Our top 10 best SUV cars of 2024

Thanks to their practicality, space and style, SUV cars have become increasingly popular with UK drivers over the last decade. SUV is the acronym for Sports Utility Vehicle.

First introduced to UK roads in the early 1990s, SUVs have become a go-to choice for families looking for spacious, stylish yet steadfast cars. Some SUVs even have the capacity to go off road – offering drivers the ability to handle off-road terrain, get good ground clearance and enjoy heavier towing.

For those who don’t need off-road capacity but want something that can handle the daily commute with ease, most modern SUVs are available in two-wheel drive configurations with similar features to hatchbacks – making them smooth and easy to handle for everyday use. In our list below, we've rounded up some of the best SUV cars available on the market in 2024 in terms of practicality, space and pricing.

Best SUV cars - our top picks

Dacia Duster

• Doors: 5
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Prices can start around £9,498**
• MPG: 44.1mpg*

The first car on our list, a used Dacia Duster, is what is typically referred to as a 'crossover SUV'. Crossover SUVs are usually lighter and more economical than traditional SUVs due to way their body-on-frame is designed.

The Duster has earned the reputation of being one of, if not the most, affordable SUV cars on the market, compared to its rivals in the small SUV segment. The model is built upon the Renault/Nissan CMF-B platform, which is also used in the Jogger, Sandero and Renault Clio.

The Dacia Duster is one of the best SUV used cars in 2024 because of its affordability, practicality and versatility. When it comes to room in the back, the Duster stacks up well compared to most compact SUVs, with decent levels of head, leg and shoulder room for two and, on shorter journeys, even for three. There is ample boot space, offering 478 litres on the two-wheel drive variant, which expands to 1,623 litres with the rear bench down.

The original 'HS'-series Duster SUV was first launched in 2010, while the second-generation model was introduced seven years later. Both were a huge success for the brand. Fast forward to 2024, the sentiment towards the Duster among car buyers remains the same.

There was a recent mid-term update which gave the model a smarter look and an upgraded cabin. Despite it being on the cheaper end of the scale, it has smart upholstery, comfy headrests, and a high centre console with a wide retracting armrest. The Duster also has two multimedia systems with an eight-inch 'Media Display' touchscreen, featuring 'Android Auto' and 'Apple CarPlay' smartphone-mirroring, so keeping the family entertained on long journeys won’t be a problem!

Kia Sportage

• Doors: 5
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Prices can start around £11,998**
• MPG: 44.1mpg*

Now in its fifth generation, the Kia Sportage is the South Korean manufacturer's most popular car. As of May 2024, the Kia Sportage is also the UK’s top registered model, with 4,202 models sold ^[1].

We consider a used Kia Sportage to be one of the best family SUV cars currently available because of the value for money the model offers. It has a large boot, spacious and comfortable cabin, and an array of tech and safety features. Depending on the model you choose, there is around 591 litres of stowage space in the boot, extendable to 1,780 if you fold the rear bench.

In terms of engines and fuel types, the Sportage offers motorists an abundance of choice. There are petrol, diesel and hybrid powertrains for you to choose from on the used market. Our pick is the 1.6T GDi ISG 2 version. New diesel options are no longer available, and a fully-electric Sportage isn't planned, as Kia already offer their EV6 and EV9 to drivers. version isn't planned with Kia already offering their EV6 and EV9 to drivers.

On the road, the Sportage delivers what it needs to in terms of driving experience. The steering is light, which is great whether you're driving through a busy town or a long stretch of motorway. Despite being an SUV, it can still fit into smaller parking spaces in the city. Plus, a wide selection of trim levels offers variety and choice when it comes to picking the best Kia Sportage for your lifestyle and preferences.

BMW X5

• Doors: 5
• Fuel type: Petrol/Plugin Hybrid
• Prices can start around £78,898**

In an ever-expanding range of SUVs, the BMW X5 remains a popular choice if you're looking for premium comfort, convenience and durability on every drive. Classed as a midsize luxury SUV, the X5 drives more like a hatchback thanks to its smooth ride and expert handling.

Currently in its fourth generation, the BMW X5 is available with more efficient powertrains – including plug-in hybrids. The latest X5 is bigger and bolder than previous models and now comes with four-wheel drive as standard. With all-round air suspension, it also gives better off-road clearance as well as better levels of comfort on the road.

You won’t need to worry about space in the X5, there is plenty of room in the front and enough space for three adults to sit comfortably in the rear. There’s plenty of room in the boot too, with 500 litres available with all five seats in use. This can be expanded to 1,720 litres with the rear seats folded down. The rear seats are configured in a convenient 40/20/40 split.

The interior offers all the high-quality perks you'd expect from BMW. A mixture of touchscreen and physical buttons control the infotainment system. A standard digital dashboard display takes the place of conventional analogue instruments, with the option of a heads-up display. There’s also a 12.3-inch infotainment system integrated into the dashboard, which is easy to use, intuitive and customisable. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard.

