You know that moment when you're at a stoplight, eyeing the glossy new SUV beside you, and you start wondering if you picked the right one? Or maybe you haven't even started looking yet, and the hundreds of "best SUV" lists online are stressing you out already. Relax. Picking the right SUV shouldn't feel like cramming for a test you didn't know was coming. Let's strip away the noise and get clear about what makes the best SUVs and which picks might actually fit your life.
What Makes an SUV the "Best"? (And Who Says So?)
Everyone throws around "best SUVs" like it means the same thing for every driver. Spoiler: it doesn't. The best SUV for a family hauling pets and hockey gear isn't the same as the best SUV for a city dweller who parallel parks daily. So, what really counts?
- Reliability: No one wants to get stranded on a road trip.
- Safety: For most SUV shoppers, it's at the top of the list (and for good reason).
- Space: Can you fit kids, friends, and all their stuff?
- Value: Don't overpay just for a fancy badge on the grill.
- How it feels to drive: You want to actually like being behind the wheel.
Experts can rank models and hand out stars. But your "best" comes down to what you need most day-to-day.
Which SUVs Top the List for 2024?
Lets get into it. Here are some 2024 models that keep popping up in real SUV reviews and owner ratings for doing a lot of things right.
- Toyota RAV4: Its the reliable friend everyone counts on, with great MPG and straightforward tech.
- Honda CR-V: Quiet ride, roomy back seat, and easy controls. Its built for comfort.
- Hyundai Tucson: Gutsy design and one of the best warranties out there. The value is obvious.
- Kia Telluride: The family SUV MVP. Space for all, upscale feel, but still within reach.
- Subaru Outback: Its a wagon/SUV mix for adventure lovers. Loads of standard safety stuff.
- Ford Bronco Sport: Rugged looks, handy size. Built for everyday and the odd muddy trail.
- Tesla Model Y: All electric and shockingly quick. The tech is wildif thats your thing.
Thats not every great SUV, but it gives you a sense of what real drivers and reviewers are loving this year. Bottom line: "best" doesnt always mean "most expensive" or "biggest engine." It means the one that fits your life without the headaches.
How to Pick the Right SUV (Without Wanting to Scream)
This isnt about making car shopping complicated. Think about these things first, and youll skip a lot of buyers remorse:
- What do you actually haul? (People, dogs, sports gear, groceries?)
- How often do you drive in snow, mud, or on rough roads?
- Do you want plug-in hybrid, full gas, or all-electric?
- City parking or wide-open suburbs?
- Do you want the latest tech, or is simple better?
- What can you actually afford to spend (dont forget insurance)?
Make a quick list. Seriouslyit helps. I once bought a sporty SUV thinking Id take it off-road all the time. Guess what? It spent most days in Target and school pickup lines. Be honest about what youll really do, and youll thank yourself later.
Best Family SUVs: What Should Parents Look For?
Not all SUVs are created equal for families. Heres what matters most when the back seats are full of kids (and maybe goldfish crumbs):
- Easy-to-clean interiors: Leather wipes clean. Cloth? Not so much.
- Sliding or split-fold rear seats: Shuffle seating to fit both car seats and cargo.
- Lots of USB ports: Happy passengers = less whining.
- Good crash ratings: Peace of mind is priceless.
- Rear-seat air vents: Youll hear about it if the backs too hot.
Kia Telluride, Honda Pilot, and Hyundai Palisade are standouts in SUV ratings for families. But check your own listfeatures that matter most to you could swing things another way.
Summer Road Trip or Everyday Commute: Which SUV Wins?
Planning to rack up miles or just heading around town? The "best" SUV might change depending on your driving style. For long trips, prioritizing comfort and MPG matters. For daily errands, easy parking and quick acceleration might top your list.
- Honda CR-V: Long-haul comfort champ. Quiet, smooth, surprising on gas.
- Tesla Model Y: Perfect for tech-savvy commutersif youre cool with charging stops.
