Best SUVs Of 2023 And 2024

The amount of choice in the SUV market is staggering, and for those shopping for a new ride, it can be overwhelming. There are a plethora of subcompact, compact, midsize, three-row midsize, and full-size SUVs on offer, and most manufacturers, from mainstream brands to luxury and niche, offer a full range of models. Additionally, there are choices for internal combustion, hybrid, and all-electric models. Some SUVs are even available with all three major types of powertrains.

Still, there are models that stand above their extensive competition — the best new 2023 and 2024 SUVs you can buy today. These models, which run the gamut from subcompacts to full-size, offer the best driving dynamics, and most practicality, are rich with desirable safety and tech features, deliver impressive performance with respectable efficiency, and put a premium on overall value. Below are our picks for the best overall ICE-powered SUVs of 2023 and 2024.

To provide the most up-to-date information, the specs below were sourced from manufacturer websites, with some additional information from Edmunds and Car and Driver. The following entries have been chosen as our best SUVs of 2023 and 2024 for their overall value, driving dynamics, pragmaticism, features, and efficiency. The engine specs listed are for each model’s base trim. The entries are arranged based on the starting MSRP and price range, going from the most affordable to the most expensive model.

1 2024 Chevrolet Trax

Price Range: $21,495 – $24,995

The previous Chevrolet Trax was just another middling player in the mainstream subcompact SUV market, but with the model’s new generation for 2024, the Trax has been transformed into a class leader. The Trax now sports attractive, Blazer-inspired styling, a roomier interior, more features, and better practicality. To boot, it’s actually cheaper than the model it replaces with prices starting at an agreeable $21,495.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Chevrolet)

An Affordable And Far More Appealing Subcompact

The Trax isn’t for those who prioritize power or towing capability – its turbocharged inline-three engine delivers decidedly average acceleration, and Chevy doesn’t seem to recommend towing anything. But for those who want an affordable commuter or small family car, the Trax is more appealing than ever. Passenger space is ample in both rows for its class, and it can accommodate up to 25.6 cubic feet of cargo behind the rear seats.

Additionally, the Trax now sports better tech, including a standard 8.0-inch touchscreen and full digital displays in top models, with a host of new standard driver aids. With agreeable driving dynamics, pragmaticism, efficiency, and value for the money, the revamped Trax is a leading contender for those seeking a small commuter SUV with an affordable price tag.

Pros

• Roomier than the previous model
• Stylish looks
• A host of new equipment

Cons

• No real performance credentials
• AWD isn’t offered
• Some cheap-feeling interior materials

2 2023 Kia Sorento

Price Range: $30,090 – $43,690

The Kia Sorento may stand in the shadow of its Telluride sibling, but like its brother, it is a leading player in the midsize, three-row SUV category. The Sorento could be considered a utility player. It’s a bit smaller than the Telluride, so it’s not quite as accommodating for rear passengers or cargo, but as such, it’s more efficient, and easier to maneuver, and unlike the Telluride, there are several powertrain options from which to choose.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Kia)

The Lesser-Known Kia Midsize Three-Row Is Still Exceptional

The Sorento’s downsides are slow acceleration and an often bunglesome dual-clutch transmission, but those issues aside, it shares its best characteristics with the Telluride. Namely, it’s affordable price, roomy interior (save for the third row), upmarket features and materials, and respectable handling and towing. Overall, the Sorento doesn’t make many missteps, and it presents excellent value.

Pros

• Rich with tech and amenities
• Comfortable ride quality
• Numerous models available

Cons

• Jerky transmission
• Slow acceleration
• Tight third-row seating

3 2024 Mazda CX-50

Price Range: $30,300 – $43,300

Consider the Mazda CX-50 the more rugged and slightly larger sibling to the CX-5. And like its stablemate, the CX-50, which debuted for the 2023 model year, delivers plenty of Mazda “Zoom Zoom” personality in an attractive package that is notably more upscale than much of its competition. For compact SUV buyers who want to avoid the typically boring driving dynamics of most compact SUVs, the 2024 CX-50 is the answer.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Mazda and Edmunds)

The Compact SUV For Those Who Value Driving Dynamics

The 2024 CX-50 is pricier than many of its competitors, but those extra dollars can be considered worth the price of entry given the Mazda comes standard with all-wheel drive. To boot, the CX-50 sports an upscale and well-appointed interior, particularly in higher-trim models, which infringes into luxury territory.

