-frame design. It also features a fully independent suspension.
The exterior features squared wheel arches and new LED headlights and vertical taillights, giving the car a tough and premium look. There are 12 wheel designs to choose from, ranging from 18-inch white-painted pressed steel rims to 22-inch Lunar alloys.
The interior features a digital instrument panel and a central touchscreen with a “head-up display featuring next-generation Land Rover Electronic Vehicle Architecture (EVA 2.0).”
A front-row center seat (jump seat) is standard on the First Edition Defender 90 and optional on the Defender 110. The Defender 110 seats five, six, or five plus two. The Defender 90 seats six.
Three interior color combinations and different interior finish options are available. The “S” and “SE” trims combine grained leather with durable, robust textiles. The “HSE” model offers high-grade Windsor leather. The Defender X combines Windsor leather with steel-cut premium textile accents for enhanced durability.
The Defender 110 has a ground clearance of 291 mm, approach, breakover, and departure angles (off-road height with towing eye covers removed) of 38, 28, and 40 degrees, respectively. Its maximum towing capacity is 3,720 kg. Its maximum payload is 900 kg, its maximum roof static load is 300 kg, its maximum roof dynamic load is 168 kg, and its maximum wading depth is 900 mm.
▼For more details, please refer to this article.
→ Land Rover New Defender 2022 Model Released in Japan on June 28, 2021
6. Lexus “GX550”
Lexus will be fully redesigning its new cross-country SUV, the GX550, and releasing it in February 2024. This GX550 will also be the first to be introduced in Japan, and will be released in February 2024. It will be based on Toyota’s Land Cruiser 250, which will be released around the same time, making it Lexus’ most off-road-oriented model.
The exterior design, which contributes to the vehicle’s high driving performance, expresses the vehicle’s unique design, which pursues proportions and unique characteristics rooted in functional essence and dynamic capability. Its exterior design offers superior off-road capability and an adventurous spirit, while also providing comfortable driving on any road. From the side, the 2024 GX is almost reminiscent of the 70-series Toyota Land Cruiser. The Lexus spindle grille is well-integrated, and the nose is upright, avoiding excessive curvature compared to the rest of the body. The hood features a reverse power bulge, with the outer edges of both sides projecting high to match the headlights. The lights feature Lexus family graphics, and the mirrors are large and boxy, reminiscent of a classic cruiser. The rear view maintains a simple design. A full-length light bar sits below the large rear window and can be opened independently of the new standard power tailgate. It is 70mm longer and 95mm wider than the current model, with a 60mm longer wheelbase. Overall length: 4,950mm, overall width: 1,980mm, overall height: 1,870mm, wheelbase: 2,850mm.
The 2024 Lexus GX will be offered in six trim levels: Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+, and, new for Lexus, OverTrail and OverTrail+. While the trim appears to emphasize two-tone exterior colors and “earth-toned” interiors, the main highlight is the standard 33-inch all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels. To accommodate the tires, the GX OverTrail model features overfenders and aluminum skid plates as standard. The OverTrail trim also features an electronic locking rear differential and improved wheel articulation thanks to Toyota’s Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS), which disengages the anti-roll bars when driving off-road. Off-road technology such as Multi-Terrain Select (MTS), Crawl Control, Downhill Assist Control (DAC), and a 3D Multi-Terrain Monitor are also standard.
The interior is designed with functionality in mind, such as all-round visibility when driving off-road, and is equipped with a variety of user-friendly features to provide customers with a modern, comfortable interior space that gives them a sense of security in any environment. Furthermore, Lexus features a newly designed interior layout and seating for up to seven people.
The 12.3-inch full-screen instrument cluster and central HVAC vent have been moved significantly lower on the dashboard to accommodate a larger 14-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Physical controls for the climate and audio are still present, but a dedicated button for the vehicle’s off-road capabilities is now located near the gear selector.
There’s seating for seven inside, unless you opt for individual captain’s chairs for the second row. The third row is powerable, with one-touch access to the 60:40 split second row. Elsewhere inside, there are up to 12 cupholders, up to six charging ports, and a 120V inverter to power auxiliary devices.
7 Toyota Century (SUV)
Toyota will release the new Century in November 2023. The new car launch event was held on September 6, 2023 at 1:30 PM. The Century is designed with an eye on the next 100 years, and this time it will be a crossover SUV, with two different specifications available: the standard model and the GRMN.
The overall length and wheelbase are relaxed, creating a style that exudes a sense of solidity. The headlights feature a combination of four projector-type headlights and an LED array AHS. The rear combination lamps feature four lamps with depth, giving the car a dignified gaze. Craftsmen have meticulously carved the car (the iconic “phoenix” emblem at the center of the front continues to be used from the previous model), and the painted surface has been thoroughly polished to a “mirror finish” that gives the body an overwhelming luster. Every detail has been finished by the hands of “masters” who have mastered the art of manufacturing.
