What is the most high-tech SUV?
As of 2025, the Huawei-backed Aito M9 is arguably the most high-tech production SUV thanks to its lidar-based autonomous suite, HarmonyOS-powered cockpit, advanced lighting, and deeply integrated software–hardware stack; in North America and Europe, the Lucid Gravity and Volvo EX90 stand out as the most technologically advanced options widely available. The answer varies by market and by which technologies you value most—driver assistance depth, sensor suite, in-cabin computing, or powertrain and charging.
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How “high-tech” should be measured in an SUV
Automotive technology spans safety, autonomy, compute, connectivity, and electrification. Comparing vehicles meaningfully requires a framework that goes beyond screen size or horsepower and looks at how mature, integrated, and future-proof the tech actually is.
The following points outline common criteria experts use when judging how advanced an SUV’s technology really is.
- Driver-assistance capability: Availability and performance of hands-free highway driving, urban navigation on autopilot, and compliance with local regulations (e.g., Level 2+, limited Level 3).
- Sensor suite and redundancy: Mix of cameras, radars, lidar, and thermal sensors; redundancy in perception and actuation; ability to operate without HD maps.
- Compute and software: Processing platforms, AI accelerators, operating system maturity, voice/AI assistants, app ecosystem, and cadence of over-the-air (OTA) updates.
- Cabin experience: AR head-up display (HUD), multi-screen layout, spatial audio, intelligent lighting, and seamless device integration.
- Powertrain and charging: 800/900-volt architectures, fast-charging performance, thermal management, efficiency, and bidirectional charging (V2H/V2G/V2L).
- Chassis and safety tech: Active suspension, torque vectoring, emergency maneuvers, occupant safety systems, and structural innovations.
- Ecosystem and longevity: Availability outside home market, service network, regulatory approvals for advanced features, and policies on hardware upgrades over time.
Taken together, these factors determine not just what’s flashy at launch but what will keep improving via software and remain capable as regulations evolve.
The top high-tech SUVs in 2025
Based on the criteria above and current production vehicles, these models represent the leading edge. Availability and feature sets can vary significantly by region and trim.
- Aito M9 (China) — Integrates Huawei’s ADS 2.x driver-assistance with lidar and a rich sensor suite, a HarmonyOS cockpit with cross-device continuity, AR HUD, advanced pixel headlights, and an EV or range-extended powertrain with fast charging. It exemplifies deep software–hardware integration, frequent OTA updates, and an immersive in-cabin experience—though it’s sold primarily in China.
- Lucid Gravity (North America, select markets) — Built on a 900V electrical architecture with efficiency-focused hardware, the Gravity pairs long-range performance with DreamDrive Pro (sensor suite including lidar on higher trims), robust OTA capability, and a modern, minimalist cockpit. Deliveries began in 2025, positioning it near the top for tech in Western markets.
- Volvo EX90 (Europe/North America) — Standard roof-mounted lidar (Luminar) and Nvidia Drive compute underpin a safety-first stack designed for continuous software growth. Google built-in, bidirectional charging readiness, and extensive OTA support make it one of the most future-forward family SUVs in its class.
- Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV (Global) — MBUX Hyperscreen interface, advanced driver-assistance with automated lane changes, and a luxury-first tech execution. Mercedes’ Level 3 Drive Pilot has approvals in select regions and models (primarily sedans), underscoring the brand’s regulatory leadership even if the SUV variant’s L3 availability is limited.
- Tesla Model X (Global) — Continues to lead in OTA pace, seamless infotainment, and a highly integrated software stack with FSD (Supervised). While Tesla relies on a camera-centric perception approach (no lidar) and features vary by market and regulation, its software maturity and update cadence remain benchmarks.
- Xpeng G9 (China, expanding) — Dual-lidar setup, rapid-charging 800V architecture, and city-level navigation features that can operate with reduced dependence on HD maps in supported regions. Strong value for advanced autonomy features in markets where enabled.
