10 SUVS THAT OUTSELL THEIR RIVALS YEAR AFTER YEAR
There are many popular SUVs nowadays, but only a couple of standout models consistently outsell their rivals year after year. You know, the cream of the crop, the top dogs from each segment that somehow always manage to be popular? We assembled a comprehensive list of these dominant models according to their 2024 year-to-date sales. We did our best to include the best of each notable category of SUV, such as off-road, luxury, domestic, and more.
SUVs are hotter now than ever before and the hype hasn't died, because every passing year, SUV models are still on top of sales leaderboards. Are SUVs just better than sedans nowadays or just more popular? Well, while the sedan is not the industry leader it used to be, there are still great deals available in 2024. Yet, stick around because we'll make it clear why each of the SUVs on our list has earned their spots and has beaten out their competitors time and time again.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturers and other authoritative sources, including Lexus, BMW, and Mazda. The models below have been ranked based on their YTD sales in 2024.
10 SUVs That Blend Comfort And Performance To Perfection
Some vehicles just feel right, and these ten SUVs have an incredible package of performance and comfort to improve your driving experience.
Lamborghini Urus
Year To Date Sales: 6,087 (2023)
The first SUV on our list is the big, bad, and exotic Lamborghini Urus, a vehicle that takes your lunch money just by looking at it.
2024 Lamborghini Urus Performante Performance Specifications
| Engine | 4.0-Liter Twin-Turbocharged Gasoline DOHC V-8 |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 657 HP @ 6,000 RPM |
| Torque | 627 LB-FT @ 2,300 - 4,500 RPM |
| Fuel Economy (CMB) | 16 MPG |
| 0-60 MPH | 3.3 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 190 MPH (Mfr. Claimed) |
| Towing Capacity | 7,000 Pounds |
Lamborghini sold 10,000+ units for the first time in 2023, and they have already broken that record this year with record figures for the first nine months of 2024. Maybe because 6,000 sold Urus SUVs translates to $1.5 billion in sales alone and the Urus has become Lamborghini's cash cow success in ways the Italian brand couldn't have dreamed of. So you want one too now? Well, the Urus is sold out until 2026, so we hope you don't mind waiting for your ultra-rare 650+ horsepower Italian SUV.
Pros
- Ultimate baller appeal
- As crazy and devilishly fast as it seems
- Best-selling Lamborghini ever
Cons
- Knowing too much about Audi
- What if it didn't have a gold bull on the front?
BMW X3
Year To Date Sales: 49,908
BMW has been battling with Mercedes for the crown of German luxury excellence for as long as we can remember (sorry, not sorry, Audi), but BMW has kept the recent upper hand thanks to their bestsellers, the mid-sized X5 SUV and the compact X3 SUV.
2025 BMW X3 Performance Specifications
| Engine | 2.0-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four | 3.0-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Six |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 255 HP | 393 HP |
| Torque | 295 LB-FT | 428 LB-FT |
| Driveline | AWD | AWD |
| 0-60 MPH | 6 Seconds | 4.1 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 130 MPH | 155 MPH |
BMW blends performance with luxury in a way that its competitors have tried to emulate for decades without any real success. The German outfit manages to stay ahead of the curve by relying on the strength of its robust, powerful, and efficient powertrains (like the B58 inline-six engine) that have continued to pave the way for its success.
Pros
- BMW Curved Display
- Class-leading powertrains
- Class-leading reliability
Cons
- A small gap in fuel economy between the two available trims
- If you can afford it, there is no reason not to pick the inline-six model
Toyota 4Runner
Year To Date Sales: 92,096
We have been waiting for a hybrid variant of the beloved off-roading champion Toyota 4Runner for way too long, and we finally got one!
2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid Performance Specifications
| Powertrain | 2.4-liter four-cylinder turbocharged hybrid engine |
| Horsepower | 326 HP |
| Torque | 465 LB-FT |
| Drivetrain | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy (Combined) | 23 MPG |
| Starting Price | $51,990 - $66,900 |
4Runner owners had been robbed of solid torque output for so long and, finally, you get your cake and eat it too. With 465 pound-feet of torque now on tap and 23 MPG Combined compared to the previous generation's 17 Combined, you can see how the 4Runner will continue to be the leader in full-sized off-road SUVs for the near future.
Pros
- All new powerful and efficient powertrains
- Still the king of off-road versatility
- Standard Infotainment is upgraded and better than before
Cons
- Mid-to-high-range models are more expensive than ever
- Way more capability than most will ever need
2025 Toyota 4Runner Trims Ranked By Price
Explore the 2025 Toyota 4Runner trims, ranked by price, highlighting features, capabilities, and value across the lineup.
