Top SUVs of 2024: Carly Gregg’s Expert Picks
The 2024 SUV market represents an unprecedented convergence of performance, technology, and efficiency. As automotive enthusiasts continue to demand versatility without compromising driving dynamics, manufacturers have responded with an impressive lineup that caters to every lifestyle and budget. Carly Gregg, a respected automotive journalist and SUV specialist, has curated a comprehensive selection of the year’s standout models that define excellence across multiple segments.
This definitive guide examines the vehicles that have captured the attention of critics and consumers alike, analyzing their performance metrics, interior innovations, safety ratings, and real-world practicality. Whether you’re seeking a three-row family hauler, a nimble compact crossover, or a luxury performance SUV, understanding the nuances of each contender ensures you’ll make an informed decision that aligns with your driving preferences and lifestyle requirements.
Luxury Performance Leaders
The luxury SUV segment has evolved dramatically, with manufacturers prioritizing driver engagement alongside premium comfort. The BMW X5 M continues its dominance with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 producing 625 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant propels the X5 M from 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds, delivering supercar-adjacent performance wrapped in executive sophistication. The adaptive suspension system adjusts damping 500 times per second, maintaining composure through aggressive cornering while preserving ride quality on highway drives.
The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S presents an equally compelling alternative, featuring a 603-horsepower biturbo V8 paired with an electric motor for a combined 641 horsepower output. Its E-Performance hybrid system offers improved efficiency without sacrificing the visceral driving experience that luxury buyers demand. The air suspension automatically adjusts ride height based on driving conditions, providing a commanding driving position during spirited driving while lowering for improved aerodynamics at highway speeds.
Porsche’s Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid represents the pinnacle of performance hybridization, combining a 541-horsepower twin-turbo V8 with a 134-horsepower electric motor for 670 combined horsepower. The sophisticated battery management system seamlessly transitions between electric and combustion power, optimizing efficiency without compromising the instantaneous throttle response synonymous with the Porsche brand.
For those prioritizing technology integration, the latest automotive innovations found in luxury SUVs include advanced driver assistance systems, gesture-controlled infotainment displays, and AI-powered predictive maintenance protocols. Understanding these features requires familiarity with comprehensive insurance coverage options, as sophisticated electronics often influence repair costs and coverage determinations.
Mid-Size Family Favorites
Mid-size SUVs represent the sweet spot for American families, balancing three-row seating capacity with manageable dimensions and fuel efficiency. The Mazda CX-90 PHEV has emerged as the segment’s dynamic standout, combining a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with electric motor assistance for 323 horsepower. The plug-in hybrid system allows up to 44 miles of pure electric driving, making it ideal for commuters seeking reduced emissions without sacrificing performance.
Mazda’s signature handling dynamics are evident in the CX-90’s precisely weighted steering and responsive suspension tuning. The model achieves this rare combination of family practicality and enthusiast appeal through meticulous attention to chassis engineering, delivering an engaging driving experience that elevates the commute beyond mere transportation.
The Hyundai Santa Fe has solidified its position through relentless refinement and feature abundance. The 2024 model introduces a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine producing 277 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that prioritizes both acceleration and highway efficiency. The comprehensive warranty coverage—10 years/100,000 miles on the powertrain—provides peace of mind that resonates with practical buyers.
The Toyota Grand Highlander, newly expanded to offer genuine three-row seating in a mid-size footprint, combines Toyota’s legendary reliability with modern efficiency standards. The 2.4-liter turbo engine generates 264 horsepower while achieving reasonable fuel economy through advanced combustion chamber design. When considering ownership, implementing proper car maintenance tips for beginners ensures longevity and resale value preservation.
Kia’s Sorento has matured into a genuinely premium mid-size offering, featuring available all-wheel drive with dynamic torque vectoring. The turbocharged engine options deliver responsive acceleration while the spacious cabin accommodates growing families without the footprint penalties of larger models. The integrated connectivity platform rivals luxury competitors while maintaining Kia’s competitive pricing advantage.
Compact Crossover Champions
The compact SUV segment remains America’s volume leader, driven by consumers seeking efficient daily drivers with elevated seating positions and practical cargo flexibility. The Honda CR-V continues its generational excellence, offering a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter turbo engine or hybrid powertrain options. The hybrid variant achieves an impressive 40 mpg combined, approaching sedan-level efficiency while maintaining SUV versatility.
Honda’s engineering philosophy emphasizes refinement and reliability, evident in the CR-V’s smooth transmission operation and composed suspension behavior. The spacious rear cargo area expands from 39.3 to 76.5 cubic feet with rear seats folded, accommodating weekend adventures or household projects with equal capability.
