High-Performance SUVs for the Discerning Driver

SUVs have become all the rage over the last decade, so seeing one on the streets is nothing new. However, to the discerning driver, there are differences between a regular SUV and a high-performance SUV. While there's absolutely nothing wrong with getting a regular SUV for your family, they're a hugely versatile and economical choice; a high-performance SUV will add something extra to your everyday driving experience. As your used car dealer near Shiprock, we sell a wide variety of SUVs, including high-performance models. We've made it our goal to understand this vast segment of the SUV industry so that we can best serve our community by offering SUVs that are a cut above the rest. So, what makes an SUV a "high-performance" model?

What is a High-Performance SUV?

A high-performance SUV isn't just a vehicle for hauling the kids back and forth from school and activities. While you can transport your family comfortably in one of these vehicles, you can do so while making a statement. To be classified as a high-performance SUV, the primary qualification is coming equipped with a robust engine capable of generating significant power and torque. Not only that, but it also needs to be coupled with dynamic handling capabilities and superior control. You get the extra space of a traditional SUV but with excellent, agile handling and responsiveness. These aren't jerry-rigged powerhouses built in someone's backyard; they're highly tuned performance machines wrapped in a sleek, sophisticated SUV body. Most come with luxurious details and styling, including upscale interiors and the latest advanced technology. When you step into a high-performance SUV, you know you've elevated your driving experience. Sit back and brace yourself for one of the smoothest rides of your life.

Why Are Used High-Performance SUVs in Demand?

High-performance SUVs are a cut above the rest in terms of power and handling. It's not surprising, therefore, that they come at a higher price tag than your standard SUV that doesn't come with a turbocharged engine or dynamic performance capabilities. In order to comfortably afford a high-performance SUV, many people decide to go the used route. This lets them achieve a significantly reduced monthly cost of ownership while still getting the vehicle they want. And because high-performance SUVs are built to last and are typically outfitted with all the latest features, even getting a high-performance SUV that is a few years old can be a huge step up from a new typical SUV. Going with a used option can be the first step an individual or family takes into a more luxurious vehicle, acting as a stepping stone from moderate capabilities to high performance.

At Automax Truck and Car Center, we see these high-performance SUVs drive off the lot in the ownership of folks from all different lifestyles. Some want to look flashy around town, others are looking for something to handle the backroads in style, and others want a smoother and safer vehicle for their family that they can rely on. No matter why you're choosing to look into getting a high-performance SUV, you'll be in good company.

Examples of High-Performance SUV Models

The BMW X5 M

BMW is a brand known for producing luxury vehicles that incorporate dynamic performance into their base designs. The X5 M is one such vehicle. The BMW X5 is the first SUV for BMW, having made its debut back in 1999 under the E53 nameplate. The M class is a tier unto itself. Designed with superior handling in mind, BMW officially marketed the X5 M as an "SAV" rather than its typical "SUV" classification. To BMW, this stands for "Sports Activity Vehicle," nodding to the fact that it can hold its own in terms of control and performance and isn't your typical generic SUV. We're currently in the 4th generation of the BMW X5 M, which hit the market in 2020 after launching in 2019. This means that there are plenty of great used X5 Ms out there for sale from this current generation. If you're looking for an X5 M at an even greater discount, take a look at used models from the third generation, which ran from 2013-2018.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk

The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is an excellent example of what we mean when we talk about a superior driving experience, even for the most avid outdoor adventurer. This trim level on the much-loved Jeep Grand Cherokee was discontinued after the model year 2022 when Jeep decided to focus more on the electric vehicle market and other models. However, there are plenty of excellent used Trackhawk models out there still. It's a well-known trim level on the Grand Cherokee and represented the top-tier trim for a few years. If you're looking for that top-tier Jeep experience but don't want to pay top-tier Jeep prices on a new model, this is an excellent place to start looking.

The Trackhawk differentiates itself from the other trims with its focus on the track and overall speed and precision. For instance, the 2021 model accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. This is due to the supercharged 6.2L V8 engine that you'll find under its hood. This engine puts out an incredible 707 hp and 645 lb-ft of torque, so you can be sure you're always one of the most powerful vehicles on the road. With this engine, you can even tow an impressive 7,200 lbs. That's enough for your boat or to take a small trailer on your next outdoor adventure. Stopping in the 2021 Trackhawk is also no issue with its Brembo High-Performance Brake System, which incorporates 15.75-inch vented front rotors and 6-piston front brake calipers.

Dodge Durango

The Dodge Durango is a versatile SUV with a touch of flair and a whole lot of power. It's known for its spacious interior, making it the perfect companion for bringing the whole family along comfortably. More famous, however, are the powerful engine options that drivers can find in used models. We're currently in the third generation of the Dodge Durango, which has been running since 2011. However, this performance SUV saw a facelift in 2021 with the introduction of the SRT Hellcat trim. On this trim level, drivers could opt for a 6.2L HEMI supercharged V8 engine that pumped out a massive 710 hp and 645 lb-ft of torque, putting it on par with the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk that year. Trim levels and capabilities have varied for other used model years, but you can be sure that it will be powerful no matter which engine option you get. This vehicle is everything we love about a muscle car wrapped in a bold SUV package.

Get Your High-Performance SUV From Us

Making the leap up from a traditional SUV to a high-performance SUV can make a huge difference in your life. It can open up new outdoor adventures like making boating and camping easier, and it can mean being able to traverse the road less traveled in the backcountry. For many, it's a right of passage, marking the moment they could afford something better than your generic family SUV. Getting a used version of a high-performance SUV can smooth the way without breaking the bank and help to get you there faster.

High-performance SUVs are some of the most popular vehicles we sell at our used car dealership near Shiprock. Due to their high demand, used models are always coming in and being sold off our lot. If you see a used high-performance SUV on our website, make sure to act fast to check it out before it's gone. We'd love to discuss your specific goals and the models that best suit your lifestyle. Then, our experts can help match you to the perfect used high-performance SUV and make recommendations for achieving your goals. We're here to help, so stop by and talk with us about getting into a used high-performance SUV today.