2005 Luxury SUV Price, MSRP & Base Pricing

When speaking of Volkswagen's new Touareg V-10 TDI, "SUV" should stand for "sport/utility value." At $59,105, the TDI's base price undercuts the next-lowest BMW by nearly $12,000. Yet the VeeDub delivers a sumptuous cabin, plenty of room, an outstanding 7716-pound tow rating, a highly capable four-wheel-drive system, and, above all, a true marvel of a powerplant. We're big fans of the V-8 Touareg now serving duty in our long-term test fleet, but after driving the new V-10 diesel we're forever spoiled. If you're shopping in the Touareg store, don't buy until you've tried this oil-burner. An impressive second place.

The Porsche's bloblike exterior is the least attractive. Until you point the Cayenne into the wind. At speed, the Cayenne slips through the air, while the other three cut into it. Mmmmm, now that amorphous body seems downright beautiful. The Porsche also feels the most polished and subdued of the four at cruise. Then you step on the throttle. And suddenly you're at Le Mans.

The more we drive the Cayenne Turbo, the more we're impressed with its compelling "Porsche-ness." It goes, stops, and turns with nearly the same confidence as a 911. Add in its other virtues--a 7716-pound tow rating, the ability to climb over boulders and through streams up to 18 inches deep, a cabin equally suited to camping gear or couture--and you've got the finest GT SUV on the planet, a multimission machine that seems worth its $90K-plus pricetag.

If your accountant needs additionaljustification, tell him now you only need a one-car garage.