The CX-50 also delivers exceptional driving dynamics, delivering an agility and driving feel that is often missing from its class. Buyers willing to dish out for a midrange or upper model are rewarded with the CX-50’s optional 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, which ups the compact SUV’s power to 227 horsespower and more than 300 pound-feet of torque. The CX-50 may not be as practical as some rivals, but overall, its a clear winner among compact SUVs.

Pros

• Excellent driving dynamics
• Upscale interior
• Standard all-wheel drive

Cons

• A bit pricier than its competitors
• Lacks cargo capacity of rivals
• Infotainment system can be irksome

4 2024 Kia Telluride

Price Range: $35,990 – $53,185

The Kia Telluride has been wooing automotive experts and buyers alike since making its debut for the 2020 model year, and it has remained a standout leader in the highly competitive midsize three-row SUV class. Among the Telluride’s many positive characteristics is its value. Buyers have a choice of 10 trims, all delivering exceptional bang for the buck with loads of standard safety and tech features and Kia’s class-leading warranty.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Kia)

A Stellar All-Around And Value-Oriented Choice

Practicality is also a vital factor in the midsize three-row SUV class, and the Telluride again delivers with a spacious cabin and respectable cargo capacity behind both the second and third row of seats. It’s also easy to appreciate the Telluride’s comfortable ride quality, agreeable road manners, upmarket cabin and ample power from its 3.6-liter V-6.

The Telluride is available with either front- or all-wheel drive, and no matter the model it can tow up to 5,000 pounds. Overall, the Telluride delivers above-average characteristics in just about every major category, making it an easy pick as one of, if not the top midsize three-row SUV of 2023 and 2024. To note, the Telluride’s corporate cousin, the Hyundai Palisade, is an equally attractive alternative.

Pros

• Exceptional value
• Spacious and upmarket cabin
• Class-leading warranty

Cons

• Not the most fuel-efficient model in its class
• Middling handling
• Somewhat twitchy transmission

5 2023 BMW X1

Price Range: $40,500 – $49,900

The BMW X1 was fully redesigned for the 2023 model year, and it’s now more appealing than ever. Though the X1 is the most affordable SUV from the lauded automaker, it’s difficult to call it an entry model. The 2023 X1 offers a lot. Plenty of driving verve, a surprisingly spacious cabin, a revised interior with a focus on better tech, and the luxury expected of the BMW badge.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from BMW)

A Little BMW With A Big Personality

The revised X1 is now more powerful than the model it replaces, and it’s certainly appreciated as the subcompact BMW delivers exceptional agility and handling. But it’s far from a one-trick pony. Though small in stature, the BMW X1 offers respectable rear passenger seating and cargo space, boosted by its new larger dimensions. The 2023 X1 also emphasizes technology with a new fully digital dashboard. While options can make the X1 an expensive proposition, it’s still relatively well-equipped in its base form. Overall, the smallest SUV in BMW’s lineup is certainly among the best in its class.

Pros

• Practical for its size
• Exceptional athleticism
• Upscale cabin

Cons

• Steering feel is lackluster
• Jerky auto stop-start
• Can get expensive with options

6 2024 Honda Passport

Price Range: $41,900 – $47,970

The Honda Passport doesn’t stand out in many categories, but that’s not to say it isn’t a smart pick for a two-row midsize SUV. While it may not have the “wow” factor of some rivals, the Passport gets a little wrong, making it a compelling overall choice.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Honda and Car and Driver)

A Strong Overall Two-Row Midsize SUV

The Passport sports all-wheel drive as standard with a single, peppy V-6 powertrain. Ride quality is commendable, and passengers in both rows are treated with ample head, leg, and shoulder room. The Passport pragmaticism is highlighted by its 5,000-pound towing capacity and massive 41 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats.

Inside, the intuitive layout is a boon for passengers, and there are plenty of desirable features in the base model. Again, it’s not the most exceptional model in its class, but its overall proficiency warrants it on the shortlist of anyone seeking a competent two-row midsize SUV.

