There are plenty of choices in today's popular SUV segment. Here are our picks from the wide range of models available now.
If you're a new car buyer in 2023, chances are an SUV is on your shopping list. And if that's the case, you're spoiled for choice. Each year, SUVs are becoming more and more popular, and to cover every nook and cranny of consumer interest, from small baskets to big boxes, automakers continue to diversify the range of SUVs in their lineup. The automotive landscape includes a plethora of SUV models that cater to the frugal-minded among us, the most performance-focused buyers, and every consumer in between. As a result, the competition is forcing changes to these types of vehicles. The dull SUVs of yesterday still exist, but there are also a number of delightfully engaging alternatives as well. Vehicles Used Cars
Finding the best option in a field this large is a lot to chew through. We've split the more than 200 new crossovers and SUVs for sale today across 13 segments to find the ones that dare to be good. Our editors have put every SUV sold today through our comprehensive testing regimen to filter out the pretenders. We've driven them all to decide which ones deserve a spot on our 2023 Editor's Choice list, not to mention naming a few of the very best of these vehicles to our 10Best Trucks and SUVs of 2023.
Here are the best SUVs for other model years: 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2019
Our Comprehensive Car Testing Explained
Whether you call it a low-riding SUV or a tall hatchback car, the diminutive 2023 Hyundai Kona is a practical and fun-to-drive vehicle, which makes it one of our faves. The entry-level engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes only 147 horsepower, but the optional turbocharged mill dials in some spiciness that better matches the Kona's nimble handling. Like other Hyundai models, the Kona comes packed with a generous list of standard features—including driver assistance and infotainment technologies—at a reasonable price. More than reasonable, actually. Considering that rivals such as the Kia Seltos and the Volkswagen Taos cost thousands more to start, you may find it easy to justify splurging on a higher-trimmed Kona model even if you're on a budget. The Kona may not have as much passenger or cargo space as some of its larger rivals, but when it comes to driving satisfaction it's a bundle of spunky, funky fun—no matter whether you think it's a car or an SUV.
With a bold new look, the 2023 Kia Niro is set to add a dose of cool to its eco-friendly image. The base hybrid model comes with a 139-hp four-cylinder, while the perkier plug-in-hybrid model adds a more powerful electric motor that bumps output to 180 horsepower. The cabin, which is lined with sustainable materials, matches the extroverted exterior styling and looks fairly upscale for what will be one of Kia's entry-level models; it's positioned next to the boxy Soul at the small end of the lineup. A novel 'Green Zone' drive mode will be standard and uses navigation data to automatically switch the Niro into EV mode when driving in neighborhoods, near schools and hospitals, and by frequently visited places such as a driver's office or home.
Choosing to drive a 2023 Kia Soul says a lot about a person, as its unconventional, stylized-toaster design and memorable ad campaign—featuring hamsters bopping out to dance music—imbue it with a certain whimsy. While it's true that the Soul looks like nothing else on the road, its boxy body hides a particularly practical cabin, with plenty of room for both people and cargo despite its small footprint. It's also a great value, with a price tag that starts thousands less than rivals such as the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Jeep Renegade, and Kia Seltos. It's not the most exciting car to drive, and its 147-hp four-cylinder only comes mated to a continuously-variable automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, but the Soul delivers a compliant ride and multiple virtues that make it pleasant to live with.
Driving verve ranks high on our list of priorities and the 2024 Mazda CX-30 is a small SUV that easily satisfies our desire for fun-to-drive transportation. The CX-30 is based on the Mazda 3 compact car, which explains its athleticism and its class-above cabin furnishings—both of which set it apart from rivals such as the Subaru Crosstrek and the Volkswagen Taos. With the entry-level 2.5-liter four-cylinder, the CX-30 can feel a bit sluggish, but if you're so inclined, Mazda offers a more powerful—and more expensive—250-hp turbocharged version. All-wheel drive is standard with either engine; both come with a six-speed automatic transmission. The higher-end trims offer near-luxury accommodations inside, which make the CX-30 a more luxurious option in the subcompact SUV segment. You could even consider it as a cheaper alternative to premium-branded models such as the Audi Q3 or the BMW X1.
