best suv 2024

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Best SUVs of 2024

Best SUVs of 2024: Your Ultimate Guide

Welcome to the definitive guide to the best SUVs of 2024! The SUV market is more diverse and competitive than ever, with manufacturers constantly innovating to deliver vehicles that are not only practical and spacious but also stylish, technologically advanced, and fun to drive. Whether you’re looking for a fuel-efficient commuter, a rugged off-roader, a luxurious family hauler, or something in between, there’s an SUV out there that’s perfect for you. In this article, we’ll explore the top contenders in various categories, highlighting their key features, strengths, and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the SUV Landscape in 2024

Before we dive into specific models, let’s take a broad look at the SUV landscape in 2024. Several key trends are shaping the market:

  • Electrification: Electric SUVs (EVs) are becoming increasingly common and competitive, offering compelling alternatives to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. They boast zero emissions, instant torque, and often qualify for significant tax incentives.
  • Hybridization: Hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) SUVs provide a bridge between gasoline and electric power, offering improved fuel economy without the range anxiety associated with EVs.
  • Advanced Technology: From advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist to sophisticated infotainment systems with large touchscreens and smartphone integration, technology is playing an ever-larger role in the SUV experience.
  • Emphasis on Safety: Safety is a top priority for SUV buyers, and manufacturers are responding with vehicles that are packed with advanced safety features and achieve high scores in crash tests.
  • Focus on Comfort and Luxury: Even mainstream SUVs are offering more luxurious features and amenities, blurring the lines between mainstream and luxury segments.

Best Compact SUVs of 2024

The compact SUV segment is incredibly popular, offering a sweet spot between affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency. These SUVs are ideal for city dwellers, small families, and anyone who wants a versatile vehicle that’s easy to park and maneuver.

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V consistently ranks among the best compact SUVs, and the 2024 model is no exception. It offers a spacious interior, excellent fuel economy, a comfortable ride, and a reputation for reliability. The CR-V is available in both gasoline and hybrid versions, with the hybrid offering even better fuel economy.

Key Features:

  • Spacious interior with ample cargo space
  • Available hybrid powertrain for excellent fuel economy
  • Honda Sensing suite of safety features
  • User-friendly infotainment system
  • Reputation for reliability

Pros:

  • Excellent fuel economy (especially the hybrid)
  • Spacious and comfortable interior
  • Good handling and ride quality
  • Strong resale value

Cons:

  • Some competitors offer more engaging driving dynamics
  • Infotainment system can be slow to respond at times
  • Styling is somewhat conservative

Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is another perennial favorite in the compact SUV segment. It’s known for its rugged styling, impressive off-road capabilities (especially the TRD Off-Road model), and a wide range of powertrain options, including gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. The RAV4 offers a comfortable ride and a spacious interior.

Key Features:

  • Available in gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid versions
  • TRD Off-Road model for enhanced off-road capabilities
  • Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ suite of safety features
  • Spacious interior with ample cargo space
  • Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Pros:

  • Wide range of powertrain options
  • Available TRD Off-Road model is surprisingly capable off-road
  • Good fuel economy (especially the hybrid and plug-in hybrid)
  • Reputation for reliability

Cons:

  • Base engine can feel underpowered
  • Infotainment system can be clunky
  • Ride quality can be firm on some models

Hyundai Tucson

The Hyundai Tucson has been completely redesigned in recent years, and the current model is a standout in the compact SUV segment. It boasts a striking exterior design, a luxurious interior, and a wide range of advanced technology features. The Tucson is available in both gasoline and hybrid versions.

Key Features:

  • Striking exterior design
  • Luxurious interior with premium materials
  • Available hybrid powertrain for excellent fuel economy
  • Advanced technology features, including a digital instrument cluster and a large touchscreen
  • Hyundai SmartSense suite of safety features

Pros:

  • Stylish design
  • Luxurious and comfortable interior
  • Good value for money
  • Long warranty

Cons:

  • Touch-sensitive controls can be distracting
  • Fuel economy of the gasoline engine is only average
  • Ride quality can be firm on some models

Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 is known for its sporty handling, stylish design, and upscale interior. It’s a great choice for drivers who enjoy a more engaging driving experience. The CX-5 offers a comfortable ride and a wide range of standard features.

