Compact luxury SUVs, such as the Audi Q5 and BMW X3, often have sharper handling, quieter cabins, better fit and finish, and more amenities than conventional compact SUVs, albeit purchasers may spend more receive lower fuel economy, and they may need to use premium gasoline. On the other hand, many premium SUVs of this size have even more exhilarating performance than mainstream manufacturers.
What you’ll pay: A few smaller SUVs start in the mid-$20s, and several top-tier models cost more than $30,000 in top trims, which are now more feature-rich than ever. The price of a luxury model starts at about $50,000.
SUVs in the midsize range
Midsized SUVs offer many families the ideal blend of power, interior space, cargo room, and safety. Midsized models are available in two- and three-row configurations, with the third row, typically reserved for children; it is typically cramped and difficult for adults to enter. The fuel economy ranges from 18 to 22 mpg, with a few hybrids reaching the 30s. Towing capacity ranges from 3,500 to 5,000 pounds. To get the full towing capacity, some models require trailering equipment. Luxury midsized SUVs tend to prioritize comfort, performance, and refinement… as well as pricing.
Midsized SUVs range in price from the mid-$30,000s to well over $50,000 for three-row vehicles. Luxury models can easily cost more than $60,000.
Large SUVs
Enormous SUVs have plenty of power, interior space, and towing capability, but many are large, bulky, clunky, and thirsty. They could be ideal for drivers who need to transport a trailer, a large amount of equipment, or many people. A midsized model, on the other hand, maybe preferable for passenger comfort and daily driving.
What you’ll pay: Top trims of large SUVs now cost $85,000 or more. In addition, luxury-branded vehicles in all sizes significantly increase the bottom line, thereby pricing them into the next larger size.
Consumer Reports ratings for the Ford Bronco Sport SUV
What SUV Buyers Should Keep in Mind
Seating
Almost all SUVs have a seating capacity of at least five persons. Some midsized and full-sized models incorporate a third-row seat, bringing the total passenger capacity to six, seven, or eight. However, when the third-row seats are upright, many three-row SUVs have little cargo room. As a result, most third-row seats may fold flat or nearly flat when not in use, allowing for more luggage room.
Cargo Due to the SUV’s flexible seating configurations, all of the space behind the front seats is available for cargo when the second and third rows are folded down. To make the most of your space, look for seats that fold flat. SUVs often have a higher cargo floor than minivans, making it more difficult to load large things. On the other hand, Truck-based variants often have higher maximum payload capacity, allowing drivers to carry more weight. Most include power-operated, hands-free liftgates, making entry to the cargo compartment easier.