SUVs are in high demand. These rugged, capable, and versatile models make up more than half of all new vehicles sold in the U.S. – and this year, there are more SUVs to choose from than in years past. It seems like nearly every automaker is touting new model in its lineup, each more promising and “rugged” than the next. But which SUVs are actually the top picks for 2023? Which vehicles deliver on their promises, and which can meet your needs?
Well, the best SUVs of 2023 are those that are more than mere marketing lingo and automotive buzzwords. A truly capable SUV can take many forms. It can be powerful on the road and fun to drive, or it can offer plenty of room for hauling passengers and gear. It really depends on what, exactly, you’re hoping your SUV will accomplish.
Ultimately, though, the most capable SUVs of the year are those that offer impressive engine performance (be that power or responsiveness), adaptability, and enough strength and power to haul whatever you’re carrying.
So, with that in mind, take a look at our picks for this year’s top contenders across all weight classes.
Best Subcompact SUVs of 2023
Subcompact SUVs may not be standouts in their towing and hauling capability, but they’re a great crossover option for those who want more than a typical hatchback can offer. These little models are compact for city driving, yet fun to get behind the wheel of.
Hyundai Kona
With a funky, modern-looking exterior and a price that packs a lot of value for the long list of features you’ll find inside, the 2023 Hyundai Kona is a standout subcompact SUV.
It’s as practical size-wise as it is fun to drive, with a zippy turbocharged engine (a much more potent option than the base engine) and responsive, nimble handling. Cargo space is limited inside, but you’ll be quite satisfied with the speed and torque on the higher-tier engines.
Mazda CX-30
When it comes to getting a lot out of your subcompact SUV, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 really delivers.
This small crossover is built for those who want to enjoy every drive behind the wheel, with engine choices that make it quite a thrill to maneuver. It rolls the sizing and city-friendly efficiency of a hatchback into a slightly bigger SUV, with more practicality and great engine options – the turbocharged is the best of the bunch for power and responsiveness.
Plus, it’s an affordable SUV that’s stocked with premium interior touches, a whole suite of standard driver assistance and tech features, and above-class materials that come as standard features rather than paid-for upgrades.
Best Compact SUVs of 2023
Compact SUVs offer more room, more power, and more capability – or, at least, they do if they’re the best of the best! These picks are still city- and commute-friendly, but the top options are also nicely capable and may be able to handle light off-road situations (like the rough roads to your favorite campsite.)
Honda CR-V
It’s no secret that the Honda CR-V is a classic SUV. It’s one of the most popular picks on the road, and it has been since its launch back in 1995.
The 2023 CR-V in particular is a standout choice this year, with a fresh new look, increasing efficiency (there’s a hybrid available!), and one seriously smooth ride. The newly-revamped Honda CR-V offers plenty of fuel-efficient powertrain options, plenty of modern tech and driver assist features, in either a 190- or 240-hp configuration.
Plus, you can opt for front- or all-wheel drive depending on your needs. No matter which you choose, you’ll get a comfortable and confident ride.
Subaru Forester
If you’re looking for an SUV that’s rugged yet not too large, the compact 2023 Subaru Forester is a fantastic choice. Built for the outdoors, this is one crossover that combines off-road readiness with sleek city sizing.
Although it’s compact, there’s plenty of room inside, both for adult passengers (yes, even in the rear seats) and for cargo. The vehicle is practical inside and out, with a quiet and comfortable ride that doesn’t disappoint.
The Forester might not have the most powerful powertrain options available, but when you combine the SUV’s durability, large cargo area, standard all-wheel drive, and suite of driver assistance features, it’s capable in how well-rounded it is.
Best Midsize SUVs of 2023
Roomy enough for both passengers and gear, a top-tier midsize SUV is one that performs just as solidly on city streets as it does on highways and dirt roads. Bigger, more capable, and often available with increasingly more powerful torque and horsepower in addition to extra interior perks (like those high-tech comforts you crave), a mid-size option really meets you in the middle, capability-wise.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Let’s be honest: Jeep’s SUV lineup is always a standout when you’re looking for an off-road capable vehicle. And the 2023 Grand Cherokee is one of the best SUVs of the year, thanks to its rugged exterior styling, legit off-road power and capability, and refined on-road nature.
The base model Grand Cherokee is pretty stripped down, feature-wise, but it’s still nicely capable and pairs well with any one of the three powertrains offered (which includes V-6, V-8, and the hybrid 4xe). This midsize SUV is just as comfortable to ride and drive on or off paved roads, and it’s a potent trail-buster that can handle all of the obstacles you throw its way – including all the cargo you’re carrying!
Ford Bronco
The best way to make your midsize SUV work for your needs? Choose one that’s almost endlessly configurable, like the 2023 Ford Bronco.
This SUV is one of the best of the year because it’s both versatile and adaptable, allowing you to essentially build a Bronco that works for off-roading, city driving, cargo space, or the dirtiest, muddiest conditions. Quiet even on the bumpiest and messiest of off-road trails, it’s smooth and still able to tackle a challenge.
Available in both two- and four-door body styles, you’ll get plenty of power from the base engine or one of the two turbocharged picks. You can choose from a long list of models, trims, and optional equipment add-ons, meaning this SUV will be just as capable on the highway as in dense forest.
Best Full-Size SUVs of 2023
When you’re looking for serious space and significant power, a full-size SUV – or large SUV – is the answer. These sizable crossovers offer a ton of interior space, both for passengers and all of the cargo you’re carrying, and they’re often a balanced combination of luxurious interior touches and tough on- and off-road capability.
Chevrolet Suburban
Need some space? It’s pretty tough to beat the 2023 Chevrolet Suburban, which is a top SUV because of the colossal 20 cubic feet of cargo space it offers! But extra room for gear isn’t its sole perk. This full-size 2023 SUV is also impressively powerful, stocked with a 355-hp V-8 engine as the base option and allowing you to upgrade to a turbodiesel or extra-impressive 420-hp V-8.
Behind the wheel, this SUV is confident and in charge. And, if you want to tow, this is the SUV to do so with, thanks to its solid hauling capability. There’s also room for up to eight passengers, and you can opt for rear- or all-wheel drive.
The Suburban is definitely a gas guzzler, so factor that in. But if you’re towing a heavy camper or some trail toys, it’s well worth the cost at the pump for all of its capability.
GMC Yukon
Available as a full-size SUV or extra-long full-size SUV, the result of choosing either the 2023 GMC Yukon or Yukon XL is that you’ll be driving one of the most accommodating SUVs on the road today. With three roomy rows of seats and ample cargo room, this SUV is also equipped with luxurious details to enhance your comfort.
Under the hood, you can choose from a variety of V-8 engines or a turbodiesel V-6 for power, acceleration, and some seriously nice towing capacity. Inside the cabin, the convenience and technology perks make the driver and passengers feel cozy (and if you go with an upscale trim, they can be extra luxurious.)
Whatever you drive, whatever its size and purpose, Parts Via has the parts and accessories you need to make it more capable – and more customized! From bumpers, step products and off-road recovery gear to cargo carriers, towing solutions, and a fresh set of wheels & tires, PV.com has all your favorite brands, all in one place.