Skip to main content
2021 Kia Telluride driving

The Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now According to Consumer Reports

Shopping for a new SUV can be overwhelming. After all, there are several options available these days, which might make finding the right SUV for your daily driving needs kind of a tedious task. The good news is that Consumer Reports has the inside scoop on the best SUVs you can buy right now.  Surprise, …

Shopping for a new SUV can be overwhelming. After all, there are several options available these days, which might make finding the right SUV for your daily driving needs kind of a tedious task. The good news is that Consumer Reports has the inside scoop on the best SUVs you can buy right now. 

2021 Kia Telluride driving
2021 Kia Telluride | Kia

Surprise, surprise, the 2021 Kia Telluride is one of the best SUVs

There’s really no denying that the 2021 Kia Telluride has a lot going for it. According to Consumer Reports, this year’s model even earned a 97 overall score, which is the best overall score Consumer Reports has given out this year. In fact, the Kia Telluride earned a five out of five predicted reliability rating, along with a five out of five predicted owner satisfaction rating. The only thing the Telluride doesn’t have going for it? According to Consumer Reports, this year’s model isn’t the most agile. Its third-row isn’t all that comfortable either.

The 2021 Subaru Forester is one of the best no-nonsense SUVs

If the 2021 Kia Telluride isn’t the right fit for you, Consumer Reports recommends taking a gander at the 2021 Subaru Forester, its second-highest-rated SUV. This year’s model earned an 89 overall score from Consumer Reports, which is definitely nothing to scoff at. Its high marks can be attributed to four out of five predicted reliability and owner satisfaction ratings. And in road tests? This year’s model impressed with a 90 overall score. All in all, Consumer Reports says, “The updated Subaru Forester is a smart, well-executed small SUV that boasts a roomy interior, great fuel economy, and plenty of standard safety equipment.”

If the Forester isn’t a fit for you? Pick the 2021 Subaru Outback instead

The Subaru Forester wasn’t the only Subaru to make Consumer Reports’ recognized as one of the best SUVs you can buy right now. In fact, Consumer Reports also included the 2021 Subaru Outback, which earned an 86 overall score. This year’s model excelled in road tests and earned a four out of five predicted owner satisfaction rating. The bad news is that the Subaru Outback earned a frustratingly average predicted reliability rating of three out of five. According to Consumer Reports, the SUV’s most common trouble spots include its in-car electronics. 

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade is one of the best midsize three-row SUVs

When it comes to the best midsize three-row SUV you can buy right now, Consumer Reports recommends the 2021 Hyundai Palisade. This year’s new model an 85 overall score from Consumer Reports. It also earned a four out of five predicted reliability rating and a four out of five predicted owner satisfaction rating. According to Consumer Reports, it also excelled in road tests. Consumer Reports explained that its engine provides “effortless acceleration” and good fuel economy ratings. The Hyundai Palisade isn’t unreasonably expensive either. In fact, a base model starts at $32,675.

Consumer Reports says you can’t go wrong with the 2021 Toyota Highlander

There’s a lot to like about the 2021 Toyota Highlander. According to Consumer Reports, this year’s model earned a four out of five predicted reliability rating and a four out of five predicted owner satisfaction rating. It also earned an 86 overall score in Consumer Reports’ road tests. As for interior comfort? Consumer Reports added, “The Highlander’s front seats are comfortable for many body types, and the second-row bench seat provides good support and affords a lot of legroom and elbow room. The third row is snug, low, and firm.”

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is one of the best affordable SUVs

Perhaps you’re in the market for a compact SUV. If that’s the case, Consumer Reports recommends putting the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek at the top of your list. The Subaru Crosstrek is not only one of the best SUVs you can buy today, but it also earned a four out of five predicted reliability rating and a four out of five predicted owner satisfaction rating. And when it comes to actually driving the Subaru Crosstrek? Consumer Reports says, “All Crosstrek models deliver impressive ride comfort along with competent and enjoyable handling on curvy roads.”

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 aims to please in more ways than one

According to Consumer Reports, the 2021 Mazda CX-5’s “vastly improved ride comfort, better noise isolation, and higher-quality cabin” make it one of the best SUVs you can buy right now. Of course, that’s not all the Mazda CX-5 has going for it these days. According to Consumer Reports, this year’s model also earned a five out of five predicted reliability rating, along with a four out of five predicted owner satisfaction rating.

For a well-rounded SUV, Consumer Reports recommends the 2021 Ford Edge

According to Consumer Reports, if you’re interested in a well-rounded SUV that offers a “steady ride” and a “premium cabin feel that rivals some luxury models,” then the 2021 Ford Edge is one of the best SUVs you can buy right now. Its standard 250-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine earned it an 84 overall score in Consumer Reports’ road tests while its “spacious cabin provides comfortable quarters, front and rear, and cargo room is generous.” As for reliability? Consumer Reports gave the 2021 Ford Edge a four out of five predicted reliability rating.

Consumer Reports says the 2021 Honda CR-V is one of the best SUVs you can buy right now

The Honda CR-V has been a favorite among consumers for a pretty long time. Though, it’s no surprise as to why. It boasts a spacious cabin, fuel-efficient engine and comes well-stocked with standard safety features. Further, consider that this year’s new Honda CR-V earned an 82 overall score from Consumer Reports, and there’s no denying that the Honda CR-V is one of the best SUVs you can buy right now.

Consider the 2021 Kia Sportage for an SUV that won’t break the bank

Last but not least is the 2021 Kia Sportage. Consumer Reports gave this affordable SUV an 81 overall score. It also gave the Sportage a five out of five predicted reliability rating. The bad news is that Consumer Reports gave this year’s Sportage a two out of five predicted owner satisfaction rating. According to Consumer Reports, owners may take issue with the SUV’s driving experience, comfort, and overall value. 

A red 2021 Kia Sportage
2021 Kia Sportage | Kia

What is the best SUV, according to Consumer Reports?

When it comes down to it, the 2021 Kia Telluride really is the best SUV, according to Consumer Reports. However, there are plenty of other high-ranking SUVs to choose from. So if the Kia Telluride isn’t the right choice for you? You have several other worthwhile options to consider.

Related

The 2021 Kia Telluride Triumphs as Best Family SUV