There’s a slew of SUVs of all sizes available in the marketplace. Deciding which is the best SUV for you depends upon many factors. Using top reasons for purchase and specific needs, we’ve boiled down some of our favorite contenders for the best SUV for 2017.
- 2017 Chevrolet Equinox/GMC Terrain
- 2017 Kia Sorento
- 2017 Honda Pilot
- 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS
- 2017 Lexus RX 450h
- 2017 Kia Niro
- 2017 Ford Expedition
2017 Chevrolet Equinox – 5-Seat Reliability
If reliability is your main concern, the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox received some of the highest predicted reliability scores in its class. This five-seat SUV has either a four-cylinder or six-cylinder engine with excellent pickup. Its sliding rear seat means taller second-row passengers are more comfortable. Move it forward so bigger cargo can fit easier. If you prefer more truck-like styling, its fraternal GM twin, the GMC Terrain, received similar best SUV reliability accolades.
2017 Kia Sorento – 7-Seat Reliability
For similarly good predicted reliability but with more passenger room and value, try the three-row 2017 Kia Sorento. While rather small for its class, the Sorento is one of the best SUVs, delivering on utility and price. It’s sharp-looking too. With a 2.4-liter engine delivering 185 horsepower, the front-wheel-drive $26,295 “L” trim can be swapped for all-wheel-drive for $1,800. The top of the line Sorento EX upgrades to a trim-exclusive 240-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine for $32,395.
2017 Honda Pilot – 7 or 8-Seat Family Friendly
If you’re looking for a family-friendly SUV with three rows, the 2017 Honda Pilot consistently ranks as one of the best SUVs. The Pilot is known for its durability, reliability, safety, and a refined interior. The touchscreen infotainment requires patience to learn. The Pilot’s seats sit higher than a lot of SUVs so ingress and egress can be challenging for shorter or older adults. By contrast, the third row is actually adult friendly. The Pilot is available in all-wheel or front-wheel drive with seating for seven or eight.
2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS – Luxury
If your family is more luxury-minded, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS is one of the best SUVs you can buy. All-new for 2017, the GLS replaces the GL in Mercedes’ lineup. The interior is beautiful with premium materials and a lot of soft touches. The cabin is spacious and the ride refined. There’s seating for seven and the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 provides excellent acceleration. There’s also a rare diesel option with the GLS 350d.
2017 Lexus RX450h – Luxury Hybrid
For excellent fuel economy and luxury to boot, consider the 2017 Lexus RX450h hybrid. The RX is a perennial best SUV and the hybrid version is no different. The RX hybrid is front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive became available in 2017. The RX450h AWD offers 31 city, 28 highway with its V-6 gas/electric 3.5-liter engine. The cabin is both spacious and quiet. Like the Pilot (and many other vehicles), the infotainment system requires patience and perseverance.
2017 Kia Niro – Hybrida
For even more fuel economy but less luxury, the 2017 Kia Niro is one of the best SUVs. It’s a subcompact crossover with room for five. Fuel economy is rated at a blistering 46-52 city and 40-49 highway. It’s one of the most affordable SUVs with a starting price of $22,890. It features surprisingly peppy acceleration and a blessedly user-friendly infotainment system. It’s all new for 2017.
2017 Ford Expedition – Towing
Towing is often a challenge. But the 2017 Ford Expedition is one of the best SUVs for dragging along fun. Completely redesigned in 2016, the Expedition has the highest tow rating of any SUV at 9,200 pounds. This requires the optional heavy-duty trailer towing package. A 3.5-liter V6 engine is the only one available, but it’s smooth and powerful. The Expedition seats eight and comes in four-wheel-drive and rear-wheel-drive.
Conclusion
We’ve outlined some of the best SUVs for 2017. Whatever your specific needs, there’s an SUV out there for you. Shop around and do your research to find the perfect SUV for you and yours.