Key Features:

  • Sporty handling
  • Stylish design
  • Upscale interior
  • Available turbocharged engine for more power
  • Standard i-Activsense suite of safety features

Pros:

  • Engaging driving experience
  • Stylish design
  • High-quality interior
  • Available turbocharged engine provides strong acceleration

Cons:

  • Less cargo space than some competitors
  • Fuel economy is only average
  • Rear seat can be cramped for taller passengers

Kia Sportage

The Kia Sportage, like its corporate sibling the Hyundai Tucson, has been recently redesigned and offers a bold design, a comfortable and tech-filled interior, and a variety of powertrain options including hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. It offers excellent value and a long warranty.

Key Features:

  • Bold and distinctive exterior design
  • Modern and tech-filled interior
  • Available hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains
  • Advanced driver-assistance systems
  • Long warranty

Pros:

  • Eye-catching design
  • Spacious and comfortable interior
  • Available with fuel-efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains
  • Excellent value proposition
  • Industry-leading warranty

Cons:

  • Some may find the styling polarizing
  • Base engine can feel a bit sluggish

Best Mid-Size SUVs of 2024

Mid-size SUVs offer more space and practicality than compact SUVs, making them ideal for families with children, people who need to haul cargo, or those who simply want more room to spread out. Many mid-size SUVs are available with three rows of seating, providing seating for up to seven or eight passengers.

Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride has been a runaway success since its introduction, and it continues to be one of the best mid-size SUVs on the market. It offers a spacious and luxurious interior, a comfortable ride, and a long list of standard features. The Telluride is also known for its excellent value for money.

Key Features:

  • Spacious and luxurious interior
  • Three rows of seating
  • Standard V6 engine
  • Kia Drive Wise suite of safety features
  • Excellent value for money

Pros:

  • Spacious and comfortable interior
  • Smooth and powerful V6 engine
  • Long list of standard features
  • Excellent value

Cons:

  • Fuel economy is only average
  • Can be difficult to find at dealerships due to high demand
  • Styling is somewhat boxy

Hyundai Palisade

The Hyundai Palisade is essentially the Kia Telluride’s corporate sibling, and it offers many of the same strengths, including a spacious and luxurious interior, a comfortable ride, and a long list of standard features. The Palisade has a slightly different styling than the Telluride, with a more sophisticated and upscale look.

Key Features:

  • Spacious and luxurious interior
  • Three rows of seating
  • Standard V6 engine
  • Hyundai SmartSense suite of safety features
  • Upscale styling

Pros:

  • Spacious and comfortable interior
  • Smooth and powerful V6 engine
  • Long list of standard features
  • Upscale styling

Cons:

  • Fuel economy is only average
  • Can be expensive in higher trims
  • Some may prefer the Telluride’s styling

Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is a reliable and well-rounded mid-size SUV that’s known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and available hybrid powertrain. The Highlander is a great choice for families who want a safe and practical vehicle.

Key Features:

  • Available in gasoline and hybrid versions
  • Three rows of seating
  • Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ suite of safety features
  • Spacious interior with ample cargo space
  • Reputation for reliability

Pros:

  • Available hybrid powertrain for excellent fuel economy
  • Comfortable ride
  • Spacious interior
  • Reputation for reliability

Cons:

  • Base engine can feel underpowered
  • Third row can be cramped for adults
  • Infotainment system can be clunky

Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer is a popular mid-size SUV that offers a variety of powertrain options, including a powerful turbocharged engine. The Explorer is available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and it offers a spacious interior and a comfortable ride.

Key Features:

  • Available with a variety of powertrain options, including a turbocharged engine
  • Available in rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
  • Three rows of seating
  • Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features
  • Spacious interior

Pros:

  • Powerful engine options
  • Available all-wheel drive
  • Spacious interior
  • Stylish design

Cons:

  • Fuel economy can be poor with the turbocharged engine
  • Ride quality can be firm on some models
  • Interior quality is not as high as some competitors

Nissan Pathfinder

The Nissan Pathfinder has been redesigned in recent years, and the current model is a significant improvement over its predecessor. It offers a more rugged and stylish design, a comfortable interior, and a standard V6 engine. The Pathfinder is a great choice for families who want a capable and versatile SUV.

