From dashing daily drivers like the Toyota RAV4 to the affordable family-size versatility of a used Kia Telluride, we’re shouting out to five of the most popular SUVs on the road today.
Small and Mighty: Toyota RAV4
This pioneering crossover SUV made its debut in the 1990s: it remains one of the most popular vehicles ever produced. It’s got everything city dwellers want. It’s compact, stylish, gets excellent gas mileage, and it’s got loads of cargo space for those monthly big-box warehouse store trips. For folks looking for something fun, versatile, and easy to park, the RAV4 is the complete package. And did we mention it comes in hybrid and EV models?
Super Versatile: Subaru Outback
Like the RAV4, it’s almost impossible to go anywhere without seeing a Subaru Outback on the road. And a big reason for that is that the Outback can go just about everywhere. This mid-size crossover with full-time all-wheel drive goes from the office to the surf and the slopes without missing a beat. And with nearly 76 cubic feet of cargo volume, it’s great for hauling oversize items. And given their longevity, it’s little wonder that they’re near the top of the list in owner loyalty.
The Spunky Crossover: Honda CR-V
The CR-V has been around since the mid-1990s and has amassed a huge fan base of its own. Why? Because it’s a nice, driver- and passenger-friendly SUV. It’s got the versatility to accommodate busy families and is comfortable enough for five adults when it’s your turn to drive the carpool. It also boasts a perky turbocharged power plant, making passing traffic on the freeway less of a white-knuckle ordeal than less-powerful SUVs.
Luxuriously Affordable: Kia Telluride
To great critical acclaim, the Kia Telluride hit showrooms a couple of years ago. And not only is this upscale SUV a hit with car experts but it’s also proven popular with SUV lovers. Kia has flipped the script on the luxury SUV market, proving that you don’t have to blow $60k to get a stylish, spacious, three-row vehicle loaded with premium features. In fact, if you play your cards right, you might even find a luxuriously-loaded used Kia Telluride for right around $40k.
The Original Family SUV: Ford Explorer
We can’t have a list of popular SUVs without giving a shout-out to the OG, the Ford Explorer. Now in its 30’s, the Explorer was more family-friendly than its stablemate, the Bronco, and slotted into a space that the Jeep Grand Wagoneer was vacating. Available with 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive, the Explorer helped inspire a revolution that saw SUVs overtake cars in popularity.
Four Decades of Road Royalty
Four decades after hitting the mainstream, SUVs and crossovers dominate showrooms. And with many of the most popular SUVs now available with hybrid or electric powertrains, they’ll continue to rule the road for the foreseeable future. Whether you’re looking for something small and economical, large and luxurious, or something in-between, there’s an SUV for every need and budget.
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