Best SUVs

It has been 20 years since Hyundai introduced an all-new SUV called the Tucson. It had a slow beginning, but the Tucson has become one of the best-selling SUVs in the United States. The five-passenger crossover is also Hyundai’s top seller, with record yearly sales since the fourth generation was introduced in 2020. The Korean brand expects this success to continue for the significantly updated 2025 Tucson.

While the dimensions remain unchanged, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson features fresh exterior styling and a revised, high-tech interior with a large curved screen encompassing the driver's display and infotainment system. The new display, combined with a complete revamp of the dashboard, center console, and steering wheel, gives the cabin a premium vibe. There are also several new features,t including adjustable regenerative braking on the HEV/PHEV versions, as well as Baby Mode, which optimizes the throttle and braking when you're driving with an infant on board.

The Tucson, which sits between the Kona and Santa Fe in the Hyundai lineup, is one of the few models sold in the U.S. that offers a choice of internal combustion engine (ICE), hybrid (HEV), or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. This flexibility, combined with its spacious interior, expansive cargo bay, and excellent driving characteristics, has helped Tucson maintain its top-selling position. But the competition is fierce in this popular segment, with solid offerings in the Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Kia Sportage (the Tucson's corporate cousin).

Toyota is not letting up on gas-electric hybrids. The 2025 Toyota Crown Signia is the newest and 13th in the automaker's lineup.

A midsize five-seater, the Crown Signia is neither the largest nor the fanciest, but for fans of Toyota crossovers and SUVs who find the Sequoia or Grand Highlander hybrid too big or pricey and the RAV4 or the outgoing Venza hybrids too small or unpolished, it may just do the trick.

The Signia — Toyota says the same derives from “insignia” and denotes a signature model for the company — won’t be in dealerships until summer of 2024, so Toyota hasn’t released many details about it. It debuted this week in Los Angeles, where powertrain and trim information was announced.

Appearing more like a lifted wagon than an SUV, the Crown Signia will be marketed as a premium model alongside the Toyota Crown sedan. While the sedan starts at just over $41,000, the Signia version begins at almost $45,000. Initially, it will be offered in just two trim levels: XLE and Limited. There won’t be a turbocharged performance-oriented version like the top-of-the-line Crown Platinum sedan, at least not for the 2025 model year.

With standard electronic all-wheel drive, we expect the Crown Signia to compete against the slightly smaller Subaru Outback as well as various trim levels of other midsize SUVs, including the Kia Sorento and Honda Passport. It may be a bit pricier, but as a hybrid it also is likely to be a lot more fuel-efficient, which could make up for the price difference over time.

The QX80 is Infiniti’s big, three-row luxury SUV, and it has been completely redesigned for 2025. It gets a fresh new look, an all-new powertrain, a long list of standard and optional features, a thoroughly updated interior, and bold new tech that actually makes it a player in the segment again.

The modernization begins under the hood where a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 produces 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. That’s not only a massive increase over its predecessor, but more than everything in the segment except the Jeep Grand Wagoneer and Cadillac Escalade V. Sure enough, it provides smooth, effortless power, even when this big-ol’ SUV is loaded with people and stuff.

Most versions come equipped with an adaptive air suspension, but the resulting ride quality can be jarring and it’s hard not to wonder if the accompanying 22-inch wheels are to blame. The new interior is far more successful. The design is fresh, materials and construction top notch, and space has increased considerably. A pair of 14.3-inch screens showcase the instruments and infotainment, while a 9-inch touchscreen below handles climate functions. There’s also an available color head-up display. Google built-in contributes to this new system being easy to figure out.

All the changes, of which we just scratched the surface on, result in a luxury SUV that’s a more compelling alternative to the Escalade, Grand Wagoneer, Lincoln Navigator, and Lexus LX 600 [Lexus LX] (/lexus/lx). It’s still an alternative, though. The Cadillac and Lincoln are getting overhauls for 2025, which aren’t as extensive as the QX80’s, but include pillar-to-pillar interior displays that look beamed in from the future. We also think those American rivals are more comfortable and refined to drive. They’re a bit more expensive, which is another reason why the QX80 is a compelling alternative.