The model is fun to drive thanks to BMW’s trademark powerful yet efficient engine. Despite being an SUV with a larger kerb weight, the X5 can take you from 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds. This is thanks to its 388bhp and 600Nm torque, and really highlights why the X5 is one of the best SUV hybrid cars currently available on the market.

Kia EV9

• Doors: 5
• Fuel type: Electric
• Prices can start around £74,995**
• Range: 347 miles*

Coming back to Kia, we think it's only fair we mention the EV9. Launched in 2023, the EV9 wowed the market with its impressive size and forward-thinking design. Designed to fit seven passengers, it's the perfect size for a growing family who need more space, more style and are seeking more sustainability out on the roads.

As mentioned, the EV9 stands out on the road due to its size. It measures at 5.015 metres in length, 1.98 metres in width and 1.78 metres in height. The EV9 showcases Kia’s strategic commitment to becoming a leader in sustainable mobility. It has a panoramic sunroof and solar panel built into the bonnet, making this electric SUV ultra-sustainable. On the inside, its spacious cabin and luxurious look means passengers will ride in comfort.

It’s platform is based on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) that Kia’s electric range is known for, and, with a range of up to 349 miles* as well as fast charging times, it has no issues coping with longer journeys. This is what makes the model stand out for us – no one wants range anxiety when they buy an electric SUV!

Keeping everyone entertained is also easy with the EV9’s triple panoramic display, which features a 12.3-inch driver display screen, five-inch climate control screen, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen navigation with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system is extremely futuristic.

Another one of the model’s biggest selling points as an SUV is the generous front trunk space to store small to medium bags. The boot’s 571-litre capacity can also easily increase to an impressive 2,320 litres when the back seats are folded, so getting all the family and their luggage into the EV9 won’t be an issue.

Volvo EX30

• Doors: 5
• Fuel type: Electric
• Prices can start around £37,998**
• Range: 214 miles*

In terms of the best SUV electric cars currently available, the Volvo EX30 is arguably one of the more affordable electric offerings in this segment. Classed as a compact SUV, the EX30 is the manufacturer’s smallest ever electric SUV.

Volvo launched the model with the aim of delivering 'premium full-electric mobility to a much broader audience'. It's priced and sized much lower and smaller than the brand's existing XC40 and C40 electric models. The EX30 also rivals the likes of the Kia Niro EV and Jeep Avenger.

Unlike other Volvo EVs, this estate-style SUV is built on a platform specifically designed for an electric vehicle. Its entry-level version features a 51kWh battery powered by a rear-mounted 268bhp motor, giving you a range of around 214 miles*. For boot space, you have 318 litres, rising to 622 litres with the rear bench folded, so the EX30 gives you range and plenty of room.

The model may be Volvo's smallest-ever EV, but this SUV certainly doesn't lack character or kerb appeal. It has a similar look to Volvo's larger EX90 SUV, with a closed-off grille and the marque's usual 'Thor's Hammer' headlights. Wheel sizes vary between 18 and 20 inches. The interior is clean and simple with all the drive gauges found on a centrally positioned 12.3-inch vertically mounted Google-based touchscreen.

When you’re travelling with precious cargo like little ones, you want to know they are safe. That’s why it’s our pick of the best SUV electric cars; Volvo is synonymous with safety.

BMW iX

• Doors: 5
• Fuel type: Electric
• Prices can start around £73,998**
• Range: 263 miles*

If you’re looking for luxury in your next SUV, then look no further. BMW’s iX finds itself competing against the likes of the Audi e-tron and Mercedes EQC. The model is a flagship display of German automotive engineering excellence.

Despite its towering stature, this SUV has a sporty style with distinctive looks, sleek front lights and large air vents. It is very similar in size to its sister and fellow contender on this list, the X5. The newly styled kidney grille has split opinion, but for us, it’s what makes the model standout from the rest. BMW have also discreetly integrated cameras, radars and sensors behind the grille itself.

To continue the sporty theme, you get 21-inch alloys as standard or optional 22-inch to further stand out from the crowd. Not only does it look stylish, but it feels stylish too, thanks to flush side panels with frameless windows and electrically operated door handles with soft close.

The boot of the iX is a bit smaller than some of its rivals, but still offers 500 litres of space, which does expand if you electrically fold down the rear seats. The iX will suit growing families, with ISOFIX points for child seats and a five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP.

On the inside, the IX is built to impress. The cabin has a modern yet minimalistic feel, despite its huge, curved digital display angled towards the driver. The digital display features a 12-inch screen for your driver information and a 15-inch screen for all your infotainment.

Going on a road trip or adventure? Three large adults can sit very comfortably in the rear leather seats with plenty of leg and headroom to spare, despite this being where the battery is found. Rear passengers also have their own climate controls. The headroom is enhanced by a huge panoramic glass roof, which can be frosted over with the touch of a button. You’re guaranteed to be road-tripping with style and sophistication in the iX!

Mercedes-Benz EQC

• Doors: 5
• Fuel type: Electric
• Prices can start around £30,998**
• Range: 254 miles*

Staying with luxury SUVs, one of the best you can get in 2024 is the Mercedes-Benz EQC. It's a rival to the BMW iX because the EQC offers the same premium quality that you would expect from Mercedes-Benz. The EQC was Mercedes-Benz' first serious move into the full-EV market. The EQC stands out in its segment due to things like its driving range and cabin practicality.