- Rivian R1S (North America) — Emphasizes adventure tech with sophisticated traction, off-road drive modes, and steady OTA improvements to driver assistance. The latest updates bring stronger compute and perception capabilities, with a focus on practical, confidence-inspiring automation on and off road.
- BYD Yangwang U8 (China) — Four-motor torque vectoring, eye-catching emergency flotation capability, and advanced suspension deliver unique capabilities; while its autonomy stack is not the class leader, its chassis control tech is among the most innovative.
Overall, the Aito M9 currently offers the densest concentration of cutting-edge tech in a single SUV, though its availability is mostly limited to China. For buyers in North America and Europe, the Lucid Gravity and Volvo EX90 are the most compelling high-tech choices shipping broadly.
Why the Aito M9 frequently tops the list
Sensing and autonomy
The M9 leverages Huawei’s ADS with lidar, multiple cameras, and radars to deliver advanced highway and increasingly capable urban driver-assistance in supported Chinese cities. The system is designed for high performance without relying exclusively on HD maps, and it is updated frequently over the air as regulations and capabilities advance.
Computing and operating system
HarmonyOS brings a responsive, app-rich cockpit that ties into the broader Huawei ecosystem, enabling cross-device actions, fast voice control, and fluid UI. The underlying compute platform supports both the cockpit and the ADS stack with room for iterative software gains.
Cabin experience and interface
A large augmented-reality HUD, multiple high-resolution displays, intelligent ambient lighting, and premium audio create an immersive environment. Advanced pixel headlights can render fine-grained light patterns to enhance visibility and driver awareness where regulations allow.
Powertrain and charging
Available as a pure EV with fast charging and as a range-extended hybrid for long trips with minimal charging stops, the M9 combines efficiency, performance, and convenience. Air suspension and active chassis systems add to the sense of technological polish.
Caveats: “Most high-tech” depends on where you live
Regulatory approvals limit what autonomy features can do on public roads, and many advanced functions are market-specific. For instance, Mercedes’ Level 3 Drive Pilot has approvals tied to certain jurisdictions and models; Tesla’s supervised FSD varies in capability by region; and Chinese models with strong urban automation may not be sold or fully enabled in North America or Europe. Charging standards (NACS vs. CCS), service networks, and OTA policies also shape real-world tech value.
How to pick the right high-tech SUV for you
Before choosing, align the tech with your daily use, your region’s regulations, and your long-term expectations for updates and maintenance.
- Verify which driver-assistance features are legally enabled in your country and on your local roads, including hands-free highway and urban navigation.
- Consider sensor strategy (lidar-plus-camera versus camera-only) and how it fits your comfort with redundancy and bad-weather performance.
- Ask about OTA roadmaps and whether the maker commits to hardware upgrade paths for ADAS compute and sensors.
- Check cockpit ecosystem fit: native OS (HarmonyOS/Google built-in) versus reliance on Android Auto/Apple CarPlay.
- Evaluate charging: 800/900V support, charging network access, and bidirectional capabilities for home backup or energy savings.
- Weigh service coverage, warranty terms for high-voltage components, and likely resale value as tech evolves.
Answering these questions helps translate headline features into everyday benefits and protects your purchase as software and regulations evolve.
Summary
If you want the single most high-tech SUV on sale today, the Aito M9 in China is the current benchmark for integrated autonomy, cockpit computing, lighting, and charging. In Western markets, the Lucid Gravity and Volvo EX90 lead on advanced safety, sensor suites, and future-ready electrical architectures, while Tesla’s Model X remains a software and OTA pace-setter. Your best choice depends on where you live and which technologies—autonomy depth, cabin experience, or charging performance—matter most to you.
What is the #1 most reliable luxury SUV?
The most reliable luxury SUV available is the Infiniti QX80, a large SUV that will allow you to tow up to 8,500 pounds. Fully redesigned for 2025, the QX80 has a classy interior with materials like open-pore wood trim. There are three rows of seats, with heated front- and second-row seats, and excellent cargo capacity.
What is the king of luxury SUVs?