When Nissan introduced the Kicks in 2018, it was part of a class of entry-level crossover SUVs without the option of all-wheel drive. Now, this compact model is graduating with available all-wheel drive for the 2025 model year, but that’s not all.

The Kicks remains the entry point to the Nissan SUV lineup, sitting below the Rogue and Murano. However, this new version is built on Nissan’s new global platform, which promises improved dynamic performance and better capability. Longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, the 2025 Kicks features a more comfortable, roomy cabin. With its increased size, the Kicks moves into the gap previously held by the discontinued Rogue Sport.

In addition to its larger size, this Kicks gets fresh styling, introducing a new look for the brand. There are traces of the signature V-Motion grille, but the new look is a departure from the rest of the SUV lineup, featuring a horizontal design with stylish LED running lights integrated beneath slim, new headlights. New, vertical taillights are placed at the edge of the vehicle, giving it a wider stance from the rear.

Inside, the Kicks feels more upscale, with a clean dashboard design highlighted by the available dual driver and infotainment 12.3-inch touchscreen displays. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are now available on upper trim levels. The front and rear seats use Nissan's Zero Gravity design, which better distributes pressure to minimize fatigue on long drives.

With the updates for 2025, the Kicks has become a strong offering in the competitive compact crossover market. Look for it to make inroads against popular models such as the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30, Kia Seltos, and Toyota Corolla Cross.

The 2025 Nissan Kicks is arriving in showrooms now, maintaining its value with only a minor price increase compared to 2024.

The BMW X3 is by far the best-selling model BMW offers in the U.S., and for 2025, the popular compact SUV moves into its fourth generation.

Slotting between the BMW X1 and BMW X5, the five-passenger X3 gets some significant updates for the new model year. Most noticeable is a new take on the iconic front kidney grille; the X3 30 xDrive gets a composition of vertical and diagonal bars for a stylish, almost artistic look. The grille surround can also be illuminated for a distinctive nighttime appearance. The new X3 is also longer, wider, and lower, which gives the small crossover an aggressive stance.

The 2025 X3 gets an upgraded interior featuring attractive ambient lighting, stylish sport seats, and the BMW curved screen that incorporates the driver and infotainment displays. New high-tech features are also available within BMW's latest iDrive infotainment operating system.

When the 2025 X3 comes to market this fall, it will be offered with two turbocharged engine options. These engines use a mild-hybrid system to deliver more power and improved performance compared to the outgoing versions.

The premium compact crossover market is fiercely competitive with some solid offerings that include the Mercedes-Benz GLC, Porsche Macan, Genesis GV70, Lexus NX, and Audi Q5. However, with significant updates for the new model year, the 2025 BMW X3 should hold its own.

The Genesis brand was introduced less than 10 years ago — barely a blink compared to Mercedes-Benz, Cadillac, and Lexus — and in that short time, the luxury arm of the Hyundai Motor Group has become a significant competitor. It was just a few years ago that Genesis joined the lucrative midsize SUV market with the flagship GV80. This year, the Korean automaker is adding the sleek 2025 GV80 Coupe.

Front styling is similar to that of the revised 2025 Genesis GV80 SUV, but the Coupe features a special version of the familiar Crest grille with a dual-layered design and the brand's signature two-line headlights. However, the GV80 Coupe has a distinct profile with a roofline that smoothly flows from the top of the windshield to the custom rear spoiler. Available 22-inch wheels and quad exhaust outlets add to the sporty look.

All-wheel drive comes standard on the GV80 Coupe, which gets two engine options: a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 that powers the top-level GV80 SUV and a version that adds a 48V electric supercharger, bumping output from 375 horsepower to 409 hp. The supercharged powerplant is now the most powerful engine in the Genesis lineup.

The GV80 Coupe's stylish cabin is highlighted by a 27-inch-wide OLED screen that houses the driver display and infotainment screen. Seats are trimmed in soft Nappa leather, and there's plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The GV80 Coupe is an excellent luxury SUV coupe option, bringing strong competition to a niche market dominated by established European brands. These include the BMW X6, Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, and Porsche Cayenne Coupe.

It’s difficult to keep a straight face while calling the 2025 Mini Countryman SE All4 a Mini. The largest-ever model from Mini, the 2025 Countryman crossover EV is more than a foot longer and nearly 6 inches wider than the original. It is longer, wider, taller, and heavier than the Volvo EX30.

