Whether you're hauling kids, chasing mountain trails, or just craving a commanding view of the road, the SUV segment delivers like no other. But with over 150 models on the market—from subcompacts to three-row luxury cruisers—choosing the best SUVs to buy can feel overwhelming. At DrivingPlatform, we cut through the noise. Our team of engineers, testers, and lifelong car enthusiasts spent months evaluating fuel economy, safety scores, infotainment responsiveness, cargo versatility, and that intangible ‘joy factor’ behind the wheel. Here’s what rose to the top in 2024.
Performance & Efficiency That Surprises
Gone are the days when SUVs meant sluggish acceleration and thirsty engines. The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid prove efficiency doesn’t sacrifice responsiveness—both deliver 0–60 mph in under 7.5 seconds and return over 40 mpg combined. Meanwhile, the Volkswagen Tiguan 4Motion offers turbocharged poise and confident AWD handling, making it one of the most engaging compact SUVs in its class. For EV fans, the Kia EV6 (crossover-SUV hybrid form factor) delivers 310 miles of range and sub-4-second 0–60 times—blurring the line between sport sedan and utility vehicle.
Safety & Tech You Can Trust
Safety isn’t optional—it’s foundational. The Subaru Outback and Forester continue to lead with standard EyeSight driver assist, earning IIHS Top Safety Pick+ honors for eight straight years. But don’t overlook the Hyundai Santa Fe, which bundles blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and highway driving assist—even on mid-trim models. Its 12.3-inch digital cluster and intuitive Blue Link interface make advanced tech feel effortless, not distracting.
Value That Holds Its Ground
Depreciation stings—but not with these picks. The Mazda CX-5 remains a benchmark for resale value and premium-feeling interiors at mainstream pricing. Similarly, the Kia Sorento offers three-row capability, available AWD, and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty—all starting under $32,000. When we crunched five-year ownership costs (fuel, maintenance, insurance, depreciation), both landed in the top 5 for long-term value among all best SUVs to buy.
Capability Without Compromise
Need real off-road chops—or just confidence in snow and gravel? The Jeep Grand Cherokee L combines Trailhawk-grade 4x4 systems with serene highway refinement and best-in-class interior space. And for those who demand more: the Land Rover Defender 110 redefines rugged luxury with configurable terrain response, 3D surround cameras, and air suspension that adapts to pavement or rock face. Neither sacrifices daily drivability—and both prove that serious capability and everyday comfort aren’t mutually exclusive.
So—what’s the bottom line? The best SUVs to buy in 2024 aren’t defined by size or badge alone. They balance intelligence and intuition, safety and soul, value and vision. Whether your priority is hybrid efficiency, family-ready space, tech-forward design, or go-anywhere grit, there’s a standout waiting for you. Ready to dive deeper? Visit our interactive SUV Comparison Tool, read full owner reviews, or book a test drive through our trusted dealer network. Your next great drive starts here—on Your Platform for Everything Automotive.