The Best SUVs of 2025

The Best SUVs of 2025 Of course! The automotive landscape for 2025 is incredibly exciting, blending cutting-edge electric technology with refined gasoline power. Here’s a breakdown of the best SUVs of 2025 across various categories, from family haulers to luxury and off-road champions.

A Quick Note on the 2025 Model Year

The line between “2024” and “2025” models is blurry. Many brand-new or significantly updated vehicles launched in late 2024 will be designated as 2025 models. This list includes these new arrivals alongside proven favorites that remain best-in-class.

The Best All-Around: Family & Mainstream SUVs

The Best SUVs of 2025 These SUVs balance space, efficiency, technology, and value perfectly for the average buyer.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 / Kia EV6

Why it’s a winner: While not new for 2025, these sibling EVs continue to dominate with their ultra-fast charging (10-80% in under 18 minutes), incredibly spacious and innovative interiors, and head-turning design. They represent the best overall EV package for the money.
2025 Update: Expect new software features and potentially larger battery options to stay competitive.

Hyundai Santa Fe / Kia Sorento

Why they’re winners: The completely redesigned 2024 Santa Fe (a 2025 model) is a standout. It offers a bold, boxy design that maximizes interior space, a stunning widescreen cockpit, and available hybrid powertrains. The Sorento, its slightly larger platform-mate, offers three rows of seating with the same efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid options.
Best for: Families who want cutting-edge style, maximum cargo space, and excellent fuel economy without going fully electric.

Honda CR-V / Toyota RAV4

Why they’re winners: The perennial kings of the compact SUV segment. The CR-V excels with its refined hybrid powertrain (now standard on most trims), upscale interior, and smooth ride. The RAV4 is the rugged, dependable choice with its proven hybrid system and available adventure-ready TRD Off-Road model.
Best for: Anyone seeking proven reliability, top-tier resale value, and no-fuss ownership.

Mazda CX-90 / CX-70

The Best SUVs of 2025 Why it’s a winner: Mazda is redefining the mainstream luxury segment. The CX-90 is a sophisticated, three-row SUV with an available powerful inline-6 turbo engine or a efficient plug-in hybrid, all driving the rear wheels. For 2025, the new two-row CX-70 joins the fray, offering all the style and performance of the CX-90 in a more manageable package.
Best for: Drivers who prioritize driving dynamics, interior craftsmanship, and upscale feel over brute utility.

The Best Electric SUVs

This segment is evolving the fastest, with new entries constantly raising the bar.

Kia EV9

Why it’s a winner: It’s the first truly compelling three-row electric SUV for the masses. It offers seating for up to seven, incredibly fast charging, available ultra-fast performance (GT-Line model), and a beautiful, tech-filled interior. It feels like a spaceship from the future that’s practical today.
2025 Update: A new, lower-priced rear-wheel-drive model makes it more accessible.

Tesla Model Y

Why it’s a winner: Despite growing competition, the Model Y remains a benchmark. Its strengths are undeniable: the best-in-class driving range, access to Tesla’s vast Supercharger network, a minimalist interior, and blistering acceleration. Recent updates have refined the ride and added ambient lighting.
Best for: EV newcomers who prioritize charging convenience and range above all else.

Rivian R2 (Upcoming Preview)

Why it’s a winner: While not on sale until 2026, the Rivian R2 was the star of the 2024 auto show circuit and will be a defining model for 2025/2026. It promises Rivian’s incredible off-road capability, clever design, and electric performance in a smaller, more affordable (starting around $45,000) package. One to watch very closely.

The Best Luxury SUVs

Where opulence, technology, and performance collide.

Genesis GV80 / GV80 Coupe

Why it’s a winner: The GV80 offers arguably the best value in luxury. It delivers stunning design, a sublime and quiet ride, and an interior that rivals brands costing tens of thousands more. For 2025, the new GV80 Coupe adds a dramatic, sloping roofline for those wanting even more style.
Best for: Luxury buyers who are smart with their money but refuse to compromise on quality.

BMW X5 / iX

The Best SUVs of 2025 Why they’re winners: The BMW X5 remains the “Ultimate Driving Machine” of the midsize luxury SUV world, offering a perfect blend of sporty handling, a beautiful cabin, and multiple powerful powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid. The all-electric iX is a tech-forward alternative with a breathtaking interior and serene driving experience.
Best for: Driving enthusiasts who want a luxury badge and a dynamic experience.

Porsche Macan (All-Electric)

Why it’s a winner: The new all-electric Macan retains everything that made the original great—sublime handling, a premium interior, and daily usability—and adds devastating EV performance and modern tech. It proves that an electric SUV can be the best-handling vehicle on the road.
Best for: The performance-oriented driver who is ready to make the jump to electric.

The Best Off-Road & Adventure SUVs

Built to conquer trails and explore the unknown.

