SUVs You’ll Wish You Bought Sooner—No Matter Your Budget
SUVs have risen in popularity over the years due to a number of reasons. Drivers want more space. They want a versatile vehicle and a higher sense of perceived safety. Ultimately, the SUV checks all the boxes. If you’re in the market for a new vehicle and you are curious about the SUVs on the market, these eight SUVs are worth considering.
1. Honda CR-V: A Compact Gem
Car and Driver rated the CR-V a 10 out of 10 in its round-up of the best SUVs for 2025. This vehicle has continued to score highly for several years, making it a top pick. The CR-V is known for its reliability and excellent fuel efficiency, making it perfect for both city commuting and weekend getaways. Its spacious interior offers ample room for passengers and cargo, making it a great choice for families or anyone who needs extra storage space. With a smooth ride and advanced safety features, this SUV provides a hassle-free driving experience. The latest CR-V also comes with a hybrid option, allowing you to enjoy a greener ride without sacrificing performance. Prices for the 2025 CR-V start at $31,495.
2. Mazda CX-50: Style Meets Versatility
The Mazda CX-50 brings style and sophistication to the compact SUV segment. Equipped with all-wheel drive, the CX-50 is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor adventures or need a vehicle that can handle varying weather conditions. The interior is refined, with high-quality materials and intuitive technology that enhance the driving experience. Although it’s compact, the CX-50 offers a spacious cabin and excellent cargo capacity for a vehicle in its class. You’ll find starting prices for a 2025 CX-50 around $31,720.
3. Volkswagen Tiguan: A Practical European Option
I’d highly recommend the VW Tiguan to anyone looking for an SUV that doesn’t need third-row options. While previous models had a third-row option, the 2025 model will not. Putting that aside, it stands out with its European engineering and practical features. With a comfortable interior and generous list of standard features, the Tiguan is perfect for anyone seeking value without compromising on luxury. The driving experience is refined, with a solid, smooth ride and responsive handling. With its spacious rear seat and decent cargo room, this SUV offers excellent family-friendly practicality. Prices for the Tiguan are reasonable, starting around $30,305.
4. Chevy Trax: Budget-Friendly and Efficient
For those who need a compact, budget-friendly option, the Chevy Trax is an ideal pick. Because it is rated as a subcompact SUV, it’s a bit cheaper, with starting prices around $21,495. That makes it the cheapest SUV on this list! With that in mind, it has a surprising amount of space, considering its size, and is packed with user-friendly tech. The Trax is perfect for urban driving, offering easy maneuverability and excellent fuel efficiency for your daily commute. While it may not be the most powerful option in its class, its practicality and low price tag make it a great starter SUV. Its compact size also makes it easy to park and navigate tight spaces, a significant benefit for city dwellers.
5. Kia Telluride: A Family SUV with Luxury Feel
The Kia Telluride has quickly become a favorite for families. I see more of them on the road every day, it seems. It is another SUV that received a 10 out of 10 rating from Car and Driver. With three rows of seats, the Telluride comfortably accommodates up to eight passengers, making it an ideal choice for those who need extra space. The interior is upscale, featuring high-quality materials and an intuitive infotainment system. The ride is smooth and quiet, with powerful engine options that provide ample performance for highway driving and towing. Not only is the Telluride packed with features, but it’s also known for its impressive safety ratings. Prices for the Kia Telluride start at around $37,805.
6. Toyota Grand Highlander: The Perfect Balance
The Toyota Grand Highlander is another top pick for people looking for an SUV, though it’s a little more expensive with starting prices around $42,310. That said, its spacious three-row layout is ideal for large families or those who frequently travel with lots of gear. Not to mention, it has the benefit of being made by Toyota, who is known for making reliable vehicles. The interior is well-equipped with modern technology, offering a comfortable and quiet ride for all passengers. With hybrid options available, the Grand Highlander also caters to eco-conscious drivers looking for efficiency without sacrificing performance.
7. Buick Envista: Compact SUV with High-End Feel
The Buick Envista offers a unique mix of compact size and high-end features, making it a standout option in the subcompact SUV market. With sleek exterior styling and an upscale interior, it’s perfect for drivers who want luxury without the large price tag. Despite its compact nature, the Envista offers an impressive list of standard features, including a user-friendly infotainment system. The cabin is quiet, and the ride is comfortable, making it ideal for both city driving and longer road trips. Not to mention, it’s incredibly affordable, with a starting price of $24,795.
8. BMW X7: The Ultimate Luxury SUV
For those in search of a luxury SUV, the BMW X7 is a game-changer. With a commanding presence on the road, the X7 offers a refined driving experience that few other vehicles can match. Inside, it’s pure luxury, with high-end materials, advanced technology, and ample space for all passengers. The X7 also offers powerful engine options, including a turbocharged V8, that make it as thrilling to drive as it is comfortable. That said, it comes at a steep price. You’ll see the 2025 BMW X7s starting at around $84,675.
Find the SUV That’s Right for You
No matter what your price point is, there is an SUV on this list for you. Every single one of these has something special to offer, from luxury to versatility. As always, make sure you take the time to think about your lifestyle and needs before moving forward with any vehicle choice. However, you can’t go wrong with any of the SUVs listed here.
Do you have an SUV? What vehicle do you drive?
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.