10 Best and Worst SUVs Ranked
If SUVs are on your radar for your next vehicle, you’re not alone. SUVs dominate global sales, thanks to their comfort, versatility, and advanced tech. But here’s the thing—not all SUVs are created equal. Some offer exceptional performance, while others come up short with subpar reliability or lackluster features.
To save you time and headaches, we’ve ranked 10 SUVs, highlighting five models worth every penny and five you might want to steer clear of. Whether you’re focused on safety, design, fuel efficiency, or price, this guide will help you make an informed decision before you hit the dealership.
Best SUVs for Your Drive
These five SUVs stand out as top-tier vehicles in today’s market, excelling in reliability, features, and customer satisfaction.
1. Toyota RAV4
Outstanding fuel economy. Reliable performance. The Toyota RAV4 remains one of the most loved SUVs by buyers. This compact SUV features a roomy cabin, smooth ride, and efficient hybrid options. It delivers a combined fuel economy rating of up to 40 MPG with its hybrid model, while staying affordable and loaded with advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control.
What’s to love:
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Exceptional fuel efficiency (especially in the hybrid version).
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Robust safety ratings and Toyota’s legendary reliability.
2. Honda CR-V
Hailed as one of the most versatile and family-friendly SUVs, the Honda CR-V strikes an excellent balance between performance and practicality. It offers a roomy, high-quality interior, a smooth drivetrain, and stellar safety ratings. The hybrid model adds eco-friendly appeal, and the spacious cargo hold makes it a go-to for long road trips.
What’s to love:
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Roomy interiors and best-in-class cargo space.
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Strong safety suite with Honda Sensing technology.
3. Mazda CX-5
For drivers seeking an SUV with sporty handling, the Mazda CX-5 is a standout. Unlike its competition, Mazda combines practicality with premium styling and excellent driving dynamics. Plus, it boasts incredible crash safety ratings and intuitive technology.
What’s to love:
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Luxurious cabin design.
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Balanced ride with engaging steering, perfect for city and highway driving.
4. Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride has quickly solidified its reputation as one of the top midsize SUVs on the market. With its upscale interior, advanced technology, ample seating for up to eight passengers, and unbeatable pricing, this SUV feels like a luxury car at a fraction of the price.
What’s to love:
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Eye-catching design and premium comfort.
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Excellent warranty and outstanding value for money.
5. Subaru Outback
For off-road enthusiasts, the Subaru Outback is a reliable choice. With its rugged reputation, all-wheel drive, and ground clearance, it handles challenging terrain like a pro. Add in its spacious cargo area and dependable safety features, and you’ve got an SUV that’s perfect for adventure enthusiasts.
What’s to love:
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Standard all-wheel drive and off-road capabilities.
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Trusty, durable performance in all weather conditions.
SUVs Better Left in the Rearview
Not every SUV delivers on its promises. Here are five models that fall short in areas like value, reliability, or features, making them worth reconsidering.
1. Jeep Compass
While the Jeep brand is synonymous with adventure, the Compass struggles to live up to its bigger siblings like the Grand Cherokee. It faces criticism for underpowered engine options, poor fuel efficiency, and average reliability ratings.
Why avoid:
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Lackluster performance with sluggish acceleration.
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Subpar interior materials compared to its price point.
2. Nissan Rogue Sport
The Nissan Rogue Sport offers a mix of affordability and practicality, but its mediocre engine performance paired with a lack of advanced features leaves much to be desired. Competitor SUVs simply outperform this model in the same category.
Why avoid:
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Weak engine and sluggish power delivery.
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Limited tech and lack of standout features for the price.
3. Ford EcoSport
Despite being marketed as a budget-friendly compact SUV, the Ford EcoSport fails in major departments like ride quality and interior design. Poor safety ratings and a dated look make it a tough choice against its rivals.
Why avoid:
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Below-average crash-test results.
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Cramped interior space and limited cargo room.
4. Chevrolet Trax
While the Chevrolet Trax is affordable, it sacrifices comfort and driving quality to keep costs down. The lack of modern features and premium aesthetic leaves it falling behind in a competitive market.
Why avoid:
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Mediocre engine performance with loud cabin noise.
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Sparse tech features compared to category leaders.
5. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Mitsubishi’s Outlander Sport has an appealing price tag, but its outdated design and inconsistent quality make it a tough sell. With newer, better options to choose from, the Outlander struggles to stand out.
Why avoid:
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Outdated cabin and clunky infotainment system.
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Poor resale value compared to competitors.
Key Things to Look For When Choosing an SUV
Choosing the right SUV can feel overwhelming, but focusing on key criteria will help narrow it down. When shopping, consider the following factors:
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Safety Features
Look for SUVs with robust safety ratings and features like lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. -
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy matters, especially for daily commuters or long-drive enthusiasts. Hybrid options are worth considering for better gas mileage. -
Interior Comfort and Space
Evaluate cabin comfort and passenger room, especially if you have a family. Cargo space is equally important for road trips or daily errands. -
Performance
Pay attention to the engine and drivetrain options. Decide whether you want front-wheel drive (FWD), all-wheel drive (AWD), or full four-wheel drive (4WD). -
Resale Value
Some SUVs hold their value better than others. Brands like Honda, Toyota, and Subaru are known for strong resale value.
Drive Away Happy
Picking the perfect SUV comes down to understanding your needs and doing your homework. Whether you need a reliable family car like the Toyota RAV4 or crave a sporty driving experience with the Mazda CX-5, there’s an SUV tailored to you.
On the flip side, knowing what to avoid can save you trouble and money down the road.
Still unsure which SUV suits you best? Take a closer look at reviews, test drive a few models, and prioritize your needs to ensure a smart investment.
Here’s to making your next ride your best one yet!
