The Best And Worst Of SUVs
Not all SUVs are created equal. Some turn heads for all the wrong reasons, while others make every drive feel like a victory lap. Between gas-guzzling nightmares and rides that seem allergic to reliability, plenty of SUVs belong on the "avoid at all costs" list. But don't worry—there are also plenty of winners that deliver performances without regret. So, let’s take a look at ten of the worst SUVs out there and 10 that are a joy to drive.
1. Jeep Cherokee
Bloated pricing, outdated tech, and a sluggish engine make the Jeep Cherokee a letdown. Despite its off-road heritage, its lackluster fuel economy and reliability issues have frustrated owners. It comes among the least dependable SUVs, which makes it an unwise investment for most buyers.
2. Jeep Compass
When an SUV lacks power and comfort, you know trouble is brewing. The Compass struggles with its sluggish 2.4-liter engine, which delivers underwhelming acceleration and unimpressive fuel economy. Add to that a stiff ride and cheap-feeling interior, and it’s clear why this Jeep falls flat against competitors.
3. Jeep Renegade
Despite its fun-sized appearance, the Renegade disappoints with frequent electrical issues and a clunky nine-speed automatic transmission. Critics highlight its poor fuel efficiency and lack of refinement, which makes it a questionable choice even among budget-friendly SUVs.
4. Jeep Wrangler
Iconic but impractical, the Wrangler suffers from questionable build quality and a rough ride. Wind noise and frequent mechanical issues make daily driving a chore. Though off-road enthusiasts swear by it, most owners find its on-road manners unbearable and its reliability unpredictable.
5. Nissan Pathfinder
This once-beloved SUV has lost its way. The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) feels sluggish, and past models have faced major reliability concerns. Despite Nissan’s attempts to revive it, the Pathfinder still lags behind its competitors in ride quality, interior refinement, and fuel economy.
6. Fiat 500X
A flashy exterior isn’t enough to save the 500X from its many flaws. This Italian-inspired crossover suffers from an unrefined dual-clutch transmission that lags between shifts. Small cargo space and cramped rear seating make it impractical, while subpar reliability ratings only add to its woes.
7. Chevrolet Trax
In the world of small SUVs, the Trax is one of the most forgettable. Underpowered and uninspiring to drive, it feels weak on the highway and struggles on hills. Moreover, the interior, with its dated design and hard plastics, doesn’t justify the price tag.
8. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Mitsubishi’s SUV game has fallen behind, and the Outlander Sport is proof. Its outdated infotainment system lacks modern features, while an underwhelming four-cylinder engine leaves drivers wanting more power. Poor crash test ratings make this an SUV you don’t want to rely on for family safety.
9. Volkswagen Taos
Looks promising on the surface, but mechanical issues and an uninspiring driving experience hold it back. The turbocharged engine feels underwhelming, and reports of software glitches and transmission troubles have plagued early models. Hence, it has been a disappointing entry from Volkswagen.
10. Nissan Armada
Big, thirsty, and not as refined as it should be, the Armada guzzles fuel with its outdated V8 engine. Interior technology feels behind the times, and ride quality suffers from a dated suspension setup. With better full-size SUVs available, this Nissan doesn’t justify its hefty cost.
Now, let’s check out ten SUVs that make driving a truly enjoyable experience.
1. Honda CR-V
A perennial best-seller, the CR-V blends comfort and efficiency in one well-rounded package. Honda’s turbocharged engine offers strong acceleration, while its spacious cargo area makes family trips a breeze. Advanced driver assistance features, like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control, further improve the driving experience.
2. Toyota RAV4
With over 400,000 units sold annually, the RAV4’s popularity is no accident. Its hybrid model provides an impressive 40+ mpg, while Toyota’s reputation for reliability ensures peace of mind. The spacious interior, packed with user-friendly tech, cements its position as a top pick in the compact SUV segment.
3. Mazda CX-5
Sharp handling and a premium-feeling cabin set the CX-5 apart. Unlike most compact SUVs, this Mazda actually makes driving fun with its agile steering and punchy turbocharged engine. Soft-touch materials and stylish design cues make it feel more luxurious than its price suggests.
4. Subaru Crosstrek
Adventure seekers love the Crosstrek’s standard all-wheel drive and high ground clearance. Whether navigating snowy roads or hitting the trails, it remains confident in any condition. Subaru’s EyeSight safety system, featuring pre-collision braking and adaptive cruise control, adds an extra layer of security.
5. Kia Telluride
Winning multiple awards for its design and value, the Telluride dominates the midsize SUV category. It has a refined V6 engine, ample cargo space, and premium finishes; it feels more like a luxury vehicle than a budget-friendly three-row SUV. Road trips have never looked better.
6. Hyundai Palisade
A three-row SUV that doesn’t skimp on comfort, the Palisade impresses with a refined cabin and smooth handling. Loaded with standard features, it offers great value in the large SUV segment. Its quiet ride and upscale design make it feel like a premium vehicle without the luxury price.
7. Ford Bronco
An off-road icon reborn, the Bronco delivers legitimate trail-ready capability with a retro-modern flair. Removable doors, advanced 4x4 systems, and styling make it a true Jeep Wrangler rival. Whether tackling rocky terrain or cruising city streets, the Bronco exudes personality and adventure.
8. Genesis GV70
Blurring the line between luxury and performance, the GV70 stands out with its refined ride and powerful engine choices. A beautifully crafted interior and innovative technology enhances the driving experience. Genesis continues to impress with vehicles that offer serious value for money.
9. Porsche Macan
Blistering acceleration, razor-sharp handling, and an interior worthy of the Porsche badge make the Macan a standout. Unlike most SUVs, it prioritizes driving dynamics over sheer utility. If you crave a sporty SUV that feels like a true performance machine, the Macan is hard to beat.
10. Kia EV6
An electric SUV with a futuristic design, the EV6 offers thrilling acceleration and ultra-fast charging. Its long-range capability and engaging handling make it one of the most exciting EVs on the market. Kia proves that going electric doesn’t mean sacrificing fun behind the wheel.
