Mercedes-Benz takes a long time to make changes. I think that's actually wise -- better to take a long time to develop new models and changes to current models than to rush into changes. But when I put together this Mercedes-Benz SUV and Crossover Overview, I realized that the G-Class or "Gelandewagen" hasn't been redesigned since 1991 -- that's 20 years, or three lifetimes in most product cycles.

Yet still, Mercedes-Benz sells every G-Wagen it can build, even with prices well north of $100,000. What is it about the G-Wagen that keeps it in vogue?

Once again, it goes to show that rapid change isn't necessarily what buyers seek. Is there a lesson in this long-lived model?

Photo © Mercedes-Benz

There's little polarizing design in the car world right now, and for good reason. Polarizing design is risky. As much as some potential buyers might love it, as many potential buyers will hate it and run away without buying. That's one reason why we're stuck with so many lookalike vehicles on the roadway. The bigger the vehicle, the bigger the risk for automakers.

That's one reason why I want you to look over this 2012 Infiniti QX56 Photo Gallery, and share your thoughts.

Is the QX design polarizing? Do you love it? Do you hate it?

Click on comments below and share your thoughts.

Photo © Jason Fogelson

I don't know if we'll ever see another generation of full-size SUVs. The ones we have now may be the last of their kind, thanks to Federal CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) standards. Thankfully, the freshest full-size luxury SUV is a very good one, and it's back for a second year.

Read my 2012 Infiniti QX56 Test Drive and Review, and you'll see what I mean.

Infiniti saved its best for last. QX56 is a high-tech rocket, loaded with luxury and technology, and fun to drive besides. Well done, Infiniti! I hope I'm wrong, and some magical breakthrough enables us to get 35 mpg from full-size SUVs, but I don't think it will happen. Enjoy them while they last.

Photo © Jason Fogelson

When does styling step over the line? I would argue that a pair of shoes that look great but hurt your feet are not good shoes. Likewise, an SUV that looks great but doesn't have a lot of utility is not a good SUV.

BMW tries to dodge the issue by calling the X6 a "Sports Activity Coupe." Note the missing "U" in that name. The "Coupe" part bothers me; mostly because the X6 doesn't fit the definition of a coupe, in my book.

But I will say this: The X6 is a strikingly attractive vehicle from certain angles. It's strikingly ugly from other angles, though. This is one polarizing design.

Take a look at this 2012 BMW X6 xDrive50i Photo Gallery, and see what you think.

Photo © BMW