Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) have become incredibly popular in the USA, transforming the automotive landscape and even leading to the decline of smaller car segments. Drivers are drawn to their comfortable, elevated driving position, spacious interiors, and the feeling of security they provide. Modern SUVs are versatile, practical for everyday life, and many offer adventurous 4×4 capabilities for weekend excursions. With numerous brands competing to create the best SUVs for 2025, there’s a perfect SUV out there for everyone. If you’re in the market for a vehicle that combines space, comfort, and capability, exploring the world of Good Suvs is the right place to start.
What Makes an SUV “Good”? Key Characteristics to Consider
When searching for a good SUV, several factors come into play. These vehicles aren’t just about size; they offer a blend of features that cater to various needs and preferences. Here are some core characteristics that define what makes an SUV truly “good”:
Size and Versatility
SUVs come in a range of sizes, from subcompact to full-size, ensuring there’s a fit for different lifestyles. While generally larger than sedans, this size translates to enhanced versatility. A good SUV maximizes its dimensions to offer:
- Spacious Interiors: Ample passenger room for comfortable seating, often including third-row options for larger families.
- Flexible Cargo Space: Generous trunk space for luggage, groceries, and gear, with seats that fold down to accommodate even larger items. Many good SUVs offer clever storage solutions throughout the cabin.
Safety and Reliability
Safety is paramount, especially for families. Good SUVs prioritize passenger protection and often boast high safety ratings. Look for models that offer:
- Comprehensive Safety Features: Including advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
- Strong Reliability: A reputation for dependability, minimizing unexpected repairs and ensuring peace of mind. Consumer reports and reliability surveys are valuable resources for assessing this.
Performance and Efficiency
A good SUV strikes a balance between capable performance and reasonable fuel efficiency. While some prioritize powerful engines, others focus on maximizing MPG. Consider:
- Adequate Power: Engines that provide sufficient power for daily driving, highway cruising, and, in some cases, towing.
- Fuel Efficiency: Modern SUVs are increasingly offering improved fuel economy, with some models featuring hybrid or even fully electric powertrains for enhanced efficiency.
Comfort and Luxury
Comfort is a significant factor, especially for longer journeys. Good SUVs often provide a comfortable and refined driving experience with:
- Comfortable Ride Quality: Suspension systems designed to absorb bumps and provide a smooth ride.
- Luxurious Interiors: Well-appointed cabins with quality materials, comfortable seating, and user-friendly technology. Many good SUVs offer premium features and finishes.
Understanding these characteristics will help you narrow down your search and identify the good SUVs that best align with your specific needs and priorities.
Top 10 Good SUVs of 2025: Models That Stand Out
Based on expert reviews and BuzzScores, here are ten good SUVs for 2025 that are making waves in the automotive market:
1. Lincoln Aviator
Lincoln Aviator front view
The Lincoln Aviator earns its top spot as a good SUV with a BuzzScore of 8.6/10, thanks to its luxurious features and powerful engine. This refined SUV offers:
- Powerful Engine: A 400-hp twin-turbo V6 engine delivering robust performance.
- Luxurious Interior: Available in three trims up to the Black Label, with seating for up to seven and optional captain’s chairs.
- Towing Capability: Can tow up to 6,700 pounds, adding to its practicality.
- Generous Cargo Space: Offers up to 78.6 cubic feet of cargo space with seats folded.
While not the sportiest SUV, the Aviator excels in delivering a high-quality, feature-rich, and undeniably good SUV experience.
2. Chevrolet Tahoe
Chevrolet Tahoe 3/4 front view
The Chevrolet Tahoe, with a BuzzScore of 8.4/10, is a good SUV for those needing size and versatility. It stands out with:
- Engine Variety: Offers three engine choices, including two V8 options and a turbo-diesel.
- Spaciousness: Accommodates up to seven passengers with a massive 122.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats.
- Trim Levels: Available in various trims from the LS to the High Country, catering to different budgets and needs.
The Tahoe is a strong contender in the large SUV segment, providing ample space and a range of powerful engine options, making it a good SUV for families and cargo hauling.
3. Chevrolet Suburban
Chevrolet Suburban front view
Sharing the 8.4/10 BuzzScore with its Tahoe sibling, the Chevrolet Suburban is an even larger good SUV, perfect for those who need maximum space. Its highlights include:
- Massive Cargo Capacity: Boasting a class-leading 144.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo space.
- Seating for Up to Nine: Accommodating even the largest families.
- Engine Options: Similar engine choices to the Tahoe, including powerful V8s and a diesel option.
The Suburban is designed for large families and heavy cargo needs, making it an exceptional good SUV if space is your top priority. As noted by Nicole Wakelin of CarBuzz, it’s “a huge SUV that easily handles eight people and their cargo” and “roomy enough for adults to get comfortable.”
4. BMW iX
BMW iX front view
The BMW iX, scoring 8.6/10, enters the list as a luxurious and technologically advanced electric good SUV. Its key features are:
- Electric Performance: Available in xDrive50 and M60 versions, offering 516 hp to 610 hp.
- Quick Acceleration: The M60 model can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.6 seconds.
- Luxurious Interior: A modern and well-designed cabin for five passengers.
- Decent Cargo Space: Offers 77.9 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats down.
The iX is a good SUV for those seeking a blend of luxury, electric power, and sporty driving dynamics in an SUV package.
