SUVs have quickly become one of the most popular vehicle types in the market, offering a perfect blend of space, versatility, and performance. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly car, an off-road warrior, or something that can handle daily commutes with ease, SUVs are the go-to choice for many drivers. In this article, we’ll provide an in-depth review of the best SUVs in 2024, covering everything from design and technology to performance and pricing. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of the top options available and which one might suit your lifestyle the best.
Why SUVs Are More Popular Than Ever
Before diving into the specific models, it’s essential to understand why SUVs have gained such a massive following. In recent years, automakers have shifted their focus from sedans and compact cars to SUVs, as consumers are increasingly drawn to the benefits they offer. Here are some of the reasons why SUVs are leading the automotive market:
- Spacious Interiors: SUVs provide much more room than traditional cars, making them ideal for families or those who need extra cargo space.
- Higher Seating Position: The elevated driving position in SUVs offers better visibility, which many drivers prefer for both safety and convenience.
- Versatility: Whether you’re driving in the city or taking a road trip, SUVs can handle a variety of road conditions with ease, making them highly versatile.
- All-Wheel Drive Options: Most SUVs come with all-wheel or four-wheel drive capabilities, which are great for off-roading or driving in adverse weather conditions.
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: Modern SUVs are far more fuel-efficient than their predecessors, thanks to advancements in engine technology and hybrid options.
Now that we’ve covered why SUVs are so popular, let’s dive into the top SUV models of 2024 and what makes them stand out.
2024 Hyundai Tucson: A Stylish and Feature-Rich Compact SUV
The 2024 Hyundai Tucson continues to impress with its bold design, spacious interior, and impressive list of tech features. Hyundai has made significant strides in making the Tucson one of the most attractive and feature-packed SUVs in its class.
Design and Comfort
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Tucson is its futuristic design. The sharp lines, angular headlights, and distinctive grille make it a head-turner on the road. The interior is just as impressive, with premium materials used throughout and a clean, minimalist dashboard that gives it a modern look. The seats are comfortable, and there’s plenty of legroom for both front and rear passengers, making it a great option for long drives.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
The 2024 Hyundai Tucson is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 187 horsepower, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. If you’re looking for more power, Hyundai also offers a hybrid version, which combines a turbocharged engine with an electric motor to produce a total of 226 horsepower. Both versions offer excellent fuel efficiency, with the hybrid delivering up to 38 mpg combined.
Technology and Safety Features
The Tucson is packed with tech features, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system that’s compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also offers a digital instrument cluster, wireless charging, and a premium audio system. On the safety front, Hyundai includes a host of standard features like forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
2024 Toyota RAV4: Reliability and Versatility in One Package
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 remains one of the most popular SUVs on the market, and for good reason. It combines Toyota’s legendary reliability with a spacious interior and a variety of powertrain options, including a hybrid model.
Design and Practicality
The RAV4’s design is rugged yet refined, with a muscular stance and bold grille that give it a tough look. Inside, the cabin is well-designed with durable materials and a functional layout. The rear seats fold flat, providing ample cargo space for trips or hauling large items. With 69.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats down, the RAV4 is one of the most practical SUVs in its class.
Performance and Off-Road Capabilities
The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine in the Toyota RAV4 produces 203 horsepower, which is more than enough for everyday driving. For those who want to venture off the beaten path, Toyota offers the RAV4 Adventure and TRD Off-Road models, which come with all-wheel drive and additional off-road capabilities like multi-terrain select and hill descent control.
The hybrid version is also available and offers impressive fuel efficiency with 40 mpg combined, making it one of the most fuel-efficient options in the SUV market.
Safety and Technology
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 comes with Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5 suite, which includes features like pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, and lane tracing assist. The infotainment system is easy to use, with an 8-inch touchscreen that includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
2024 Kia Telluride: The Family SUV Champion
If you’re in the market for a larger SUV that can comfortably fit the whole family, the 2024 Kia Telluride should be at the top of your list. This mid-size SUV has quickly become one of the most praised vehicles in its segment due to its spacious interior, premium features, and strong performance.
