Crossovers have cemented their position as America’s favorite vehicle type after pickup trucks, dominating roads from coast to coast. The ubiquitous Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Tesla Model Y are testaments to the segment’s popularity. Marrying the elevated stance of an SUV with the comfortable ride and efficiency of a passenger car, crossovers offer the best of both worlds for daily driving. They also provide more generous interior space than comparable sedans or hatchbacks, and the market is brimming with gasoline, hybrid, and all-electric options. Here, we present our definitive list of the best crossover SUVs for the 2025 model year.
Vehicles are ranked using a BuzzScore, which reflects their standing against direct competitors. While vehicles on this list may have similar scores, they don’t necessarily compete head-to-head in every aspect. You can learn more about the BuzzScore system here. This ranking is continuously updated to reflect the latest BuzzScores and vehicle releases.
1. Toyota Grand Highlander
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander
8.6/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $40,860
Engine: 2.4L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 Hybrid | 2.4L I4 Turbo Hybrid
Horsepower: 265 hp (2.5L) | 245 hp (2.5L Hybrid) | 362 hp (2.4L Hybrid)
Leading our list of top crossover SUVs with a BuzzScore of 8.6 out of 10 is the Toyota Grand Highlander. Offering a variety of trims, some even more affordable than the previous year’s models, the base front-wheel-drive LE starts at a competitive $40,860.
Powertrain choices are plentiful, including a 2.4-liter turbo-four delivering 256 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, a 2.5L hybrid producing 245 hp, and a potent 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid generating 362 hp. Slightly larger than many in its class, this Best Cross Suv comfortably accommodates up to eight passengers and boasts a generous 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats.
Toyota aimed to create a larger, superior Highlander, and they succeeded impressively. The Grand Highlander surpasses the standard Highlander in size and ranks among the most spacious vehicles in its segment.
– Jared Rosenholtz, CarBuzz Editor-at-Large
2. BMW iX
2025 BMW iX
8.6/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $87,250
Engine: Electric
Horsepower: 516-610 hp
Sharing the top BuzzScore of 8.6 is the all-electric BMW iX. Available in two distinct trims, both deliver exceptional performance and luxury. The entry-level xDrive50i starts at $87,250. Both trims feature dual electric motors and all-wheel drive, but the xDrive50i’s motors produce a combined 516 horsepower and 564 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up to the M60, priced from $111,500, unleashes 610 horsepower and a staggering 749 lb-ft of torque, enabling a blistering 0-60 mph time of just 3.6 seconds. Inside, the iX comfortably seats five and offers up to 77.9 cubic feet of cargo capacity.
This incredible acceleration is matched by a unique and captivating EV sound experience. BMW collaborated with renowned composer Hans Zimmer to create “Iconic Sounds,” a system that emits a thrilling auditory experience through the speakers when accelerating, reminiscent of the Starship Enterprise engaging warp drive.
– Jared Rosenholtz, CarBuzz Editor-at-Large
Related: Best BMW SUV Models In Every Price Category
BMW’s reputation for premium, driver-centric SUVs is well-earned, but which model best fits your budget?
3. Toyota RAV4
2025 Toyota RAV4
8.4/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $28,850
Base Trim Engine: 2.5L Dynamic Force I4 ICE
Base Trim Horsepower: 203 HP @6600 RPM
The Toyota RAV4 isn’t just a popular crossover SUV; it claimed the title of best-selling vehicle in the United States last year, dethroning the Ford F-150 after decades of dominance. The RAV4 earns its place as one of the best crossover SUVs for several reasons, starting with its attractive base price of $28,850. It also boasts a wide array of trim levels, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants.
The standard powertrain is a 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Alternatively, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid option delivers a combined 219 hp. Cargo space reaches 69.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, and the RAV4 comfortably accommodates five passengers.
4. Mercedes-AMG GLA 35
2025 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA 35
8.4/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $58,050
Engine: 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
Horsepower: 302 hp
Mercedes-Benz demonstrates its strength in the crossover SUV segment with three models on our list. Leading the charge is the Mercedes-AMG GLA 35. This high-performance iteration of the GLA-Class starts at $58,050 and receives the full AMG treatment, including sporty styling enhancements inside and out, and a significant power boost. Under the hood lies a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph sprint in approximately 5.1 seconds. The GLA 35 seats five passengers and represents a compelling entry point into AMG SUV ownership.
5. Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
8.3/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $45,800
Engine: 2.0-Liter Turbo I4
Horsepower: 221 hp
The standard Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is a refined and comfortable crossover utility vehicle, embodying the luxury expected from Mercedes-Benz. The base model, starting at $45,800, features an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. For all-wheel drive, the GLB 250 4Matic is available from $47,800. Both models utilize a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder mild hybrid engine producing 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While the base model accommodates five passengers, a seven-seat configuration is optional, making it one of the smallest SUVs to offer three seating rows.
6. Mercedes-AMG GLB 35
2025 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35
8.1/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $60,100
Engine: 2.0L I4 Turbo Mild Hybrid
Horsepower: 302 hp
For those seeking more spirited performance from their GLB-Class, Mercedes-Benz offers the AMG GLB 35. Similar to the GLA 35 AMG, this is a performance-oriented version of the GLB, starting at $60,100. It shares the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine as the GLA 35, tuned to deliver 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. While slightly slower than the GLA 35, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.4 seconds, it maintains the same interior dimensions as the standard GLB-Class, offering seating for up to seven or 62 cubic feet of cargo space.
Related: Best Mercedes SUVs For Rear-Seat Passengers
Discover the most comfortable Mercedes SUVs for passengers in the back seats.
7. Buick Envista
2025 Buick Envista
8.1/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $22,900
Base Trim Engine: 1.2L ECOTEC I3 ICE
Base Trim Horsepower: 137 HP @5000 RPM
The most compact and budget-friendly crossover SUV on our list is the Buick Envista. Despite its small size and affordability, the Envista presents itself as a surprisingly refined vehicle, with a more premium appearance than many competitors in its price range. The Envista offers three trims, all starting below $30,000, with a base price of $23,800. This price point does come with a trade-off in performance; it’s among the slowest cars currently available, powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing just 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. The Envista seats five and, despite its compact dimensions, provides rear passengers with a respectable 37.3 inches of headroom and 38.7 inches of legroom. Maximum cargo capacity is 42 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Wind noise is effectively suppressed, and the cabin is well-insulated, minimizing the typical three-cylinder engine drone. The steering, while not particularly engaging, offers decent feedback and nimble handling. This is an excellent choice for buyers prioritizing practicality and value over exhilarating driving dynamics.
– Jared Rosenholtz, CarBuzz
8. Subaru Forester
2025 Subaru Forester
8.1/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $29,810
Engine: 2.5L Flat 4 Gas
Horsepower: 180 hp
A practical, spacious, and dependable crossover SUV option is the Subaru Forester. Standard all-wheel drive, a durable interior, and a strong reputation for reliability contribute to its appeal as one of the more adventure-ready crossovers available. Another attractive feature is the Forester’s base price of $29,995. Five trims are offered, varying in features and interior materials, but all are powered by the same 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. The Forester seats five and offers 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space in the trunk, expanding to 74.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
9. Honda CR-V
2025 Honda CR-V
7.8/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $30,100
Engine: 1.5 L Inline 4 Gas, 2.0 L Inline 4 Hybrid
Horsepower: 190-204 hp
Another affordable and highly reliable choice in the crossover SUV market is the Honda CR-V. For many years, the CR-V has consistently been second only to the RAV4 in sales among gasoline-powered SUVs. Six trims are available, including three conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) options and three hybrid models.
The most accessible trim is the LX, starting at $30,100. The most affordable hybrid variant, the Sport Hybrid, begins at $34,650. ICE models are powered by a 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder engine producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque, while hybrids utilize a 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder hybrid system with a combined 204 hp. The CR-V is a five-seater crossover SUV with a cargo capacity of up to 76.5 cubic feet behind the front seats.