- Subaru Outback: This one shines if youre hauling camping gear or want all-wheel drive all year.
Dont ignore real life. That exhilarating off-road SUV? Not so fun in splashy traffic on Monday morning. Always drive the way you actually live.
What Can Go Wrong? (And How to Dodge Regret)
Even the most research-obsessed shoppers sometimes mess up. Heres what trips up most people buying a new SUV:
- Falling for fancy features: Loaded models look cool, but do you really use built-in navigation once you have a smartphone?
- Ignoring test drives: The SUV with the best reviews might not fit your driving style. Always try before you buy.
- Skipping the true cost: Insurance, maintenance, and gas matter more than you think.
- Trusting lists over your real needs: Your "best SUV" could be a little different than the experts top 10.
The main thing: Don't rush. And always ask yourself, "Will I actually use this featureor is it just shiny?"
What's New With 2024 SUVs?
Car makers are cranking out updates for 2024. Youll spot:
- More electric and plug-in hybrid options than ever
- Bigger infotainment screens (sometimes, too big for their own good)
- Extra safety tech even on cheaper trims (auto braking, lane alerts)
- Fresh designsboxy is back, slick and simple is in
Dont feel pressured to buy the newest of the new unless it matters to you. Honest SUV reviews can highlight which upgrades matter, and which are just for show. Sometimes, last years model saves you thousands with hardly any downside.
Real Talk: Pros and Cons of Popular SUV Types
- Compact SUVs: Great for city living, easy to park, decent size. But you might sacrifice cargo space.
- Midsize SUVs: Good for families and trips, balance of space and gas mileage. Watch out for higher prices.
- Full-size SUVs: Tons of space and power. But they gulp gas (and can be a nightmare in tight parking lots).
- Electric SUVs: Save on fuel, love the instant power. Charging on road trips still takes planning.
Theres no wrong choicejust the wrong fit for your life.
How to Get the Most Bang for Your Buck
- Shop at the end of the month or model year for deals on 2024 SUVs.
- Test drive everythingyour favorite on paper might surprise you in person.
- Check real-world MPG (not the number in the brochure).
- Dont be afraid to walk away if youre not 100% sure. Another deal will come.
Want a quick checklist? Know your "must-haves," set your max budget, and only test drive the models that fit. Ignore pressure to "buy today or itll be gone." Another SUV will roll in tomorrow.
Final Thoughts: Better Choices, Less Stress
Picking from the best SUVs doesnt have to be a hair-puller. Start with what matters to you, not what glossy ads or lists yell at you. Compare your shortlisted top SUVs, trust your comfort (and gut feeling), and take your time at each step. The right ride is out thereand when you find it, the search feels totally worth it.
FAQs
- Which SUV has the best resale valu?
Toyota and Hondas SUVs (like the RAV4 and CR-V) are champs for holding value. That means if you sell in a few years, youll get more money back. Theyre reliable, and people trust them secondhandsuper important if you dont keep cars forever. - Are three-row SUVs worth it for small families?
If you only need a third row a couple times a year, you might not need it every day. But if you carpool or have lots of visitors, it can be a lifesaver. Just keep in mind: the third row often shrinks trunk space. - Whats the safest SUV for 2024?
Lots of 2024 SUVs score top marksSubaru Outback, Hyundai Palisade, and Kia Telluride to name a few. Check crash-test ratings, but remember: true safety also means comfort and visibility when you drive. - Should I get an electric SUV?
Electric SUVs are super smooth and cheap to fuel up. Theyre awesome if you can charge at home or work. For long trips, plan charging stops. If you hate gas stations and want a quiet ride, give one a try. - Whats the best SUV for budget-minded shoppers?
Look at Hyundai Tucson or Mazda CX-5. Both pack features and comfort for their price, and owners love them for low repair bills. Test drive a couple to see which feels rightthey rarely let people down. - How often should I service my new SUV?
Every make is different, but most need a check-up every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. The owners manual spells it out. Regular oil changes and tire rotations help your SUV last longer and save money in the long run.
