Crossovers are taking over American roads, second only to pickup trucks in popularity. It’s hard to miss models like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, or Tesla Model Y – some of the most common sights on streets today. Combining the elevated design of an SUV with the comfortable driving experience of a passenger car, crossovers offer both style and practicality for everyday life. They provide more interior room than comparable sedans or hatchbacks, and the market is full of choices, from gas-powered to hybrid and electric versions. Here are our top picks for the Best Suv Cuv models heading into 2025.
To help you navigate the choices, each vehicle is assigned a BuzzScore, comparing it to its direct competitors. While vehicles on this list have similar scores, they may not always be in direct competition with each other. Learn more about BuzzScore ratings here. This list is constantly updated to reflect the latest BuzzScores and vehicle releases.
1. Toyota Grand Highlander
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander
8.6/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $40,860
Engine: 2.4L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 Hybrid | 2.4L I4 Turbo Hybrid
Horsepower: 265 hp (2.5L) | 245 hp (2.5L Hybrid) | 362 hp (2.4L Hybrid)
The Toyota Grand Highlander, boasting a BuzzScore of 8.6/10, is a leading contender for the best SUV CUV title. With various trims, some even more affordable than last year’s models, the base front-wheel-drive LE starts at $40,860.
Powertrain options are plentiful, including a 2.4-liter turbo-four-cylinder producing 256 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, a 2.5L hybrid with 245 hp, and a potent 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid delivering 362 hp. Slightly larger than many in its class, this SUV CUV comfortably seats up to eight passengers and offers a generous 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats.
Toyota aimed to create a larger, superior Highlander, and they succeeded. The Grand Highlander isn’t just bigger; it’s one of the most spacious vehicles in its segment, making it a top choice as the best SUV CUV for families needing extra space.
- Jared Rosenholtz, CarBuzz Editor-at-Large
2. BMW iX
2025 BMW iX
8.6/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $87,250
Engine: Electric
Horsepower: 516-610 hp
Matching the Grand Highlander with an 8.6 BuzzScore is the BMW iX, another strong contender for the best SUV CUV in the luxury electric category. Available in two impressive trims focused on performance and luxury, the xDrive50i starts at $87,250. Both trims feature dual electric motors and all-wheel drive, but the xDrive50i produces a combined 516 horsepower and 564 lb-ft of torque. For even more power, the M60 trim, starting at $111,500, cranks out 610 horsepower and a massive 749 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. The iX accommodates five passengers and offers up to 77.9 cubic feet of cargo space, blending luxury with SUV CUV versatility.
The iX’s incredible acceleration is enhanced by a unique EV sound experience. BMW collaborated with renowned composer Hans Zimmer to create “Iconic Sounds,” a system that produces a futuristic sound through the speakers when accelerating, reminiscent of the Starship Enterprise engaging warp drive. This auditory experience adds to the iX’s appeal as a cutting-edge best SUV CUV.
– Jared Rosenholtz, CarBuzz Editor-at-Large
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3. Toyota RAV4
2025 Toyota RAV4
8.4/10
What is Buzzscore?
The Toyota RAV4 isn’t just a popular SUV CUV; it was America’s best-selling vehicle last year, surpassing the Ford F-150’s long-held title. The RAV4 earns its place as a best SUV CUV for several reasons, starting with an accessible base price of $28,850. It also boasts a wide array of trims, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, catering to diverse buyer needs.
The standard powertrain is a 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder engine generating 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Alternatively, buyers can opt for a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain producing a combined 219 hp. With 69.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats and comfortable seating for five, the RAV4 is a practical and best SUV CUV choice for many.
4. Mercedes-AMG GLA 35
2025 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA 35
8.4/10
What is Buzzscore?
Mercedes-Benz demonstrates its strength in the best SUV CUV category with three models on our list. Leading the pack is the Mercedes-AMG GLA 35. This high-performance version of the GLA-Class starts at $58,050 and receives the full AMG treatment, including sporty styling enhancements inside and out, and a significant power boost.
Under the hood, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph sprint in around 5.1 seconds. The GLA 35 comfortably seats five and represents a compelling entry point into AMG SUV ownership, making it a desirable best SUV CUV for performance enthusiasts.
5. Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
8.3/10
What is Buzzscore?
The standard Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is a refined SUV CUV that embodies Mercedes-Benz luxury. The base model, starting at $45,800, features an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. For all-wheel drive, the GLB 250 4Matic starts at $47,800. Both models are equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder mild hybrid engine producing 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While the base model seats five, a seven-seat configuration is optional, positioning it as one of the smallest SUVs to offer three seating rows, and a versatile best SUV CUV for families.
6. Mercedes-AMG GLB 35
2025 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35
8.1/10
What is Buzzscore?
For those seeking more power in their best SUV CUV choice, the AMG GLB 35 offers a performance upgrade to the standard GLB 250. With a base price of $60,100, the GLB 35 features the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine as the GLA 35, tuned to 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Slightly slower than the GLA 35, it achieves 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds. Interior space remains the same as the base GLB-Class, offering seating for up to seven or 62 cubic feet of cargo space, blending AMG performance with best SUV CUV practicality.
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7. Buick Envista
2025 Buick Envista
8.1/10
What is Buzzscore?
The Buick Envista is the most affordable best SUV CUV on this list. Despite its budget-friendly price starting at $23,800 for three trims all under $30,000, the Envista presents a surprisingly upscale appearance. Performance is modest, as it’s considered one of the slowest cars for sale with a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. However, it comfortably seats five and offers generous rear passenger space with 37.3 inches of headroom and 38.7 inches of legroom, plus 42 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded.
