Trying to pick the right SUV can make you want to pull your hair out. There are so many choices, and every ad says their model is the best. Maybe you just want something that fits your whole family without feeling like you're steering a bus. Or you need a ride that's reliable even on rough roads and packed with stuff that actually makes life easier, not just fancier. That's where the best SUVs 2024 list comes in. We'll break down what's actually worth your money and time not just the hyped picks but the SUVs real people enjoy driving.
What Makes an SUV the 'Best' in 2024?
Everyone's idea of the best SUV is different. For some, it's all about comfort. For others, it's who makes the most reliable SUVs or which one ranks highest for safety. Some people want top rated SUVs packed with tech. Others care most about cargo space or fuel savings. We looked at all these things and more, balancing what matters day to day, not just flashy numbers or sales pitches.
- Reliability (will it last, or need repairs every month?)
- Safety (how well it protects you and your crew?)
- Comfort (seats, ride smoothness, noise levels)
- Family-friendliness (space, car seat compatibility, easy-to-clean interiors)
- Fuel efficiency or hybrid/electric options
- Price and real-world value
Bottom line: The best SUVs 2024 list spotlights models that make life easier, not just fancier.
Which SUVs Top the Rankings This Year?
Let's get right into it: Here are the top rated SUVs right now, based on what actually matters. We checked expert ratings, owner reviews, and even a few I drive this every day stories.
- Toyota RAV4 — Not exciting, but almost everyone loves it for being so reliable. The hybrid version especially keeps your gas bills down.
- Honda CR-V — Feels bigger inside than you expect. Lots of safety stuff standard, and the ride is comfy even after long trips.
- Hyundai Tucson — Tech-packed for the price, and it has a great warranty. Handy if you plan to keep your car until the wheels fall off.
- Kia Telluride — Fits families without feeling massive to drive, and people rave about the value. It looks slick, too.
- Mazda CX-5 — Sporty for an SUV. If you like tight steering and something less boring, this could be your match.
Consider what you want most. Do you care about fuel-saving hybrids? Maximum cargo space for soccer gear? Or is it all about the lowest chance of surprise repairs? These SUVs hit the sweet spots, but each one has a different vibe.
How Do You Choose the Right SUV for Your Needs?
It can be tempting to just go for what your neighbor has or trust the flashiest ad. Resist! Picking from the best midsize SUVs or the best family SUVs means getting honest about your real life. Heres a checklist:
- How many people are you hauling most days?
- Do you need three rows, or is two plenty?
- Will you tow anything? (boats, trailers, campers?)
- Do you drive more in cities or on highways?
- Whats your parking situation? (Big SUVs can be a pain in tiny lots!)
- Are you hoping to save on gas, or is power the priority?
I tell friends to test drive at least two SUVs back-to-back. Youll notice stuff right away, like which seats just feel right or which dashboards are a headache. Don't skip opening the trunk, folding the seats, or even crawling in the way back yourself if youre after a third-row ride. Those small annoyances add up if you deal with them every day.
Are Hybrid or Electric SUVs Worth It?
Hybrid and electric SUVs are everywhere in 2024. They can save big on fuel, but sometimes cost more upfront. Should you make the leap? Heres how to tell:
- If you drive mostly in the city or do a lot of stop-and-go, hybrids pay off fastest.
- Electric SUVs work great if you have a garage and can charge at home. Less fun if youre always searching for public chargers.
- Worried about reliability? Most hybrids from Toyota and Honda last ages. Electric models from major brands are catching up fast.
- Keep an eye on rebates or tax credits; they can make hybrids or electrics suddenly way cheaper.
The catch? Some early electrics had range issues or weird tech glitches. But recent models are fixing that, making them real contenders in the SUV rankings. If you mostly take long highway trips, hybrid may be less hassle. For city commuters, electric can mean you almost never stop for gas.
Which SUVs Are the Most Reliable for 2024?
No one wants a car that lives at the shop. Thats why most buyers look for the most reliable SUVs. A few brands stand out again and again:
- Toyota — Their RAV4 and Highlander get high marks for running trouble-free for years.
- Honda — The CR-V and Pilot keep maintenance simple and cheap.
- Lexus — More expensive, but you get what you pay for. Fewer breakdowns and high resale value.
- Subaru — Best for all-weather reliability with all-wheel drive and sturdy builds.
Reliable SUVs might not be the sexiest, but they're heroes in the daily grind. They make great picks for families and anyone who hates surprise repair bills.
What About the Best SUVs for Families?
If youve got kids, pets, or haul a lot of stuff, some SUVs are just better suited. The best family SUVs blend space, safety, and things like easy-clean seats or rear seat reminders. Heres what families often look for:
- Lots of rear seat space (kids grow fast!)
- Sliding or folding second and third rows
- Good safety ratings and features (rear cameras, blind spot warnings, auto braking)
- Rear climate controls (so kids stop complaining all ride long)
- Big cargo area with seats up and down
The Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, and Hyundai Palisade all rank high for families. Even midsize SUVs like the Toyota Highlander work well for smaller squads. Test the car seats and booster situations before you commit.
Can You Get Value Without Paying For Every Bell and Whistle?
Its easy to get distracted by huge screens, built-in massage seats, or sound systems that could shake your windows loose. But do you need them? Lots of the best SUVs 2024 offer base trims packed with what matters: comfort, decent safety tech, and enough power.
- Skip the top-trim hype if budget is tight. Lower trims often have the same engines and safety, but less of the totally-optional tech.
- Check for certified pre-owned deals on last years model. Sometimes you get a better ride for less cash.
- Ask about maintenance, not just sticker price. Some cheap SUVs cost more over the years to fix.
Big SUV spend doesn't guarantee big SUV happiness. Focus on the stuff youll use all the time, and leave the rest.
FAQs About the Best SUVs 2024
- What are the top rated SUVs for 2024?
For 2024, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Kia Telluride, Hyundai Tucson, and Mazda CX-5 are standout picks. These SUVs rank high because theyre reliable, safe, and comfortable to drive every day. They get the job done for families and commuters alike, which is why they top so many lists. - Which SUVs are the most reliable in 2024?
Toyota and Honda models score the highest for reliability this year. Lexus and Subaru also have solid reputations for lasting a long time without a lot of repairs. If you want an SUV thatll go the distance, stick with these brands. - Whats the best midsize SUV for value?
The Hyundai Santa Fe and Honda Passport are great for value. You get lots o features, good space, and a solid warranty without spending luxury-car prices. They hold up well over time, too, which helps with resale if you ever want to trade in later. - Are hybrid SUVs better than gas ones?
Hybrid SUVs can save money on fuel, especially if you do lots of city driving. Many new hybrids are just as reliable as gas models, with extra perks like smoother rides. The higher price at first can pay off with lower trips to the gas pump down the line. - What should I check before buying a family SUV?
Look for safety ratings, easy-to-use car seat anchors, and enough room for everyone without squeezing. Test the trunk and back seats. Try getting in and out, especially if youll have young kids. Extra features like rear vents and plenty of cup holders also make a difference on family road trips. - Do big SUVs cost a lot more to own?
Bigger SUVs do use more gas and sometimes cost more to maintain. Tires, brakes, and oil changes can be pricier than smaller vehicles. But if you really need the space and capability, the extra cost might be worth it. Compare insurance rates and estimated maintenance before making your choice.
Picking the right SUV isn't simple, but you don't have to settle or get overwhelmed. Figure out what matters most to you, try a few models that fit, and trust how you feel behind the wheel. The right pick will make every drive whether it's a run to the grocery store or a summer road trip a little easier and more fun. Happy hunting!
