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Why do we love SUVs so much? It could be the combination of a sporty side to go with the utilitarian aspects of an SUV. Of course, some SUVs lean more heavily toward utility as family haulers that have replaced minivans. Still, others do just the opposite. These sporty SUVs lean hard into performance, power, and driving dynamics to be great when you hunger for a high-performance SUV to give you some driving fun.

2023 Audi SQ7

Blue 2023 Audi SQ7 SUV - Does this look like a sporty SUV; it is
2023 Audi SQ7 | Audi

Every time you see the S in an Audi name, you know it’s the sporty version of that vehicle. The SQ7 is the sportiest Q7 you can find. This impressive luxury SUV delivers 500 horsepower coming from the strong 4.0-liter turbocharged V8 engine. Power is sent to all four wheels via Audi’s Quattro AWD system.

The SQ7 is a rare combination of horsepower in a sporty SUV that has room for a family to sit across three rows of seats. This makes the Audi SQ7 one of the most family-friendly, high-performance luxury SUVs available. The engine is impressive, but so is the sport suspension, large tires, smooth handling, and perfect balance offered in this Audi SUV.

2023 Kia EV6 GT

Blue 2023 Kia EV6 GT SUV
2023 Kia EV6 GT | Kia

It’s impossible to argue against the instant torque and amazing acceleration found in modern electric vehicles. The new 2023 Kia EV6 GT delivers 576 horsepower from a pair of electric motors driving both axles. This AWD electric SUV is easily one of the most impressive sporty SUVs you’ll find, giving you quickness and power in a useful vehicle.

When you want to drive an agile, quick, and confident EV, the Kia EV6 GT is that sporty SUV. The speedy charging time means you’ll be back on the road in no time. Although the racy roofline cuts into the cargo area, it doesn’t seem to be a problem; this SUV is backlogged at many dealerships, which shoppers willing to put their names on a waiting list for this incredible Kia.

2023 Acura MDX

Red 2023 Acura MDX SUV
2023 Acura MDX | Acura

Some might not think of the Acura MDX when sportiness comes to mind but indulge me for just a moment. This Acura SUV offers seven seats and six trim levels, which means if you head up to the Type S with the Advanced Package and SH-AWD, you have a sporty SUV on your hands. This is the package you want when searching for the Acura SUV that offers excellent performance.

When packaged right, the MDX brings a strong 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine, deft handling, and a sporty suspension to your drive. This SUV proves you don’t need the most power or the most luxurious name to be a great performance vehicle. All that’s required is the right packaging, which the MDX offers.

2023 Maserati Grecale

Yellow 2023 Maserati Grecale SUV - This is an extremely sporty SUV
2023 Maserati Grecale | Maserati

The Maserati Grecale was made to be a sporty luxury SUV to take on the likes of BMW and Mercedes-Benz. This compact SUV brings the heat with an impressive 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine and AWD. When you see the trident badge on the front, you know there’s something special coming your way.

As expected, the Grecale delivers exotic design and performance qualities, but it does so in a practical way. The high starting price could turn away some consumers. Still, those searching for something unique might become enamored with the spectacular driving performance of the Grecale, especially in the mighty Trofeo trim.

Could one of these four sporty SUVs satisfy your hunger for driving performance?

Related Maserati Throws Down the Sports Luxury SUV Gauntlet With the Grecale

Maserati Throws Down the Sports Luxury SUV Gauntlet With the Grecale