5. Genesis GV80
Genesis GV80 front view
The Genesis GV80, with an 8.4/10 BuzzScore, is a good SUV that combines luxury and sporty refinement. It impresses with:
- Stylish Design: A distinctive and elegant design that stands out in the luxury SUV segment.
- Engine Choices: Offers a 300-hp turbo-four and a more powerful 375-hp twin-turbo V6.
- Luxurious Features: Packed with features and delivers a smooth, comfortable ride.
- Good Cargo Space: Provides 84 cubic feet of cargo space with seats folded.
The GV80 is a good SUV choice for buyers seeking a luxurious and stylish vehicle with a focus on comfort and features.
6. Mercedes-AMG GLA 35
Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 front view
The Mercedes-AMG GLA 35, scoring 8.4/10, is a sporty and more accessible AMG good SUV. It offers:
- AMG Performance: Powered by a 302-hp turbo-four engine with quick acceleration (0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds).
- AMG Styling: Sporty AMG design cues both inside and out.
- Entry-Level AMG: One of the more affordable AMG SUVs.
While not as spacious as larger SUVs, the GLA 35 is a good SUV for those wanting AMG performance and style in a compact package.
7. Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class front view
The Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class, with an 8.3/10 BuzzScore, is a practical and family-oriented good SUV. It’s characterized by:
- Practicality: Available in five or seven-seat configurations.
- Fuel-Efficient Engine: Powered by a 221-hp turbo-four engine.
- Decent Cargo Space: Offers up to 62 cubic feet of cargo space with seats folded.
- High-End Features: Features high-quality materials and technology.
The GLB-Class is a good SUV for families needing a practical and somewhat luxurious compact SUV, though the third row is best suited for occasional use.
8. Mercedes-AMG GLB 35
The Mercedes-AMG GLB 35, scoring 8.1/10, is the sportier AMG version of the GLB-Class, making it a good SUV for those wanting more performance in a compact size. It includes:
- AMG Enhanced Performance: Upgraded with a 302-hp turbo-four engine and AMG Speedshift transmission.
- Sporty AMG Styling: Exterior and interior AMG enhancements.
- Standard AWD: Comes standard with 4Matic all-wheel drive.
If you find the base GLB-Class lacking in sportiness, the AMG GLB 35 is a good SUV upgrade that delivers enhanced performance and driving dynamics.
9. Audi SQ7
Audi SQ7 front view
The Audi SQ7, with an 8.4/10 BuzzScore, is a luxury performance good SUV. It stands out with:
- Powerful V8 Engine: Equipped with a 500-hp twin-turbo V8 engine.
- Sporty Performance: Achieves 0-60 mph in just 4 seconds and a top speed of 150 mph.
- Luxurious Interior: Typical Audi refinement and quality.
- Seven-Seat Capacity: Can accommodate up to seven passengers.
The SQ7 is a good SUV for those who want both luxury and high performance in a family-friendly package. As Ian Wright from CarBuzz notes, “The SQ7 shoves hard off the line… and the Tiptronic eight-speed transmission is crisp and assuring.”
10. Ford Explorer
Ford Explorer front view
The Ford Explorer, scoring 8.0/10, rounds out the list as a versatile and family-oriented good SUV. It’s known for:
- Engine Choices: Offers a 300-hp turbo-four and a more powerful 400-hp twin-turbo V6 in the ST trim.
- Versatility: Available in seven or eight-passenger configurations.
- Affordable Base Price: Starting at a more accessible price point compared to luxury SUVs on this list.
- Decent Performance: The quicker trims can reach 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds.
The Explorer is a good SUV for families seeking a practical, versatile, and reasonably priced vehicle with engine options to suit different needs.
Considerations Before Choosing a Good SUV
Choosing the right SUV involves weighing the pros and cons to ensure it fits your lifestyle and requirements.
Advantages of Good SUVs
- Off-Road Capability: Some models offer true 4×4 systems for adventurous driving.
- High Safety Ratings: SUVs often excel in safety and reliability.
- Versatile and Practical Cabins: Offer flexible seating and cargo arrangements.
- Superior Cargo Space: Generally provide more cargo room than traditional cars.
- Commanding Driving Position: Offers enhanced visibility.
- Luxurious Interiors: Many SUVs provide premium comfort and features.
- Stylish Design: SUVs often have a strong road presence and appealing aesthetics.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Hybrid and EV SUV models are increasingly available.
Disadvantages of Good SUVs
- Driving Dynamics: May not be as agile or fun to drive as smaller cars.
- Higher Price Point: SUVs often come with a higher price tag than comparable sedans or hatchbacks.
- Fuel Economy: Generally less fuel-efficient than smaller, lighter vehicles (though hybrids and EVs are changing this).
- Size and Maneuverability: Larger size can make parking and navigating tight spaces challenging.
Conclusion: Finding Your Ideal Good SUV
The SUV segment is rich with choices, and this list of top-rated models for 2025 highlights some of the good SUVs available. Whether you prioritize luxury, performance, space, or practicality, there’s an SUV designed to meet your needs. By considering the key characteristics of good SUVs and evaluating the pros and cons, you can confidently navigate the market and select the perfect SUV to enhance your driving experience. Remember to research thoroughly, compare models, and test drive your top contenders to make an informed decision.
Sources: Lincoln, Chevrolet, Genesis, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Ford