The car features a 12.3-inch TFT display (full LCD digital meter). It also features fully reclining rear seats with features such as a refresh function to ensure that rear-seat passengers can truly relax. Outstanding technology has been poured into audio development, creating a comfortable listening space reminiscent of a live performance. The rear doors open up to 75 degrees and the sweeping floor make it easy to get in and out.
▼For more details, please refer to this article.
8. Lexus RX
Lexus will make some improvements to the new RX, a large luxury crossover SUV, and release it in July 2024.
A revolution in design. The exterior design expresses a bold, assertive style that hints at a new level of driving performance. The “spindle body” design, which is a distinctive feature of Lexus, is integrated with the front grille, which also provides cooling functionality.
The body dimensions of the new RX prototype are 4,890mm in length, 1,920mm in width, 1,695mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,850mm. Compared to the previous RX, the length remains the same, but the width is 25mm wider, the height is 10mm lower, and the wheelbase is 60mm longer.
The interior design is based on the human-centered “Tazuna Concept,” aiming to achieve both a driver’s seat that allows for a deeper, more intuitive connection between the car and the driver, making driving more enjoyable, and an open and comfortable living space. A 14-inch touch display is used, and voice recognition is also supported.
There are six interior colors available, including the newly developed “Dark Sepia” that creates a dignified space. The steering switch and head-up display are linked.
▼For more details, please refer to this article.
→ New Lexus RX partially improved, upgraded to latest equipment, released in July 2024
9 Toyota Land Cruiser 300
Toyota has completely redesigned the Land Cruiser, launching the new LC300 series on August 2, 2021. This marks the first full model change in 13 years. This time, of course, the new model is based on the newly developed “GA-F platform ” known as ” TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) ,” also used in the new Prius, which was launched on December 9, 2015. The adoption of a ladder frame allows for a larger interior space than the previous model. The newly developed platform achieves high aerodynamic performance and a lower center of gravity, increasing body rigidity, resulting in a significant improvement over the previous model. The weight has been reduced by 200 kg . The lower center of gravity was achieved by moving the engine 20 mm lower and 70 mm further rearward, replacing the previous V8 with a newly developed V6 twin-turbo engine, which is shorter and allows for a lower center of gravity. The weight distribution is 53.5:46.5, improving the front-heavy behavior of the 200 series.
The exterior design will of course retain the same concept, but will be more modern and luxurious. It will feature triple LED headlights, DRL (Daytime Running Light) “Signature Lamps”, and LED sequential turn signals (flowing blinkers) on the front and rear. The body size is almost the same as the 200 series, with a total length of 4,990 mm, a total width of 1,980 mm, and a wheelbase of 2,850 mm, with an approach angle of 32 degrees and a departure angle of 24 degrees.
The GR SPORT grade is available as a performance-oriented GR Sport edition. It comes with a GR SPORT-exclusive grille bumper featuring the TOYOTA emblem, E-KDSS, and front and rear differential locks.
Like the new Harrier and Crown , the interior has been modernised compared to the previous model, with LCD panels used for meters and other components. LED interior lighting and an electric parking brake (with hold function) are used. A 12.3-inch wide touchscreen T-Connect SD navigation system and a JBL premium sound system (12 speakers) are also included. A colour head-up display is also fitted. Panasonic’s Nanoe X , which removes pollen, allergens, odours, mould, bacteria, viruses and PM2.5, is standard equipment. Just place and charge is used, allowing for wireless charging of smartphones and other devices. A first for Toyota, the engine start switch is fitted with a fingerprint authentication start switch ( a first for Toyota) .
The “side mirrors” and “A-pillars” often block the view and make it difficult to see, so you have to drive carefully while peering into the mirrors. The new model has a gap between the “side mirrors” and “A-pillars”, so visibility is much better than the previous model.
Vehicles equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine can seat seven people.
Vehicles equipped with a 3.3L V6 diesel engine will be available as a five-seater.
A “3D multi-terrain monitor” is now available.
The rear seat control panel installed in the center console box is fully equipped with air conditioning vents, a rear seat air conditioning control panel, an HDMI port, a cigarette lighter socket, and two USB charging ports.
The rear seat entertainment system is equipped with LCD displays on the left and right front seat backs, which can display the same image as the front seats or a separate image for the rear seats only.
▼For more details, please refer to this article.
→ Toyota’s new Land Cruiser 300 will be fully redesigned and released on August 2, 2021
Toyota Land Cruiser 250
Toyota will fully redesign its cross-country SUV, the Land Cruiser Prado, and officially announce the new Land Cruiser 250 on August 2, 2023. It will be released in Japan in April 2024.
