Top 15 SUVs Poised to Dominate 2025

By Lucy Chen | Published: 2024-10-27 | Category: 2025 Suvs

About 2025 Suvs

SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles) offer a blend of passenger car comfort and versatility, typically featuring higher ground clearance, spacious interiors, and often available all-wheel drive.

How We Evaluated

Vehicles were assessed based on anticipated performance, design updates, technological advancements, safety suites, interior practicality, and overall projected value proposition.

Rating Criteria

  • Performance
  • Comfort
  • Technology
  • Safety
  • Value
  • Fuel Economy

The Best 2025 Suvs

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#15
$55000 (MSRP)

2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium AWD Extended Range

A sporty electric SUV combining Mustang-inspired styling with EV practicality.

Specifications

  • Powertrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • Range: 290 miles (Est.)
  • 0-60 mph: 4.8 seconds (Est.)
  • Fuel Economy (Combined): 95 MPGe (Est.)
  • Cargo Space (Behind 1st Row): 59.7 cu ft

Scorecard (Overall: 8.5 / 10.0)

Comfort 8.0
Fuel Economy 9.0
Performance 9.0
Safety 9.0
Technology 9.0
Value 7.0

Safety Features

  • 🛡️
    Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    BlueCruise Hands-Free Highway Driving (Available)
  • 🛡️
    Pre-Collision Assist w/ AEB (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert (Standard)

Pros

  • + Engaging driving experience
  • + Stylish exterior and interior design
  • + Large central touchscreen
  • + Available BlueCruise

Cons

  • - Range estimate can vary significantly
  • - Charging speed slower than some rivals
  • - Rear visibility is limited

Verdict

"A desirable EV that successfully blends performance, style, and technology, making it a strong competitor to the Model Y."
#14
$52000 (MSRP)

2025 Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD

A best-selling electric SUV offering impressive range, performance, and technology.

Specifications

  • Powertrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • Range: 310 miles (Est.)
  • 0-60 mph: 4.8 seconds
  • Fuel Economy (Combined): 120 MPGe (Est.)
  • Cargo Space (Total): 76 cu ft

Scorecard (Overall: 8.5 / 10.0)

Comfort 7.0
Fuel Economy 10.0
Performance 9.0
Safety 9.0
Technology 9.0
Value 7.0

Safety Features

  • 🛡️
    Autopilot (Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centering) (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Automatic Emergency Braking (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Blind Spot Monitoring (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Full Self-Driving Capability (Optional/Subscription)

Pros

  • + Rapid acceleration
  • + Long driving range
  • + Access to Supercharger network
  • + Spacious cabin and cargo area

Cons

  • - Build quality can be inconsistent
  • - Stiff ride quality
  • - Minimalist interior relies heavily on touchscreen

Verdict

"Continues to dominate the EV SUV space with its compelling blend of range, performance, and tech, despite some refinement drawbacks."
#13
$50000 (MSRP)

2025 Volvo XC60 B5 Plus

A stylish and safety-focused compact luxury SUV with a minimalist Scandinavian design.

Specifications

  • Engine: 2.0L Turbo I4 Mild Hybrid
  • Horsepower: 247 hp
  • Torque: 258 lb-ft
  • Fuel Economy (Combined): 25 MPG (Est.)
  • Cargo Space (Behind 1st Row): 63.3 cu ft

Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)

Comfort 9.0
Fuel Economy 7.0
Performance 7.0
Safety 10.0
Technology 8.0
Value 7.0

Safety Features

  • 🛡️
    City Safety Collision Avoidance Technology (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Pilot Assist (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Run-off Road Mitigation (Standard)

Pros

  • + Class-leading safety features
  • + Elegant interior design
  • + Comfortable seats
  • + Available powerful Recharge PHEV

Cons

  • - Infotainment system can be distracting
  • - Handling isn't very sporty
  • - Mild hybrid provides modest fuel economy gains

Verdict

"An excellent choice for safety-conscious buyers seeking comfort and style in a compact luxury package."
#12
$53000 (MSRP)

2025 Audi Q5 45 TFSI quattro Premium Plus

A popular compact luxury SUV offering a refined ride, high-tech cabin, and standard AWD.

