Best Sport Utility Vehicles in 2026

The Hyundai Santa Fe has consistently impressed with its blend of style, value, and robust feature set. The latest generation boasts a dramatically refreshed exterior design that turns heads, coupled with a remarkably upscale and spacious interior that feels more premium than its price tag suggests. Passengers will appreciate the comfortable seating and generous cargo capacity, making it a strong contender for families or those needing room for gear. Hyundai's commitment to safety is evident, with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems included as standard. The Santa Fe offers a choice of powerful and efficient powertrains, including a popular hybrid option, though some enthusiasts might find the non-turbo engines a bit tame. Its stellar warranty coverage further enhances its appeal, providing peace of mind for buyers seeking a reliable and well-equipped midsize SUV that offers exceptional value for money.

The Kia Telluride has taken the three-row SUV segment by storm, earning widespread acclaim for its luxurious cabin, sophisticated design, and incredible value. It offers ample space for adults in all three rows, a rarity in this class, making it an ideal choice for larger families. The interior is thoughtfully designed with high-quality materials and an intuitive infotainment system that is easy to use. Under the hood, a strong V6 engine provides confident acceleration, and the ride quality is remarkably smooth and quiet, even over rough pavement. While its off-road prowess isn't its primary focus, the available all-wheel-drive system provides ample traction for most situations. For families seeking a stylish, comfortable, and feature-packed SUV without venturing into premium brand pricing, the Telluride remains a top-tier recommendation, consistently impressing with its blend of practicality and perceived luxury.

The Mazda CX-50 stands out in the crowded compact SUV segment by offering an uncommonly engaging driving experience and a truly premium feel. Unlike many of its competitors that prioritize practicality above all else, the CX-50 delivers a responsive steering, composed handling, and a satisfying ride that appeals to those who enjoy driving. Its exterior design is rugged yet refined, giving it a distinctive presence. Inside, Mazda continues to impress with sophisticated styling, high-quality materials, and a quiet cabin, making it feel more upscale than its price tag suggests. While rear passenger space is adequate, it's not as cavernous as some rivals, and the infotainment system, while feature-rich, can be a bit tricky to operate on the go due to its rotary controller. Overall, for buyers prioritizing driving pleasure, distinctive style, and a near-luxury experience in a compact package, the CX-50 is an exceptional choice.

For those prioritizing fuel efficiency without sacrificing practicality, the Honda CR-V Hybrid is an undeniable leader in the compact SUV class. It combines Honda's renowned reliability and intelligent packaging with a highly efficient hybrid powertrain, delivering impressive MPG figures that rival many smaller sedans. The CR-V's interior is a masterclass in functional design, offering abundant passenger and cargo space, making it incredibly versatile for families and everyday use. The ride is smooth and composed, and the cabin remains quiet at highway speeds, contributing to a comfortable driving experience. While the continuously variable transmission (CVT) can occasionally drone under heavy acceleration, it generally operates seamlessly. Its strong safety ratings and standard Honda Sensing suite of driver-assist technologies further cement its status as a top choice. The CR-V Hybrid is a sensible, well-rounded, and exceedingly efficient SUV that continues to set benchmarks in its segment.

The Ford Bronco represents a triumphant return for an icon, delivering unparalleled off-road capability wrapped in a distinctive, retro-modern package. For adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts, the Bronco is in a league of its own, boasting features like available Sasquatch Package with 35-inch tires, advanced 4x4 systems, and removable doors and roof panels that transform it into an open-air vehicle. It's built to tackle the toughest trails with confidence and ease. While its interior prioritizes ruggedness and washability over luxury, it is still well-equipped with modern technology. On paved roads, the ride can be a bit firm, and road noise is more pronounced than in softer-riding SUVs. However, these are small trade-offs for its extraordinary capability. The Bronco's vast customization options allow owners to tailor it precisely to their needs and aesthetic preferences, making it a true spiritual successor to its legendary ancestors and the definitive choice for serious off-road exploits.

The Subaru Outback continues to define the adventurous crossover segment, offering an unmatched combination of car-like comfort and SUV-like capability. Every Outback comes standard with Subaru's renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and impressive ground clearance, making it exceptionally confident in adverse weather conditions or on unpaved roads. The interior is remarkably spacious, especially for rear passengers, and the cargo area is cavernous, making it perfect for families, outdoor gear, or road trips. Ride quality is supple and comfortable, absorbing bumps with ease. While the standard engine can feel a bit sluggish under full load, the optional turbocharged engine provides a welcome boost in power. Subaru's commitment to safety is evident with the standard EyeSight driver-assist system, earning it top safety marks. For those seeking a highly practical, all-weather capable, and safe vehicle that blurs the line between wagon and SUV, the Outback remains an exemplary choice.