10 Luxury SUVs with the Best Infotainment Systems

"Infotainment" is a neologism describing audio, communication, entertainment, and navigation (ACEN) systems in late-model vehicles. In its annual Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, J.D. Power measures new-vehicle owner satisfaction with each type of system using its ACEN Index. Individual model scores reflect how satisfied these owners are with the technology in their vehicles, and that score contributes to a model's overall APEAL ranking. Listed below, in reverse order, are those luxury SUVs that provide the most satisfying infotainment systems available today based on feedback from the people that own them.

10. Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

Every 2014 GL-Class is equipped with mBrace2, a suite of connectivity services, and a COMAND infotainment system. Available options include navigation, a hard-drive music register, Harman/Kardon premium audio system, and a dual-screen rear-seat DVD entertainment system. Dealers can install a Wi-Fi hotspot and an iPad docking station, among other upgrades.

9. BMW X5

The redesigned 2014 BMW X5 is equipped with a standard next-generation iDrive4.2 infotainment system that includes touchpad control, navigation, BMW Apps technology, live traffic reports, and 10 years of free BMW Assist eCall service with Automatic Collision Notification and an Urgency Algorithm. A 1,200-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system is optional, as well as a new rear-seat entertainment system with dual tablet-style displays.

8. BMW X6

BMW equips the X6 "sports activity coupe" with a standard iDrive infotainment system that includes Bluetooth connectivity, a reversing camera, and 4 years of BMW Assist services. Options include a navigation system with real-time traffic reports, 16-speaker premium surround-sound audio system, and a dual-screen rear DVD entertainment system.

7. Audi Allroad

Bluetooth connectivity and satellite radio are standard for the Audi Allroad. Options include a navigation system operated through the automaker's Multi-Media Interface (MMI) center console controller, a Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, HD Radio, real-time traffic reports, and Bluetooth streaming audio. Audi Connect service provides several Google-based conveniences and turns the Allroad into a rolling Wi-Fi hotspot.

6. Audi Q7