Best SUVs | 2026 New SUV Models Rankings | CarBuzzOver the past decade, sports utility or SUV vehicles have surged in popularity throughout the USA, so much so that they’ve single-handedly caused the demise of most small cars. The ergonomic driving position, spacious and comfortable interior, and raised ride height are some of the reasons why these vehicles are so sought-after nowadays. Additionally, SUVs are also versatile, practical, and livable for everyday use, and many of these are also gifted with 4x4 capabilities for added adventuring off-road.With most brands and manufacturers vying for top honors in presenting the best SUVs of 2026, there’s also something for everyone. Not only are these SUVs highly scored compared to other SUVs, but they hold some of the highest BuzzScores of all models available for the 2026 model year.Vehicles are assigned a BuzzScore in relation to their direct segment competitors, and as such, vehicles in this list, while similarly scored, do not necessarily compete directly against one another. Find out more about how the BuzzScore ratings work here. These lists are continuously updated with the latest BuzzScores and vehicles as they become available. Rivian R1S SUV Find [[default_name]] and more cars for sale on our MarketplaceShop NowThe highest rated SUV, according to our BuzzScore system, is the Rivian R1S SUV. This well-balanced, capable family-hauler earns a 9.0 out of 10. We had virtually no complaints about this Rivian. Since the brand was introduced, it's been all about refined functionality, which the R1S encapsulates for its 2026 model year. There are four trims to choose from that range from the Dual Standard for $76,990 to the insane Quad trim that makes 1,025 horsepower and can sprint to 60 mph in just 2.6 seconds for $121,990.No matter which trim you choose, though, you'll find yourself in a premium, comfortable SUV that handles well on and off the pavement. It's the perfect mix between family cruising, speed when you want it, and off-road capability. If you have to ask "what is the #1 best SUV?" Our answer is the R1S."...the Tri-Motor is the second-quickest vehicle we've ever tested. With launch control, the R1S takes just 2.86 seconds to hit 60 mph, beating Rivian's estimate. There is virtually no wheelspin off the line, just a perfect launch every time."- Jared Rosenholtz, Editor-At-Large, CarBuzz Genesis GV60 Find [[default_name]] and more cars for sale on our MarketplaceShop NowAmong the top SUVs with a BuzzScore of 8.8 out of 10 is the Genesis GV60. It targets, and performs well within, the small/compact luxury EV SUV segment with rivals like the Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron. We enjoyed the GV60 for different reasons than the larger R1S. We feel as though it's the best in its segment for a balance of luxury features, ride quality, and pleasing design language used inside and out.There are four trims to choose from: the RWD starts at $52,525, comes with 225 hp, and gets about 306 miles of range, while the top-of-the-line Performance AWD trim starts at $72,875. Opting for the most expensive trim gets you 429 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, but all that power reduced the model's range to 252 miles. Lincoln Navigator Find [[default_name]] and more cars for sale on our MarketplaceShop NowSome of you might be wondering what's the best SUV to buy for larger families? Well, if you don't want an electric model, our choice is the Lincoln Navigator with a BuzzScore of 8.9 out of 10. It's a full-size, luxurious family hauler that's built on the same platform as the Ford Excursion, so it's capable of towing up to 8,700 pounds. All trims are equipped with a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that makes 440 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque, which is enough to launch the large SUV to 60 mph in a comfortable 5.6 seconds to get up to highway speed with ease.There are three available trims; the Premiere base model starts at $91,995, the Reserve comes in at $101,995, and the Black Label tops the lineup at $119,525 before destination. With features like Lincoln's "Spa on Wheels," that activates massaging, heated/ventilated seats, scent diffuser, and more, who wouldn't want to spend six figures on such a vehicle? Volvo XC60 Find [[default_name]] and more cars for sale on our MarketplaceShop NowOur midsize luxury SUV of choice is the Volvo XC60, which accentuates refinement, reliability, and comfort in traditional Volvo design. This is a competitive segment, with rivals like the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, Audi Q3, and BMW X3 — that says a lot about how great the XC60 is, since it ranks above them all. The standard XC60 is a mild hybrid; it uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 mild hybrid system to make 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. All together, the model can reach 60 mph from a standstill in 6.5 seconds.Choosing a trim doesn't have to be difficult when there are only three available. The Core base model starts at $51,095, and comes with a panoramic roof, crystal gear selector, natural driftwood accents, and more. If you're feeling even more classy, consider the Ultra trim for $61,045. The best XC60 trim comes with a Harman Kardon sound system, four-zone climate control, and more. Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS Find [[default_name]] and more cars for sale on our MarketplaceShop NowResting effortlessly among the top-rated SUVs is the Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS. This model is the holy grail of relatively attainable luxury SUVs for some buyers, since it comes with more features than one could ever need without costing as much as a Bentley. While Maybach was once its own brand, the name is now associated with Mercedes' highest level of luxury. The Maybach GLS comes with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 that makes 550 hp and 568 lb-ft of torque. It's not a sports SUV in any sense of the word, but that much power allows it to climb to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds while coasting on cloud-like suspension.There's only one trim available: the Maybach GLS 600, which starts at $180,000 before destination and options. There are far too many features to list here, but some highlights that elevate this model to the top half of our list include heated and ventilated front seats with multicontour/massaging functions, heated and ventilated rear seats, four-zone climate controls with the "Executive Climate System," and more. Hyundai Ioniq 5 Find [[default_name]] and more cars for sale on our MarketplaceShop NowTransitioning away from the ultra-luxury, lower-cost models are impressive in their own ways. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 proves that you don't need heated cupholders to be a good car. It competes in the compact EV SUV segment with rivals like the Ford Mustang Mach E and the Tesla Model Y, but beats them both as it carves its own path with quick charging, efficient driving, a spacious cabin, and more. You can pick one up in either RWD or AWD format, with outputs ranging from 168 hp in the base model to 320 hp in any AWD trim. Trims more expensive than the base model get 225 hp with RWD.There are five trims in total; the Ioniq 5 starts at $35,000 before destination. The most "luxurious" version is the Limited trim, which comes with more comfort features than any other. However, the most expensive Ioniq 5 on sale this year is the off-road oriented XRT trim that starts at $46,275. The XRT gets smaller wheels to accommodate larger all-terrain tires, etched digital camouflage plastic cladding around the wheel arches, and more to set it apart."The XRT trim adds a new dimension of versatility, making the Ioniq 5 a more well-rounded choice for a variety of EV buyers. For those seeking a blend of tech, comfort, and performance, the Ioniq 5 remains one of the best electric SUVs on the market."- Nicole Wakelin, CarBuzz Mazda CX-90 Find [[default_name]] and more cars for sale on our MarketplaceShop NowOur SUV rankings wouldn't be complete without the Mazda CX-90, with a BuzzScore of 8.8 out of 10. This is another family-oriented three-row SUV that rivals the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander. For the most part, Mazda sits in the middle ground between affordable and luxury models — the CX-90 is closer to the latter. While you can opt for a plug-in hybrid variant, the gas-only model is just as good. It's powered by a 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-6 that makes either 280 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque or 319 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, depending on which trim you choose.There are six trims available; the cheapest version is the 3.3 Turbo Select, which starts at $38,800. For the most standard luxury features, take the 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus at a starting price of $57,370. It can seat up to seven passengers (the rest of the trims all seat up to eight), and comes with features like heated and ventilated front and second row seats, a heated steering wheel, and more. Additionally, any trim can tow up to 5,000 pounds, and they all have standard AWD. Lexus NX Find [[default_name]] and more cars for sale on our MarketplaceShop NowThe Lexus NX is one of the most versatile small luxury SUVs, since it's available with standard gas-only trims, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants. As far as luxury compact SUVs go, the NX is surprisingly affordable on the lower ends of each variant. Competition is stiff, with rivals like the Volvo XC60 we mentioned earlier, and the Acura RDX. The standard gas powertrain is a 2.4-liter turbo I4 that makes 275 horsepower, while the hybrid and plug-in hybrid trims get a 2.4-liter naturally-aspirated setup with electrical assistance. The regular hybrid makes 240 horsepower and the PHEV has 304 hp combined for the quickest 0-60 sprint at 6 seconds flat. The gas model starts at $44,825 before destination, the hybrid starts at $44,175, and the PHEV starts at $57,810."The steering is fine for around town and on the freeway, and cabin noise is wonderfully minimal. For everyday driving and road trips, the NX 450h+ F Sport is a pleasure to eat up the miles in and wait out traffic jams with."