Specifications

  • Engine: 2.0L Turbo I4 w/ Mild Hybrid
  • Horsepower: 261 hp
  • Torque: 273 lb-ft
  • Fuel Economy (Combined): 26 MPG (Est.)
  • Cargo Space (Behind 1st Row): 54 cu ft

Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)

Comfort 8.0
Fuel Economy 7.0
Performance 8.0
Safety 9.0
Technology 9.0
Value 7.0

Safety Features

  • 🛡️
    Audi pre sense basic and city (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Lane departure warning (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Adaptive cruise assist with lane guidance (Available)
  • 🛡️
    Side assist (Blind spot) (Standard (Premium Plus+))

Pros

  • + Beautifully crafted interior
  • + Smooth and quiet ride
  • + Excellent technology features
  • + Standard AWD

Cons

  • - Cargo capacity is less than some rivals
  • - Base engine could use more power
  • - Sportback variant sacrifices some utility

Verdict

"A well-rounded luxury compact SUV that excels in refinement, technology, and interior quality."
#11
$70000 (MSRP)

2025 BMW X5 xDrive40i

A benchmark luxury mid-size SUV known for its driving dynamics and premium features.

Specifications

  • Engine: 3.0L Turbo I6 w/ Mild Hybrid
  • Horsepower: 375 hp
  • Torque: 398 lb-ft
  • Fuel Economy (Combined): 25 MPG (Est.)
  • Cargo Space (Behind 1st Row): 72.3 cu ft

Scorecard (Overall: 8.2 / 10.0)

Comfort 9.0
Fuel Economy 7.0
Performance 9.0
Safety 9.0
Technology 9.0
Value 6.0

Safety Features

  • 🛡️
    Active Driving Assistant (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Frontal Collision Warning w/ City Collision Mitigation (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Lane Departure Warning (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Active Blind Spot Detection (Standard)

Pros

  • + Superb handling and performance
  • + High-quality interior materials
  • + Intuitive infotainment system

Cons

  • - Expensive, especially with options
  • - Optional third row is cramped
  • - Reliability can be average

Verdict

"Remains a leader for those seeking a luxurious and engaging driving experience in a mid-size SUV package."
#10
$65000 (MSRP)

2025 Genesis GV80 3.5T AWD

A refreshed luxury mid-size SUV offering striking design, a plush interior, and strong performance.

Specifications

  • Engine: 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6
  • Horsepower: 375 hp
  • Torque: 391 lb-ft
  • Fuel Economy (Combined): 20 MPG (Est.)
  • Cargo Space (Behind 1st Row): 84 cu ft

Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)

Comfort 9.0
Fuel Economy 5.0
Performance 9.0
Safety 9.0
Technology 9.0
Value 7.0

Safety Features

  • 🛡️
    Comprehensive ADAS Suite (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Highway Driving Assist 2 (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Blind-Spot View Monitor (Standard)

Pros

  • + Distinctive and elegant styling
  • + Luxurious and quiet cabin
  • + Powerful optional engine
  • + Updated 27-inch OLED display

Cons

  • - Fuel economy lags competitors
  • - Third-row seat (optional) is very tight
  • - Brand prestige still developing

Verdict

"The refreshed GV80 further solidifies its place as a compelling luxury SUV with stunning looks and a high-tech, comfortable interior."
#9
$34000 (MSRP)

2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV

A completely redesigned compact SUV with bolder styling and updated technology.

Specifications

  • Engine: 1.5L Turbo I4
  • Horsepower: 175 hp
  • Torque: 203 lb-ft (AWD)
  • Fuel Economy (Combined): 27 MPG (AWD Est.)
  • Cargo Space (Behind 1st Row): 63.5 cu ft

Scorecard (Overall: 7.3 / 10.0)

Comfort 7.0
Fuel Economy 7.0
Performance 6.0
Safety 8.0
Technology 8.0
Value 8.0

Safety Features

  • 🛡️
    Chevy Safety Assist (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Automatic Emergency Braking (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Lane Keep Assist w/ Lane Departure Warning (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Available Adaptive Cruise Control (Available)

Pros

  • + Rugged new exterior design
  • + Modernized interior with large screens
  • + Standard safety features

Cons

  • - Sole engine option lacks power
  • - Fuel economy is average
  • - Some competitors offer more refinement

Verdict

"The redesigned Equinox is a significant improvement, offering attractive styling and tech, though powertrain options remain limited."
#8
$62000 (MSRP)

2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4xe

A refined mid-size SUV offering impressive off-road capability and a plug-in hybrid option.