Pros

• Ample cargo space
• Plenty of standard equipment
• Standard all-wheel drive

Cons

• Pricier than some rivals
• Driver assist features can be difficult to live with
• Not as upscale as some competitors

7 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander

Price Range: $43,070 – $58,125

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander has made a strong debut as the slightly larger and more upscale sibling of the standard Highlander. In addition to its more upscale cabin, the Grand Highlander is far more practical with an adult-accommodating third row, and there’s still nearly 21 cubic feet of storage space behind those rear seats. Additionally, the Grand Highlander can be had with Toyota’s Hybrid Max powertrain.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Toyota and Car and Driver)

The Grand Highlander Delivers On Its Nameplate

The Grand Highlander lives up to its namesake with more upscale features, like a digital rearview mirror that’s particularly helpful with passengers sitting in the rear row, and more upmarket appointments. There are also plenty of family-friendly features. On the road, it delivers a mostly relaxed ride with respectable performance from its standard 2.5-liter engine. Overall, the Grand Highlander is a much more compelling choice than the standard model, and it’s already a strong player in the midsize three-row SUV market.

Pros

• Spacious cabin
• More upscale than the standard Highlander
• Ample standard features

Cons

• Middling performance
• Cabin could use with some additional soundproofing
• Generic interor and exterior styling

8 2024 Genesis GV70

Price Range: $44,900 – $57,500

“Value” and “luxury” aren’t typically paired together, but the 2024 Genesis GV70 underscores that you can still get plenty of bang for the buck without having to break the bank when shopping for a luxury compact SUV. The 2024 Genesis GV70’s starting price undercuts some of the more established models in its class, like the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC, while delivering a plethora of luxury features and sophisticated style. For overall value in the luxury compact SUV class, the 2024 GV70 stands head-and-shoulders above the competition.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Genesis and Car and Driver)

The Value-Oriented Luxury Compact SUV

The GV70 is rich with amenities no matter the model, and all deliver engaging handling characteristics with buyers having a choice between two powerful engines. The 300-horsepower base 2.5-liter turbo-four is no slouch, but those wanting more oomph can up the ante with an available 375-horsepower V-6. But when cruising is in order, the GV70’s upscale cabin is an exceptional place to be, serving passengers a supple ride quality in its boldly styled cabin. Overall, the GV70 delivers all the characteristics expected from German luxury automakers at a far more palatable price.

Pros

• Richly appointed cabin
• Costs thousands less than rivals
• Sprightly powertrains

Cons

• Rear seating area is a bit tight
• Controls can be difficult to use
• No wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

9 2023 GMC Yukon

Price Range: $59,295 – $99,450

The full-size SUV class isn’t as rich with options as smaller segments, but for those who need the ultimate in people and cargo hauling, the GMC Yukon is a strong choice overall. The Yukon delivers the necessary practicality required of a full-size SUV with plenty of passenger accommodation across all three rows and ample cargo space. Buyers can also opt for the Yukon XL extended wheelbase model, which delivers an ample 41.5 cubic feet of cargo space even with the third row of seats in use.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from GMC and Car and Driver)

The Best Of The Big SUVs

The GMC Yukon shares many characteristics with the Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban, but we appreciate its slightly more upscale interior. While the standard 5.3-liter V-8 delivers respectable performance, a 6.2-liter V-8 is available to deliver 420 horsepower, and a 3.0-liter turbo diesel model can up the Yukon’s trailering capacity to a truck-like 8,100 pounds. Overall, it’s easy to appreciate the Yukon’s ability to be a workhorse in hauling people and cargo while delivering a spacious and comfortable ride.

Pros

• Ample cargo and passenger space
• AT4 models deliver strong all-terrain capabilities
• Quiet cabin and comfortable ride

Cons

• Difficult to maneuver in tight spaces
• Not particularly efficient
• The similar Chevy Tahoe is cheaper

10 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS

Price Range: $87,000 – $145,580

The full-size luxury SUV landscape is full of appealing options, but the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS stands out in delivering supreme luxury, a spacious and stylish cabin, and plenty of gusto. Notably, the Mercedes GLS now sports a revised exterior look, more power, some interior tweaks, and a new package to help it conquer all terrains.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Mercedes-Benz)

An Ultra-Luxurious Full-Size SUV

The 2024 GLS is a sublime amalgamation of luxury, performance, practicality, and technology. There’s ample passenger space in all three rows of the ultra-modern and supple cabin, the ride quality is excellent, the standard V-6 engine delivers plenty of gusto (a more powerful V-8 is also available) and there are technology and luxe features aplenty. Overall, the GLS is the most competent full-size luxury SUV available.

Pros

• Quiet, luxurious and spacious cabin
• Strong overall capability
• Powerful engine options

Cons

• Infotainment controls can be difficult to use
• Some transmission shifts are rough
• Pricier than some rivals