Subcompact SUVs feed a hunger for space, affordability, and a certain sense of belonging—since almost everyone drives an SUV these days. Among 20 other competitors, the Volkswagen Taos quenches an additional, more recent consumer craving for parsimonious fuel economy. Available in front- or all-wheel drive, every Taos hums along getting exemplary real-world fuel mileage thanks to a stingy, 158-hp 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The Taos doesn't offer a hitch to tow with, so we'd suggest moving up to the larger Tiguan SUV for that, but there's plenty of cargo space inside, even with the rear seats in use, to easily handle grocery duty. It's a close fight among the best in this class, so the Tiguan's low starting price and capacious cockpit make it a tempting choice among others such as the Kia Seltos and Chevrolet Trailblazer. Beating its EPA estimate by 4 mpg, an all-wheel-drive Taos SEL we tested managed an awesome 40 mpg during our 200-mile, 75-mph highway fuel-economy test loop. Copious amounts of interior plastic help keep the Taos's price down while making the more richly-appointed Mazda CX-30 cabin feel like a miniature luxury condo in comparison with the VW.
Although it sits at the bottom of BMW's SUV lineup, there's nothing entry-level about the 2024 X1. Its lithe handling and practical interior almost make the X1 a suitable replacement for the 3-series station wagon that's regrettably absent from BMW's U.S. product portfolio. The standard powertrain is a 241-hp turbo four but the racier M35i trim comes with a 312-hp variant; both come standard with all-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic transmission. The cabin features both a modern design and modern tech, including BMW's latest iDrive 9 infotainment system, a curved-glass display, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There are two rows of seats which are both spacious for the small SUV class, but the Mercedes-Benz GLB-class is roomier still and offers an optional third row of seats. What the Benz doesn't have, however, is the BMW's driving verve.
For decades, Volvo produced cars that were just as plain and boxy as they were safe-with-a-capital-“S.” Modern Volvo continues to delight us with models that are even safer, but with a design that's much more elegant and expressive. That includes the spunky entry-level XC40 SUV, which blends excellent protection with an upscale ambiance and a youthful character. The cabin offers drivers a higher seating position than what's found in rivals such as the BMW X1 and the Mercedes-Benz GLA-class. Even the least expensive variant features an inviting and nicely trimmed interior, and the upper trims look thoroughly premium. Every XC40 is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive that scoots along nicely, and Volvo hasn’t skimped on standard safety and assistance technology. An electric version is also available if you're looking for an eco-friendlier option, but we review the XC40 Recharge separately.
As soon as the new CR-V debuted last year it was a hit, immediately earning a 10Best Trucks and SUVs trophy. The CR-V offers reliably good performance, with plenty of usable space, friendly driving dynamics, front- or all-wheel drive, a 190-hp turbocharged engine, and an optional 204-hp hybrid version. That hybrid powertrain delivers a stellar 40 mpg combined. Even in base form, the CR-V shines with a deep layer of modern tech and safety features that don’t hog the spotlight deservedly occupied by its superb chassis. The CR-V is our favorite in the highly popular compact-SUV segment, even amid stiff competition from the Mazda CX-50, Volkswagen Tiguan, and Kia Sportage.
The 2023 Hyundai Tucson struts a cutting-edge style that stands out among its more sober-looking compact SUV competitors. That doesn't mean that the Tucson sacrifices practicality or affordability. It boasts both. Hyundai has taken the blanket approach with the Tucson, offering a wide variety of trims and powertrains—including a hybrid and plug-in hybrid—giving it broad appeal. The entry-level powertrain is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder but the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models use a turbocharged 1.6-liter four that's buttressed by an electric motor—a combination that provides more pep. Entry-level models of the Tucson are nicely equipped while higher-end trims cross the line from mainstream to premium, giving it an edge over rivals such as the Honda CR-V, the Toyota RAV4, and the Volkswagen Tiguan.
The 2023 Kia Sportage separates itself from the throng of compact SUVs with its extroverted styling. The Kia's unconventional face features a set of alien-looking headlights and a distinct grille design. Its bolder bodywork is also dimensionally bigger than before, which translates to more cargo space and a roomier interior. Inside, the new Sportage is both attractive and packed with tech that includes a massive dash-mounted screen. Motivation comes from a 187-hp four-cylinder, a 226-hp hybrid powertrain, or a more powerful plug-in-hybrid model with an estimated electric range of 34 miles. Competition is tough from segment stalwarts such as the Mazda CX-5 and the Honda CR-V, but the 2023 Sportage proves it has more to offer than just a wild-looking exterior.
