The Jeep Wrangler and Toyota FJ Cruiser are great, but they’re not the only ones out there.
The automotive industry always creates new SUVs to capture consumers’ interests and diversify their portfolios, but which ones sold the most?
Let’s find out with this list of the top 25 best selling SUVs of all time. Are you surprised by the results? See how many you can guess!
1. Toyota RAV4
Toyota’s RAV4 has been one of the most popular crossover vehicles on the market for years. Introduced in 1994, it quickly became a mainstay for those looking for affordable best selling SUVs with good gas mileage.
Over the years, Toyota made incremental changes to improve power and efficiency. The RAV4 is available in three trim levels: L, LE, and XLE.
The base model gets 33 MPG, while the hybrid can get up to 40 MPG on average, depending on how you drive it.
2. Honda CR-V
Fuel efficiency, cargo space, and reliability are among the reasons the Honda CR-V is one of the best selling SUVs.
It was introduced in 1995 as a compact SUV but has grown to be a midsize crossover with five seats. The CR-V can seat up to five passengers, and there’s plenty of cargo space for their gear.
The 1.6L four-cylinder engine gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg combined with a manual transmission (22/30 mpg). It also has a front-wheel drive layout and four-wheel disc brakes.
Honda offers the CR-V in EX, EX-L, LX, and Sport trim levels, with standard equipment like 17 alloy wheels, fog lights, steering wheel audio controls, rearview camera, and Bluetooth streaming audio.
3. Nissan Rogue
Three Nissan Rogue models are available: S, SV, and SL. The S is the lowest trim and is offered only in front-wheel drive (FWD) or 4WD.
The SV has FWD or AWD with a six-speed automatic transmission. The SL is the top trim and can be had with either AWD or FWD with CVT.
The Rogue is a mid-size crossover SUV with a 145.7-inch wheelbase and 89.6 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats folded down.
It’s also one of three vehicles to receive both IIHS’s highest rating, Good, and its top honor, Top Safety Pick+.
There are eight different safety features available in models equipped with NissanConnect Services, including Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Forward Emergency Braking (FEB), and Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC). The SL model has a standard backup camera, while SV and S trim come with BSW.
4. Toyota Highlander
One of the most popular SUVs in America, the Toyota Highlander, has been on the market since 2000.
The Highlanders are a large family vehicle that seats up to eight passengers and is one of the best selling SUVs models in their class.
The Highlander has ranked among America’s top ten best selling cars for over two decades. It was also named Best Car by U.S News and World Report in 2017 and 2018.
Other SUVs ranking high in the list include Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, Subaru Forester, and Chevrolet Equinox.
5. Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep, an American automobile manufacturer, is well known for its iconic models. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of the company’s best selling models ever. Its history spans over 30 years, and it remains popular today.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of the top three popular large best selling SUVs. It has been manufactured in seven countries and has eight trim levels.
The base model starts at around $30,000 and goes up to about $70,000 for a fully loaded version with all available options.
6. Jeep Wrangler
With so many options and features to choose from, Jeep Wrangler is an ideal choice for anyone in the market for a new SUV.
Its off-road capabilities are unparalleled with its unique design, including large tires and high ground clearance.
The Jeep Wrangler has a long history of offering buyers who want a capable vehicle in any situation the perfect all-purpose SUV that can be used on paved or unpaved roads or even take on some light trails.
Its trademark style comes with chrome accenting and headlamps that use halo rings like those found in newer models.
It also boasts modern safety features such as blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
7. Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorers are the best selling SUVs and mid-sized SUV that was first introduced in 1990. The most recent model, the sixth generation, was introduced in 2009.
It is available with either two or four doors and seats up to seven people. Its standard engine is a 3.5 liter V6 with 240 horsepower and 250 lb/ft of torque that can be paired with either a six-speed automatic or manual transmission.
The Explorer Sport Trac (introduced in 2003) is the only other SUV from Ford that has been produced since 1990 but discontinued.
8. Chevrolet Equinox
With a starting price of $24,500, the Chevrolet Equinox is an affordable SUV option. This vehicle offers a variety of features, including heated front seats and a remote start.
The Equinox also has excellent storage space options, with a 14-cubic foot trunk and 60/40 split rear seats that can fold down.
The only downside to this vehicle is the lack of a third-row seat option for passengers in the back. The Toyota RAV4 may be a better fit for those looking for more cargo space.
Toyota RAV4: The Toyota RAV4 starts at $25,900 but comes with plenty of standard features such as Bluetooth connectivity, keyless entry, and power locks.
A significant advantage of the RAV4 is its ability to handle various terrain while offering comfort on city streets.
9. Mazda CX-5
Initially released in 2013, the Mazda CX-5 has been a popular crossover SUV. Boasting an impressive design and top safety ratings, their no surprise that this Mazda is one of the best selling SUVs on the market.
