Imagining the owners of our “Perfect Garage” scenario to be an active family with kids, we make suggestions for them to consider behind each of their garage’s three doors. We also assume that they may wish to surprise their neighbors a little with choices that differ from the Jones’ and the Smiths’ on the block.
Door #1: Jaguar XF Sedan
Every family needs a sedan, but it doesn’t have to be just any sedan. While a number of the neighbors may look to the German automakers to satisfy, we suggest the Jag XF. It’s considered mid-size which is perfect since you’ll also have a large SUV, but let’s not jump ahead! A dashing exterior design and top-notch cabin deliver a level of design drama that executive class drivers will relish. Extensive aluminum construction makes it light, fuel-efficient and quick to respond to driver commands, satisfying that executive’s adventurous side; choose from a supercharged V6 in two strengths—340 hp or 380 hp. And, to justify the practical minded executive are the options of all-wheel drive a 4-cylinder diesel engine (not to say the diesel choice sacrifices power for frugality at all.)
Door #2: Infiniti QX80 SUV
It’s really big, but oh so important to be big with brute strength when you consider that the third row will be transporting the most precious of cargo. The minivan or typical large crossover just won’t cut it for our sample family. The QX80 with its powerful V8 engine can pull a boat or whatever this family plans to tow up to 8,500 pounds. Optional four wheel drive can take them off the beaten track. But most of the time when they’re just rushing the kids and their friends (up to 8 passengers) from one event to the next, they’ll enjoy the QX80’s high-quality interior appointments and big cargo space.
Door #3: Lexus LC500 Coupe
Lexus’ mission behind its all-new Lexus Luxury Coupe (LC) is to change our thinking about Lexus. Indeed, this family’s Lexus choice will reside in a spot we would have never expected to find a Lexus before– behind Door #3, where that fun weekender sports performance vehicle goes. The LC 500 is powered by a normally aspirated 5.0-liter V8, matched with the first direct shift 10-speed automatic transmission to be featured in a luxury car. It delivers 471 horsepower and 398 lb.-ft of torque with a starting MSRP of $92,000. The LC 500h, powered by 3.5-liter, V6 full hybrid powertrain, delivers a total system output of 354 horsepower with a starting MSRP of $96,510. Lexus is proving that it will be a contender in the performance coupe segment and that hybrids will make the cut in the category, too.