But that’s probably a good thing for a Mini that wants to make it in the U.S., where bigger still seems to be better in the automotive world. The two-row, five-seat Countryman SE All4, despite its scaled-up dimensions, is a subcompact, competing in size with other small electric crossovers such as the EX30, Kia Niro EV, and Hyundai Kona Electric. The Fiat 500e might compete on cuteness, but is much smaller, and not in the same class for range, power, or people and cargo capacity.

The Mini Countryman SE All4 comes only with a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain. Among likely subcompact competitors, only the EX30 offers that option.

For the same or even lower cost, though (thanks to federal EV tax credit eligibility the Mini doesn’t share), shoppers can get into several all-wheel-drive versions of roomier compact crossover EVs such as the new Chevrolet Equinox EV, Volkswagen ID.4 Pro, and Tesla Model Y. All have more range and power than the Mini.

Range is a big thing for EV buyers and that’s the one area where the Countryman SE All4 falls substantially short of likely competitors, with an EPA estimate of 212 miles per charge. That’s more than most people will drive on any given day, and the Countryman probably isn’t the ideal EV for a cross-county jaunt anyhow, but it is less than impressive up against the Model Y’s 308 miles, Equinox EV’s 285 miles, or the EX30’s 261 miles.

None of those potential competitors, however, has the Mini’s distinctive design or quirky interior, and among the subcompacts only the Mini and the Volvo can truly be classed as premium models.

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 is a two-row, five-passenger SUV that fills a gap in Mazda’s lineup between the smaller CX-50 and the three-row seven-passenger CX-90. The big difference between the new model and the existing CX-90 is the CX-70 trades a third-row seat for a more efficient cargo area. These vehicles are so similar that it seems odd to market the CX-70 as a vehicle separate from the CX-90.

The CX-70 is based on the same mechanicals as the CX-90, and the two are twins in every dimension. The CX-70 offers a choice of three powertrains, two with a 3.3-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine (different horsepower levels) with a mild hybrid system for added boost and efficiency. The third is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model that adds a larger battery pack under the rear seat for the ability to travel about 25 fully electric miles on a charge. You can tell the two models apart at a glance by the wheel arch flares — black on hybrid models and painted body-color on the PHEV. Mazda says the CX-70 weighs within 100 pounds of the CX-90, so ride and handling between the two vehicles is similar.

The biggest difference between Mazda’s two largest SUVs is that the CX-70 has two rows of seats instead of three. Removing the third row created more room in the cargo hold. In fact, Mazda carved out even more space by expanding the width slightly towards the rear with expanded side panels. There’s a new sub-trunk area for increased storage — away from prying eyes. The CX-70's cabin also has power-folding rear seats.

The CX-70 competes with a wide variety of two-row SUVs such as the more expensive BMW X5, Acura MDX, and Genesis GV80 at the upper end where it strikes us as a legitimate bargain. It also plays in the class a notch down in price and prestige with midsize SUVs like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Jeep Grand Cherokee. Mazda is known for producing vehicles with excellent twisty-road handling and the Hyundai and Jeep cannot match the CX-70 in that regard.

Subaru introduced the Forester almost 30 years ago, and since then has sold more than 2.6 million of the popular SUVs in the U.S. Now, the Japanese automaker is introducing the sixth generation of the Forester for the 2025 model year.

The 2025 Subaru Forester remains a popular light off-roader with full-time all-wheel drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance. Subaru also offers dual-function X-Mode for increased capability in foul weather or more challenging off-road conditions. The previous generation's 180-horsepower 2.5-liter engine carries over to the new Forester, which maintains adequate power and good fuel efficiency. A hybrid version has been announced, but no details have been provided yet. Given Subaru's previous partnerships with Toyota, we expect the hybrid to be based on a Toyota powertrain.

Still easily recognizable, the latest Forester gets fresh styling, including a new flush-mounted grille that enhances a streamlined design. The grille flows into the new LED headlights with stylish LED daytime running lights above. The rear gets new taillights and the Forester name spelled out in large letters across the tailgate.

