5 New Luxury SUVs That Are a Bad Investment for the Upper Class
Written by
Emily Fowler
Edited by
Zuri Anderson
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The luxury SUV space offers a wide range of options that promise performance, comfort and status. But, like every class and price tier of vehicles, it’s not immune to models that may be lacking when it comes to long-term value.
A high sticker price doesn’t guarantee a solid investment, especially when resale value sinks fast or the vehicle lacks the refinement, innovation or exclusivity expected in the upper tier.
Michael Capote, chief marketing officer at German Car Depot, and Alex Black, chief marketing officer of EpicVIN, share which luxury SUVs look the part but might fall short over time.
Infiniti QX80
- Pricing starts at: $84,445
It’s big and powerful, but that’s where the appeal could end for upper-class buyers. According to Capote, the QX80 “fails to match modern premium standards.” Thanks to its outdated technology system and an interior, this lavish ride “does not justify the price,” Black added.
It may score high on reliability, but a lack of refinement and forward-thinking features drags it out of contention in a segment defined by innovation and polish.
Lincoln Nautilus
- Pricing starts at: $55,535
Black pointed out that while the design of the Lincoln Nautilus is attractive, it’s essentially a Ford underneath, which is not necessarily something that buyers in the market for a luxury SUV priced over $60,000 are looking for. Resale value plummets quickly, and discerning buyers expect more than a fancy badge for their investment.
Cadillac Escalade
- Pricing starts at: $90,295
The Cadillac Escalade is bold but flawed. Capote notes that “it experiences rapid depreciation and inconsistent reliability issues, especially with… electronic components.”
For the cost, there’s simply too much risk in its lifespan. Prestige means more than size and screen real estate.
Cadillac XT6
- Pricing starts at: $50,590
It lacks the prestige of its sibling, the Escalade, and, according to Black, its interior materials feel more middle of the line than luxury. With so many refined options out there for upper class car enthusiasts to choose from, the Cadillac XT6 fails to earn its keep.
Lincoln Navigator
- Pricing starts at: $84,445
The second Lincoln on the list is one that can get lost in the crowd. According to Capote, the Navigator blends in with more mass-market vehicles, failing to lacks the exclusive brand appeal that high-net-worth buyers are generally looking for.
“Luxury should feel rare and elevated,” he said, “If it doesn’t, it risks becoming just another expensive ride.”
Editor’s note: Photos are for representational purposes only.
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