Lexus RX
Year To Date Sales: 105,609
The Lexus RX has been the best-selling luxury vehicle on the market for a long time now, but why?
Performance Specifications
| Engine | Turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 275 hp |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft |
| Driveline | AWD |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | 1,245 to 1,487 lbs |
Well, the RX SUV is a near-perfect blend of all the positive qualities you would ever want in a luxury SUV: comfort, performance, and quality. The RX SUV is nowhere near the most hair-raising model in its segment, but it is a beloved staple because its year-to-year consistency and quality standards have no equal in the automotive market.
Pros
- Best-selling luxury vehicle today
- Comfort, reliability, quality
- Class-leading hybrid model
Cons
- No performance increase in this generation's hybrid model
- Can you handle a Copper Crest paint job?
Mazda CX-5
Year To Date Sales: 105,609
Mazda's best-selling model by far is the attractively-styled and value-packed mid-sized CX-5 SUV.
20240 Mazda CX-5 Performance Specifications
| Engine | 2.5-Liter Inline-Four | 2.5-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four |
| Transmission | Six-Speed Automatic | Six-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 187 Horsepower | 256 Horsepower |
| Torque | 186 LB-FT | 310 LB-FT |
| Driveline | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| 0-60 MPH | 10.7 Seconds | 7.3 Seconds |
| Top Speed | Unpublished | Unpublished |
| Towing Capacity | 2,000 LBS | 2,000 LBS |
| Payload Capacity | 941 LBS - 1,041 LBS | 941 LBS - 1,041 LBS |
The CX-5 SUV is doing everything possible to give you Japanese luxury quality at an affordable price, and we like that a lot. Combine this with the fact that the CX-5 is the most reliable Mazda SUV for sale, and you can see this Mazda bestseller's winning recipe for success.
Pros
- A well-balanced mid-sized SUV in all aspects of design
- Bridging the gap between what is luxury and not
- The most reliable Mazda SUV for sale today
Cons
- The base engine's performance is disappointing
- No hybrid
- Choosing any paint option other than Soul Red
Subaru Forester
Year To Date Sales: 158,372
Few vehicles are as equipped to take on any challenge as the 2025 Subaru Forester SUV at its price point.
Performance Specs: 2024 vs 2025 Forester
| Spec | 2024 Subaru Forester | 2025 Subaru Forester |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder BOXER | 2.5L 4-cylinder BOXER |
| Horsepower | 182 hp @ 5,800 RPM | 180 hp @ 5,800 RPM |
| Torque | 176 lb-ft @ 4,400 RPM | 178 lb-ft @ 3,700 RPM |
| Transmission | CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) | CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) |
| Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | 1,115 lbs | 1,115 lbs |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 120 mph |
The Forester SUV defines year-round practicality and has no real shortcomings from a utilitarian perspective. Stack this with the fact that the Forester also manages top-in-class reliability and low upkeep costs, and you'll understand why the Subaru niche is well-established and will continue to flourish.
Pros
- Undeniable all-year-round versatility
- Rides well and excels in roominess
- The most reliable the Forester has ever been
Cons
- No Wilderness model for the current gen yet
- Only one engine and transmission are available
2025 Subaru Forester First Drive: Modernized for the Masses
The next-gen Forester's silkier looks and upscale interior should appeal to most buyers - for everyone else, there's still the rugged Wilderness.
Hyundai Tucson
Year To Date Sales: 158,372
What is the difference between the Kia Sportage and the Hyundai Tucson? Well, the Tucson SUV may be more expensive by about $1,500 in its base trim, but it sells better (nearly 40,000 more units this year) despite the higher price.
2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Specifications
| Powertrain | 1.6-liter turbo inline-four with electric motor |
| Horsepower | 226 hp @ 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft @ 1,500-4,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Driveline | All-wheel drive |
| Range | 507-521 miles |
| EPA Efficiency (MPG Combined) | 37-38 mpg |
| 0-60 MPH | 7.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 120 mph |
| Starting Price | $32,575-$39,715 |
These two Korean siblings also share the same impressive 1.6-liter turbo powertrain in their hybrid trims, but the Sportage has a better screen/infotainment setup, so it comes down to looks, each with its unique flavor. Both have their merits, so if these are on your shortlist, you have to test drive both, or else you'll feel like you didn't give each model its justice (or just take a side, we understand).