Inside, the available 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen display gives the Forester a premium vibe. Virtually all physical buttons are gone, replaced by screen-integrated controls for climate, audio, and navigation. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard on all Foresters, with a wireless connection on higher trims.

These updates should keep the Forester relevant in the very competitive compact crossover segment, which includes top sellers such as the Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, and Toyota RAV4. We expect Subaru will add a Forester Wilderness sometime in 2025; it should provide strong competition to off-road-capable crossovers like the Ford Bronco Sport and Mazda CX-50. Details of the Forester Hybrid are expected in early 2025.

The Buick Enclave has always been a spacious and smooth-riding seven-passenger SUV. The all-new 2025 Enclave delivers on those fronts, too. It is longer, wider, and taller than the previous model, which translates to increased passenger space. The last Enclave fell short of its luxury mission due to relatively steep pricing and an interior with lackluster materials and tech. This new one appears to fix some of those criticisms with more upscale finishes and the best technology in GM’s portfolio. For example, Buick has fitted a 30-inch touchscreen inside and made Super Cruise hands-free driving an available option on all three trim levels. Buick says the redesigned Enclave sets a new standard for the brand. We’ll have to wait until we can arrange seat time to see if that statement holds. But one thing is certain, this new one is likely no less comfortable than the 2024 Enclave. And that vehicle made for an excellent commuter and long-distance family hauler.

The new Enclave ditches the old model’s thirsty V6 for a more efficient turbocharged four-cylinder engine with additional horsepower and torque paired to an eight-speed automatic. That should make this Enclave quicker than the old one. There’s also a new active shock absorber system called Continuous Damping Control that’s standard on top Avenir models and will likely improve ride and athleticism in equal parts. Like before, front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional. The maximum towing capacity for the Enclave is a respectable 5,000 pounds if optioned with the tow package, just like the last one.

The new Enclave is again offered in three trims but drops the old Essence and Premium names for the new Preferred and Sport Touring. Avenir remains the flagship Enclave trim. With an all-new design, fresh interior, and plenty of tech, the 2025 Enclave is likely to match up far better with luxury competitors such as the Genesis GV80, Acura MDX, and Lincoln Aviator.

The Ford Explorer has been around for more than 30 years, and Ford says it has sold more than 8 million of these family-sized SUVs. Now in its sixth generation, the 2025 Explorer gets a major refresh with new styling, an upgraded cabin, and advanced technology.

The Explorer battles in one of the most competitive vehicle segments in the U.S.: the three-row SUV. The Explorer's strong rivals include the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, Toyota Grand Highlander, and Jeep Grand Cherokee L. In 2023, the popular Ford outsold almost all of its competition, and there's every reason to believe that success will continue with the updated 2025 Explorer.

With seating for up to seven passengers and plenty of cargo space, the Explorer provides a high level of comfort and utility. Four trims are offered: Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum, all well equipped with a long list of standard features. Four-wheel drive is available on all versions, and Ford offers the Explorer with a choice of two powerful engines, including a 400-horsepower EcoBoost turbocharged V6.

Ford's infotainment system is greatly improved, with a new Google-based operating system. It integrates popular features such as Google Maps and Google Assistant, and is displayed on a standard 13.2-inch touchscreen. The Explorer also comes with the latest advanced driver-assist features and, for the first time, is available with Ford's BlueCruise hands-free driving system.

Fully redesigned this year, the 2025 Mini Countryman is more prepared to compete in the crowded compact SUV segment. Already the largest vehicle in the Mini lineup, the new Countryman added a few more inches between the wheels to give it a larger, more practical cabin and a smoother ride. Mini didn't mess with tradition too much, however, as the suspension uses the same overall setup as previous Minis in order to deliver the precise, responsive handling the brand is known for. The new Countryman also benefits from the addition of standard all-wheel drive for sure-footed traction in a variety of conditions.

The previous Countryman offered a wide range of trims, but the newest version was introduced with just two: the Cooper S and the high-performance John Cooper Works. The Cooper S is powered by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four cylinder that produces up to 241 horsepower, a huge jump over the previous Cooper S (189 hp). The John Cooper Works gets a more modest boost, from 301 to 312 horsepower. Both use a seven-speed automatic transmission. Mini claims that the Countryman John Cooper Works is capable of a zero to 60 mph time of just 5.4 seconds, which is quick for any vehicle, but especially a compact SUV.