Key features include a 2.0 L Skyactiv engine, a six-speed automatic transmission with manual mode, and available all-wheel drive.
10. Honda Pilot
Honda is known for producing reliable and practical vehicles, so it’s no surprise that the Honda Pilot is such a popular choice.
It has a spacious interior that can seat up to eight passengers and offers plenty of cargo space for outdoor enthusiasts.
Additionally, the Pilot features an innovative design with a low step-in height, which makes getting in and out easy.
The downside to this SUV is that it isn’t as fuel efficient as other models on this list. Also, if you’re looking for more power than the 3.5-liter V6 engine provides, look elsewhere. However, this might be a good option if you want something more affordable and stylish.
11. Ford Escape
Ford has been producing the Escape since 2000. The first generation model was a compact SUV, competing with other mid-size models.
These best selling SUVs are one of Ford’s most popular models and have won several awards, including Motor Trend’s Truck of the Year Award in 2006.
The second generation model debuted in 2008 and was redesigned in 2013 to be more competitive against other newer models like the Toyota RAV4.
Early generations came equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. Still, nowadays, you can find either a 2.5-liter or 1.6-liter turbocharged engine under the hood, depending on your preference for performance or fuel economy.
12. Hyundai Tucson
Hyundai is a South Korean automobile manufacturer in operation since 1967. Hyundai’s first product was the Cortina, based on Ford’s European Escort. In 1968, the company founded its production facility.
In 1975, they released their first SUV called the Pony, which sold well in Korea but did not sell abroad due to being underpowered and having poor performance.
In 1988, Hyundai introduced its first international nameplate when it launched Excel. It would go on to produce over 5 million units during its lifetime.
The company ventured into North America in 1989 with the introduction of the Sonata. It began selling cars in Europe for the first time in 1991 with its Elantra model.
13. Toyota 4Runner
Toyota is one of the world’s oldest and most prolific car manufacturers. The company was founded in 1937 and today produces everything from sedans to sports and off-road vehicles.
The Toyota 4Runner, which was first built in 1984, is a mid-size SUV that has been popular with drivers for over 30 years.
It has a reputation for being tough, rugged, and fuel efficient. This vehicle’s reliability and durability have made it one of the best selling SUVs ever.
If you go to any auto show or motor show event, you will see a few people admiring this classic model.
In recent years, it has also had some significant upgrades that make it even more attractive. For instance, new safety features were added in 2006, such as electronic stability and traction control. Furthermore, side curtain airbags are now standard on all models.
14. Honda HR-V
The Honda HR-V is a compact crossover SUV that was first introduced in 2016. It competes with other small crossovers like the Nissan Juke, Chevrolet Trax, and Jeep Renegade.
These types of best-selling SUVs are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 141 horsepower and 143 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission.
The HR-V’s interior can seat five people and offers enough room for storage space behind the rear seats. Its 60/40 split-folding seatback design can be folded flat to accommodate more oversized items like bikes, skis, snowboards, snowboards, or furniture.
15. Chevrolet Traverse
The Chevy Traverse is a mid-size crossover SUV introduced in 2009. It is part of Chevrolet’s crossover vehicles, including the Equinox, the Buick Enclave, and the GMC Acadia.
The Traverse is a front-wheel drive SUV with an all-wheel drive option and a six-speed automatic transmission or a nine-speed automatic transmission.
The engine for this vehicle is a 3.6L V6 with five different trim levels available on both AWD and FWD models: LS, LT, Premier, LTZ, and ELR2. The Chevy Traverse seats seven passengers and has cargo space of up to 77 cubic feet.
16. Hyundai Santa Fe
This midsize SUV gets an average of 24 miles per gallon and ranges between 26 and 29 miles per gallon. It also has a gasoline engine that’s capable of producing 245 horsepower.
Features include three rows, a touchscreen navigation system, a four-wheel drive, and a blind spot warning.
The Hyundai Santa Fe is known for its reliability and the fact that it comes standard with many features. For example, the car features various camera systems to help you see what’s around your vehicle to prevent accidents.
Overall, these kinds of best selling SUVs are excellent for those who want something reliable but don’t want to pay more than $30,000.
17. VW Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a compact SUV that was first introduced in 2007. The Tiguan has a starting MSRP price of $24,495. This price includes standard features such as power windows, door locks, and side mirrors.
Optional features include a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility for $1,500. The Tiguan also has an available panoramic sunroof for an additional $800 on top of the base price.
In terms of engines introduced, Volks Wagen offers two different engines: a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a 2.0L turbodiesel four-cylinder engine.
18. Lexus RX
ACCORDING TO INDUSTRY EXPERTS, Lexus RX is the best selling SUVs in the United States. The RX also has many awards and accolades to its name. It was named ‘Best Mid-Size SUV’ by Consumer Guide.