Taking a look back at the Mazda CX-5's history is a good way to understand where it stands today. It's got as many Car and Driver 10Best awards as it does tires, but after seven years of one of our favorite SUVs, the CX-5 is due for a rejuvenation. It's still a better driver and far more luxurious than the train of competitors behind it, but the new kids on the block have quickly outshined its trophy cabinet. Under the hood is a 187-hp inline-four engine with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The optional 256-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter is the powertrain to get, but thankfully Mazda has decided against the popular CVT and instead uses a traditional six-speed automatic transmission, which sweetens the CX-5 driving experience. While it gives up some space for the sake of style, sitting in a CX-5 is enough to convince you of its luxury. For space, we'd stick with the newer Honda CR-V or the slightly larger CX-50, but despite its age, the CX-5 still drives like it's out to prove something.
Mazda is quickly transitioning its lineup to SUVs but the 2024 CX-50 is proof that there's still plenty of zoom-zoom left in the tank. This compact SUV sports a ruggedly handsome look and a near-luxury interior but doesn't abandon the agile handling and fun-to-drive nature the brand is known for. A 187-hp four-cylinder is standard, and all models come with all-wheel drive but things get more fun when the optional 256-hp turbocharged four is under the hood. The CX-50's size puts it in contention with winning entries such as the Honda CR-V and the Volkswagen Tiguan, not to mention a rival from within its own showroom—the Mazda CX-5. But the CX-50 trades on its expert blend of style and grace to edge its way toward the top of the compact SUV class.
Among compact SUVs, the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan is the only one that offers a distinctly European flavor, with crisp handling and elegantly tailored styling. The only engine choice is a smooth, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, and while performance is merely adequate, it does deliver on fuel efficiency. A host of tech features is included in every model, including a digital gauge display, contemporary infotainment connectivity, and driver-assistance features. The cabin, while sedately styled, is spacious for people and cargo; a third row of seats is available as an option, something only the Mitsubishi Outlander matches in this segment. More than anything, though, we like the Tiguan because it's sporty and fun to drive.
Traditionally, sports sedans have been the vehicles that best projected the spirit of the BMW brand. Not so much anymore. The 2023 X3 SUV edges in on its four-door brethren's territory with a satisfying blend of refinement and driver engagement. As its name implies, the X3 is the SUV equivalent to the renowned 3-series sedan, and it shares its powertrains with that car. Entry-level models are powered by a 248-hp turbo-four while M40i models get a boost from the company's revered 382-hp turbo six—an engine that never ceases to amaze us with its velvety muscle. A handsome exterior design gives the X3 enough curb appeal to fit in among style mavens such as the Genesis GV70 and Volvo XC60. The X3's spacious interior is soberly styled but lined with premium materials and desirable technology. But it's the X3's frisky handling that endears it most to enthusiast drivers like those on our staff and, as an added bonus, its athletic road manners don't compromise its genteel nature when cruising nor its all-around SUV practicality.
Although it starts at a lower price than many of its competitors, there's nothing second-rate about the 2024 Genesis GV70. This compact SUV does luxury better than the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 and also delivers well-balanced road manners—with a smoother ride than the Mercedes-Benz GLC-class and the Volvo XC60. While those rivals have the Genesis beat when it comes to name recognition, the GV70 is impressively deluxe, with a chic design and a full roster of convenience and technology features. A turbocharged four-cylinder is standard, but a more powerful twin-turbo V-6 is optional; both offer plenty of giddyap and come with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. We had a V-6-powered GV70 for a long-term test in which we finished 40,000 miles with almost nothing but praise for it.
Porsche's SUV lineup began with the mid-size Cayenne, but the compact Macan delivers a heartier helping of the brand's sporting ethos while still offering more space for people and cargo than a sports car. The Macan's snappy shifts and exciting ride earned it a place on our list of 10Best Trucks and SUVs for 2023. A turbocharged four-cylinder is standard, but the S model is equipped with a significantly more powerful twin-turbo V-6 engine. The high-performance GTS trim is even more powerful, but we review that one separately. Handling is crisp, and all Macan models provide a joyful driving demeanor that even the most hardened SUV detractors will appreciate. This is why it's one of our favorite SUVs. Rivals such as the BMW X3 or Genesis GV70 offer more luxury equipment as standard, but the Macan stands alone as an upscale, compact SUV that satisfies its driver first and fulfills its other missions second.
