Obviously, an SUV can only do so much to keep your driving stress-free, but they are plenty of things are an SUV can do to make driving more stressful. Consumer Reports cites what makes these the best SUVs for stress-free driving are quietness, Visibility, intuitive controls, and seat comfort. But of all the best SUVs list, Subaru seems to be dominating the stress-free or, at least, the least stressful SUV category. 

What exactly makes these the best SUVs for stress-free driving and ownership

Consumer Reports has broken down car ownership into essentially four categories that often are the ultimate causes for either loving your new car or hating it. These four categories are how the controls work, Visibility, rear-seat comfort, and cabin noise. Although these are the least exciting aspects of a car, they are the things that make or break owning a car long-term. 

Since these are rarely the things many people can pick up while excitedly test driving a car, CR has organized what they think are the best SUVs in these categories. Scoring well on these categories ultimately results in more satisfying ownership and less stressful day-to-day driving. 

Which car brand has the most models on this list of best SUVs for stress-free driving? 

Subaru, baby! Before we even explain too much, this kind of makes sense, doesn’t it? Subaru has spent years making the best cars and SUVs for outdoors enthusiasts. Always popular among campers, climbers, bikers, and more, the Subaru line has come to signify a driver who seeks adventure. 

Which Subarus made the Consumer Reports best SUVs list? 

For the best useability and control category, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek took home the gold for the best subcompact SUV. After we reviewed the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Sport, we would have to agree. The controls are all well-placed and make sense without having to study the dash. 

Everything in the cabin is spaced nicely and within arms reach of the driver. However, there are some slight annoyances like toggling through the vehicle trip info and the AC temperature readout, but CR is nit-picking a bit there. 

Visibility is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a new car

Few moments in driving are as stressful as not being able to see enough to feel confident. Many models out there have tiny windows or A and B pillars that obscure the driver’s view of the road. 

Yet again, The Subaru Crosstrek takes first place for the subcompact SUVs. The Crosstrek has slim roof pillars, tall side windows, a tall windshield, a decent rear window. For this category, the Subaru Forester and Subaru Outback both won the best SUV in the compact and Midsize segments, respectively. 

For rear-seat comfort, we are seeing more of the same best SUV winners

Subaru can’t help but be the best SUV for dress-free driving. Consumer reports continue with the Subaru love fest for the most comfortable rear seats giving first place to the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek and the 2021 Subaru Forester in their respective segments. 

The back seat for both of these SUVs is plenty roomy, even for taller passengers. I am 6’5 220lbs, and I tested the Crosstrek backseats and found them to be lovely. 

Lastly, cabin quietness 

This was the only category that the Crosstrek didn’t take first place. Consumer Reports called the 2021 Hyundai Tucson the best SUV for quietness. Even though it did get an honorable mention, the Subarus just aren’t as quiet as their competitors. 

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is the best SUV for stress-free driving

It is known that Subaru owners tend to like their purchases and also tend to be pretty loyal customers. After looking at all of the comfort and convenience of owning these reliable and affordable SUVs, it’s no wonder that the Crosstrek and Forester ran away with it on Consumer Reports. 

I guess if you are stressed out, buy a Subaru.