The Toyota RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid represents electrification done practically, offering 42 miles of pure electric range before the 2.5-liter gasoline engine engages. The combined 302 horsepower output enables spirited acceleration while the sophisticated all-wheel drive system optimizes traction across varying conditions. Owners report genuine cost savings through reduced fuel consumption, particularly those with reliable charging infrastructure.
Understanding the advantages of electric vehicle technology informs compact SUV selection criteria. Our comprehensive guide to advantages of electric vehicles explores how electrification impacts ownership economics, environmental impact, and driving dynamics across multiple vehicle categories.
The Mazda CX-5 delivers engaging driving dynamics that distinguish it from category competitors. The responsive steering feel and controlled body roll through corners create an engaging experience that transcends typical compact SUV dynamics. The available turbocharged engine provides meaningful performance enhancement, while the standard all-wheel drive ensures confident traction in variable weather conditions.
Subaru’s Outback, while technically a wagon, competes directly in the compact crossover segment through its standard all-wheel drive, elevated ground clearance, and rugged aesthetic appeal. The symmetrical all-wheel drive system distributes power intelligently based on road conditions, providing confidence in snow, mud, and rain that justifies its enthusiast following.
Three-Row Powerhouses
Full-size three-row SUVs serve families requiring genuine seven-passenger capacity without compromise. The Chevrolet Tahoe represents American SUV tradition reimagined for modern expectations, featuring a 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The powerful engine ensures confident towing capacity exceeding 8,000 pounds, essential for families with boat or trailer requirements.
General Motors’ sophisticated Magnetic Ride Control suspension automatically adjusts damping rates, balancing the Tahoe’s commanding driving position with ride comfort that rivals luxury sedans. The spacious cabin accommodates three rows of passengers without the cramped third-row conditions plaguing some competitors.
The Ford Expedition pushes capability further with available twin-turbo V6 power generating 440 horsepower, achieving better fuel economy than traditional V8 configurations without sacrificing towing capacity. The intelligent four-wheel drive system seamlessly transitions between two-wheel and four-wheel drive, optimizing efficiency during highway driving while maintaining all-terrain capability when needed.
Toyota’s Sequoia has undergone complete transformation, adopting a new chassis architecture that improves handling while expanding interior space. The twin-turbo V6 engine produces 437 horsepower while the sophisticated suspension geometry reduces body roll during cornering. The hybrid variant, arriving mid-model year, promises significant efficiency improvements over previous generations.
The BMW X7 elevates luxury three-row expectations through meticulous interior design and technological sophistication. The available quad-turbo 4.4-liter V8 produces 523 horsepower, delivering acceleration befitting its luxury positioning. The spacious third row, actually suitable for adults during short drives, distinguishes the X7 from competitors relegating back-row passengers to uncomfortable compromises.
Electric SUV Revolution
Electric SUVs have transitioned from novelty to genuine category contenders, with several models demonstrating real-world practicality that addresses traditional EV skepticism. The Tesla Model Y remains the segment’s sales leader, combining performance, technology, and charging infrastructure advantages that competitors continue chasing. The Long Range variant achieves 330-mile EPA range while the Performance model delivers 3.5-second 0-60 acceleration despite its SUV proportions.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 presents a compelling alternative, featuring 800-volt charging architecture enabling 10-80% charge in under 20 minutes. The spacious interior accommodates generous cargo volume while the responsive handling dynamics rival traditional gasoline SUVs. The available all-wheel drive system provides winter weather confidence that resonates with northern climate buyers.
Kia’s EV9 expands the electric SUV category through three-row seating, addressing family requirements previously unavailable in the EV segment. The 99.8 kWh battery variant achieves 304-mile EPA range while accommodating seven passengers, representing genuine three-row capability rather than compromised seating arrangements. The revolutionary sliding center console and spacious second-row captain’s chairs create an interior experience that exceeds many traditional SUVs.
The BMW iX establishes luxury electric SUV standards through innovative design and seamless technology integration. The dual-motor all-wheel drive system produces 516 horsepower while the sophisticated suspension geometry delivers composed handling that belies the vehicle’s substantial mass. The panoramic iDrive display and gesture-controlled infotainment create an intuitive user experience that simplifies complex vehicle functions.
Mercedes-Benz’s EQE SUV brings three-pointed-star heritage to the electric segment, combining traditional luxury expectations with zero-emission driving. The available dual-motor all-wheel drive produces 516 horsepower while the 100 kWh battery provides 350-mile range. The sophisticated air suspension automatically adjusts ride height, improving aerodynamics during highway driving while maintaining commanding seating position during city driving.
