10 Best Rated SUVs In The World (2024)

SUVs are now more popular than ever and have all but dominated the automotive market. Available in various shapes and sizes, it is the preferred choice of family vehicle today, not just in the United States, but many other countries around the world. There are some good arguments for that too.

For example, SUVs are generally built on stronger platforms that can support more payload and offer towing capabilities that regular vehicles don’t usually have. Their higher riding position gives the driver a better view of the road, they have more headroom and offer a lot more cargo space, among other things.

SUVs are arguably safer as well in the case of a collision, and we're not just talking about Volvo SUVs here. Since they’re usually heavier than a regular car, they carry more kinetic energy and will suffer less disrupting forces than the lighter vehicle in case of a crash. Maybe for some of these reasons, people choose SUVs over regular sedans, hatchbacks, or station wagons. Here are some of the top-rated models currently on sale.

15 2023 Ford Edge

Score 78/100

If you haven't gathered by now, the mid-size SUV class is not only heavily occupied, it's very competitive. Of the many competitors, is the 2023 Ford Edge, a hard-working ute with a pleasant offering of creature comforts and advanced driver assist functions. Not to mention, the roomy cabin makes for a very enjoyable experience for all passengers.

BMW X5 Specs And Features

The base engine option is a 250 horsepower turbo four-cylinder, which provides adequate power to the lower trims. Stepping up to the boosted V-6 Edge ST gets you a 335 horsepower turbo 2.7-liter V-6, which just makes the Edge more fun to drive. While not as athletic as some of the other options on this list, the Ford Edge is a modest, tough option that aims to check more boxes on your list.

14 2023 Toyota Venza

Score 80/100

The 2023 Toyota Venza essentially borrowed much of its mechanical identity from the RAV4 Hybrid, and that's OK. The standard powertrain is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid with three electric motors, which produces a combined system output of 219 horsepower. While definitely not the most powerful in its class, it does serve as an affordable hybrid that will save you dollars at the pump.

Toyota Venza Specs And Features

Being that it borrowed a lot from the RAV4 Hybrid, the Venza made some sacrifices, making it rather small for its class. While the Venza takes a hit for its lackluster interior volume, it makes up for it with the standard tech and features, which include wireless smartphone connectivity, Apple and Android compatibility, and a stacked suite of driver assist and safety functions. While relatively cramped, the interior does display a keen sense of modernity and style.

13 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe

Score 81/100

The versatile Santa Fe is a compelling choice, as it offers multiple powertrain options, drivetrain options, and various optional features. This allows buyers to customize their Santa Fe however they desire, which is a big selling point among younger buyers. There's also a hybrid variant of the Santa Fe, which employs a 226 horsepower turbo 1.6-liter hybrid powertrain, and gets an EPA-rated 70 MPGe.

Hyundai Santa Fe Specs And Features

The cabin features an array of contemporary options, including heated and ventilated rear seating, digital gauges, and a heads-up display, among others. Standard wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto allow seamless entertainment, while the rather upscale-feeling interior provides a refined experience for all who enter.

12 2023 Subaru Outback

Score 82/100

The Outback is just one of Subaru's steadfast SUVs, and it bravely displays the grit that you'd normally observe in a bigger, more brutish ute. That said, you won't see a Subaru Outback jumping dunes like a Ranger Raptor, though it definitely doesn't mind venturing beyond the pavement. In fact, it comes with a slew of trail-friendly additions, some standard and some optional, that make the wilderness more manageable. That's just one of the reasons the Subaru family of rugged SUVs are so popular among true outdoors folk.

Subaru Outback Specs And Features

Its durable build and purpose-built nature allow constant passive strength that make the outback and its siblings safe and reliable. The interior of the 2023 Outback reflects Subaru's modern design language and tech approach. There are plenty of standard driver assist and safety functions, as well as an 11.6-inch touchscreen on trims above the base model. Optional features, including built-in navigation, Wi-Fi hotspot, and wireless charging can make the Outback more versatile, though the powertrain and chassis are what make it a true gem, especially if you enjoy the occasional adventure.