Land Rover Defender

Why it’s a winner: No SUV blends iconic style, luxury, and truly formidable off-road capability like the Defender. It’s as comfortable at a fancy restaurant as it is crawling over boulders. Its interior is rugged yet chic, and its technology (like the clear “Ground View” camera) is incredibly useful.
Best for: The adventurer who wants to go anywhere in style and comfort.

Toyota 4Runner / Land Cruiser

Why they’re winners: The 4Runner is a legend, a body-on-frame, truck-based SUV known for its bulletproof reliability and incredible aftermarket support. For 2025, it finally gets a full redesign after 15 years, promising modern tech and safety while retaining its tough off-road chops.
The returning Land Cruiser is not the $90k+ luxury tank of old; it’s a more affordable, rugged, and efficient hybrid SUV that harkens back to the model’s roots, competing directly with the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco.
Best for: Purists and overlanders who need proven, dependable capability.

Deep Dive: Key Trends for 2025

The Best SUVs of 2025 The Hybrid Takeover: Hybrids are no longer a niche option. They are becoming the default powertrain for many mainstream models (like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and new Santa Fe), offering a no-compromise solution with superior fuel economy and no range anxiety.
EVs Hitting Their Stride: Electric SUVs are moving beyond just acceleration and green credentials. The focus is now on charging speed (exemplified by Hyundai/Kia’s E-GMP platform), software-defined features (like Tesla’s and Rivian’s over-the-air updates), and family practicality (like the EV9’s third row).
Rugged Renaissance: The off-road segment is hotter than ever. The return of the Toyota Land Cruiser, the updated Ford Bronco, and the upcoming new 4Runner prove there’s massive demand for capable, adventure-ready vehicles that can also serve as daily drivers.
Mainstream Does Luxury: Brands like Hyundai, Kia, and Mazda are aggressively moving upmarket. The Mazda CX-90 and Genesis GV80 offer interior quality, technology, and driving dynamics that embarrass many traditional luxury brands at a lower price point.

Honourable Mentions & Other Categories

Best Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) SUV:

Mazda CX-90 PHEV: Offers a premium, three-row experience with an estimated 26 miles of electric-only range, perfect for daily commutes without using gas.
Toyota RAV4 Prime: The king of PHEV performance with a stunning 302 horsepower and 42 miles of electric range. It’s incredibly efficient and surprisingly quick.

Best Three-Row for Space:

Kia Telluride / Hyundai Palisade: While the EV9 is the new tech star, these siblings remain the champions of practical, family-friendly packaging. They offer spacious third rows, tons of features, and user-friendly technology at a great value. A refresh is expected for 2025.

Most Anticipated (But We’re Still Waiting):

Chevrolet Equinox EV: Promises to be one of the most affordable electric SUVs on the market with good range. Its success hinges on GM’s ability to ramp up production and deliver on its value proposition.
2025 Toyota 4Runner: The long-awaited full redesign of an icon. Expect a modern platform (likely shared with the Tacoma), hybrid powertrains, and updated tech, all while retaining its legendary off-road capability.

How to Choose: A Practical Guide

With so many great options, your decision should come down to a few key questions:

What’s Your Primary Fuel Type?

The Best SUVs of 2025 Gasoline: Proven, widespread, and quick to refuel. Best for long road trips in areas with sparse charging infrastructure.
Hybrid: Perfect for stop-and-go city driving; maximizes fuel economy without needing to plug in. The best “gateway” electrified option.
Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): Ideal if you have a short daily commute (under 30 miles) and can charge at home. You get EV benefits for daily use with a gas engine for longer trips.
Electric (EV): Best if you have reliable access to charging at home or work. Offers the lowest “fuel” costs, instant torque, and minimal maintenance. Consider your typical driving range and access to fast chargers for trips.

How Much Space Do You Really Need?

Compact (CR-V, RAV4, Model Y): Perfect for 1-4 people. Good cargo space, easy to park.
Midsize 2-Row (Santa Fe, C X-70): Offers more passenger and cargo room than a compact, often with more premium features.
Midsize 3-Row (Palisade, C X-90, EV9): The modern family hauler. The third row is best for children or occasional use on adults.
Full-Size (Chevy Tahoe, Ford Expedition): For maximum space, tow capacity, and a truly usable third row. The trade-off is fuel economy and size.

What’s Your Priority: Comfort, Performance, or Adventure?

Comfort/Ride Quality: Look to Genesis, Mazda, and Honda for quiet, smooth, and refined rides.
Performance/Handling: Porsche, BMW, and the sportier trims from Hyundai’s N-line and Kia’s GT-line are built for driving enjoyment.
Adventure/Off-Road: Jeep, Land Rover, Toyota (4 Runner, Land Cruiser), and Ford Bronco are purpose-built for capability beyond the pavement.