Choosing the right vehicle, especially for families or new drivers, is a decision that weighs heavily on safety, reliability, and practicality. Among the various body styles available, Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) have risen in popularity due to their versatility, space, and perceived safety. For those prioritizing these factors, understanding which SUVs stand out in terms of safety and dependability is crucial. Reputable organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and Consumer Reports (CR) rigorously test vehicles and provide data-driven recommendations to guide consumers. Their combined assessments offer a comprehensive view of vehicle safety and reliability, making the selection process more informed and less daunting.
Alt text: IIHS and Consumer Reports collaboration logo, highlighting their joint effort in vehicle safety recommendations.
Why Choose an SUV?
SUVs have become a staple on American roads, and for good reason. They offer a compelling blend of features that cater to a wide range of needs and preferences. Here are some key reasons why SUVs are a popular choice:
- Enhanced Safety Features: SUVs generally offer a higher driving position, which can improve visibility. Many modern SUVs come equipped with advanced safety technologies like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and blind-spot monitoring, contributing to accident prevention and mitigation.
- Ample Space and Versatility: SUVs are known for their generous cargo and passenger space. This makes them ideal for families, road trips, and anyone needing to haul gear or equipment. The flexible seating configurations in many SUVs further enhance their versatility.
- Robustness and Durability: Often built on truck-based platforms or with reinforced unibody construction, SUVs are typically designed to be robust and durable, capable of handling various road conditions and providing a sense of security.
- All-Weather Capability: Many SUVs offer all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) options, providing enhanced traction and control in adverse weather conditions like snow, rain, or light off-road situations.
- Resale Value: SUVs tend to hold their value well over time, making them a sound investment. The continued demand for SUVs in the used car market ensures that owners can often recoup a significant portion of their initial investment.
However, with numerous SUV models available, identifying the truly Recommended Suv Cars requires careful consideration of safety ratings, reliability scores, and overall value. The lists provided below, curated by IIHS and Consumer Reports, aim to simplify this process by highlighting SUVs that excel in these critical areas.
Top Recommended Used SUVs: Best Choices
For those considering the used car market, the “Best Choices” list represents vehicles that offer a superior combination of safety, reliability, and features. These SUVs have met stringent criteria set by both IIHS and Consumer Reports, ensuring a high standard of protection and dependability. These used SUVs provide excellent value without compromising on essential safety and reliability aspects.
Small SUVs – Best Choices (Used)
| Make and Model | Model Years | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet Equinox | 2020, 2023 | $13,800 |
| Kia Sportage | 2020+ | $14,400 |
| Toyota RAV4 | 2017+ | $14,700 |
| Hyundai Tucson | 2020+ | $14,900 |
| GMC Terrain | 2020, 2023 | $16,100 |
| Mazda CX-5 | 2021-23 | $17,600 |
| Lexus UX | 2019-21 | $18,100 |
| Honda CR-V | 2020+ | $18,700 |
| Nissan Rogue | 2021 | $19,000 |
| Subaru Forester | 2021+ | $19,000 |
| Mazda CX-30 | 2022+ | $19,900 |
Midsize SUVs – Best Choices (Used)
| Make and Model | Model Years | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Volvo XC60 | 2017 | $12,100 |
| Hyundai Santa Fe | 2019, 2020, 2023 | $15,200 |
| Toyota Highlander | 2017+ | $15,700 |
| Nissan Murano | 2019, 2020 | $15,900 |
| Ford Edge | 2020+ | $16,700 |
| Lexus NX | 2018-21 | $17,100 |
| Infiniti QX60 | 2019 | $17,800 |
| Mazda CX-9 | 2020, 2022 | $18,800 |
Top Recommended Used SUVs: Good Choices
The “Good Choices” list offers slightly more affordable used SUV options that still meet high safety and reliability standards. While perhaps not possessing all the advanced features of the “Best Choices,” these SUVs provide a solid and dependable transportation solution, particularly for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize safety and reliability.
Small SUVs – Good Choices (Used)
| Make and Model | Model Years | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Mazda CX-5 | 2016 | $10,100 |
| Hyundai Kona | 2018-19 | $11,000 |
| Honda CR-V | 2015-19 | $11,400 |
| Chevrolet Equinox | 2018-19 | $11,600 |
| Honda HR-V | 2017-22 (built after March 2017) | $11,600 |
| Toyota RAV4 | 2015-16 (built after Nov 2014) | $12,000 |
| GMC Terrain | 2018-19 | $12,700 |
Midsize SUVs – Good Choices (Used)
| Make and Model | Model Years | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Nissan Murano | 2016 | $9,900 |
| Toyota Highlander | 2014-16 | $11,700 |
| Lexus NX | 2015-17 | $12,100 |
| Acura RDX | 2016 | $13,500 |
| Mazda CX-9 | 2018 | $14,200 |
Top Recommended New SUVs
For buyers seeking the latest safety technology and features, the list of recommended new SUVs is invaluable. These vehicles have achieved the prestigious IIHS Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ award for 2024 and come standard with vehicle-to-vehicle automatic emergency braking, representing the pinnacle of current safety standards. They also meet Consumer Reports’ criteria for reliability, emergency handling, braking, and ease of use.
Small SUVs – Recommended New
| Make and Model | Price |
|---|---|
| Mazda CX-30 | $25,700 |
| Kia Sportage | $27,300 |
| Hyundai Tucson | $27,800 |
| Honda CR-V | $29,700 |
| Mazda CX-50 | $31,200 (built after August 2023) |
| Lexus UX | $35,300 |
Midsize SUVs – Recommended New
| Make and Model | Price |
|---|---|
| Subaru Ascent | $35,000 |
| Kia Telluride | $36,300 |
| Hyundai Palisade | $37,000 |
| Honda Pilot | $37,200 |
| Mazda CX-90 | $38,800 |
| Lexus NX | $39,600 |
Alt text: A teenager and a parent in a car, symbolizing family car shopping and vehicle safety considerations.
Factors to Consider Beyond Recommendations
While these lists provide an excellent starting point, choosing the “recommended SUV cars” that best fit individual needs involves considering additional factors:
- Specific Safety Needs: Consider if there are specific safety features that are particularly important, such as pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, or adaptive cruise control. Check the detailed specifications of each model and trim level.
- Budget and Value: Determine a realistic budget and evaluate the overall value proposition of each SUV. Consider factors like fuel economy, insurance costs, and potential maintenance expenses.
- Size and Practicality: Assess the required passenger and cargo space. Small SUVs are easier to maneuver and park, while midsize SUVs offer more room. Consider your typical driving needs and passenger volume.
- Features and Comfort: Think about desired comfort and convenience features, such as infotainment systems, seat comfort, and driver-assistance technologies. Test drive different models to assess ride quality and overall driving experience.
- Reliability History: While Consumer Reports provides reliability ratings, further research into long-term reliability and common issues for specific models can be beneficial. Online owner reviews and forums can offer valuable insights.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety and Reliability in Your SUV Choice
Selecting a vehicle, especially an SUV, requires balancing numerous factors. However, safety and reliability should be paramount, particularly when considering family transportation or vehicles for less experienced drivers. The “recommended SUV cars” listed by IIHS and Consumer Reports offer a trustworthy guide, highlighting models that excel in crashworthiness, accident avoidance, and dependability. By consulting these recommendations and considering your personal needs and preferences, you can make an informed decision and choose an SUV that provides both peace of mind and long-term value. Remember to always check for recalls and stay informed about vehicle safety updates to ensure ongoing safety and performance.