10. Hyundai Tucson
2025 Hyundai Tucson
7.3/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $28,605
Engine: 2.5L Inline-4 Gas
Horsepower: 187 hp
Rounding out our top ten crossover SUVs and also starting under $30,000, with a BuzzScore of 7.3, is the Hyundai Tucson. Five trim levels are offered, from the SE to the Limited, with the entry-level SE starting at $28,705. Front-wheel drive is standard across all trims, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The Tucson is powered by a 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. Trim differences primarily involve styling and convenience features, but the XRT trim is an off-road-inspired variant designed to rival Toyota’s off-road models. All versions seat five and offer a surprisingly practical 80.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats, making it a versatile compact crossover SUV.
Related: Best SUVs Of 2025 Under $40k
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Best Of The Rest
2025 BMW X3
Base MSRP: $49,500
Engine: 2.0L Inline 4 Mild hybrid, 3.0 L Inline 6 Mild hybrid
Horsepower: 255-393 hp
2025 Genesis Electrified GV70
Base MSRP: $66,950
Base Trim Engine: EV
Base Trim Horsepower: 429 HP
Key Characteristics of Top-Rated Crossover SUVs
Despite the increasing variety of crossover SUVs entering the market, the fundamental differences between models are often subtle. These vehicles are engineered to meet specific consumer needs, resulting in common traits across the segment. When comparing the best crossover SUVs, you’ll notice recurring similarities.
- Maneuverability: Compared to larger SUVs or pickup trucks, top crossover SUVs are generally easier to handle due to their smaller size and lighter weight.
- Affordability: With less emphasis on heavy-duty towing or extreme off-road capabilities, crossovers are typically more affordable than traditional body-on-frame SUVs. However, premium luxury crossovers can command prices exceeding $50,000.
- Customization: The crossover segment’s rapid growth has led to a vast selection of models, offering buyers extensive customization options. Automakers aim to appeal to a broad range of demographics, providing each model in multiple trim levels.
- Safety: Sport utility vehicles are recognized for their safety, and while crossovers may be less bulky, they inherit much of this safety pedigree. While rollover ratings can be slightly lower due to their height, their increased weight compared to sedans enhances stability, and crumple zones are designed for optimal impact absorption. Furthermore, as family-oriented vehicles, most new models come standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance features.
Related: Every Toyota Crossover Ranked: Which One Comes Out On Top?
Toyota’s extensive crossover lineup includes 12 distinct models. We rank them to determine the best in the range.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Crossover SUV
Despite their widespread appeal, crossover SUVs are not without their limitations. Like any vehicle type, they have inherent strengths and weaknesses. Even the highest-rated crossover SUVs share some of these characteristics. Before committing to a crossover SUV, carefully evaluate the following pros and cons:
Pros of Crossover SUVs
- More affordable than body-on-frame SUVs
- Superior fuel economy compared to larger SUVs
- Agile and easy to maneuver in urban environments
- More practical cargo and passenger space than sedans
- Comfortable and well-equipped interiors for everyday usability
Cons of Crossover SUVs
- Limited towing capacity compared to SUVs and trucks
- Entry-level models may have less refined interiors
- Less overall utility and versatility than larger SUVs
Related: Why The World’s First Crossover Was Overlooked And Forgotten
Explore the history of the crossover and the model that pioneered the segment.
Crossover SUV FAQs
What distinguishes a crossover from an SUV?
The fundamental difference lies in their construction. Traditional SUVs utilize body-on-frame platforms, similar to pickup trucks, providing robustness and off-road capability. Crossovers, conversely, are built on car-based unibody platforms, resulting in lighter weight and improved on-road handling. Each design approach offers distinct advantages and disadvantages.
Which brands excel in the crossover SUV market?
Numerous automakers offer compelling crossover SUV lineups. Brands like Toyota and Honda are renowned for their reliability, while German manufacturers lead in the luxury crossover segment.
What are the top-rated crossover SUVs for 2025?
Currently, the Toyota Grand Highlander and BMW iX stand as our highest-rated crossover SUVs for the 2025 model year, representing distinct ends of the spectrum in terms of size, powertrain, and price.
Sources: Toyota, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Buick, Subaru, Honda, Hyundai
