Monday brief
These Are the Best SUVs You Can Buy in 2026
If you’re shopping for a brand-new vehicle, there’s a strong chance an SUV is at the top of your list. That’s no surprise—they offer generous space, solid versatility, and fuel economy that has improved significantly over the years. For buyers wanting one vehicle that can comfortably handle daily commuting, family trips, cargo hauling, and weekend adventures, an SUV remains one of the smartest options available.
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If you’re shopping for a brand-new vehicle, there’s a strong chance an SUV is at the top of your list. That’s no surprise—they offer generous space, solid versatility, and fuel economy that has improved significantly over the years. For buyers wanting one vehicle that can comfortably handle daily commuting, family trips, cargo hauling, and weekend adventures, an SUV remains one of the smartest options available.
After driving thousands of miles and testing a wide range of models, we’ve rounded up the top SUVs you can buy for 2026 to help simplify your search.
Watch the video or browse the list below to discover some of the best SUVs currently available.
Hyundai Kona
Pros:
Comes packed with impressive standard technology
Physical buttons and controls are easy to use
Front cabin includes practical storage for smaller belongings
Cons:
Ride quality can feel firm at times
Acceleration is underwhelming
Doesn’t feel as polished as some larger SUVs
2025 Hyundai Tucson front
Hyundai Tucson/Kia Sportage
Pros:
Excellent overall value
Both include plenty of standard features and tech
The Tucson Hybrid delivers satisfying power
Cons:
Tucson cupholders are somewhat undersized
Reaching official fuel economy figures can be difficult
2026 Toyota Rav4 Woodland driving
Toyota RAV4
Pros:
A major upgrade compared with the previous generation
Hybrid power comes standard and fuel efficiency is excellent
Technology feels far more modern than older Toyota models
Cons:
Performance isn’t especially quick
Handling lacks excitement
2026 Subaru Outback front 3/4
Subaru Outback
Pros:
Infotainment system is vastly improved
Cargo capacity has increased
Strong capability for off-road adventures
Cons:
Base engine feels underpowered
No hybrid option available
2026 Honda Passport TrailSport rear
Honda Passport
Pros:
User-friendly physical controls throughout the cabin
Excellent interior storage solutions
Large cargo area in the rear
Cons:
Fuel economy trails some competitors
No hybrid version to improve efficiency
Pricing is higher than several rivals
2024 Hyundai Santa Fe front 3/4
Hyundai Santa Fe
Pros:
Turbocharged engine provides solid performance
Spacious cabin in both versions
Loaded with practical standard features
Cons:
Cargo space shrinks considerably when all three rows are occupied
Ride can feel harsh on uneven roads
2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid Calligraphy front
Hyundai Palisade
Pros:
Very spacious interior
Smooth and comfortable ride quality
Feels impressively upscale for the price
Cons:
Standard gasoline engine feels sluggish
Non-hybrid versions aren’t especially fuel efficient
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid front
Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
Pros:
Large and comfortable passenger space
Hybrid model delivers excellent fuel economy
Front storage areas are highly practical
Cons:
Base engine acceleration feels slow
Cabin noise is more noticeable than expected
Hybrid Max setup trades efficiency for extra power
2025 Ford Expedition Platinum in motion
Ford Expedition
Pros:
Strong and capable engine
Ride comfort surpasses many competitors
Massive storage space and towing capability up to 10,000 pounds
Cons:
Fuel efficiency is average at best
Steering wheel design feels unusual
2024 BMW X1 M35i rear 3/4
BMW X1
Pros:
Strong engine performance
Advanced technology features
Entertaining driving dynamics
Cons:
Cargo and storage space are limited
Automatic start-stop feature operates awkwardly
2026 Genesis GV70 profile
Genesis GV70
Pros:
Excellent ride comfort
Impressive technology suite
Outstanding value within the luxury SUV segment
Cons:
Could use additional cabin storage
Certain controls are not very intuitive
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE front three-quarter view
Mercedes-Benz GLE
Pros:
Wide variety of customization possibilities
Extensive engine lineup
Exceptionally comfortable driving experience
Cons:
Price can climb extremely high
Technology requires some learning
Optional third-row seating is tight
Lexus GX Overtrail front
Lexus GX
Pros:
Excellent off-road capability
Powerful engine performance
Infotainment and controls are straightforward
Cons:
Interior room is less generous than expected for its size
Feels somewhat truck-like on pavement
Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 front 3/4
Mercedes-Benz GLS
Pros:
Packed with advanced features
Comfortable seating in all three rows
Large cargo compartment
Cons:
Very expensive
2025 Lincoln Navigator
Lincoln Navigator
Pros:
Extremely spacious cabin
Highly capable SUV
Luxurious and premium feel throughout
Cons:
Difficult to maneuver and park in crowded cities
Ride can become rough on damaged urban roads
High purchase price
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