The Envista impresses with minimal wind noise and a well-insulated cabin, effectively blocking out the typical three-cylinder engine drone. Steering is responsive and maneuverable, making it an ideal best SUV CUV for city driving and budget-conscious shoppers who prioritize value over exhilarating performance.
– Jared Rosenholtz, CarBuzz
8. Subaru Forester
2025 Subaru Forester
8.1/10
What is Buzzscore?
The Subaru Forester is a practical, spacious, and reliable best SUV CUV option. Standard all-wheel drive, a durable interior, and a strong reputation for reliability make it a capable and adventurous choice. With a base price of $29,995, the Forester offers five trims, all powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. It seats five and provides 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space in the trunk, expanding to 74.4 cu. ft. with the rear seats down, making it a versatile and dependable best SUV CUV.
9. Honda CR-V
2025 Honda CR-V
7.8/10
What is Buzzscore?
The Honda CR-V is another affordable and highly reliable best SUV CUV contender. Consistently a top seller, second only to the RAV4 for gas-powered SUVs, the CR-V offers six trims, including three standard internal combustion engine models and three hybrids.
The base LX trim starts at $30,100, while the most affordable hybrid, the Sport Hybrid, starts at $34,650. ICE models are powered by a 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder with 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. Hybrid versions feature a 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder hybrid system producing a combined 204 hp. As a five-seater best SUV CUV, the CR-V offers up to 76.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats, making it a practical and popular choice.
10. Hyundai Tucson
2025 Hyundai Tucson
7.3/10
What is Buzzscore?
Rounding out our top ten best SUV CUV list under $30,000 is the Hyundai Tucson, with a BuzzScore of 7.3. Offering five trim levels from SE to Limited, the base model starts at $28,705. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive optional across all trims. The Tucson is powered by a 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. Trims mainly differ in styling and features, but the XRT trim offers an off-road-inspired aesthetic to compete with off-road-focused models. All Tucsons seat five and offer a surprisingly spacious 80.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats, solidifying its place as a practical and value-driven best SUV CUV.
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Best Of The Rest
2025 BMW X3
Base MSRP: $49,500
Engine: 2.0L Inline 4 Mild hybrid, 3.0 L Inline 6 Mild hybrid
Horsepower: 255-393 hp
2025 Genesis Electrified GV70
Base MSRP: $66,950
Base Trim Engine: EV
Base Trim Horsepower: 429 HP
Characteristics Of The Top-Rated Crossovers – Best SUV CUV Traits
Despite the increasing variety of best SUV CUV models entering the market, core similarities define this vehicle category. Designed to meet specific needs, top CUVs share common characteristics:
- Maneuverability: Smaller size and lighter weight compared to traditional SUVs and pickup trucks make the best SUV CUV options easier to handle and drive, especially in urban environments.
- Affordability: Generally more affordable than body-on-frame SUVs due to less emphasis on heavy-duty capabilities, making the best SUV CUV segment attractive to a wider range of buyers. While luxury options exist above $50k, many remain competitively priced.
- Customization: The booming best SUV CUV market offers extensive model choices and trim levels. Automakers target diverse demographics, providing buyers with numerous customization options to tailor their vehicle to their needs and preferences.
- Safety: Inheriting the safety advantages of larger SUVs, best SUV CUV models offer a high level of safety. While rollover scores may be slightly lower due to height, their added weight over sedans and advanced crumple zones enhance safety. Furthermore, family-oriented best SUV CUV models often include a comprehensive suite of standard advanced driver-assistance features.
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What To Consider Before Buying A Crossover – Is a Best SUV CUV Right For You?
While popular, best SUV CUV models aren’t without trade-offs. Like any vehicle type, they have pros and cons to consider. Even top-rated crossovers share certain limitations. Before committing to a best SUV CUV, weigh these factors:
Pros of a Best SUV CUV
- Affordable compared to traditional body-on-frame SUVs, offering value in the best SUV CUV segment.
- Better-than-average mpg figures, providing fuel efficiency advantages over larger SUVs.
- Nimble around town, making them ideal for city driving and parking.
- More practical than a sedan, offering enhanced cargo and passenger space.
- Comfortable, feature-packed cabins designed for everyday usability and convenience.
Cons of a Best SUV CUV
- Limited towing capacities compared to larger SUVs and trucks.
- Some cheaper options have lower-quality interiors, requiring careful consideration of trim levels.
- Lack the utility and versatility of larger SUVs for heavy-duty tasks or more demanding off-road situations.
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FAQ about Best SUV CUV
What is the difference between a crossover and an SUV?
The fundamental difference lies in their construction. Traditional SUVs use truck-based platforms, resulting in ruggedness and off-road capability. Best SUV CUV models utilize car platforms, offering better handling and fuel efficiency.
What are the best crossover brands on the market for a Best SUV CUV?
Brands like Toyota and Honda are renowned for reliability in the best SUV CUV market. German manufacturers excel in luxury crossovers, offering premium features and performance.
What are the top-rated 2025 crossovers – the Best SUV CUV choices?
Currently, the Toyota Grand Highlander and BMW iX are top-rated for 2025. While vastly different vehicles, both represent excellence in the best SUV CUV category.
Sources: Toyota, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Buick, Subaru, Honda, Hyundai