Key Features:

  • Rugged and stylish design
  • Standard V6 engine
  • Three rows of seating
  • Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite of safety features
  • Improved interior quality

Pros:

  • Stylish design
  • Comfortable interior
  • Standard V6 engine provides good power
  • Improved interior quality

Cons:

  • Fuel economy is only average
  • Third row can be cramped for adults
  • Some competitors offer more advanced technology features

Best Luxury SUVs of 2024

Luxury SUVs offer a combination of comfort, performance, and advanced technology. These vehicles typically feature premium materials, sophisticated designs, and a wide range of high-end features.

Genesis GV80

The Genesis GV80 is a relative newcomer to the luxury SUV market, but it has quickly made a name for itself. It offers a stunning design, a luxurious interior, and a comfortable ride. The GV80 is also known for its excellent value for money.

Key Features:

  • Stunning design
  • Luxurious interior with premium materials
  • Available with a variety of powerful engines
  • Genesis Active Safety Control suite of safety features
  • Excellent value for money

Pros:

  • Stylish and luxurious
  • Comfortable ride
  • Powerful engine options
  • Excellent value

Cons:

  • Limited dealer network
  • Some competitors offer more advanced technology features
  • Long-term reliability is still unknown

BMW X5

The BMW X5 is a perennial favorite in the luxury SUV segment, and it continues to be one of the best options on the market. It offers a sporty driving experience, a luxurious interior, and a wide range of advanced technology features. The X5 is available in both gasoline and plug-in hybrid versions.

Key Features:

  • Sporty driving experience
  • Luxurious interior with premium materials
  • Available with a variety of powerful engines
  • Available in gasoline and plug-in hybrid versions
  • BMW Active Driving Assistant suite of safety features

Pros:

  • Engaging driving experience
  • Luxurious interior
  • Powerful engine options
  • Available plug-in hybrid version offers excellent fuel economy

Cons:

  • Can be expensive
  • Ride quality can be firm on some models
  • Some competitors offer more space

Mercedes-Benz GLE

The Mercedes-Benz GLE is another top contender in the luxury SUV segment. It offers a comfortable ride, a luxurious interior, and a wide range of advanced technology features. The GLE is available in both gasoline and plug-in hybrid versions, as well as high-performance AMG models.

Key Features:

  • Comfortable ride
  • Luxurious interior with premium materials
  • Available with a variety of powerful engines
  • Available in gasoline, plug-in hybrid, and AMG versions
  • Mercedes-Benz Driver Assistance Systems suite of safety features

Pros:

  • Luxurious and comfortable
  • Wide range of engine options
  • Available plug-in hybrid version offers excellent fuel economy
  • High-performance AMG models offer thrilling performance

Cons:

  • Can be expensive
  • Infotainment system can be complex
  • Some competitors offer more engaging driving dynamics

Audi Q7

The Audi Q7 is a well-rounded luxury SUV that offers a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and a wide range of advanced technology features. The Q7 is a great choice for families who want a luxurious and practical vehicle.

Key Features:

  • Comfortable ride
  • Spacious interior with three rows of seating
  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Audi pre sense suite of safety features
  • Advanced technology features, including a virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster

Pros:

  • Comfortable and quiet ride
  • Spacious interior
  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Advanced technology features

Cons:

  • Can be expensive
  • Some competitors offer more engaging driving dynamics
  • Styling is somewhat understated

Land Rover Range Rover Sport

The Land Rover Range Rover Sport blends luxury with off-road capability, making it a unique offering in the segment. It offers a stylish design, a luxurious interior, and powerful engine options.