The vehicle employs a ladder frame based on the newly developed GA-F platform known as TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) , making it possible to achieve a spacious interior. The adoption of the newly developed platform has resulted in a lower center of gravity and increased body rigidity, achieving high aerodynamic performance and achieving significant improvements. Compared to the previous model, the frame rigidity has been significantly strengthened by 50%, and the rigidity of the entire vehicle has been improved by 30%. Further improvements have been made through the adoption of the E-KDSS (Electronic-Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System), a first for a Lexus, which improves road-holding performance. On-road driving performance has been improved by increasing the rigidity of each part and adopting EPS.
The exterior design, which contributes to the vehicle’s high driving performance, expresses the vehicle’s authentic off-roader character with “a design that pursues proportions and uniqueness rooted in functional essence and dynamic performance. ” Its appearance exudes high off-road capability and an adventurous spirit, while also providing a comfortable driving experience for the driver on any road. Viewed from the side, the Land Cruiser 250 is almost reminiscent of the 70-series Toyota Land Cruiser. The mirrors are large and boxy, just like on a classic cruiser. The rear view maintains a simple design. Beneath the large rear window is a full-length light bar, which can be opened independently of the new standard power tailgate.
The Land Cruiser “250” (prototype) has body dimensions of 4,925mm in length, 1,980mm in width, 1,870mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,850mm. Compared to the conventional Prado, it has grown by 100mm in length, 95mm in width, 20mm in height, and 60mm in wheelbase.
The new Land Cruiser 250 has two different designs, with the base model featuring triple LED headlights and the 1958 grade featuring round headlights.
The interior has been modernized compared to the previous model, with LCD panels used for meters and other features. The interior features LED interior lighting and an electric parking brake with hold function. While taking into consideration functionality such as all-round visibility for off-road driving, the new model is equipped with a variety of user-friendly features, providing a modern, comfortable interior space that gives customers peace of mind in any environment. It also features a newly designed interior layout and seating for up to seven passengers. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and central HVAC vent have been moved significantly lower on the dashboard to accommodate a larger 12.3-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While physical controls for the air conditioning and audio remain, dedicated buttons for the vehicle’s off-road functions are now located near the gear selector.
▼For more details, please refer to this article.
→ Toyota Land Cruiser 250 Prado full model change announced on August 2, 2023, released in Japan in April 2024
10 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The G-Class is an SUV developed by Daimler under the Mercedes-Benz brand. It was introduced in 1979. The origin of the current G-Class is the Geländewagen, a military vehicle that was officially adopted by NATO and adapted for civilian use. Over the course of roughly a quarter of a century, the car has undergone several minor changes, but with the exception of the engine and interior, the basic components remain unchanged from the original design.
Mercedes-Benz has updated the G-Class with the most significant changes in its long history, first in North America and then in Japan and other countries around the world. Orders began in Japan on June 6, 2018, with deliveries scheduled for late August. Prices range from ¥15.62 million to ¥20.35 million. This major update maintains the same concept and incorporates numerous advanced technologies. The design is based on the 2012 Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Concept. Features include a new independent front suspension and a wider track. Electromechanical steering and the latest safety driver assistance systems with stereo cameras are adopted. Extensive use of aluminum reduces the car’s weight by approximately 200 to 400 kg. The body has been widened by 100 mm. It is equipped with a newly developed 3.0L inline-six engine. Similar to the new E-Class and S-Class, the interior offers an optional alternative instrument panel in the form of a large display screen that displays virtual instruments within the driver’s field of vision and a central display on the center console. Two 12.3-inch displays visually blend into the widescreen cockpit under a shared glass cover. The driver can choose from three display styles: “Classic,” “Sport,” and “Progressive.” The sound system, developed in collaboration with German high-end audio specialist Burmester, delivers the ultimate in natural, expressive soundscapes to satisfy the senses. The audio system boasts high output with 16 high-performance speakers and a nine-channel amplifier. The optional Burmester® High-End 3D Surround Sound System delivers an impressive 5.1-channel surround sound system. The rear seats can be folded 60, 40, or 100 percent. The G-Class seats come standard with many convenient features, including a driver’s seat memory function, heated front and rear seats, and luxurious front headrests.
It is equipped with two 12.3-inch high-resolution displays, a new touch control on the steering wheel, and Energizing Comfort Control (which manages temperature, massage, lighting, music, etc.). The second-row seats are 60/40 split seats, and legroom has been increased by 150mm compared to the previous G-Class.
▼For more details, please refer to this article.
→ Mercedes-Benz adds new G-Class “G400d” to Japan, released on May 19, 2021
summary
We’ve introduced some cool crossover SUVs that everyone wants to drive at least once, but did you find any good ones? We hope we’ve introduced some models that you’ll often see around town and that catch your eye. We’ll continue to update this list as we find more interesting models.