In addition to the increased passenger room, the Countryman's cabin features an updated design that incorporates a 9.4-inch round touchscreen display in the center of the dash. Most features of the user interface can be controlled with voice activation, a nice plus given the unusual screen design. A mix of cloth and metallic trim gives the interior a modern feel that's a step above most competitors in the class. Mini also added a driver-assist feature that allows for hands-free driving at speeds under 37 mph.

Competition in the Countryman's category is fierce. On the low end, the Honda HR-V offers similar levels of driving enjoyment and functionality. On the luxury side, the BMW X2, Audi Q3, and Volvo XC40 provide high-quality cabins and refined performance. But none of them have the easily identifiable style of a Mini, so the Countryman still offers a one-of-a-kind mix of attributes that no other small SUV can match.

The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek is a compact four-door hatchback offered with two engines. Every Crosstrek comes with a continuously variable transmission and all-wheel drive. The base 2.0-liter four cylinder, rated at a modest 152 horsepower, won't win any awards for its output, but the upgraded engine, a 2.5-liter four good for 182 hp, makes the Crosstrek a far more bearable machine on long climbs. The only meaningful change Subaru makes to the Crosstrek for 2025 is to move the bigger 2.5-liter engine down a trim level, making it standard in the Premium trim and above.

One of the Crosstrek's greatest merits is its sub $27,115 starting price. Sure, you'll get the small engine at that price, but you'll also get a hatchback that's comfortable in the snow, can reasonably acquit itself on gravel roads or even mild off-road terrain, and can swallow skis and most bikes. Part with another $1,250 and you'll get the Premium trim, which comes with the bigger engine and 11.6-inch touchscreen.

Though it's far more costly, the $33,915 Wilderness trim bears mentioning because of how substantially different it is than other Crosstreks. Not only does it look tough with 9.3 inches of ground clearance (other Crosstreks have 8.7 inches), it also gets a lower final drive ratio, which improves its ability to climb steep grades. Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires are also included. There's even an additional transmission oil cooler, which improves towing capacity from 1,500 pounds to 3,500 pounds. All of this, of course, comes at the cost of fuel economy, which drops from 29 mpg for combined city and highway driving on other trims, to 27 mpg here.

Rivals to the Crosstrek include the Honda HR-V, which has a more refined interior but lacks off-road capability, and the Jeep Renegade, which offers a wider range of trims and superior off-road handling, but at a higher price. The similarly sized Kia Seltos has a wider range of trim levels and a low starting price, but all-wheel drive isn't standard.

Built as a collaboration with General Motors, the 2024 Honda Prologue uses the same platform and batteries that underpin the Chevrolet Blazer EV, but the styling and interior are unique to Honda. The Prologue is slightly larger than the Honda Passport midsize SUV, and it has space inside for five people.

If you’re looking for a midsize electric SUV, the Prologue is certainly worth a look. It feels spacious on the inside, despite its low, sleek roofline. The 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system is relatively easy to use and there are plenty of standard tech features, such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Legroom is abundant in the second row, and there’s a large under-floor cargo compartment in the trunk to store extra items. It’s worth noting, however, that the Prologue’s overall cargo space is merely average for the segment, and there’s no front trunk.

The range estimates for the Prologue are between 273 and 296 miles, which is average for the class, but most other EV SUVs have at least one variant with a range that exceeds 300 miles. And, unfortunately, the Prologue lacks the well-sorted driving dynamics we’re used to from most Honda vehicles. It handles corners well enough, but with light and uninspiring steering response. Acceleration is underwhelming, and there's no optional high-horsepower version to pump up the excitement.

So, there are some drawbacks, but the Prologue is still pretty appealing to most shoppers, especially since it’s one of a shrinking number of EVs with a full $7,500 federal tax credit available for qualified buyers.