Key Features:

  • Stylish and distinctive design
  • Luxurious interior
  • Powerful engine options, including supercharged and plug-in hybrid variants
  • Exceptional off-road capabilities
  • Advanced technology features

Pros:

  • Luxurious and comfortable interior
  • Powerful and refined engines
  • Exceptional off-road ability
  • Striking design

Cons:

  • Can be very expensive
  • Reliability can be a concern
  • Fuel economy is generally poor (except for the PHEV)

Best Electric SUVs of 2024

Electric SUVs are becoming increasingly popular, offering a combination of zero emissions, instant torque, and a smooth and quiet ride. These vehicles are often eligible for significant tax incentives, making them an attractive option for environmentally conscious buyers.

Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is the best-selling electric SUV in the world, and it’s easy to see why. It offers a long range, a spacious interior, and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. The Model Y is also known for its quick acceleration and advanced technology features.

Key Features:

  • Long range
  • Spacious interior with available seven-seat configuration
  • Access to Tesla’s Supercharger network
  • Quick acceleration
  • Advanced technology features, including Autopilot

Pros:

  • Long range
  • Quick acceleration
  • Access to Supercharger network
  • Advanced technology features

Cons:

  • Ride quality can be firm
  • Interior quality is not as high as some competitors
  • Styling is somewhat polarizing

Hyundai Ioniq 5

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a stylish and innovative electric SUV that offers a retro-futuristic design, a spacious interior, and ultra-fast charging capabilities. The Ioniq 5 is also known for its comfortable ride and advanced technology features.

Key Features:

  • Retro-futuristic design
  • Spacious interior
  • Ultra-fast charging capabilities
  • Hyundai SmartSense suite of safety features
  • Advanced technology features, including a dual 12.3-inch display

Pros:

  • Stylish and unique design
  • Spacious and comfortable interior
  • Ultra-fast charging
  • Good value for money

Cons:

  • Range is not as long as some competitors
  • Rear visibility can be limited
  • Some may find the styling polarizing

Kia EV6

The Kia EV6 is the Hyundai Ioniq 5’s corporate sibling, and it shares many of the same strengths, including ultra-fast charging capabilities and a spacious interior. However, the EV6 has a sportier design and a more engaging driving experience.

Key Features:

  • Sporty design
  • Spacious interior
  • Ultra-fast charging capabilities
  • Kia Drive Wise suite of safety features
  • Engaging driving experience

Pros:

  • Stylish and sporty design
  • Spacious and comfortable interior
  • Ultra-fast charging
  • Fun to drive

Cons:

  • Range is not as long as some competitors
  • Ride quality can be firm on some models
  • Some may prefer the Ioniq 5’s styling

Ford Mustang Mach-E

The Ford Mustang Mach-E is an electric SUV that’s inspired by the iconic Mustang sports car. It offers a stylish design, a sporty driving experience, and a long range. The Mach-E is also available in a high-performance GT version.

Key Features:

  • Stylish design inspired by the Mustang
  • Sporty driving experience
  • Long range
  • Available in a high-performance GT version
  • Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features

Pros:

  • Stylish and sporty
  • Fun to drive
  • Long range
  • Available GT version offers thrilling performance

Cons:

  • Ride quality can be firm
  • Some competitors offer more space
  • Infotainment system can be buggy

Chevrolet Blazer EV

The Chevrolet Blazer EV is a new electric SUV that aims to blend style, performance, and value. It offers a variety of trim levels and powertrain options, including both front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive configurations.

Key Features:

  • Stylish and sporty design
  • Available in multiple trim levels and powertrain configurations
  • Ultium battery platform
  • Advanced technology features

Pros:

  • Attractive design
  • Versatile powertrain options
  • Competitive pricing

Cons:

  • Early models have faced software issues
  • Real-world range may vary

Best Off-Road SUVs of 2024

For those who love to explore the great outdoors, off-road SUVs offer the capability to tackle challenging terrain. These vehicles typically feature four-wheel drive, high ground clearance, and rugged construction.

Jeep Wrangler

The Jeep Wrangler is the quintessential off-road SUV, and it remains the benchmark in this category. It offers a rugged design, exceptional off-road capabilities, and a removable top and doors for open-air fun. The Wrangler is available in both two-door and four-door versions.

