The automotive landscape is currently dominated by the surging popularity of crossovers and SUVs, and within this dynamic market, large SUVs stand out as the kings of the road. These vehicles are not just about getting from point A to point B; they are about making a statement, providing unparalleled comfort, and offering the versatility that modern families and adventurers demand. Whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on a cross-country journey, the best large SUVs of 2025 promise a blend of space, power, and sophistication that is hard to match.
For those in the market for a vehicle that can comfortably accommodate a growing family, manage heavy cargo loads, or even tow trailers, the 2025 model year brings an exciting array of options. This article breaks down the top contenders in the large SUV segment, highlighting the best mid-size crossovers, full-size SUVs, large luxury SUVs, and large electric SUVs that are set to dominate the roads in 2025. Each selection offers a unique blend of features, performance, and technology, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every need and preference. Dive in to discover the best large SUVs of 2025 and find the ideal vehicle to elevate your driving experience.
Best Midsize Crossover of 2025: Kia Telluride
The 2025 Kia Telluride continues its reign as the top-rated midsize crossover, a title it has rightfully earned since its debut in 2020. This SUV has consistently outshone its competitors, offering a compelling package of spaciousness, performance, and style. The Telluride is not just a vehicle; it’s a statement of practical luxury, capable of comfortably seating seven or eight passengers while providing generous cargo space for all their gear. For the past two years, Driving.ca has recognized the Kia Telluride as its top choice in the midsize crossover category, and the 2025 model reinforces this accolade with its continued excellence.
Under the hood, the Kia Telluride boasts a robust 3.8-litre V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain provides ample power for daily driving and more demanding tasks, including towing up to 2,268 kilograms. The engine is paired with a smooth and responsive eight-speed automatic transmission and a sophisticated all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. Kia’s Active On-Demand AWD system intelligently distributes torque between the front and rear axles, optimizing traction in diverse driving conditions. On paved roads, this system enhances cornering agility, while off-road, features like AWD Lock and increased ground clearance provide genuine capability on muddy or sandy terrain. The X-Pro trim level further enhances off-road prowess with all-terrain tires, making the Telluride surprisingly versatile. Fuel economy is reasonable for its class, with an average consumption of 11.7 L/100 km.
Inside the cabin, the 2025 Telluride offers a roomy and upscale environment. Access to all three rows is easy, and both second and third-row passengers enjoy above-average space. The third row provides 798 mm of legroom and 961 mm of headroom, making it genuinely usable for adults on shorter trips. The second row is even more spacious, with 1,077 mm of legroom and 985 mm of headroom. The airy feel of the cabin is enhanced by a large greenhouse and the optional double moonroof, available on all but the base LX trim. The 12.3-inch multimedia screen is a central command hub, integrating navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto (though not wirelessly). Controls are logically arranged and clearly marked, ensuring ease of use for both driver and passengers.
Best Midsize Crossover Alternative: 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander has quickly established itself as a formidable contender in the midsize crossover segment. Introduced just last year, it has rapidly gained a reputation for its enhanced space and versatility, making it a strong alternative to the Kia Telluride. The Grand Highlander distinguishes itself with a wheelbase that is 99 mm longer than the standard Highlander, significantly improving third-row passenger comfort and cargo capacity. This extended wheelbase makes the Grand Highlander particularly well-suited for growing families who need both passenger and cargo space.
The Toyota Grand Highlander offers a range of powertrain options to suit different needs and preferences. The base engine is a lively 2.4L turbo-four, producing 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. For those seeking fuel efficiency, the Hybrid model combines a 2.5L four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, delivering a combined 243 horsepower and 233 lb-ft of torque, managed by an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT). At the top of the range, the Grand Highlander Max utilizes the 2.4L turbo-four and an electric motor to produce a robust 362 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. All Grand Highlander models come standard with all-wheel-drive, ensuring confident handling in various conditions. Towing capacities are also impressive, with the Hybrid model rated for up to 1,588 kg, while the gas-powered and Max models can tow up to 2,268 kg.