For electric SUV owners, understanding electric vehicle advantages extends beyond environmental considerations to encompass operational cost reductions, simplified maintenance requirements, and evolving charging infrastructure development. Electric vehicles eliminate traditional engine maintenance, eliminating needs for regular oil changes and filter replacements that characterize conventional vehicles.
Off-Road Specialists
Off-road enthusiasts demand vehicles engineered for genuine terrain capability rather than cosmetic ruggedness. The Jeep Wrangler 4xe combines traditional Jeep capability with plug-in hybrid efficiency, offering 375 horsepower while achieving reasonable fuel economy. The removable doors and fold-flat windshield preserve iconic Jeep characteristics while the sophisticated four-wheel drive system delivers impressive trail performance.
The Toyota 4Runner has been completely redesigned for 2024, introducing a new body-on-frame architecture that improves on-road manners while maintaining legendary off-road capability. The available hybrid powertrain combines a 2.4-liter turbo engine with electric motors, delivering 437 horsepower while improving fuel economy. The standard multi-mode four-wheel drive system includes crawl control that automatically modulates individual wheel braking, enabling steep descent control without driver intervention.
Ford’s Bronco has resurrected an iconic nameplate through genuine off-road engineering, featuring a removable roof, removable doors, and disconnectable sway bars that prioritize trail capability over street comfort. The available EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 produces 314 horsepower while the sophisticated electronic locking differentials and terrain management system enable genuine rock-crawling capability.
The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 demonstrates that mid-size trucks can deliver legitimate off-road credentials. The 2.7-liter turbo engine produces 310 horsepower while the available electronic locking differentials and adaptive suspension system provide trail capability rivaling larger vehicles. The manageable dimensions enable navigation through tight terrain while the 11.6 inches of ground clearance accommodates significant obstacles.
Land Rover’s Defender combines British heritage with modern capability, offering a vehicle equally at home on London streets or African savannas. The available plug-in hybrid system produces 389 horsepower while the sophisticated terrain response system automatically adjusts powertrain and suspension characteristics based on driving conditions. The spacious interior accommodates five passengers comfortably while the modular design enables various cargo configurations.
Proper maintenance preserves off-road vehicle capability and longevity. Learning to replace car brake pads prevents performance degradation while understanding how to change car engine oil ensures powertrain health, particularly critical for vehicles operating in demanding conditions.
FAQ
What makes Carly Gregg’s SUV selections authoritative?
Carly Gregg brings extensive automotive journalism experience, combining hands-on testing with technical expertise. Her selections prioritize objective performance metrics, reliability data, and real-world practicality rather than manufacturer marketing claims. Her recommendations reflect genuine value propositions across multiple price points and buyer priorities.
Which 2024 SUV offers the best value proposition?
The Mazda CX-5 delivers exceptional value through engaging driving dynamics, comprehensive warranty coverage, and reliable engineering. The turbocharged variant provides meaningful performance enhancement while maintaining reasonable fuel economy. For budget-conscious buyers, the Honda CR-V hybrid achieves excellent efficiency without premium pricing.
Are plug-in hybrid SUVs practical for long-distance driving?
Plug-in hybrid SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 Prime and Mazda CX-90 PHEV excel for daily commuting through electric range, but long-distance driving relies on gasoline engines. These vehicles suit owners with predictable commute patterns and reliable home charging infrastructure. For unpredictable travel patterns, traditional hybrids or conventional engines remain optimal.
How do 2024 SUVs compare to previous generations regarding reliability?
Modern SUVs benefit from decades of engineering refinement, sophisticated diagnostics, and improved manufacturing processes. Reliability ratings have improved across segments, with many 2024 models achieving exceptional dependability records. Comprehensive warranty coverage from manufacturers reflects confidence in vehicle durability.
What safety features distinguish 2024 SUVs?
Contemporary SUVs incorporate advanced driver assistance systems including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Many models achieve Top Safety Pick designations from IIHS crash testing, validating structural rigidity and occupant protection. The elevated seating position provides superior visibility advantages compared to sedans.
Should buyers prioritize all-wheel drive in SUVs?
All-wheel drive provides tangible winter weather advantages, improving traction in snow and ice. However, front-wheel drive models with winter tires often deliver superior performance in severe conditions. All-wheel drive increases fuel consumption and vehicle cost, making it optional for those in moderate climates with reliable snow removal infrastructure.
How has electrification impacted 2024 SUV performance?
Electrification has democratized high performance, with electric motors delivering instantaneous torque that gasoline engines cannot match. Electric SUVs achieve impressive acceleration while traditional hybrids improve efficiency without sacrificing performance. Plug-in hybrids balance electric convenience with extended range security that addresses charging infrastructure limitations.