Design and Interior Space
The Kia Telluride boasts a bold, boxy design that commands attention on the road. Inside, the cabin is roomy and luxurious, with high-quality materials used throughout. The Telluride can seat up to eight passengers, making it an excellent option for families. Even the third-row seats are spacious enough to accommodate adults, which is rare for an SUV in this class.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the 2024 Telluride is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces 291 horsepower. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth and responsive performance. Despite its size, the Telluride handles well and offers a comfortable ride, whether you’re driving in the city or on the highway. The all-wheel-drive option also makes it a capable vehicle for light off-roading and driving in inclement weather.
Technology and Features
The Telluride is packed with technology, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, and an available head-up display. Safety is also a priority, with standard features like blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control.
2024 BMW X5: A Luxury SUV With Unmatched Performance
The 2024 BMW X5 continues to set the standard for luxury SUVs, combining a powerful engine lineup with a refined and tech-filled cabin. If you’re looking for a vehicle that offers the perfect balance between performance and comfort, the X5 should be on your radar.
Exterior and Interior Design
The BMW X5 features a sleek, modern design with sharp lines and an athletic stance. The interior is a perfect blend of luxury and technology, with premium materials used throughout the cabin. The seats are plush and offer a wide range of adjustments to ensure maximum comfort, even on long drives. The cargo space is also generous, with 33.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 72.3 cubic feet with them folded down.
Engine Options and Driving Experience
The 2024 BMW X5 offers several engine options, including a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six that produces 335 horsepower and a 4.4-liter V8 that delivers a staggering 523 horsepower in the X5 M50i. Regardless of the engine you choose, the X5 provides a thrilling driving experience, with responsive steering and excellent handling. The optional xDrive all-wheel-drive system enhances traction, making it suitable for a variety of road conditions.
Advanced Technology and Safety
The BMW X5 is loaded with tech features, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen that runs BMW’s iDrive 8.0 infotainment system. The system is intuitive and offers features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation. Safety is also a top priority, with features like lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking included as standard.
2024 Ford Bronco: Off-Road Capability at Its Finest
For those who love adventure and need a vehicle that can handle the roughest terrains, the 2024 Ford Bronco is the ultimate off-road SUV. Ford has revived the iconic Bronco nameplate, and it’s quickly become a favorite among off-road enthusiasts.
Rugged Design and Interior
The Ford Bronco features a rugged, boxy design that looks ready for adventure. The interior is built to be both durable and functional, with easy-to-clean materials and removable doors and roof panels for open-air driving. Despite its rugged nature, the Bronco offers a comfortable ride and plenty of tech features to keep you connected on the road.
Off-Road Performance
The 2024 Ford Bronco is available with several engine options, including a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 300 horsepower and a 2.7-liter V6 that delivers 330 horsepower. The Bronco is built for off-roading, with features like **4×4 with a two-speed transfer case
**, *locking differentials*, and *terrain management system*. Whether you’re tackling rocky trails or navigating through mud, the Bronco is designed to handle it all.
Technology and Safety
Even though the Bronco is an off-road beast, it doesn’t skimp on technology. It comes with an 8-inch touchscreen that runs Ford’s Sync 4 infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and off-road navigation. Safety features include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and trail control, which helps you maintain a steady speed on challenging off-road paths.
Final Thoughts: Which SUV Should You Choose
The SUV market in 2024 offers a wide range of options, each catering to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a compact SUV like the Hyundai Tucson or a rugged off-roader like the Ford Bronco, there’s something for everyone. For those who prioritize luxury and performance, the BMW X5 is a standout, while the Toyota RAV4 and Kia Telluride offer excellent value and versatility for families.
Ultimately, the best SUV for you depends on your specific needs, whether it’s off-road capability, fuel efficiency, or interior space. By understanding what each model offers, you can make an informed decision and find the SUV that perfectly fits your lifestyle.