Specifications

  • Engine: 2.0L Turbo PHEV
  • Horsepower: 375 hp (System Total)
  • Torque: 470 lb-ft (System Total)
  • Fuel Economy (Combined): 56 MPGe (Est.)
  • Cargo Space (Behind 1st Row): 70.8 cu ft

Scorecard (Overall: 7.7 / 10.0)

Comfort 8.0
Fuel Economy 8.0
Performance 8.0
Safety 8.0
Technology 8.0
Value 6.0

Safety Features

  • 🛡️
    Active Driving Assist (Available)
  • 🛡️
    Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning Plus (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path Detection (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Adaptive Cruise Control w/ Stop and Go (Standard)

Pros

  • + Exceptional off-road prowess
  • + Available 4xe plug-in hybrid
  • + Luxurious interior options

Cons

  • - Can get very expensive
  • - Standard V6 feels underwhelming
  • - Cargo space trails some rivals

Verdict

"A premium choice for those wanting both on-road comfort and serious off-road capability, especially appealing with the 4xe powertrain."
#7
$47000 (MSRP)

2025 Ford Explorer ST-Line

A refreshed mid-size SUV offering a new digital experience and sporty powertrain options.

Specifications

  • Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost I4
  • Horsepower: 300 hp
  • Torque: 310 lb-ft
  • Fuel Economy (Combined): 24 MPG (RWD Est.)
  • Cargo Space (Behind 1st Row): 87.8 cu ft

Scorecard (Overall: 7.5 / 10.0)

Comfort 7.0
Fuel Economy 6.0
Performance 8.0
Safety 8.0
Technology 9.0
Value 7.0

Safety Features

  • 🛡️
    Ford Co-Pilot360 (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Pre-Collision Assist w/ AEB (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    BlueCruise Hands-Free Highway Driving (Available)

Pros

  • + Potent engine options
  • + Updated infotainment system ('Ford Digital Experience')
  • + Available BlueCruise

Cons

  • - Interior quality could be better
  • - Third row is tight for adults
  • - Ride can be firm

Verdict

"The refreshed Explorer gets a much-needed tech upgrade, making it more competitive, especially with its powerful engine choices."
#6
$37000 (MSRP)

2025 Subaru Forester Limited

Redesigned for 2025, focusing on practicality, standard AWD, and improved tech.

Specifications

  • Engine: 2.5L Boxer-4
  • Horsepower: 180 hp (Est.)
  • Torque: 178 lb-ft (Est.)
  • Fuel Economy (Combined): 29 MPG (Est.)
  • Cargo Space (Behind 1st Row): 74.4 cu ft

Scorecard (Overall: 7.7 / 10.0)

Comfort 8.0
Fuel Economy 7.0
Performance 6.0
Safety 9.0
Technology 8.0
Value 8.0

Safety Features

  • 🛡️
    EyeSight Driver Assist Technology (Standard (Enhanced))
  • 🛡️
    Automatic Emergency Steering (Available)
  • 🛡️
    Blind-Spot Detection w/ Lane Change Assist (Standard (Limited+))
  • 🛡️
    Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (Standard (Limited+))

Pros

  • + Standard AWD
  • + Excellent outward visibility
  • + Improved infotainment system
  • + Spacious cabin

Cons

  • - Engine lacks excitement
  • - CVT can drone
  • - Styling remains conservative

Verdict

"The redesigned Forester doubles down on its core strengths of safety, practicality, and all-weather capability."
#5
$45000 (MSRP)

2025 Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus

A stylish compact SUV offering engaging driving dynamics and a near-luxury interior.

Specifications

  • Engine: 2.5L Turbo I4
  • Horsepower: 256 hp (93 Octane)
  • Torque: 320 lb-ft (93 Octane)
  • Fuel Economy (Combined): 25 MPG (Turbo Est.)
  • Cargo Space (Behind 1st Row): 56.3 cu ft

Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)

Comfort 8.0
Fuel Economy 6.0
Performance 9.0
Safety 9.0
Technology 8.0
Value 7.0

Safety Features

  • 🛡️
    i-Activsense Safety Suite (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Radar Cruise Control w/ Stop & Go (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Blind Spot Monitoring (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Lane Keep Assist (Standard)

Pros

  • + Sharp handling and strong turbo engine
  • + Upscale cabin design and materials
  • + Standard AWD

Cons

  • - Less cargo space than rivals
  • - Turbo engine prefers premium fuel for max output
  • - Fuel economy isn't class-leading

Verdict

"Appeals to drivers seeking a more engaging and premium experience in the compact SUV class."
#4
$34000 (MSRP)

2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE

Hugely popular compact SUV with a wide range of trims, including efficient hybrids.

