- Best SUVs of 2023
- Top Picks
- Best 3-Row SUVs
- Best Midsize SUVs
- SUVs With Best MPG
- Best SUVs for Towing
- Best Crossovers
- Best of the Rest
- Best SUVs by Engine Type
- Best SUVs for Value
- Best SUVs by Drivetrain
- Best SUVs by Type
- TOP SUVs
- Best SUVs by Seating Layout
- Best SUVs by Size
- Best SUVs by Fuel Type
- Best SUVs by Buyer Type
- Best SUVs by Activity Type
- Latest SUV Reviews
- Top Rated SUV Models
- Main characteristics of SUVs
- What to Consider Before Buying SUV Models
- Pros
- Cons
- FAQs about SUVs
- What’s the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market?
- What are the best SUVs to buy for under $35k?
- What should I look out for when buying an SUV?
- Best Gas Mileage Hybrid Crossover SUVs for 2023
- Best Crossovers of 2023
- Characteristics of Top-Rated Crossovers
- What to Consider Before Buying a Crossover
- Pros
- Cons
- FAQs about CUVs
- What is the difference between a crossover and an SUV?
- What are the best crossover brands on the market?
- What are the top-rated 2022 crossovers?
Best SUVs of 2023
Over the past decade, sports utility or SUV vehicles have surged in popularity throughout the USA, so much so that they’ve single-handedly caused the demise of most small cars. The ergonomic driving position, spacious and comfortable interior, and raised ride height are some of the reasons why these vehicles are so sought-after nowadays. Additionally, SUV-type cars are also versatile, practical, and livable for everyday use, and many of these are also gifted with 4×4 capabilities for added adventuring off-road. With most brands and manufacturers vying for top honors in presenting the best SUVs of 2023, there’s also something for everyone.
Top Picks
Best 3-Row SUVs
Best Midsize SUVs
SUVs With Best MPG
Best SUVs for Towing
Best Crossovers
Best of the Rest
Best SUVs by Engine Type
Best SUVs for Value
- Cheapest New SUVs
- Cheapest Small SUVs
- Cheapest Hybrid SUVs
- Cheapest Electric SUVs
- Best Luxury SUVs
- Best Luxury Hybrid SUVs
- Best Luxury Electric SUVs
- Luxury 7-Seater SUVs
- Best Cheap Luxury SUVs
- Best SUVs Under 20k
- Best SUVs Under 25k
- Best SUVs Under 30k
Best SUVs by Drivetrain
Best SUVs by Type
TOP SUVs
Best SUVs by Seating Layout
Best SUVs by Size
Best SUVs by Fuel Type
- SUVs With Best MPG
- Small SUVs With Best MPG
- Midsize SUVs With The Best MPG
- Large SUVs With the Best MPG
- 3-Row SUVs With the Best MPG
- Luxury SUVs With the Best MPG
- Hybrid SUVs With the Best MPG
- Best Hybrid SUVs
- Best Small Hybrid SUVs
- Best Midsize Hybrid SUVs
- Best Large Hybrid SUVs
- Best 3-Row Hybrid SUVs
- Best 7-Seater Hybrid SUVs
- Best Plug-in Hybrid SUVs
- Best Electric SUVs
- Largest Electric SUVs
- Best Diesel SUVs
Best SUVs by Buyer Type
Best SUVs by Activity Type
Latest SUV Reviews
Top Rated SUV Models
Those seeking a practical people-hauler with loads of cargo-carrying capacity and a value-for-money specification list will undoubtedly be searching in this segment. With over 200 million large carriers like this in the world at present, the continued drive to expand the new SUV models list leads to ongoing advancements in performance, quality, safety, and even improvements in gas mileage.
Main characteristics of SUVs
If you’re shopping for a family carrier high up in the best SUV rankings, these are the common attributes to expect from the cream of the crop:
- Size: Not all SUVs are created equal, especially in terms of size. SUV models come in compact, mid-size, or full-size configurations, but overall dimensions are generally a little larger than a standard car, with a bigger footprint to consider in parking lots and tight spaces.