11 2023 Honda Passport

Score 84/100

Based on the larger three-row Honda Pilot, the cozier Passport plays its position well, with plenty of amenities, and modest performance. The humble Passport has quite the challenge of standing out in the crowded mid-size SUV space, though its lack of downsides has allowed it to crack a few "best of" lists, even if it never stands at the very top. That said, the 2023 Honda Passport is a reliable, fun, capable mid-sized hauler that incorporates various contemporary features, earning itself an 84 out of 100 rating from J.D. Power.

Honda Passport Specs And Features

The interior is spacious enough for five adults, while the configurable cargo area allows for numerous ways to utilize the rear space. Every Passport features Bluetooth capabilities and a wireless charging pad. Higher trims receive a ten-speaker audio system and Wi-Fi hotspot. However, all trims include very attractive and tactile surfaces, making the cabin a sleek, modern command center.

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10 2023 Lincoln Corsair

Score: 84/100

The Corsair is a small luxury SUV. It delivers a refined and comfortable ride, in line with Lincoln's philosophy. This SUV has an elegant exterior design and its small size ends up working in its favor as it doesn’t flaunt its luxury.

Lincoln Corsair Specs And Features

Inside the Corsair, drivers and passengers will find comfortable accommodations as well as a large 13.2-inch infotainment central display and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster for the driver. Being owned by Ford, the Corsair has the best-in-class hands-free driving system, the BlueCruise. Towing capacity is nothing to write home about, but enough to haul a small travel trailer such as an Airstream Basecamp.

9 2023 BMW X3

Score 84/100

Another small luxury SUV, the BMW X3 brings excellent driving dynamics to the crossover segment. The X3 has peppy performance and is packed with all the technology one has come to expect from a BMW model. This little SUV comes with two engine options spanned over 3 different trims. Both these engines are paired with the renowned ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.

BMW X3 Specs And Features

Its sporty driving characteristics come not only from its powerful engine choices but also from well-tuned suspensions, precise steering, and strong brakes. The X3 infotainment system is 10.3 inches and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The base X3 goes from 0-60 MPH in 6.0 seconds and has a top speed of 130 MPH.

8 2023 GMC Yukon

Score 84/100

Sometimes size does matter. The GMC Yukon is popular in part because it is a full-size SUV, and if there’s something valuable in an SUV, it is how much space it has, as well as its payload and towing capacities. The Yukon's looks invoke a menacing attitude and this big fella features three different engine options, ranging from a 5.3-liter V-8, a 6.2-liter V-8, and a 3.0-liter Duramax inline-six turbo-diesel.

GMC Yukon Specs And Features

The Yukon can come in either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive and also in several different trim levels for every taste and budget. The big Yukon is an ideal full-size SUV for long road trips with the family. And it can tow a decent-sized trailer as well if required. GM’s hands-free driving assist, Super Cruise, is available.

7 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe

Score 84/100

Yet another GM SUV, despite its big size, the Chevy Tahoe is appreciated by its customers for its drivability, being easy to maneuver in and out of traffic, as well as tight parking spaces. According to J.D. Power, its economy and range are also rated higher than the average for the segment. The Tahoe is the Yukon’s twin, as they share the same platform and powertrain choices.

Chevrolet Tahoe Specs And Features

Just like its brother, the 2023 Chevy Tahoe features an independent rear suspension and has the option of an air suspension system for a more comfortable and refined ride. These big vehicles rank among the smoothest-running full-size SUVs on the market. According to Chevrolet, the 2023 Tahoe is the most versatile and advanced ever. That confidence comes from its mechanical reliability, commanding presence, and Chevy’s on-point styling.

6 2023 Buick Envision

Score 86/100

Another compact SUV makes the list, and this time we’re talking about a Buick. The 2023 Envision received high praise from owners for its well-insulated cabin, high-quality audio system, and powerful engine. This compact SUV comes with premium features, a turbocharged engine, and an available all-wheel drive system that delivers good overall performance.