The interior of the Grand Highlander is tech-rich and passenger-focused. While the base XLE trim features a seven-inch instrumentation screen, all higher trims upgrade to a 12.3-inch digital display. A standard 12.3-inch multimedia screen across all trims supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offering seamless smartphone integration. The infotainment system is praised for its sharp graphics, responsive touch inputs, and one of the best voice control systems available in the market, enhancing the overall user experience.
Best Full-Size SUV of 2025: Chevrolet Tahoe
The Chevrolet Tahoe and its sibling, the GMC Yukon, represent the pinnacle of full-size SUVs, offering unmatched space and capability. These SUVs are built on a tried-and-true formula that has made them perennial favorites for buyers seeking maximum passenger and cargo capacity. With seating for up to eight passengers and a cavernous cargo area, the 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe stands out as the best large SUV in the full-size category, mirroring much of what the GMC Yukon offers.
The 2025 Tahoe offers a compelling range of engine choices to cater to different performance and efficiency needs. The standard engine for most trims is Chevrolet’s 5.3L EcoTec3 V8, producing 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides strong performance and is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, driving the rear wheels as standard, with all-wheel-drive optional on the LS and standard on higher trims. For those seeking more power, the 6.2L EcoTec3 V8, standard on the High Country and available on the RST, Z71, and Premier, delivers an impressive 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. For enhanced towing capability and efficiency, the Duramax 3.0L diesel engine is available on all models except the base LS. This reworked diesel now produces 305 horsepower and a substantial 495 lb-ft of torque, increasing towing capacity to an impressive 3,720 kg. The Z71 package enhances off-road capability with a two-speed transfer case, improved approach and departure angles, and optional Four-Corner Air Ride Adaptive suspension, which is standard on the High Country, improving both ride comfort and roll control.
Inside, the 2025 Tahoe features a redesigned cockpit with two large, clear digital displays. An 11-inch digital instrumentation cluster is complemented by a massive 17.7-inch multimedia screen, featuring integrated Google maps and Google voice assistant for seamless connectivity and control. The top-tier High Country trim also includes an oversized 15-inch head-up display, further enhancing the driver’s technological experience. Passenger space is generous in all three rows, with the third row offering 970 mm of headroom and 886 mm of legroom, comfortably accommodating adults. Cargo space is also immense, offering 722L with all seats up, expanding to 2,053L with the third row folded, and a massive 3,475L with both the second and third rows folded down.
Best Full-Size SUV Alternative: 2025 Ford Expedition
The 2025 Ford Expedition presents a compelling alternative in the full-size SUV category, boasting a complete restyling with a handsomely rugged front-end design. Available in standard and Max wheelbase configurations, the Expedition rides on a redesigned suspension and is powered by a potent 3.5L turbo-V6 engine that produces 400 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The Expedition excels in towing, with a capacity of up to 4,355 kg when properly equipped with trailer brakes. For off-road enthusiasts, the Tremor trim stands out, featuring 270 mm of ground clearance, 33-inch all-terrain tires, and an upgraded version of the 3.5L turbo-V6 producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This enhanced engine is also optional on the top-of-the-line Platinum model. The Tremor further benefits from a retuned suspension, underbody protection, and a Rock Crawl Mode, making it highly capable in challenging terrains.
The interior of the 2025 Expedition is highlighted by an oversized 24-inch display, positioned higher than usual, allowing drivers to view information over the steering wheel. This expansive screen integrates the traditional instrumentation on the left and mapping on the right, with customizable widgets in between. A 13.2-inch central display handles infotainment functions, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Both standard and Max wheelbase models offer generous passenger space, with 1,044 mm of legroom in the middle row and 927 mm in the third row. Cargo space is plentiful, with the standard-length Expedition offering 612L behind the third row, 1,960L with the third row folded, and 3,072L with both rear rows folded. The Max version increases these figures to 1,022L, 2,135L, and a substantial 3,486L, respectively, making it one of the most spacious SUVs available.
