The SUV evolution: How luxury and performance have been reengineered
Reliable, sporty, and versatile, luxury SUVs have dominated the roads over the past decade. In 2015, SUVs outsold sedans for the first time, sparking a shift toward these spacious, high-performance vehicles. It was only a matter of time before traditional sports car marques entered the arena, with brands like Porsche, Aston Martin, and Lotus unveiling their own interpretations of the luxury SUV.
What sets these vehicles apart isn’t just their power and presence but the meticulous craftsmanship behind them—bespoke interiors, personalised finishes, and tailored design options that elevate every journey. Coupled with cutting-edge technology and formidable engines, they offer the perfect balance of refinement and capability.
From the commanding Rolls-Royce Cullinan SII to the sleek Lamborghini Urus and the all-electric Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV, Boulevard presents the pinnacle of automotive innovation and luxury.
Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II: Reimagined super-luxury SUV
In 2018, Rolls-Royce introduced the Cullinan, featuring a sophisticated design, exceptional performance and impressive engineering with genuine off-road capabilities. It immediately earned the title of the world’s first super-luxury SUV and became the most requested model in the Rolls-Royce portfolio.
Building on this success, the marque introduced the Cullinan Series II, featuring a bolder character and new bespoke styling cues. Taking in the central theme of ‘verticality’, simple feature lines and crisp edges highlight the SUV’s generous proportions and commanding presence. The theme is also reflected upon the vertical headlights and daytime running lights, inspired by towering skyscrapers and the urban landscape.
Inside, the SUV continues this theme with an illuminated Cullinan wordmark and a customisable cityscape graphic made from over 7,000 laser-etched dots. Its seats are upholstered in Duality Twill, a bamboo-based rayon fabric embroidered with a distinctive ‘Duality’ graphic, available in Lilac, Chocolate, and Black.
As with all Rolls-Royce models, the Cullinan Series II offers endless customisation through the marque’s Bespoke programme.
Go further with the Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II.
Lamborghini Urus Performante: Unleashing the beast
The Lamborghini Urus Performante takes the concept of super-SUV to new heights, blending bold design with exceptional performance. Its aggressive styling features a sharper bonnet with sleek, performance-focused details like lightweight carbon-fibre vents and larger air openings for better cooling. A bold rear spoiler, inspired by the Aventador SVJ—Lamborghini’s track-focused supercar known for its lightweight design and high-performance capabilities—adds to its commanding presence.
Under the hood, the Urus Performante is powered by a V8 engine with twin turbochargers. It delivers impressive strength, going from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds and reaching a top speed of 306 km/h.
What truly sets this model apart is its dynamic functions. The newly introduced Rally drive mode enhances handling across rougher terrains, pushing the boundaries of what an SUV can achieve. With a perfect balance of speed, style, and adaptability, the Urus Performante cements its place as a one-of-a-kind powerhouse in the luxury SUV market.
Go further with the Lamborghini Urus Performante.
BMW XM: Electrified performance, unmistakable presence
The BMW XM is the first high-performance SUV created by BMW’s M division, originally established for motorsport and high-performance road cars. Designed to stand out, it blends cutting-edge hybrid technology with bold styling and luxurious comfort.
At its heart is a powerful combination of a V8 petrol engine and an electric motor, delivering both thrilling acceleration and efficient driving. The XM sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds, yet it can also run up to 98 km on electric power alone—ideal for city driving and low-emission zones.
Visually, the XM makes a statement. A sculpted body and sloping roofline give it a strong, athletic stance. Gold trim along the windows adds a touch of elegance, while the illuminated kidney grille and split headlight design create a striking front profile. Inside, the cabin offers a seamless blend of premium materials, advanced technology and driver-focused controls, ensuring both comfort and performance go hand in hand.
Aston Martin DBX707: Redefining the luxury SUV experience
The Aston Martin DBX707 is more than just an SUV—it’s built for speed, style and comfort. Competing with models like the Lamborghini Urus and Bentley Bentayga, it stands out with its unique mix of performance and elegance.
Beneath its sculpted exterior lies a powerhouse—a twin-turbo V8 engine producing an astonishing 707 hp. This launches the SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds, with a top speed of 311 km/h.
While it retains Aston Martin’s signature design, subtle exterior updates include sleek, flush-fitting door handles, redesigned mirrors and five new colour options. -> this sentence is incomplete The DBX707 rides on bold 22-inch wheels, with 23-inch alloys available for an even stronger road presence.
Inside, the cabin is more refined than ever, featuring a modern dashboard design and an intuitive centre console. The latest infotainment system includes wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and full online connectivity using the Aston Martin app.
For those who want a truly bespoke experience, Aston Martin’s customisation service, Q by Aston Martin, offers endless personalisation options, ensuring each DBX707 is as unique as its owner.
Go further with the Aston Martin DBX707.
Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV: An era of electric luxury
Mercedes-Maybach marks a new era of sophisticated luxury with the introduction of the all-electric EQS 680 SUV. This vehicle seamlessly combines impressive electric performance with the timeless elegance and refinement expected of a Maybach flagship, offering an extraordinary driving experience that’s both eco-friendly and exhilarating.
The SUV is powered by dual electric motors, with exceptional energy efficiency. This allows the vehicle to reach 635 km on a full charge, while a 15-minute charge provides a range of 220 km. It can also accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 210 km/h.
What truly sets this electric SUV apart is its athletic appeal, highlighted by a coupe-like silhouette, alongside bespoke design elements that blend traditional Maybach craftsmanship with avant-garde styling cues.
At the front, the EQS 680 SUV features an elegant black grille and multi-beam LED headlights, creating a striking, futuristic look. The body is emphasised by chrome detailing and features the signature Maybach pattern.
Inside, the SUV continues to impress with seats upholstered in vegetable-tanned Nappa leather, complemented by natural wood trim, offering warmth to the otherwise futuristic interior.
Go further with Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV.
Lotus Eletre: An ultra-modern take on the hyper SUV
Lotus launched the Eletre, its first fully electric performance SUV, in March 2022. While its size and futuristic design surprised many, the hyper-SUV stays true to Lotus’ reputation for speed, agility, and innovation.
Inspired by the Emira, Lotus’ last petrol-powered sports car, the Eletre carries a sleek, sculpted design that enhances both style and efficiency. It also adopts features from the Evija, Lotus’ first all-electric hypercar, using advanced aerodynamics—such as an adjustable rear spoiler and air vents—to improve airflow and stability.
At 5.1 metres long, over two metres wide and weighing more than 2.5 tonnes, the Eletre is the largest and heaviest Lotus ever built. Yet, it remains remarkably quick and responsive, powered by dual electric motors that provide strong acceleration even at lower speeds. Its 112 kWh battery offers a range of up to 600 km on a full charge, while fast charging can restore 80 per cent of the battery in just 20 minutes.
Despite its SUV proportions, the Eletre maintains Lotus’ signature precise handling, smooth steering and lightweight driving feel, proving that electric power and performance can go hand in hand.
Go further with the Lotus Eletre.
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