The SUV class continues to grow unabated, though the wait continues for a truly outstanding example of the ‘soft-roader’ breed.

Lexus’s latest-generation RX350 was the only contender in this year’s category that failed to secure a single vote despite its outstanding standard equipment, excellent build quality and refined V6.

Some cheap-looking interior details not befitting a circa-$100,000 vehicle was one of the RX’s undoings, though judges were also unimpressed with the average dynamics and fidgety ride.

Ride quality continues to be persistent Achilles heel for any Audis not wearing the sporty S or RS badges, and niggly progress over the test route proved to be a key negative for the A4-based Q5.

The $59,990 Q5 at least made the most of its firm suspension on twisting roads to prove it is one of the best-handling SUVs on the market. Its sweet-revving 2.0-litre turbo four also packs plenty of punch.

Less endearing to the judges, however, was a firm rear bench, oversized driver’s side mirror that obscured vision, and a cabin that seemed sparsely equipped without delving into the Q5’s list of expensive options.

Volvo’s XC60 rated highly for its family-friendly cabin (including clever integrated child booster seats) and safety (including the world’s first low-speed crash avoidance technology as standard), though the Swedish soft-roader secured a 6-3 majority by gaining plaudits in areas the company doesn’t normally excel.

Judges praised the interior’s distinctive design with its touches of Scandinavian flair, and recent updates to the D5 model’s suspension and diesel engine have also improved the XC60’s overall package.

Source: Car News Articles

The Volvo XC60 earned Top Safety Pick honors, but the IIHS identified a glitch with the vehicle, which Volvo has addressed and will be corrected in all models manufactured after November 2009. In the side crash test, the seat belt became unfastened when a piece of plastic trim on the driver’s seat pushed against the seat belt’s release button. The IIHS advises consumers who already own a Volvo XC60 to see their Volvo dealer for repairs. The Top Safety Pick only applies to modified XC60 models.

[Read the rest of the story at Huliq]