Best Large Luxury SUV of 2025: Lexus TX
The 2025 Lexus TX arrives as the quintessential large luxury SUV, perfectly blending family-friendly practicality with Lexus’s renowned comfort and refinement. This three-row crossover offers ample space for passengers and cargo, a smooth and comfortable ride typical of Lexus vehicles, and an upscale design that exudes sophistication. The TX is available in two main models, the TX 350 and TX 500h, with a total of 10 available packages—six for the TX 350 and four for the TX 500h. Notably, the plug-in hybrid TX 500h+ is not offered in Canada.
The primary distinction between the TX 350 and TX 500h models lies in their powertrains. The TX 350 is powered by a 2.4L turbo-four engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive. The TX 500h hybrid utilizes the same 2.4L turbo-four engine combined with an electric motor, delivering a net output of 366 horsepower and 409 lb-ft of torque. It features a six-speed automatic transmission and Lexus’s DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system, which dynamically adjusts power distribution between the front and rear axles based on driving conditions. The DIRECT4 system enhances handling, especially during spirited driving. Beyond performance, the TX 500h offers superior fuel efficiency, averaging 8.6 L/100 km compared to the TX 350’s 10.3 L/100 km. Both models share a towing capacity of 2,268 kg.
Inside, the Lexus TX offers a spacious cabin with seating for six or seven passengers across three rows. Access to the third row is facilitated by available captain’s chairs in the second row of the 500h and a convenient release lever in the 350 that slides the middle row forward. The third row provides 945 mm of headroom and 851 mm of legroom, while the middle row offers 981 mm and 1,003 mm respectively. Cargo space is generous, with 572L behind the third row, 1,625L with the third row folded, and 2,747L with both the second and third rows folded. A prominent 14-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard, offering crisp graphics and quick response times. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, while navigation is available after a trial period. The TX also comes equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance features.
Best Large Luxury SUV Alternative: 2025 Porsche Cayenne
The 2025 Porsche Cayenne continues to blend luxury with high-performance, offering a sporty alternative in the large luxury SUV segment. When Porsche first introduced the Cayenne, it marked a significant shift for the brand, successfully entering the SUV market without compromising its sporting heritage. The third-generation Cayenne receives notable updates, including the return of the GTS trim.
The Cayenne’s engine lineup starts with a base 3.0L turbo-V6 producing 348 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The Cayenne E-Hybrid combines this V6 with a 174 hp electric motor, resulting in a total output of 453 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The Cayenne S upgrades to a 4.0L turbo-V8 with 468 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. The Cayenne S E-Hybrid enhances the hybrid setup with increased power, delivering 512 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. The GTS model features a 4.0L turbo-V8 producing 493 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque. The top-tier Turbo E-Hybrid pairs the 4.0L turbo-V8 with the 174 hp electric motor for a combined output of 729 horsepower and 701 lb-ft of torque. The Cayenne Coupé variants offer similar engine options with slightly enhanced performance, and the Turbo GT Coupé stands out with a 650 horsepower version of the 4.0L turbo-V8, achieving 0-100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds. All Cayenne models utilize an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive, with a maximum towing capacity of 3,493 kg.
The interior of the revamped Cayenne GTS emphasizes Porsche’s driver-centric design philosophy, featuring the Porsche Driver Experience, which includes a curved digital instrument cluster and an optional passenger screen. Cargo space in the gas models is 772L with the rear seats upright and 1,708L with them folded. Hybrid models offer slightly less space at 627L and 1,563L respectively. The Cayenne Coupé models offer reduced headroom and cargo capacity due to their sloping roofline, with cargo space ranging from 592L to 1,502L for gas models and 434L to 1,344L for hybrids.
Best Large EV Crossover of 2025: Kia EV9
The 2025 Kia EV9 leads the charge in the large electric SUV category, offering a diverse range of models and powertrain configurations. The EV9 lineup includes the Light model with a standard-range battery and the Wind model with a long-range battery, both featuring a single motor and rear-wheel-drive (RWD). All other EV9 models utilize the long-range battery and a dual-motor setup, providing all-wheel-drive and enhanced performance.