Specifications

  • Engine: 2.5L Hybrid
  • Horsepower: 219 hp (System Total)
  • Torque: 163 lb-ft (Engine)
  • Fuel Economy (Combined): 40 MPG (Hybrid Est.)
  • Cargo Space (Behind 1st Row): 69.8 cu ft

Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)

Comfort 7.0
Fuel Economy 9.0
Performance 7.0
Safety 9.0
Technology 7.0
Value 9.0

Safety Features

  • 🛡️
    Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Pre-Collision System w/ Pedestrian Detection (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Lane Departure Alert w/ Steering Assist (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (Standard)

Pros

  • + Outstanding fuel economy (hybrid)
  • + Proven reliability
  • + Wide variety of models

Cons

  • - Noisy engine under acceleration
  • - Interior materials feel less premium than some rivals

Verdict

"A reliable and efficient choice, especially in hybrid form, though less refined than some competitors."
#3
$36500 (MSRP)

2025 Honda CR-V EX-L Hybrid

A perennially popular compact SUV, refined and offering an efficient hybrid option.

Specifications

  • Engine: 2.0L Hybrid
  • Horsepower: 204 hp (System Total)
  • Torque: 247 lb-ft
  • Fuel Economy (Combined): 40 MPG (Hybrid Est.)
  • Cargo Space (Behind 1st Row): 76.5 cu ft

Scorecard (Overall: 8.2 / 10.0)

Comfort 8.0
Fuel Economy 9.0
Performance 7.0
Safety 9.0
Technology 8.0
Value 8.0

Safety Features

  • 🛡️
    Collision Mitigation Braking System (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Road Departure Mitigation System (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Adaptive Cruise Control w/ Low-Speed Follow (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Blind Spot Information System (Standard (EX+))

Pros

  • + Excellent fuel economy (hybrid)
  • + Spacious and practical interior
  • + Refined driving dynamics

Cons

  • - Base engine lacks power
  • - Infotainment system could be more responsive

Verdict

"A top choice for compact SUV buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency, reliability, and practicality."
#2
$51000 (MSRP)

2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy

The Telluride's corporate cousin, offering similar strengths with distinct styling and features.

Specifications

  • Engine: 3.8L V6
  • Horsepower: 291 hp
  • Torque: 262 lb-ft
  • Fuel Economy (Combined): 21 MPG (Est.)
  • Cargo Space (Behind 1st Row): 86.4 cu ft

Scorecard (Overall: 8.3 / 10.0)

Comfort 9.0
Fuel Economy 7.0
Performance 8.0
Safety 9.0
Technology 9.0
Value 8.0

Safety Features

  • 🛡️
    Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Blind-Spot View Monitor (Standard (upper trims))
  • 🛡️
    Lane Following Assist (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Smart Cruise Control (Standard)

Pros

  • + Plush ride quality
  • + High-end cabin materials
  • + Generous standard features

Cons

  • - Fuel efficiency lags hybrids
  • - Styling may be polarizing for some

Verdict

"An excellent family SUV that rivals luxury brands in comfort and features, sharing top honors with its Kia counterpart."
#1

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#1
$48000 (MSRP)

2025 Kia Telluride SX

A benchmark mid-size SUV known for its upscale cabin, ample space, and strong value.

Specifications

  • Engine: 3.8L V6
  • Horsepower: 291 hp
  • Torque: 262 lb-ft
  • Fuel Economy (Combined): 21 MPG (Est.)
  • Cargo Space (Behind 1st Row): 87 cu ft

Scorecard (Overall: 8.5 / 10.0)

Comfort 9.0
Fuel Economy 7.0
Performance 8.0
Safety 9.0
Technology 9.0
Value 9.0

Safety Features

  • 🛡️
    Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Lane Keeping Assist (Standard)
  • 🛡️
    Highway Driving Assist (Available)

Pros

  • + Luxurious interior for the price
  • + Spacious three-row seating
  • + User-friendly tech features

Cons

  • - Average fuel economy
  • - Engine performance is adequate, not thrilling

Verdict

"Continues to be a top contender in the mid-size segment, offering near-luxury features and space at a mainstream price."
Lucy Chen

Written By

Lucy Chen

Staff Writer, Lifestyle & Home

Final Verdict

The 2025 SUV landscape offers compelling choices across various segments, from practical and efficient compacts to luxurious and high-performance models. Key trends include enhanced hybrid and EV options, larger infotainment screens, more sophisticated driver-assistance features, and bolder styling across the board. Competition remains fierce, particularly in the popular mid-size and compact categories.

🏆 Best Overall Kia Telluride / Hyundai Palisade (Tie)
💲 Best Value Toyota RAV4 Hybrid / Honda CR-V Hybrid (Tie)
⛽ Best Fuel Economy Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for Families Kia Telluride / Hyundai Palisade (Tie)