You're downscaling from your Land Cruisuburbarango but still want an SUV that can comfortably carry five people and you wouldn't mind indulging in the perks of owning a premium nameplate. This leaves you with a number of choices, given your $41,263 budget, including:
Acura RDX, starting at $33,695
BMW X3, starting at $38,000
Land Rover LR2, starting at $36,150
Cadillac SRX, starting at $38,880
Lincoln MKX, starting at $35,840
Infiniti EX, starting at $35,450
Prices do not include destination and handling fees.
Like the majority of SUV owners, you won't be offroading, but an LR2 might work because of its charm. Or maybe Acura's sporty RDX excites you.
You're buying this car in the next month or two, so "I'm going to wait for the new Saab/Audi/Volvo/Mercedes" is not a valid answer. No need to worry, though, as there are plenty of choices. Maybe there's an option not listed above that strikes your fancy? Have your say in the comments section below.