It’s a sign of our embattled and topsy-turvy times that sales of the best luxury SUVs are the healthiest they've ever been, despite the ongoing cost of living crisis and ever-pressing climate concerns. 

Luxury SUVs are some of the most lavishly appointed machines on the market, melding the cosseting comfort of an executive saloon with refined and mature road manners. 

Many of these machines can also squeeze in seven occupants and still have space to spare, and despite what you think about their conspicuous consumption, there’s no doubting their versatility or the depth of engineering on display.

Don't forget that many of these models can head further off the beaten track than you’d ever thought possible – although whether you want to pitch diamond-cut 21in alloys and special-order matt paintwork against mud, rocks and hawthorn hedges is another matter.

And despite their bluff appearance and gas-guzzling reputation, many of our contenders in this list feature plug-in hybrid powertrains that could save a fair chunk in fuel costs and deliver some healthy tax savings for company car drivers.

We’ve picked out 10 of the best for you, but our list is topped by the Range Rover Sport - read on to see why it beats rivals from Porsche, Mercedes, Volvo and more.