Acura’s first all-electric SUV, the 2024 ZDX is a competent and comfortable luxury crossover. Powering the ZDX is a 102 kWh battery that’s paired with one or two electric motors. With the single-motor setup, the ZDX optimizes range, offering an EPA-estimated 313 miles between charges. With the dual-motor configuration and in the high-performance Type S trim, the ZDX offers less range but much more power, faster acceleration, and a more dynamic driving experience. It’s the most powerful SUV Acura has ever produced. With sleek, modern styling, lots of room on the inside, and a comfortable ride, the ZDX has a lot to offer.

The ZDX has a quiet cabin and is enjoyable to drive, but its rivals have a significant advantage in some areas. The ZDX is pretty large, which means it easily holds five adults. But rival EV SUVs, such as the Kia EV9, have similar exterior dimensions and provide three rows of seating. Then there’s the issue of luxury, where the ZDX isn’t quite a class leader. Cabin materials, even on the top-trim ZDX Type S, are a bit underwhelming. There’s plenty of modern tech and a long list of standard safety features, but competitors like the BMW iX and Genesis Electrified GV70 feel a bit more upscale inside. Finally, range, especially on the high-performance Type S model, is below what we’d want in a big family SUV like the ZDX. None of these issues are deal-breakers, though, and we’d still advise shoppers to take a close look at the 2024 Acura ZDX.

For over six decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has expertly blended highway civility with off-road capability. Land Cruisers are the vehicle of choice for many overlanders looking to explore the backcountry when they need a reliable vehicle that can carry people and their gear through just about any terrain. The latest generation launched as an all-new model last year, bringing more affordability and efficiency to the Land Cruiser line.

The previous-generation Land Cruiser, which left us in 2021, was equipped with a thirsty but powerful V8 engine. This one uses a new 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain with 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque paired with an eight-speed automatic. And like every Land Cruiser that's ever put a tire on U.S. soil, there's a competent 4WD system to take the driver and passengers deep into the rough. The Land Cruiser's body-on-frame construction is like that of a traditional SUV, with an independent suspension up front and a less sophisticated but durable solid axle in the rear. Smooth riding coil springs are at each corner, making this SUV comfortable on almost any street or trail. Lock the rear differential, shift the Land Cruiser into Low Range, and disconnect the front swaybar — the Land Cruiser becomes one very talented SUV in the dirt.

This Land Cruiser's less expensive price point means it will attract more buyers with its off-roading skills. For those looking to combine the Land Cruiser's dirt chops with a bit more luxury, power, and tow capacity, the Lexus GX 550 offers a similar package at a higher price.

The Land Cruiser is smaller and lighter than the previous-generation V8 models, but there's still plenty of room for five people. Because the SUV is a bit shorter and the hybrid system's battery pack takes up some cargo space, there's no room for a third row of seats.

Outfitted with soft-touch materials and modern tech, the modern Toyota has the drivetrain controls placed around the shifter, so everything you need is right at your fingertips. The $57,900 base price of the 1958 model provides skills in the dirt thanks to the standard electronic locking rear differential, Crawl Control (like an off-road cruise control system), and an 8-inch touchscreen with camera. The $63,900 Land Cruiser grade adds more lux and capability, including an electronic swaybar disconnect system for enhanced off-roading, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and rectangular LED headlights.

The 2025 Land Cruiser might have modern mechanicals, but the exterior design harkens back to the cool Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. The whole package should catch the eye of anyone cross-shopping authentically capable SUVs like the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender.

The 2024 Lexus TX three-row SUV is an all-new model, slotting above the popular midsize RX. The RX offered a three-row L version for five years, but Lexus dropped the RX-L after 2022, returning to a five-passenger-only RX SUV as it prepared for the TX debut. This was a good move, as the RX-L, built on the standard RX's wheelbase, had only an additional 6 inches of overall length. That meant the third row was not very spacious, and cargo capacity behind the rear seats was cramped. The all-new Lexus TX solves those issues with a longer wheelbase, which results in a spacious cabin, generous cargo capacity with or without rear passengers, and most importantly, a two-passenger third-row seat designed for adults.

Due in dealer showrooms this fall, the TX will challenge other feature-laden three-row SUVs, including the slightly smaller Acura MDX, Lincoln Aviator, and Volvo XC90. The MDX doesn't offer a hybrid version, while the TX comes with three powertrain options: a turbocharged four-cylinder for the TX 350, a hybrid-powered TX 500h, and a TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid with an expected all-electric driving range of 33 miles. The Aviator comes in a standard gasoline-powered turbocharged V6 or plug-in hybrid model, and the XC90 gets a four-cylinder turbo, a supercharged and turbocharged four-cylinder, and a plug-in version of the turbo engine covered in a separate XC90 Recharge review.