Key Features:

  • Rugged design
  • Exceptional off-road capabilities
  • Removable top and doors
  • Available in two-door and four-door versions
  • Standard four-wheel drive

Pros:

  • Unmatched off-road capability
  • Iconic design
  • Open-air driving experience
  • Wide range of aftermarket accessories

Cons:

  • Ride quality is rough
  • Fuel economy is poor
  • Wind and road noise are loud

Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a blend of off-road capability and on-road comfort. It’s available with a variety of powerful engines, including a plug-in hybrid, and it offers a luxurious interior and a wide range of advanced technology features. The Grand Cherokee is a great choice for those who want a capable off-roader that’s also comfortable for everyday driving.

Key Features:

  • Available with a variety of powerful engines, including a plug-in hybrid
  • Available with three rows of seating (Grand Cherokee L)
  • Jeep Quadra-Trac four-wheel-drive systems
  • Luxurious interior
  • Advanced technology features

Pros:

  • Good balance of off-road capability and on-road comfort
  • Luxurious interior
  • Powerful engine options
  • Available plug-in hybrid version offers improved fuel economy

Cons:

  • Can be expensive
  • Fuel economy is only average (except for the plug-in hybrid)
  • Reliability can be a concern

Ford Bronco

The Ford Bronco is a direct competitor to the Jeep Wrangler, and it offers a similar combination of rugged design, exceptional off-road capabilities, and a removable top and doors. The Bronco is available in both two-door and four-door versions.

Key Features:

  • Rugged design
  • Exceptional off-road capabilities
  • Removable top and doors
  • Available in two-door and four-door versions
  • Standard four-wheel drive

Pros:

  • Excellent off-road capability
  • Stylish and modern design
  • Open-air driving experience
  • Wide range of available features and accessories

Cons:

  • Ride quality is firm
  • Fuel economy is only average
  • Can be difficult to find at dealerships due to high demand

Land Rover Defender

The Land Rover Defender is a legendary off-road SUV that has been completely redesigned in recent years. The current model offers a modern design, exceptional off-road capabilities, and a luxurious interior. The Defender is a great choice for those who want a capable and stylish off-roader.

Key Features:

  • Modern and stylish design
  • Exceptional off-road capabilities
  • Luxurious interior
  • Available with a variety of powerful engines
  • Advanced technology features

Pros:

  • Excellent off-road capability
  • Stylish and luxurious
  • Powerful engine options
  • Advanced technology features

Cons:

  • Can be very expensive
  • Fuel economy is only average
  • Reliability can be a concern

Toyota 4Runner

The Toyota 4Runner is a rugged and reliable SUV that’s known for its off-road capabilities and long-lasting durability. It’s a body-on-frame SUV, making it tougher than many of its unibody competitors.

Key Features:

  • Body-on-frame construction
  • Standard four-wheel drive on many trims
  • High ground clearance
  • Durable and reliable

Pros:

  • Exceptional reliability
  • Strong off-road performance
  • Holds its value well

Cons:

  • Outdated design and technology
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Ride quality is not as refined as some competitors

Making the Right Choice: Considerations Before Buying

Choosing the right SUV involves careful consideration of your individual needs and priorities. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

  • Budget: How much can you afford to spend? Consider not only the purchase price but also factors like fuel economy, insurance costs, and maintenance expenses.
  • Size: How much space do you need? Do you need three rows of seating? How much cargo space do you require?
  • Fuel Efficiency: How important is fuel economy to you? Consider hybrid or electric options if fuel efficiency is a top priority.
  • Driving Needs: What kind of driving will you be doing? Do you need an SUV for commuting, family trips, off-roading, or a combination of these?
  • Features: What features are important to you? Consider factors like safety features, infotainment systems, and comfort amenities.
  • Reliability: How important is reliability? Research the reliability ratings of different SUVs before making a decision.
  • Resale Value: How important is resale value? Some SUVs hold their value better than others.

Final Thoughts

The SUV market is constantly evolving, with new models and technologies being introduced all the time. The best SUV for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. We hope this guide has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the top contenders in various categories, and we encourage you to do further research and test drive several models before making a final decision. Happy SUV hunting!