Like a nice pair of shoes, or a perfect pair of jeans, the 2024 Volvo XC60 brings together practical design with handsome styling to create a unique option in the luxury-SUV class. The XC60 pairs an elegant exterior with an upscale interior and a distinctively Scandinavian take on luxury. Volvo offers two four-cylinder engine options for the XC60—the 247-hp B5 and the 455-hp T8 plug-in hybrid. The Volvo takes corners well and feels connected to the road, even if rivals such as the Porsche Macan infuse more athleticism into their road manners. Technology sits at the forefront of the XC60, and even though we don't love the Google-based infotainment system, it works well enough. Competitors like the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class offer more space for cargo, but we think most customers will find it practical enough.
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio is an Italian dreamboat with a 505-hp twin-turbo V-6 for a heartbeat. It delivers its power via all-wheel drive and uses an eight-speed automatic that handles shift work as adamantly as factory workers in Bologna. The QF is the regular Stelvio unleashed. It feels supremely balanced under intense cornering and, when it comes to the open road, is quicker to 60 mph than the rear-drive Giulia Quadrifoglio sedan thanks to its four powered wheels. Though its driving instincts scream sports car, on the SUV side of things passenger and cargo space all take a figurative back seat to its exciting persona. Its mighty performance can't escape Alfa Romeo's reputation for spotty reliability, though—something we experienced firsthand in a long-term test of a Giulia Quadrifoglio sedan.
Porsche has more than a half-century of sports-car development to draw from. The company's expertise culminates in the sports-car-esque 2023 Macan GTS, making it one of the most exciting SUVs to drive. With a 434-hp twin-turbo V-6 under its hood, the all-wheel-drive GTS is potent enough to rocket to 60 mph in only 3.5 seconds. Should the compact luxury ute encounter coiling roads along the way, it'll remain planted on each one, rewarding its driver with agile handling that's not only rare among most SUVs, but also among many cars. For those in the market for a high-riding high-performance machine, there is none better than the Macan GTS. Of course, those seeking maximum utility might find boxier rivals such as the BMW X3 M and Jaguar F-Pace SVR more useful. Still, to us, there's no greater utility than the 2023 Porsche Macan GTS's unmatched driver involvement.
Whether it's crunching through dense forest trails or quietly idling up to a Wendy's drive-through window, the four-wheel-drive Ford Bronco is arguably the most exciting off-roader since the Jeep Wrangler. A winner of our 10Best Trucks and SUVs award, the Bronco comes in both two- and four-door body styles, and it was designed to do everything a Wrangler can—and it does that and more. Yes, you can remove the doors on the Bronco just like you can on a Wrangler, but only the Ford retains its mirrors. Both brands' SUVs cater to the big muddy, but the Bronco suffers from noticeably less road noise when traveling the highways between puddles. It has more base horsepower too, with output ranging between a 300-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-four and a 330-hp twin-turbo 2.7-liter V-6. If you're after more than that, feast your eyes on the swollen fenders of the 418-hp Bronco Raptor, reviewed separately. With a dizzying array of models, trims, and optional equipment, the Bronco offers vast configurability that allows it to fit a wide range of needs—even for those die-hards (like us) who want to shift gears with the help of a clutch pedal.
Yes, he's still working on the 1986 Nissan 300ZX Turbo project car he started in high school, and no, it’s not for sale yet. Austin Irwin was born and raised in Michigan, and, despite getting shelled by hockey pucks during a not-so-successful goaltending career through high school and college, still has all of his teeth. He loves cars from the 1980s and Bleu, his Great Pyrenees, and is an active member of the Buffalo Wild Wings community. When Austin isn’t working on his own cars, he’s likely on the side of the highway helping someone else fix theirs.
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Hybrid 4x4 Vehicles Yes, he's still working on the 1986 Nissan 300ZX Turbo project car he started in high school, and no, it’s not for sale yet. Austin Irwin was born and raised in Michigan, and, despite getting shelled by hockey pucks during a not-so-successful goaltending career through high school and college, still has all of his teeth. He loves cars from the 1980s and Bleu, his Great Pyrenees, and is an active member of the Buffalo Wild Wings community. When Austin isn’t working on his own cars, he’s likely on the side of the highway helping someone else fix theirs.