Shopping for a 2025 SUV in 2026? Good news: remaining new 2025 models are now in discount territory, and certified pre-owned 2025s are some of the sharpest buys on the market. Here are our 12 top-rated SUVs of 2025 — expert picks for every budget and lifestyle, with real starting prices, specs, and honest buying advice.
1. BMW X5 — The Luxury Benchmark
Starting price: ~$66,000
The benchmark luxury midsize SUV. A 375-hp turbocharged inline-six with mild-hybrid assist returns around 25 mpg combined, while the cabin sets the standard for refinement. Verdict: the default choice for comfort, performance, and prestige in one package.
2. Hyundai Palisade — Family Favorite on a Budget
Starting price: ~$37,000
A 291-hp 3.8L V6, seating for up to eight, and a genuinely upscale interior for the money. Verdict: the best way to carry the whole family without spending luxury money.
3. Toyota Grand Highlander — Roomiest Three-Row Pick
Starting price: ~$42,300
Three powertrains (265-hp turbo, 245-hp hybrid, 362-hp Hybrid MAX) and a class-leading 97.5 cubic feet of max cargo space. Verdict: the three-row for families who need real space.
4. Mercedes-Benz GLE — Understated Luxury
Starting price: ~$62,000
The GLE 350 starts at $61,850 with a 255-hp turbocharged mild-hybrid; the GLE 450 upgrades to a 375-hp inline-six. Verdict: luxury without the shout — refined, tech-rich, and effortlessly comfortable.
5. Kia Telluride — The Value King
Starting price: ~$37,600
A 291-hp V6, standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, and near-luxury finish for mainstream money. Verdict: the best-value three-row SUV you can buy.
6. Jeep Grand Cherokee — The Trail-Ready Choice
Starting price: ~$38,800
A 293-hp V6 for the traditionalist, or the 4xe plug-in hybrid with 375 hp and about 25 miles of electric range. Verdict: the only mainstream SUV here with genuine off-road credentials.
7. Tesla Model X — Electric Statement Piece
Starting price: ~$85,000
670 hp, 3.8 seconds to 60, and 329 miles of range. Verdict: unmatched electric performance — but the BMW iX and Rivian R1S have nicer interiors.
8. Ford Explorer — The All-Rounder
Starting price: ~$41,400
The 300-hp 2.3L turbo covers daily duty; the ST’s 400-hp twin-turbo V6 tows up to 5,600 lbs. Verdict: the versatile pick that does a bit of everything well.
9. Lexus RX 500h — Hybrid Power, Lexus Calm
Starting price: ~$64,800
A 366-hp turbocharged hybrid returning 27/28 mpg. Verdict: performance and serenity with Lexus reliability.
10. Chevrolet Tahoe — Full-Size Muscle
Starting price: ~$61,000
Choose the 5.3L V8 (355 hp), the 6.2L V8 (420 hp), or the 305-hp diesel — with up to 8,400 lbs of towing. Verdict: the full-size hauler for big families and big trailers.
11. Range Rover Sport — British Luxury, Real Capability
Starting price: ~$83,700
A 395-hp mild-hybrid inline-six, or the P460e plug-in hybrid with 454 hp and 50+ miles of electric range. Verdict: genuine luxury with genuine off-road ability.
12. Mazda CX-90 — The Driver’s Three-Row
Starting price: ~$39,500
A 3.3L turbo inline-six with 280 hp (340 hp in the Turbo S), plus a plug-in hybrid with about 26 miles of electric range. Verdict: the three-row for people who love to drive.
Top-Rated 2025 SUVs at a Glance
| SUV | Starting Price | Key Powertrain | Horsepower |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW X5 | ~$66,000 | Turbo I6 mild hybrid | 375 hp |
| Hyundai Palisade | ~$37,000 | 3.8L V6 | 291 hp |
| Toyota Grand Highlander | ~$42,300 | Turbo / hybrid / Hybrid MAX | 265–362 hp |
| Mercedes-Benz GLE | ~$62,000 | Turbo mild hybrid / I6 | 255–375 hp |
| Kia Telluride | ~$37,600 | 3.8L V6 | 291 hp |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | ~$38,800 | V6 / 4xe PHEV | 293–375 hp |
| Tesla Model X | ~$85,000 | Dual-motor electric | 670 hp |
| Ford Explorer | ~$41,400 | 2.3L turbo / 3.0L TT V6 | 300–400 hp |
| Lexus RX 500h | ~$64,800 | Turbo hybrid | 366 hp |
| Chevrolet Tahoe | ~$61,000 | V8 / diesel | 305–420 hp |
| Range Rover Sport | ~$83,700 | Mild-hybrid I6 / P460e PHEV | 395–454 hp |
| Mazda CX-90 | ~$39,500 | Turbo I6 / PHEV | 280–340 hp |
How to Buy Smart in 2026
- 2025 clearance discounts: expect $3,000–$7,000 off remaining new 2025 inventory.
- CPO sweet spot: certified pre-owned 2025s typically sell for 15–25% below original sticker.
- Best value: Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade.
- Best luxury: BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Lexus RX 500h, Range Rover Sport.
- Best fuel economy: Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid (up to 36 mpg combined), Lexus RX 500h (27/28 mpg).
- Best towing: Chevrolet Tahoe (up to 8,400 lbs).
- Most fun: Ford Explorer ST (400-hp twin-turbo V6).
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best SUV to buy in 2025?
The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade are the best-value picks; the BMW X5 is the luxury benchmark; the Toyota Grand Highlander has the roomiest third row; and the Tesla Model X is the top electric pick.
Which 2025 SUV has the best fuel economy?
The Lexus RX 500h (27/28 mpg) and Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid (up to 36 mpg combined) lead among gasoline models; the Tesla Model X offers 329 miles of range with no gasoline at all.
Are 2025 SUVs cheaper to buy now?
Yes — remaining new 2025s carry $3,000–$7,000+ in discounts, and CPO 2025s sell for 15–25% below sticker.
Which 2025 SUV is best for a large family?
The Toyota Grand Highlander, Chevrolet Tahoe, and Hyundai Palisade.
Is the Tesla Model X worth it in 2025?
Yes, if you want maximum electric performance with zero gasoline — though the BMW iX and Rivian R1S have nicer interiors.
What is the most reliable SUV on this list?
The Toyota Grand Highlander, Lexus RX 500h, Hyundai Palisade, and Kia Telluride.