Pros
- The best-selling Korean vehicle
- The most reliable Korean hybrid SUV
- Class-leading warranty
Cons
- The Kia Sportage Hybrid is cheaper and offers the same powertrain
- The base model offers lackluster performance
Ford Explorer
Year To Date Sales: 191,130
People adore the appeal of potentially looking like an undercover law enforcement officer, and that is why the Ford Explorer SUV will always sell.
2025 Ford Explorer Performance Specifications
| Specification | 2.3L EcoBoost Inline-4 | 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 300 HP | 400 HP |
| Torque | 310 LB-FT | 415 LB-FT |
| Drivetrain | RWD/AWD | AWD only |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Towing Capacity | 5,300 lbs | 5,600 lbs |
| Fuel Economy (RWD) | 24 MPG (combined) | N/A |
| Fuel Economy (AWD) | 23 MPG (combined) | 20 MPG (combined) |
Intimidation tactics aside, the Ford Explorer has never been more versatile and powerful than before. Seriously, 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque is no joke and the 2025 refresh adds solid upgrades inside and out. Fuel economy is okay at best, so we wish there was a powerful hybrid model. Hybrid or not, the Explorer is America's sweetheart that ain't going nowhere!
Pros
- Third-row spaciousness is nice to have
- The most powerful the Explorer has ever been
- Interior and tech upgrades for 2025
Cons
- Rear seat comfort is subpar
- Where is the hybrid model?
Tesla Model Y
Year To Date Sales: 219,799
Tesla is in their own lane as far as EVs are concerned and the Model Y SUV is another stamp on Tesla's ability to dominate electric vehicles.
Performance Specifications
| Long Range | Dual Motor | Performance | |
| Price | $44,990 | $47,990 | $51,490 |
| Powertrain | Single Permanent-Magnet Motor | Dual Permanent-Magnet Motors | Dual Permanent-Magnet Motors |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 295 HP | 384 HP | 456 HP |
| Torque | 310 LB-FT | 376 LB-FT | 497 LB-FT |
| Driveline | Rear-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| Battery | 82 kWh Net | 82 kWh Net | 82 kWh Net |
| Range | 320 Miles | 310 Miles | 279 Miles |
| Fast Charging Time | 25 Minutes | 27 Minutes | 27 Minutes |
| Energy Consumption | 28 kWh/100 Miles | 28 kWh/100 Miles | 32 kWh/100 Miles |
| 0-60 MPH | 6.6 Seconds | 4.8 Seconds | 3.5 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 135 MPH | 135 MPH | 155 MPH |
The fact is that the Model Y, like all Tesla models, offers the best battery range and technology on the market. The Model Y excels because it makes the EV driving experience easy and until another brand can offer this level of range and capability, Tesla has this market locked down.
Pros
- Still the leader in EV tech and range
- $7,500 EV tax credit (for now)
- Tesla Supercharging
Cons
- Make it cheaper Elon!
- Rear visibility is subpar
Why You Should Definitely Wait To Buy A Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y is the world's best-selling EV, but a new 'Juniper' refresh is on the horizon. Here's why you should hold off buying one for now.
Toyota RAV4
Year To Date Sales: 430,897
Why is the Toyota RAV4 so damn popular year after year and always at the top of the list? Toyota has expanded the RAV4's capability now more than ever before and there is effectively a RAV4 model for everyone out there.
2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Specifications
| Powertrain | 2.5-Liter Dynamic Force 4-Cylinder with Self-charging Hybrid System |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Eight-speed Auto Transmission |
| Drivetrain | Front Engine, Part-time All-wheel Drive |
| Horsepower | 210 horsepower |
| Torque | 184 lb/ft |
| 0-62mph | 8.1 Seconds |
| Starting Price | $31,725 |
The base-model RAV4 isn't going to impress you with its performance, but the top-trim plug-in hybrid model's 302 standard horsepower is. The standard hybrid trim is the perfect middle ground where you get a little more performance and a lot more efficiency. Considering how the 2025 Toyota Camry is now a hybrid-only model, don't be surprised if the 2026 RAV4 falls in line with standard hybridization. Regardless of trim, the RAV4 excels in versatility and standard quality levels, so if you told us that in 2034 the RAV4 was the bestselling vehicle of the year, we'd believe you.
Pros
- The best-selling vehicle and hybrid model in America
- A leader in versatility for decades
- Resale value
Cons
- Availability, mark-ups, dealerships
- Driving a Lexus NX