The base EV9 Light features a 76.1 kWh battery and a rear-mounted motor producing 215 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a driving range of 370 km. All other models upgrade to a 99.8 kWh battery. The Wind RWD model delivers 201 horsepower and the same torque, extending the range to 489 km. RWD models have a limited towing capacity of 907 kg. Stepping up to the dual-motor Land models brings all-wheel-drive and significantly increased power, with 379 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. The Land and Land Premium models offer a driving range of 451 km, while the GT-Line package slightly reduces range to 435 km. Dual-motor models increase towing capacity to 2,268 kg. The EV9 boasts impressive energy consumption figures, ranging from 2.6 to 2.9 Le/100 km, with annual charging costs between $850 and $940.
Looking ahead, Kia is set to launch the EV9 GT in 2026, which will feature dual electric motors producing an estimated 501 horsepower, accelerating from 0 to 96 km/h in just 4.3 seconds, making it the quickest three-row crossover Kia has ever produced. The EV9’s 800-volt architecture enables rapid charging, allowing the 76.1 kWh battery to charge from 10% to 80% in 20 minutes using a 350 kW DC fast charger. The larger 99.8 kWh battery achieves the same charge level in 24 minutes with a fast charger.
The EV9’s cabin is luxurious and spacious, featuring a combined instrumentation and infotainment screen with dual 12.3-inch displays under a single pane of glass. The system is praised for its accurate range estimation. Both six- and seven-seat configurations offer ample space, with generous room in the front and middle rows, though the third row is slightly more compact with 783 mm of legroom. Cargo space measures 573L with the third row up, 1,233L with it folded, and 2,314L with both rear rows folded.
Best Large EV Crossover Alternative: 2026 BMW iX
The 2026 BMW iX offers a high-tech and luxurious alternative in the large electric SUV segment, although its styling remains a point of debate. For those who appreciate its unique aesthetic, the iX delivers on all other fronts. Positioned in size similarly to the BMW X5, the iX provides seating for five and substantial cargo space. The 2026 iX lineup includes three models: the iX xDrive45, iX xDrive60 (formerly xDrive50), and the new top-tier iX M70 xDrive (replacing the M60 xDrive).
The iX xDrive45 delivers 402 horsepower and 700 lb-ft of torque. The iX xDrive60 increases output to 536 horsepower and 765 lb-ft of torque, a 20 hp increase over the previous xDrive50. The iX M70 xDrive tops the range with 650 horsepower and a staggering 811 lb-ft of torque when launch control is engaged. Battery technology improvements have increased energy density, with the iX xDrive45 featuring a 94.8 kWh usable battery capacity, offering an estimated range of up to 502 km, a significant increase from the previous xDrive40. The iX xDrive60 utilizes a 109.1 kWh battery for an estimated range of 547 km, while the iX M70 xDrive uses a 108.9 kWh battery, achieving 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds with a range of 486 km. Charging speeds have also been improved, with DC fast charging up to 175 kW for the xDrive45 and 195 kW for the xDrive60 and M70.
The interior of the iX is distinctly BMW, featuring new optional M multifunction seats, a panoramic sunroof with electrochromic glass, heated rear seats and armrests, and a Bowers & Wilkins sound system. Advanced driving assistance features include Highway Assistant for hands-free driving on limited-access highways and Parking Assistant Professional for remote parking via smartphone.
Conclusion:
The 2025 model year presents an impressive selection of best large SUVs, each excelling in different categories to meet diverse consumer needs. From the family-friendly and value-packed Kia Telluride in the midsize crossover segment to the spacious and powerful Chevrolet Tahoe in the full-size category, and the luxurious Lexus TX, there’s a top contender for every requirement. For those seeking electric power, the Kia EV9 and BMW iX lead the charge with innovative technology and impressive range.
Choosing the best large SUV ultimately depends on individual priorities. Consider factors such as passenger and cargo needs, desired level of luxury, performance expectations, and fuel efficiency or electric range. Whether you prioritize space, towing capability, off-road prowess, or cutting-edge technology, the 2025 large SUV market offers a vehicle that perfectly aligns with your lifestyle and preferences. These top picks represent the pinnacle of their respective segments, promising an elevated driving experience for years to come.
