SUVs currently form the backbone of American vehicular life, hauling commuters to the office, crews to worksites, kids to school, and enthusiasts to off-road adventures. Eminently practical, SUVs (or crossover SUVs, if you prefer) are variously available with two or three rows of seating, electric or hybrid powertrains, high-performance engines, the latest in-car entertainment and safety technology, big towing ratings, and more. The best SUV models come in all manner of sizes and levels of luxury, and here, we’ve tested and driven them all. If you’re looking for the top-rated 2021 SUVs, check the list below:

Toyota is definitely a top consumer favorite. Its affordability and fuel efficiency make it a top selection for families and consumers looking to get the most bang for their buck. Let’s take a look at the highlights of the model:

It looks tough

Toyota went ahead and took heed of the market’s request: make the darn thing look solid! The new grill is more aggressive, the benders are larger, and the wheels have been redesigned to fit in the new hulk-like carcass.

Features exclusive to hybrids

For those looking to protect Mother Earth by using a more fuel-efficient engine, Toyota has rewarded you with exclusive interior design features that are sure to make you feel special, and make your vehicle look luxurious: a custom black mixed fabric and softex front seats, as well as blue accents across the whole SUV.

Flexibility

Ok, let’s start with the towing power: this unit can pull up to 3500 lbs, packing a whole lot of torque. Now the hybrid models might have a bit of a different pull, to be confirmed with your specific dealer. The trunk is already wide as it is, however, the 60/40 folding rear seats are a nice addition for this extra space when you’re helping your friends
move.

Buick Encore

The first word that comes to mind when we’re looking at this SUV is “regal”: it is classy, luxurious yet doesn’t compromise on the important stuff most people look for when purchasing an SUV: power, space, and efficiency.

Interior

The basic model comes with keyless open and start, along with the custom-built quiet tuning technologies blocking and absorbing most noise so your entire ride is as peaceful as your last yoga session.

Cargo

We’re talking space here, folks: the max cargo capacity with the 2nd row of seats fully folded down is 1371L… or 48.4 cu.ft. I mean, you can fit your golf bag, tennis equipment AND the kids’ hockey equipment at the same time without breaking a sweat.

Safety

Like Volvo, one of its main competitors, the Buick Encore has all you can ask for when it comes to security: side blind zone, rear vision camera, and front/rear park assist, rear cross-traffic alert and Onstar safety and security

 

Engine

This comes standard with a 3.6L v6 engine, which most car lovers will find attractive. A lot of SUVs are v4s, basically adding a larger body on the same engine as a sedan vehicle, compromising the power it could generate. Well, not on this unit, ladies and gentlemen.

Interior

Here, we’re talking up to 10 cup holders. I mean, how many do you actually need? We long drives call for multiple coffees so you’ll be well served here with the Chevy Traverse. The car comes equipped with a 4G LTE Wifi hot spot (you just need to enable it with your carrier), 8 passenger seating, active noise cancellation along with the Bose premium audio system available as an option. A nice touch is the 7” onboard entertainment system, allowing for easy navigation of all the options of the vehicle.

The Ford Expedition: Definitely one of the category’s favorites, the Ford Expedition 2020 won’t let you down.
The advantage of having real competition in the market place is ensuring that players like Ford are kept on their toes to deliver a phenomenal driving experience, which they truly do with this model.

Key Features

10-speed transmission, 15 beverage holders (and here we thought the Chevy Traverse 10 was a lot!) and 18” machined-face aluminum wheels with magnetic-painted pockets available with the heavy-duty trailer tow package on XL models.

Handling

This car has intelligent 4wd, electronically assisted power steering (no choice for a beast this size), front and rear stabilizer bars, as well as a very useful trailer sway control, very practical for folks running heavy-duty equipment.

Power

An engine block heater is now standard, 25 gallons tank that will last forever with the 3.5L ecoboost engine as well as hill start and descent electronic management tool for a truly smooth ride amidst the muscle it’s packing.