If you’re in the market for a vehicle that offers the best of both worlds—car-like handling with SUV practicality—a crossover SUV might be your ideal match.
Crossovers have become the go-to choice for those who want space, versatility, and a little bit of ruggedness without compromising on smooth road performance. With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which ones stand out.
Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered! Here’s a list of the 20 best crossover SUVs that deliver reliable performance, style, and the versatility you need for any adventure.
1. Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is a consistent favorite in the crossover segment, and it’s easy to see why. With a comfortable ride, great fuel efficiency, and impressive cargo space, the RAV4 is the ultimate all-rounder. Its hybrid model offers even more fuel savings, and Toyota’s reliability is unbeatable.
2. Honda CR-V
Another crowd-pleaser, the Honda CR-V has spacious seating, a high-quality interior, and excellent fuel economy. Its turbocharged engine offers peppy acceleration, and it’s packed with advanced safety features, making it a great choice for families and solo drivers alike.
3. Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 stands out with its sporty handling and upscale interior. Known for its engaging drive, the CX-5 feels surprisingly nimble for a crossover. Plus, the available turbocharged engine adds a boost for those who like a little extra power.
4. Ford Escape
The Ford Escape is versatile, with multiple powertrain options including a plug-in hybrid. With spacious interiors and advanced tech like Ford’s SYNC infotainment system, the Escape is perfect for anyone who wants a bit of everything.
5. Chevrolet Equinox
The Chevrolet Equinox offers plenty of space and a user-friendly infotainment system. Its affordable pricing and array of safety features make it a practical choice for families who want a budget-friendly but capable crossover.
6. Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson boasts a sleek design, a roomy cabin, and a wealth of tech features. Its hybrid model delivers excellent fuel efficiency, while the standard Tucson provides a smooth, comfortable ride perfect for daily driving.
7. Kia Sportage
With its bold design and high-quality interior, the Kia Sportage offers excellent value. The Sportage is also known for its reliability, and the newer models come packed with advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist.
8. Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is a great pick for outdoor enthusiasts. With standard all-wheel drive, ample ground clearance, and spacious seating, it’s ready for any adventure, whether you’re hitting the trails or navigating city streets.
9. Nissan Rogue
The Nissan Rogue combines comfort with practicality. Its “Zero Gravity” seats are incredibly comfy, and it offers plenty of cargo space. The Rogue also includes Nissan’s ProPilot Assist system, which is great for semi-autonomous driving assistance on the highway.
10. Volkswagen Tiguan
If you need a third-row option in a compact size, the Volkswagen Tiguan is one of the few crossovers to offer it. It’s spacious, with a refined interior and a smooth ride, making it an excellent choice for families.
11. Jeep Cherokee
The Jeep Cherokee brings a bit of off-road prowess to the crossover world. With available four-wheel drive and solid ground clearance, the Cherokee is more than capable on rugged terrain, while still being comfortable enough for everyday driving.
12. GMC Terrain
The GMC Terrain is known for its upscale cabin and strong infotainment system. With a smooth ride and decent fuel economy, it’s ideal for anyone who wants a bit of luxury without going overboard on price.
13. Mitsubishi Outlander
The Mitsubishi Outlander offers a third-row seat, making it a versatile choice for larger families. With solid fuel efficiency and plenty of safety features, the Outlander is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on functionality.
14. Hyundai Santa Fe
The Hyundai Santa Fe offers two-row seating and plenty of cargo space. Known for its reliability and affordable luxury, the Santa Fe also offers hybrid options, making it a solid choice for eco-conscious drivers who still want plenty of room.
15. Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is slightly larger than many on this list, offering three rows and generous cargo space. With Toyota’s reputation for durability, it’s perfect for families looking for a crossover that will last for years to come.
16. Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 is a great option for those who need a three-row SUV but want a more engaging driving experience. Known for its sharp handling and elegant interior, the CX-9 delivers style and substance, making long trips enjoyable for everyone.
17. Ford Edge
The Ford Edge is a spacious, two-row SUV with plenty of cargo room and a strong performance record. It offers a comfortable ride with the power you’d expect from a Ford, along with advanced safety features that make it great for families.
18. Buick Envision
The Buick Envision combines luxury with a sporty edge. With an upscale interior and refined handling, it offers a more premium feel while still providing the practicality and space of a crossover.
19. Chevrolet Blazer
The Chevrolet Blazer has a bold, sporty look and offers impressive engine options, including a strong V6. With plenty of tech features, the Blazer is perfect for those who want a stylish ride that doesn’t sacrifice performance.
20. Acura RDX
The Acura RDX rounds out our list with a luxury feel at a reasonable price. Its powerful turbocharged engine, upscale interior, and smooth handling make it ideal for anyone who wants a bit of luxury without the luxury price tag.
Why Crossovers Are Perfect for Versatile Performance
So, what makes crossovers such a popular choice? Here’s what gives them that edge when it comes to versatility:
1. Smooth Handling: Crossovers are built on car-like platforms, which means they offer better handling and smoother rides than traditional SUVs.
2. Spacious Interiors: Even though they’re compact compared to full-size SUVs, crossovers are designed to maximize interior space, giving you plenty of room for passengers and cargo alike.
3. Advanced Safety Features: Many crossovers come equipped with the latest safety tech—think adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking—making them safer for family use.
4. Fuel Efficiency: Since crossovers are lighter and often have more efficient engines than their SUV counterparts, they offer better gas mileage, saving you money at the pump.
5. All-Wheel Drive Options: Many crossovers come with available all-wheel drive, so they can handle rough roads or slippery conditions without the bulkiness of a traditional SUV.
Choosing the Right Crossover SUV
When choosing a crossover SUV, consider what you’ll be using it for most:
1. For Family Use: Look for models with spacious interiors, great safety features, and good fuel economy, like the Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, or Toyota Highlander.
2. For Style and Comfort: If you want something luxurious and sporty, the Mazda CX-5, Buick Envision, and Acura RDX offer upscale interiors and smooth rides.
3. For Adventure: If you’re hitting the trails or heading into rough weather, crossovers like the Jeep Cherokee and Subaru Forester offer all-wheel drive and rugged durability.
4. For Fuel Efficiency: Hybrid options like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid or Hyundai Tucson Hybrid are great for anyone looking to go the extra mile on a tank of gas.
Final Thoughts
Crossovers are here to stay, and with so many options on the market, there’s truly something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly ride, a rugged adventurer, or something stylish and comfortable, these 20 crossovers have you covered.
With the right crossover, you’ll be ready to tackle city streets, highway miles, and even some off-road trails with ease. So go ahead—find the one that fits your lifestyle, and get ready to hit the road in comfort and style!