- Ian Wright, Senior Road Tester, CarBuzz Tesla Model X Plaid Find [[default_name]] and more cars for sale on our MarketplaceShop NowThe standard Model X is an alright family EV, but our favorite is the Tesla Model X Plaid. Tesla has been at the forefront of EV tech since its inception — legacy automakers have caught up now with formidable rivals like the BMW iX and the Volvo EX90 three-row EV SUVs — but Tesla's Plaid models are a sight to behold. The Model X Plaid is powered by a tri-motor setup with all-wheel drive that makes 1,020 horsepower. It's among the best-ranked models on this list for its simplicity and functionality, but we can't forget its 2.5-second 0-60 sprint, a top speed of 163 mph, and a claimed 9.9-second quarter mile. It can also tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped and has a range of 335 miles on a full charge. Buyers get all that and more for $114,990. Nissan Leaf Find [[default_name]] and more cars for sale on our MarketplaceShop NowRounding off our list of the best SUVs is our EV of the Year: the all-new 2026 Nissan Leaf. The brand took an existing name and turned it into what it was always meant to be. The new Leaf is an affordable, well-rounded, practical, and efficient EV with reasonable comfort features and a smooth driving experience. Prospective buyers shouldn't step into one expecting luxury or premium materials, though. The Leaf starts at just $29,990. All trims are powered by a single motor with either a 52 kWh or 75 kWh battery for horsepower outputs between 174 hp and 214 hp. It charges from 10% to 80% in about 35 minutes, which is reasonably good for its class. The Leaf is everything we wanted in an affordable EV."Nissan didn't make this car particularly sporty, but the low center of gravity contributes to decent road holding, and smooth but relaxed power delivery makes the Leaf feel eager to gain speed. It's a pleasant commuter that can be fun-ish when you want, and it's not too loud on the highway if you want to take a road trip."- Jared Rosenholtz, Editor-At-Large, CarBuzz Top-Rated SUV Models Those seeking a practical people-hauler with loads of cargo-carrying capacity and a value-for-money specification list will undoubtedly be searching in this segment. With over 200 million large carriers like this in the world at present, the continued drive to expand the new SUV models list leads to ongoing advancements in performance, quality, safety, and even improvements in gas mileage. Main Characteristics Of SUVs If you’re shopping for a family carrier high up in the best SUV rankings, these are the common attributes to expect from the cream of the crop: Size: Not all SUVs are created equal, especially in terms of size. SUV models come in subcompact, compact, mid-size, or full-size configurations, but overall dimensions are generally a little larger than a standard car, with a bigger footprint to consider in parking lots and tight spaces. Primarily, SUVs tend to be a lot taller than a sedan or hatchback. Versatility and Space: One of the benefits of the size and structure of vehicles like SUVs is the ability to utilize the available space in a variety of ways. Generally speaking, there is more room in the cabin for passengers to be seated comfortably, and there is ample cargo-carrying capacity in the trunk, too. With new models offered in varying designs, you can also extend seating capacity to carry more people in a third row. Many also come with captain’s chairs as an option, for added luxury and comfort. Safety: With the popularity of these models at an all-time high among families, safety is considered a priority, too. Comparisons between rivals by consumer reports indicate that cars with comprehensive standard safety and driver-assist features score higher in the rankings, and shoppers are more likely to buy top SUVs listing more safety technology. Many SUVs earn top scores and win awards for their consignment of life-saving equipment. Performance: While high-performance engines are becoming more readily accessible on the market, SUVs with smaller, more efficient powertrains are also making their mark in the ratings. Hybrid options are also a growing trend in the US. Either way, SUVs need to have sufficient grunt under the hood to get them moving without feeling lethargic and be able to haul passengers and cargo. In this regard, some of the best SUVs offer excellent towing capacity when properly equipped. What To Consider Before Buying SUV Models Pros Some models have true off-roading abilities thanks to 4x4 Excellent safety and reliability ratings Highly versatile and practical cabin Better cargo space than most regular cars Commanding driving position provides exceptional visibility Luxurious interiors promote comfort Handsome looks and status Hybrid and EV variants becoming more common Cons Not always as fun to drive as an equivalent sedan or hatch Pricier overall than traditional cars Less impressive fuel economy than smaller, lighter vehicles Bigger footprint means tight spaces can be problematic Sources: Rivian, Genesis, Lincoln, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, Mazda, Lexus, Tesla, Nissan
