The highly anticipated Rolls-Royce Cullinan is out after a three-year-long development phase, and the initial reactions it received from the world is a mixed bag of opinions. While some people like the design of this Rolls-Royce of SUVs, the Cullinan, a majority of the initial public feedback on social media and online forums clearly does not favor the design of this SUV, which essentially looks like a Phantom on stilts.
Here are six SUVs around the globe that we think look much better than the Rolls-Royce Cullinan.
Lamborghini Urus
The world was more than a bit skeptical when Lamborghini first divulged plans of building an SUV some five years ago. The end result, the Lamborghini Urus, is not only spectacularly good-looking but also holds the title of the world's fastest production SUV. When launched, the Urus immediately set lofty benchmarks for those wanting to build a performance SUV, thanks to its 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 petrol motor, that makes an astonishing 641hp and a maximum of 850Nm of twist. All the power and torque is distributed to all four wheels via a clever all-wheel-drive system, which can alter its driving characteristics according to the terrain maps preset by the driver. Lastly, there is no getting around the fact that the Lamborghini Urus is perhaps the most aggressive looking SUV out there. It is every bit a Lamborghini and has massive street presence thanks to its slash-cut devil's own design language and dimensions. We just can't wrap our heads around the strange name though...
Mercedes-Benz G-Class
How can one talk about SUVs and omit the G-Wagon from the discussion? Mercedes-Benz developed this rugged offroader way back in 1979, and the 2018 avatar of the G-Class is hardly any different. Sure, the electricals and electronics are new, as is the drivetrain. Put a 70's G-Wagon next to a 2018 model, and it would be hard to tell them apart. That is due to Merc's clever approach to the G-Class's design. "If it ain't broke, why fix it?" The company got this SUV's formula just right in 1970. Ever since then, the G-Wagon has been the premier choice for people looking for a reliable cross-country vehicle, while remaining largely unchanged over the years. With its bold design, big proportions, and a general air of badassery, who can dislike the good old Gelandewagen?
Lincoln Navigator
Across the pond, the States is a heaven for SUVs. Full-size pickup trucks and SUVs overwhelmingly outnumber sedans and hatches in the USA. No wonder then, that the country produces some fine homegrown SUVs. While mainstream Ford, GMC, and Ram SUVs are more commonly seen plying the roads of America, there is the Lincoln Navigator which has been selling well since its launch in 1997. The Lincoln Navigator entered a new generation of its lifecycle in 2018 and quickly established the fact that its design is poles apart from the model it replaces. Although it shares the same underpinnings as the Ford Expedition SUV, we are strictly talking about its design here. There are no two ways about it, the Navigator is one handsome SUV. Perfectly proportionate, quintessentially 'Murican, yet classy and well-appointed: Lincoln has pulled off a clear winner here.
Cadillac Escalade
One can't talk about SUVs in the USA and not bring up the Escalade. The original gangster mobile is instantly recognizable with its bold wide grille, vertically stacked headlamps, a plain but unique profile, and exterior dimensions that are more battle tank than SUV. The Escalade is now in its fourth generation and refuses to show any signs of aging. Cadillac itself is partly responsible for this, giving the big SUV well-timed nips and tucks that keep it in the game. Powered by a 6.2-liter EcoTec V8, the Escalade does not lack for pulling power or top whack and is the perfect companion to munch long miles all day, whether on tarmac or off it.
Range Rover Autobiography
The Range Rover has been a runaway success for Land Rover ever since its inception in 1970. Close to half a century later, the new Rangie has lost no charm of the original while getting more capable and luxurious with each passing year. It is one of the very few SUVs out there that walk the talk. Land Rover constantly gave it timely updates that not only made it look better each passing generation, but also made it formidable offroad machine. The Range Rover of today can clamber around, over, or through any obstacle you point it towards and comes out unfazed, all the while keeping its occupants cocooned from the goings-on outside. When it comes to how it looks, I dare you to find a fault with that clean, elegant design. This begs the question: If one British manufacturer can make world-class good-looking SUVs, why can't the others? Looking at you, Goodwood and Crewe!
Bentley Bentayga
Talking about other British manufacturers, who can ignore the in-your-face Bentley Bentayga? The big Flying B is essentially an Audi Q7 underneath, with the exterior and interior design department handled by Bentley itself. Crewe began earnest work developing its first-ever SUV. The result is something of a downer. While there is no doubt that the interior, build and finish, trims, and powertrains are top-notch typical of Bentley, the exterior design beggars belief as to how a company steeped in and renowned for its classy, mature design ethos could approve a design such as the Bentayga for production. Clearly, the new wave of demand for SUVs has all manufacturers scrambling to share in the pie, but the Bentayga simply does not cut it when it comes to looks. So much so that it was awarded the title of the "Ugliest SUV in the world" by common consent.
Rest easy Bentley, yours is not the ugliest SUV anymore. I mean, just take a look at the Cullinan, would you?
