Validation in the automotive world is always appreciated, especially when our perspectives on car aesthetics resonate with fellow enthusiasts. We recently received an intriguing question from a reader named Mark that sparked a lively internal debate: What are the coolest looking SUV rears currently on the market? Mark’s query, prompted by an encounter with a less-than-appealing Mercedes rear design, led us to ponder the art of SUV aesthetics from a unique angle.
This thought exercise expanded beyond just SUVs to include crossover utility vehicles (CUVs) and even a concept vehicle that we collectively hope will see the light of production. The rear design of a vehicle often encapsulates its overall style and personality. From rugged and utilitarian to sleek and modern, the choices are diverse, and opinions, as we discovered, are strong. Join us as we delve into the rear views that have caught our eye and share why these SUVs stand out in a crowded market. Perhaps you’ll agree with our selections, or maybe you have your own favorites – let us know in the comments below!
Rivian R3X: A Retro-Futuristic Cool SUV Design
Elliot Ross Studio
“Electric vehicles seem to be leading the charge in modern rear-end designs, and the Rivian R3X is a prime example of cool SUV styling. I’m genuinely excited about the Rivian R3X’s rear. It masterfully blends modern design cues with a subtle nod to the iconic Lancia Delta Integrale. The stance and ride height, viewed from the rear, give it an undeniably fun and adventurous vibe. It’s a fantastic combination of contemporary and classic automotive design elements.” – Ben Woodworth
Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally: A Production SUV with Rally-Inspired Coolness
Ford/Charlie Magee
“If we’re talking about production SUVs and CUVs with cool rear designs, I have to admit, the Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally surprises me as my top pick. Those signature Mustang taillights are inherently cool, and when you add the bold, somewhat excessive wing and racing stripes, it just works. It screams rally-inspired fun and performance. For anyone who appreciates rally car aesthetics, the Mach-E Rally delivers a visually exciting and cool SUV package.” – Ben Woodworth
Rivian R3: Perfect Proportions for a Cool SUV Aesthetic
Rivian
“While it’s still a pre-production model, the Rivian R3 deserves recognition for its expertly crafted rear. It effectively channels the spirit of the Lancia Delta while maintaining a distinctly modern appeal. It avoids the generic SUV blob look and also steers clear of over-the-top, try-hard off-roader styling. The proportions are just spot-on, creating a truly cool SUV. As someone who isn’t typically drawn to SUVs, the R3’s rear design captivated me from the moment it was unveiled. It’s simply a very well-designed and cool-looking SUV.” – Eddy Eckart
Scout Traveler: A Cool SUV Nod to Heritage Design
Scout Motors
“If concept and pre-production vehicles are in consideration, the Scout Traveler has to be mentioned for its cool SUV rear. The integration of the spare tire carrier is nicely executed, but the real standout is the D-pillar shape. It’s a brilliant homage to the classic Scout II, even though the original Traveler didn’t feature that iconic rear window shape. This design choice gives the Scout Traveler a cool, retro vibe that’s both nostalgic and modern.” – Brandan Gillogly
HiPhi X: An X-ceptional, Though Unlikely, Cool SUV Rear
HiPhi
HiPhi
“For a truly unique and cool SUV rear, I’m going with the HiPhi X. This CUV takes design risks, especially beyond the B-pillar. While the falcon-door concept might be borrowed from the Tesla Model X, the HiPhi’s implementation appears less complex and potentially more robust. However, the HiPhi’s Chinese origin and current financial uncertainties make its availability in the US questionable. Despite these challenges, the HiPhi X boasts a strikingly cool and innovative SUV design, particularly at the rear.” – Sajeev Mehta
Cameron Neveu
Cameron Neveu
Cameron Neveu
Cameron Neveu
“Actually, revisiting my choices, I must reiterate my appreciation for the Hyundai Ioniq 5’s pixelated rear styling. Cameron Neveu’s photos from 2022 still highlight its cool SUV design even now. While 8-bit car design might not become a dominant trend, the Ioniq 5’s rear is undeniably positive and distinctive. Beyond its cool looks, it’s also a practical and functional SUV.” – Sajeev Mehta
Range Rover: Timelessly Elegant Cool SUV Rear Design
Land Rover
“My vote for a cool SUV rear goes to the top-tier Range Rover. It’s elegant, simple, substantial, and evokes a sense of luxury and capability. The Range Rover’s rear design is iconic for a reason; it’s a masterclass in understated cool SUV aesthetics.” – Joe DeMatio
Land Rover Defender: A Biased but Cool SUV Rear Choice
Land Rover
“I’ll admit my bias here, but I’m a big fan of the current Land Rover Defender’s rear-end design. Especially in darker colors, it exudes a rugged and cool SUV persona. There’s a utilitarian charm to the Defender’s rear that I find incredibly appealing.” – Matt Tuccillo
Mazda CX-30: Subtly Cool SUV Design that Blends In
Mazda
“While I’m not generally a crossover enthusiast, the Mazda CX-30 consistently impresses me with its design, especially the rear. Mazda has clearly put significant effort into making the CX-30’s shape, particularly the rear, look less like a typical boxy crossover. Most CUVs tend to look somewhat generic, but the CX-30 achieves a cohesive and attractive design that, while perhaps subtly vanilla, is undeniably cool in its understated way. If I were in the market for a crossover, the CX-30’s cool and non-offensive design would be a strong selling point.” – Kyle Smith
Bronco Sport: Old-School Cool SUV Styling from the Rear
Ford
“I’m particularly drawn to the retro styling of the Ford Bronco Sport, especially when viewed from the rear. While the full-sized Bronco gets the spotlight for off-road prowess, the smaller Bronco Sport arguably surpasses it in design sophistication. Ford truly created a design winner with this model. I consistently notice them on the road, and my attention is always caught by their rear view. The Bronco Sport has a genuinely cool SUV aesthetic that’s both distinctive and appealing.” – Steven Cole Smith
“Interestingly, when the Bronco Sport first appeared, I was skeptical of its design, especially launching before the highly anticipated Ford Bronco. It felt like the Bronco Sport was trying to emulate the real Bronco but was intentionally toned down. However, the Sport’s design has grown on me significantly, and now I appreciate seeing them. They are, overall, a good-looking and cool CUV.” – Ben Woodworth
What defines a cool looking SUV rear for you? Is it bold styling, subtle elegance, retro cues, or modern innovation? Let us know your favorite cool SUV rear designs in the comments below!