The Best Luxury SUVs – Large SUVs
BMW X7: The X7 is one of the best luxury SUVs for the money thanks to its ride quality that is fit for royalty. Lexus LX: Swift acceleration and a plethora of luxe features make the LX a standout. INFINITI QX80: The QX80 sits at the top of the pack when it comes to towing power.
Which car has the most advanced technology?
There is no single “most advanced” car, as different brands excel in different areas, though Tesla models are often highlighted for their leading software, over-the-air updates, and Full Self-Driving (FSD) capabilities. However, luxury brands like Genesis, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Rolls-Royce also offer advanced technologies, including facial and fingerprint recognition, advanced driver-assistance systems, and luxurious interior features like massaging seats and augmented reality, according to CarBuzz and U.S. News & World Report.
Key areas of technological advancement include:
- Autonomous Driving: Opens in new tabTesla remains a leader with its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving systems, using advanced AI and sensor suites.
- Over-the-Air (OTA) Software Updates: Opens in new tabTesla is known for its ability to download and implement new features and adjustments as they are developed, transforming the car into a “living tech platform,” according to bizzmarkblog.com and Reddit.
- Facial and Fingerprint Recognition: Opens in new tabGenesis, with models like the GV60, incorporates biometric authentication for unlocking and personalizing settings.
- Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS): Opens in new tabBrands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Genesis offer sophisticated features such as lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and active cross-traffic warnings.
- Luxury and Comfort Technology: Opens in new tabHigh-end models like the Mercedes-Maybach GLS and Rolls-Royce Spectre provide features like massaging seats, cabin fragrance systems, and advanced sound systems with Dolby Atmos, notes CarBuzz and YouTube.
- Suspension and Ride Control: Opens in new tabThe Rolls-Royce Spectre’s “Planar suspension” can decouple anti-roll bars, allowing each wheel to act independently for an exceptionally smooth ride.
Top brands for technology:
- Tesla: Known for its software-driven approach, OTA updates, and leading autonomous driving tech.
- Genesis: Recognized by J.D. Power for integrating advanced technology across convenience, automation, and infotainment.
- Mercedes-Benz and BMW: Offer cutting-edge luxury tech, including advanced driver-assistance, sophisticated infotainment, and unique comfort features.
- Rolls-Royce: Focuses on integrating advanced technology into its luxurious environment, including innovative suspension and digital features.
What is the highest quality SUV?
The “best quality” SUV depends on your specific needs, but leading choices for overall quality and user satisfaction include the Kia Telluride, praised for initial quality and its mid-size SUV capabilities, and the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid, a top-rated choice for its fuel efficiency and three-row functionality. Other high-quality options include the luxurious Genesis GV80, the practical and efficient Honda CR-V Hybrid, and the well-rounded Hyundai Santa Fe.
Top Choices by Category
- Mid-Size & 3-Row: The Kia Telluride is a top-rated option for its multi-talented features and quality in the mid-size segment.
- Fuel Efficiency & Hybrid: The Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid stands out for its exceptional fuel economy and practicality in a large SUV.
- Compact SUVs: The Honda CR-V Hybrid is a consistent benchmark, offering efficiency, practicality, and strong resale value.
- Luxury: The Genesis GV80 is a premium option, noted for its luxury and high quality.
- Value & Innovation: The Hyundai Santa Fe is recognized for its bold design, family-friendly features, and overall value.
Factors to Consider for Quality
- Initial Quality: J.D. Power studies, like the one for the 2025 Kia Telluride, measure the number of problems owners experience in the first 90 days of ownership, indicating build quality.
- Reliability: Brands like Toyota and Honda have a long-standing reputation for reliability, which contributes to the long-term quality of their vehicles.
- Expert Reviews: Sources like Kelley Blue Book (KBB) and U.S. News provide expert ratings and awards based on a comprehensive review of features, performance, and overall value.
- Resale Value: A strong resale value, as seen with the Honda CR-V Hybrid, can be an indicator of long-term desirability and quality.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands known for building durable and well-engineered vehicles often offer higher quality.