It received the prestigious J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study award in 1998, 1999, 2004, and 2005 for being one of the most reliable vehicles on the market.
In 2008, Lexus was recognized as a leader in the luxury automobile segment, with more new models than any other luxury car company.
Lexus plans to release three all-new hybrids this year: the ES 350h, GX 460h, and LS 600h L.
19. Ford Bronco Sport
Ford Bronco Sport is an SUV vehicle manufactured by the Ford Motor Company. The first generation of the Ford Bronco was a compact SUV available in two different models: a 2-door hardtop (1966) or a 4-door wagon (1967).
The second generation was produced as a mid-size SUV with an optional fold-down rear seat and was available in two versions: with or without four doors.
The third generation, introduced in 1978, became the first full-sized two-door version of the Bronco. The fourth and final iteration of the Bronco (produced from 1984 to 1990) was marketed as a rugged off-road vehicle with limited on-road use.
20. Jeep Cherokee
The Jeep Cherokee is a great all-around vehicle that has been around for decades; the third generation was released in 1984 and continued to be produced until 2001.
These best selling SUVs made it one of the longest-running vehicles in history. It has undergone many changes in style and engine type throughout its lifespan.
In 2010 Jeep offered up an all-new version of this iconic vehicle which continues today with many improvements over previous models.
There are two engines available; a 2.4 L 4-cylinder or 3.2 L 6-cylinder engine capable of producing 170 horsepower each and torque ratings of 171 lb.-ft. And 222 lb.-ft., respectively, and 18 city mpg and 25 highway mpg.
21. Chevrolet Tahoe
The Chevrolet Tahoe was introduced in the 1998 model year, and the Chevrolet Tahoe was marketed as a full-size SUV.
The Tahoe is available in LS and LT trim levels, with numerous features and accessories. The LTZ trim includes an 8-touch screen with navigation, GM’s OnStar service, and the Bose premium sound system.
It has a powerful 6.2L V8 engine that produces a maximum output of 355 horsepower. In 2005, Chevy introduced the first hybrid Tahoe.
This innovative vehicle has a 4.3 kWh lithium polymer battery pack and can travel up to 19 miles on electric power alone before switching to gasoline power for different ranges as needed.
22. Chevrolet Trailblazer
With a roomy interior and a wide selection of powertrain options, the Chevrolet Trailblazer is one of America’s best selling SUVs.
It has been on the market since 2003 and remains one of the most popular mid-sized SUV choices for drivers with families.
The Trailblazer comes in two- and four-wheel drive configurations, with an inline four or V6 engine. A six-speed manual transmission is also available for those who prefer to shift gears themselves.
Fuel economy ratings are 17 miles per gallon in the city and 24 mpg on the highway for models with 4×2 configuration. Models with 4×4 can get up to 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway.
As of this writing, there have been 1,000,000 Chevy Trailblazers sold since its introduction back in 2003.
24. Kia Sportage
Before we get into the top 25 best selling SUVs, it’s worth noting that these rankings come from various sources, and there is often disagreement on which models are the most popular.
That being said, the Kia Sportage is among the most popular SUV models worldwide. Since its introduction in 1994, over 2 million units have been sold.
It was one of the first crossover vehicles to feature four-wheel drive. Its interior is spacious for passengers and cargo, with seating for five adults or two adults and three children in a pinch.
The Sportage also offers excellent fuel economy, averaging 26 miles per gallon. With all that plus a low starting price point, it’s no wonder this vehicle has succeeded with drivers worldwide!
25. Chevrolet Suburban
First introduced in 1935, the Chevrolet Suburban is one of America’s most iconic cars. The first generation was made available to the public in 1935 and was considered an enormous success.
The second generation came out in 1938 and went on until 1942. Shortly after that, World War II halted the production of all vehicles.
After the war ended, Chevrolet released a new Suburban version with many updated features like an improved suspension system, better heating, and air conditioning systems, and more powerful engines.
The third generation was produced from 1954 to 1960. There were no significant changes from the previous generation.
Still, it added a few optional features, such as power steering and brakes and some cosmetic upgrades for 1956 models.
26. Kia Telluride
At first glance, the Kia Telluride may seem like a budget SUV. After all, the sticker price is lower than most other SUVs on this list, and it’s not as flashy as some other models.
But don’t let that fool you. The Telluride has a well-rounded level of performance, comfort, and convenience features—making it one of the best selling SUVs in America.
It can tow up to 7,200 pounds and seats up to 8 passengers. It also offers good fuel economy for an SUV, with 28 mpg on the highway and 20 mpg city.
Its safety features set it apart: nine standard airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), and hill start assist. The only downside? No third-row seating.
Conclusion
Choosing a vehicle is an important decision. Knowing which vehicles have stood the test of time can help you make the best choice for your needs.
The best selling SUVs, with their year of release and properties, are listed above. This list is not exhaustive but includes the most popular models on the market for many years.