Although Lexus hasn't released a full list of features and options by trim level, we expect all versions to be well-equipped luxury SUVs. We do know all-wheel drive is available on all models, the entry-level TX 350 comes in three different trim grades (Standard, Premium, and Luxury), and all versions get a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen with the option to add a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. We'll have more information, including driving impressions, later this year.

For 2025, the Equinox is redesigned inside and out, with a fresh look, a new adventure-ready Activ trim, and some seriously updated tech, making it more competitive in a tough group of rivals.

On the outside, the Equinox’s new look is sleek and angular, which fits right in among Chevy’s other recently redesigned SUVs, such as the Trax. The Activ trim adds all-terrain tires and some rugged exterior styling, which should help the Equinox blend in at the local campsite. The Equinox is still powered by the same 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, but it gets two new transmissions: a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) on front-wheel-drive models and an eight-speed automatic on all-wheel-drive versions. An all-electric Equinox EV is reviewed separately.

The Equinox's cabin gets some major tech updates and an improved design. The driver's information screen and center infotainment touchscreen have been updated to 11-inch and 11.3-inch screens, respectively. The new screens are a big improvement over previous models and they’re included on every trim level. Features such as Google and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included. The 2025 Equinox has modern driver aids like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward-collision warning — giving it a bit of an edge in the tech and safety department.

This the best Equinox yet, but some rivals may provide greater overall appeal. The Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tucson offer optional hybrid powertrains, while the Mazda CX-5 has a luxurious interior that makes it look and feel more upscale.

The redesigned 2024 Lexus GX launches with a muscular stance that recalls the off-road capability of iconic Toyota Land Cruisers of the past. Based on the same platform that underpins the Lexus LX 600 SUV as well as the reincarnated 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser, it's built with bona fide off-road credentials.

While dealer lots are full of crossover SUVs that look like off-roaders, the all-new GX doesn't share DNA with a midsize family sedan. With a new rugged-looking, square-shouldered design, the GX comes with an off-road-capable kit that's built in, not bolted on. Included with the third-generation GX reboot is a lighter but tougher frame, a more powerful, torque-rich twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6, and a more efficient 10-speed automatic transmission. A modern suspension, more powerful brakes, and sharper steering also aid an impressive 9,000-pound towing capacity.

This year the Overtrail and Overtrail+ join the lineup. These purpose-built off-road models have increased ground clearance, 33-inch all-terrain tires, lockable center and rear differentials, and other off-road tech to challenge the Land Rover Defender and versions of the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The 2024 GX also gets the latest in advanced driver-assist systems and entertainment technology with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 and Lexus Interface infotainment system.

Although available at launch with the V6 gas engine, the GX will debut a hybrid version later in the year.

Last year, the Hyundai Santa Fe received the most significant redesign in its 24-year history. The boxy yet futuristic exterior stands out from more conventionally styled SUVs, and after a six-year absence, a third row of seats is included. That puts the Santa Fe in a somewhat unusual position in the Hyundai lineup since there's already another three-row SUV: the Palisade.

The Santa Fe measures about 6 inches shorter than the Palisade, making it more maneuverable in tight parking spaces. Inside, it's only marginally smaller for passengers in the third row, but cargo space is reduced by 20%. The Santa Fe is a few thousand dollars less than the Palisade, though, and it's also available with a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain. If you only need moderate cargo space, the Santa Fe makes better financial sense and is easier to drive.

The Santa Fe only has a handful of rivals among similarly sized three-row SUVs. These include the Toyota Highlander, Volkswagen Tiguan, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Kia Sorento. The Santa Fe scores points for its more spacious third-row seat, lengthy warranty, and comfortable seats and ride. It receives light criticism for its rough-sounding engine, but that's only when you're accelerating aggressively.

Overall, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is the better choice among moderately sized three-row SUVs. We suggest checking out the Kia Telluride or the related Palisade if you need more capabilities.