- Versatility and Space: One of the benefits of the size and structure of vehicles like SUVs is the ability to utilize the available space in a variety of ways. Generally speaking, there is more room in the cabin for passengers to be seated comfortably, and there is ample cargo-carrying capacity in the trunk, too. With new models offered in varying designs, you can also extend seating capacity to carry more people in a third row. Many also come with captain’s chairs as an option, for added luxury and comfort.
- Safety: With popularity for these motors at an all-time high amongst families, safety is considered a priority, too. Comparison between rivals by consumer reports indicate that cars with comprehensive standard safety and driver-assist features score higher in the rankings, and shoppers are more likely to buy top SUVs listing more safety technology. Many SUVs earn top scores and win awards for their consignment of life-saving equipment.
- Performance: While high-performance engines are becoming more readily accessible on the market, SUVs with smaller, more efficient powertrains are also making their mark in the ratings. Hybrid utes are also a growing trend in the US. Either way, SUVs need to have sufficient grunt under the hood to get it moving without feeling lethargic and be able to haul passengers and cargo. In this regard, some of the best SUVs offer excellent towing capacity when properly equipped.
What to Consider Before Buying SUV Models
Pros
- Some models have true off-roading abilities thanks to 4×4
- Excellent safety and reliability ratings
- Highly versatile and practical cabin
- Better cargo space than most regular cars
- Commanding driving position provides exceptional visibility
- Luxurious interiors promote comfort
- Handsome looks and status
- Hybrid and EV variants becoming more common
Cons
- Unless you’re buying a performance-oriented SUV, it’s less than thrilling
- Pricier overall than traditional cars
- Less impressive fuel economy than smaller, lighter vehicles
- Bigger footprint means tight spaces can be problematic
FAQs about SUVs
What’s the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market?
Now that SUVs with plug-in hybrid and all-electric powertrains are becoming more commonplace, there are many that can be considered fuel-efficient options. From the Volkswagen ID.4 with MPGe figures of 104/89/97 to the Tesla Model Y that manages up to 131/117/125 mpg, all-electric SUVs offer incredible efficiency. Hybrid models that make the best of internal combustion and electricity include the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid with 41/38/40 mpg and the Kia Sorento Hybrid with 39/35/37 mpg.
What are the best SUVs to buy for under $35k?
SUVs don’t always cost a fortune unless you’re aiming for a performance-oriented version or the top-spec luxury type that’s designed to chauffeur you around in sublime comfort. SUVs that tick all the practicality, versatility, and capability boxes that won’t ask for more than $35k new include the Toyota RAV4 rage, with gas variants starting well below $28k, and hybrid versions below $30k. Hyundai offers the Tucson range for between $26k and $35k MSRP, while Ford has the Ford Explorer for around $34k.
What should I look out for when buying an SUV?
Top-rated SUVs are one thing, but finding one that works for you is another kettle of fish entirely. Depending on what you need from it, an SUV should be powerful enough to carry and tow all your passengers and their stuff, as well as being reasonable at the pumps. Space and size are big deciding factors, too, but reliability and safety are priorities for those who will be using it for family duty. Always check the warranty and recall history to see what you are signing up for, and make sure there are comprehensive safety ratings and sufficient features to keep your most precious cargo safe.
Best Gas Mileage Hybrid Crossover SUVs for 2023
Our analysis of the hybrid crossover SUVs with the best gas mileage ranks them based on the highest mpg and most fuel-efficient drivetrain for each vehicle.
The Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient hybrid crossover SUV with an EPA rating of 105 MPGe. The second-ranked Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid also earns 105 MPGe, while the third-ranked Toyota RAV4 Prime earns 94 MPGe. When two or more vehicles have the same MPGe rating they are then ranked by their overall quality score, as shown below. iSeeCars has ranked 21 hybrid crossover SUVs based on fuel efficiency. This ranking is based on each model’s highest-rated combined MPGe figure to determine the best gas mileage hybrid crossover SUVs.
The average fuel efficiency for a hybrid crossover SUV is 57 MPGe, and 8 models earn that figure or better for their highest-rated combined MPGe model. A hybrid crossover SUV with less than 57 combined MPGe is below the segment average and may not be a good model for consumers seeking to reduce or manage their fuel consumption.
Which hybrid crossover SUV achieves the best gas mileage?
- Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid
- Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid
- Toyota RAV4 Prime
- Hyundai TUCSON Plug-in Hybrid
- Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid
- Hyundai SANTA FE Plug-In Hybrid
- Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
- MINI Countryman Plug-in Hybrid
- Jeep Grand Cherokee (Plug-in Hybrid)
- Kia Niro
- Kia Sportage Hybrid
- Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
- Honda CR-V Hybrid
- Ford Escape Hybrid
- Toyota Venza
- Hyundai TUCSON Hybrid
- Kia Sorento Hybrid
- Toyota Highlander Hybrid
- Hyundai SANTA FE Hybrid
- Subaru Crosstrek (Plug-in Hybrid)
- Ford Explorer Hybrid
Best Crossovers of 2023
Crossovers have quickly become the most popular cars of all time, pushing out hatchbacks and sedans, and even encroaching on the territory of their larger siblings — SUVs. They may not be as practical as a larger car, but their smaller size makes them ideal for the tighter streets of the city. A crossover SUV, or CUV, is a nice compromise for shoppers who want to maximize practicality without sacrificing mobility. In the USA, buyers want the best of everything, so vehicles that embody this philosophy are bound to sell. This explains the fierce competition as brands flood the US market with more models in various configurations. Thanks to our in-depth reviews and comprehensive scoring system, we have rated all the best crossovers of 2023 for you.
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Characteristics of Top-Rated Crossovers
- Maneuverability: Naturally, due to their smaller dimensions in comparison to SUVs or pickup trucks, crossover vehicles are highly adept at weaving through traffic. They also don’t struggle to find a parking spot or fit into just about any parking garage. However, they still benefit from a higher riding position that gives the driver a great view of the road.
- Affordability: While there are many luxury names, especially among the best crossover vehicles, the fact is that the majority of these cars have a very low starting price. Mean to support small families or young professionals, it is essential that they offer great value at an affordable starting point. Further supporting their value proposition is their excellent gas mileage figures. This comes from their lower overall weight and reliance on small-capacity turbocharged engines. The cost of ownership, therefore, remains low throughout their lifespan.
- Customization: As one of the fastest-growing segments in the world, it should come as no surprise that there are numerous crossover models on offer. This gives buyers a great deal of choice when it comes to customizing their purchases. Furthermore, most automakers aim to hit as many different demographics as possible, so they present each model in a wide array of trims. Especially higher up in the lines, these trims can be further altered via packages and optional extras.
- Safety: High-riding sport utility vehicles are among the safest cars on the road, and while they may not be as bulky, crossovers inherit much of this peace of mind. They do still suffer from slightly lower rollover scores, due to their height, but their added weight over sedans ensures that crossovers keep their footing and their crumple zones are top-notch. Furthermore, since these are vehicles are largely targeted at families, almost all new models come equipped with a whole slew of advanced driver-assistance features as standard.
What to Consider Before Buying a Crossover
Despite their popularity, crossovers are not perfect. Just like any other body style, they have certain strengths and flaws that you should be aware of. Even models at the top of our crossover ratings share many of these qualities. So, before you commit yourself to five to seven years behind the wheel of one, carefully weigh the pros and cons:
Pros
- Highly affordable
- Better-than-average mpg figures
- Nimble around town
- More practical than a sedan
- Comfortable, featureful cabins that are easy to live with
Cons
- Generally not very powerful
- Limited towing capacities
- Low price often means low-quality materials
- Lack the utility and versatility of larger SUVs
FAQs about CUVs
What is the difference between a crossover and an SUV?
It all comes down to the frame. Traditional SUVs are built on pickup truck platforms, which explains their ruggedness, high weight, and ability to go just about anywhere. Crossovers, on the other hand, make use of sedan platforms, which means they have a much smaller footprint and handle far more dextrously. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses to impart.
What are the best crossover brands on the market?
There are plenty of great options out there to be sure. However, our personal opinions draw us more towards brands like Kia and Mazda for value and dependability or Mercedes-Benz and Tesla for luxury and comfort.
What are the top-rated 2022 crossovers?
Everyone has their own take on which car comes out on top, and even we have a hard time picking a winner in this segment. The Kia Soul is impossible to dismiss for its extremely low asking price, great warranty, and great fuel economy, but it lacks features at base level as its looks are not for everyone. The Telsa Model Y is more modern and has the added benefit of being all-electric. However, it is one of the most expensive crossovers out there.