Regardless of the quality or attractiveness of a vehicle, everyone needs a redesign sooner or later. Over time, cars, trucks eg start to look outdated and less attractive to customers. As a result, automakers change just about everything about them. Leapfrogging into the modern era is a great way to bring attention back to a certain model, boost sales, and gain new interest. For the 2023 model year, some SUVs are in desperate need of a redesign, such as the Nissan Armada, Acura RDX and Alfa Romeo Stelvio.
1. Acura RDX
Second, the first SUV in dire need of a redesign is the . Going into the 2023 model year, nothing has changed about the MDX’s design. While it doesn’t look incredibly outdated, it still needs to be updated. Last redesigned in 2019, the compact SUV is starting to fall behind some of its competitors. While it’s more affordable than the Audi Q5, it’s less popular than them for a reason.
Say it’s underpowered compared to competitors, and the fuel economy isn’t great either. On average, the RDX gets a combined EPA-estimated 24 mpg.
2.AlfaRomeoStelvio
Next, another SUV in dire need of a redesign is the . The sporty SUV is starting to show its age in the year 2023. It was last redesigned in 2018, which feels like a decade ago at this point. HC says the Stelvio is fun to drive but lacks the upgrades its rivals have gotten in recent years. It’s also attempting to compete with models like the Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC, BMW X3M and Porsche Macan, which is no small task.
For the new model year, the only changes the Stelvio received were two new trim levels. The Lusso and Estrema models entered the lineup as mid-range trims. The former adds 21-inch black wheels, satin aluminum exterior trim, premium leather upholstery and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system. The latter has 21-inch black wheels, gloss black brake calipers, adaptive suspension, carbon fiber exterior/interior trim, leather dashboard and door panels, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system. The two models are almost identical in value.
Base models use a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine good for 280 horsepower and 306 lb-ft of torque. However, the top-of-the-line performance-tuned Quadrifoglio model has a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6, producing 505PS and 443Nm of torque. The powerful top-level engine is one thing that needs no upgrades in the Stelvio range.
3.Nissan Armada
Finally, the latest SUV in dire need of a redesign is the . For 2023, the full-size SUV has received no changes. Plus, it was last redesigned in 2017, meaning it’ll be six years old without many changes. While the V8 engine is smooth and powerful and the interior is high quality, not everything about the Armada is perfect.
According to Edmunds, the EPA estimates the Armada gets 15 combined mpg on average. It’s far worse than most competitors and even some bigger pickup trucks. However, the 5.6-liter V8 produces 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, which is hard to complain about. In addition, the basic model equipment is a strong point, albeit expensive.
For $52,095, the Armada S features 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, cloth seats, power adjustable front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay /Android Auto and more . Unfortunately, it’s hard to get around the boxy and bulky exterior design that seems to have changed some time ago.
Outdated SUVs in need of a redesign
Bottom line, there are some outdated SUVs that are in desperate need of a redesign. For now, we think the Acura RDX, Alfa Romeo Stelvio, and Nissan Armada could use some tweaks. These models look outdated or have outdated powertrains, few options, or another problem that rivals have left behind. Are there any other templates you’ve seen that need to be updated soon?