Buick Envision Specs And Features

The Buick Envision has a 10.2-inch infotainment display and GM’s suite of safety systems. Some of its features include:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay
• HD rear vision camera
• Air quality indicator

Buick is a premium automotive brand and the Envision’s interior is welcoming and full of amenities, such as its trademarked Quiet Tunning system that counteracts noises detected by ceiling-mounted microphones, sending waves at the same frequency as the unwanted noise, effectively nullifying it.

5 2023 Nissan Murano

Score 86/100

Moving higher on our list, we have our first midsize SUV, as well as our Japanese contestant, the Nissan Murano. Its customers gave high marks to the voice assistance experience featured in the vehicle, as well as the comfortable front seats. Anyone who’s been on a long road trip knows the importance of comfortable seats, and the Murano has you covered.

Nissan Murano Specs And Features

The Murano has a sleek design that’s characteristic of the brand. One look at it, and you’ll see design cues much similar to what you see on the Nissan Sentra sedan, for example. And that’s not bad. The Murano is pleasant to look at with that sleek profile for a midsize SUV. Its healthy naturally aspirated V-6 engine paired with a continuously variable transmission is a rather unique combination in the market.

Some people don’t like CVTs either because they don’t like how they feel while driving or because they question their reliability. Most CVTs today are pretty reliable, but they still drive differently than a regular automatic or dual-clutch transmission. So that’s something to keep in mind.

4 2023 Subaru Forester

Score 87/100

According to Consumer Reports, the Subaru Forester is a well-executed small SUV that has a roomy interior, good fuel efficiency, and delivers a comfortable ride. The Forester has a traditional Subaru boxy design that pleases most people and adequate overall performance thanks to its flat-four 2.5-liter boxer engine paired with a CVT transmission and Subaru’s signature all-wheel-drive system.

Subaru Forester Specs And Features

The Forester is not a luxury SUV but has amenities and safety systems such as Subaru's standard EyeSight driver assist technology, wireless Bluetooth pairing for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, LED steering responsive headlights and a good 8.7 inches of ground clearance.

3 2023 Buick Encore

Score 87/100

The Buick Encore is even smaller than the Envision but still was able to best it with convenient storage solutions for personal items. A couple of points valued by the Envision customers were also present on the Encore, such as its powerful engine and voice assistant feature. Buick has seen better days in the American market, and having two of their small SUVs on this list shows they're committed to regaining at least part of their former glory.

Buick Encore Specs And Features

Some stand out features the Encore has available are:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Head-up display
• Panoramic Moonroof
• Hands-free power liftgate

The infotainment system screen is small but doesn’t lack any of the usual functions. Buick’s Quiet Tuning technology is also available, as well as a dual-zone climate control system. The Encore has a sporty look, almost resembling a taller hatchback, but with an SUV's interior space and capacities.

2 2023 Kia Telluride

Score 87/100

The South Korean Kia Telluride proudly sits in second place on our list. Its refined driving experience and user-friendly controls along with a vast cargo room helped it score high with Consumer Reports. The Telluride features seating for up to eight people, 8.4 inches of ground clearance, and available 12.3-inch dual panoramic displays.

Kia Telluride Specs And Features

The first and second rows of seats can be fitted with heated and ventilated, as well as fitted with nappa leather. The second row can be optioned with captain’s chairs and Kia’s trusty naturally aspirated V-6 can transfer power to the front wheels or all four wheels, always with the help of torque vectoring. There is an available dual sunroof, a surround-view monitor, head-up display, and a full display rearview mirror.

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1 2023 BMW X5

Score 87/100

Ranking at the top of the list is the BMW X5, which may come as a surprise for some. After all, a lot of people might have been expecting a Japanese make on the top, but the customers have spoken and, as it seems, BMW’s continuous improvements over its generations, just made the X5 a formidable midsize luxury SUV that packs a punch and looks ready for a red carpet appearance.

BMW X5 Specs And Features

The BMW X5 features a spacious and luxurious interior and comes with outstanding performance and driving dynamics, unlike most midsize SUVs. That performance is ensured by the engine choices that range from the turbocharged inline-six to the mighty powerful twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8. The X5 has a high towing capacity for its segment, several drive modes, dynamic damper control, and electronically controlled engine cooling, among many other useful features.