The EQC's maximum 254-mile* driving range might be 27 miles fewer than the Audi Q8 e-tron, but it’s just as impressive inside and a whole lot of fun to drive. There are five driving modes ('Comfort', 'Sport', 'Eco', 'Individual' and 'Maximum range'). There are also five different battery regeneration programmes (the latter selectable via paddles behind the steering wheel). Switch to 'Sport' and it feels nippy thanks to a 408hp total output and 765Nm of torque.

There's also an 'auto' regeneration mode that uses the car's speed limit detection, navigation systems and radar cruise control to blend the regenerative braking of the electric motors up and down automatically. This helps enhance efficiency and handling, another reason why the EQC made this list.

In terms of features and technology, there's a 10.25-inch touchscreen media display and instrument cluster. You can opt for the Seat Comfort package with electro-pneumatic four-way lumbar support for the front heated chairs.

Not to mention ambient lighting with a choice of 64 colours. There's a 500-litre boot on offer, too, which is a great size by class standards. The EQC does not scrimp on luxury or tech while still having all the practicalities needed from an SUV.

Škoda Kodiaq

• Doors: 5
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Prices can start around £18,498**
• MPG: 47.1mpg*

First launched in 2017, the Škoda Kodiaq is a well-priced, high-quality alternative for buyers in search of a stylish mid-sized SUV with seven-seat versatility. Built on a four-wheel drive system and sophisticated MQB chassis, Skoda's Kodiaq is the perfect option for those in the market for an affordable, stylish and practical SUV.

The second-row bench features all the versatility you'd want from this kind of seven-seat SUV. The backrest reclines for greater comfort on long journeys and the base slides back and forth by up to 180mm. If you don’t need to use seven seats, the rearmost seats can be folded into the floor with an easy and simple action.

The boot offers up to 630 litres with five seats in use. If you need more space than that, you can fold the second row bench to expand the boot space to a class-leading 2,005 litres. By picking the Kodiaq, you chose an SUV which delivers in terms of spaciousness while also offering a premium feel with high-end technology.

There’s a centre-dash infotainment screen, available in eight-inch form in flagship models or 6.5-inch in entry and mid-level variations. Both have ‘Smartlink' systems, which provide access to the 'Apple CarPlay' or 'Android Auto'/'MirrorLink' systems. Plus, if you’ve opted for the navigation and wi-fi package, you'll be able to make full use of the clever connectivity functions provided by the Czech brand's 'Skoda Connect' app.

If you are looking for great handling on every journey and an extremely well-kitted out interior, the Kodiaq is one of our top picks for the best petrol SUV cars currently available. You get everything you need for a fraction of the price of some of the other SUVs on this list.

Volkswagen T-Cross

• Doors: 5
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Prices can start around £13,998**
• MPG: 47.1mpg*

It's hard to believe that Volkswagen didn’t enter the family SUV market until 2018. It was then that the T-Cross was introduced. The model was an excellent debut by the German manufacturer into the subcompact crossover SUV segment.

Volkswagen based the design for the T-Cross on their ever-popular Polo hatchback. The T-Cross may not be quite as nippy as the Polo, but it still provides an agile and satisfying drive for both tight city streets and winding country roads. This makes it a perfect choice for those who still prioritise manoeuvrability and versatility from their SUV.

Over 1.2 million T-Cross models sold before it was given a facelift in 2023. The Volkswagen T-Cross is now offered with 1.0-litre TSI petrol and 1.5-litre TSI petrol engine options. Entry-level variants get it in 95PS form with a five-speed gearbox. Although it is a subcompact crossover SUV, the T-Cross will comfortably seat two six-foot adults, with the option to shift the sliding rear bench all the way back to the rear.

Doing so reduces boot space from 455 litres to 385 litres, which, although reduced, is still 10% more than the Volkswagen Polo. The addition of an adjustable-height boot floor makes the cargo space more accessible for a variety of loads too. If you’re interested in the best small SUV cars, you should definitely consider a T-Cross.

Peugeot 2008

• Doors: 5
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Prices can start around £26,095**
• MPG: 44.0mpg*

Last, but by no means least, is the Peugeot 2008. It’s an SUV that offers extra space to buyers who have budgeted for a small car. That’s why it is our choice of the best compact SUV cars available.

You can personalise this SUV to suit your style, with five powertrains, eight RGB LED colours for the interior on offer and the option to upgrade to the sporty GT Line trim when buying from new. There's also the fully electric Peugeot e-2008 if you're looking to make that switch from traditional combustion engine to fully electric.

The 2008's bold and broad rear design also shares a likeness with its big brother, the 3008 SUV, with both featuring a strong black rear connecting strip. Inside and out, the 2008 is fitted with the latest technology and design touches to enhance and enrich your driving experience. It’s only the second car to get Peugeot’s 3D i-Cockpit, a digital display above the compact steering wheel that uses hologram technology.

The Peugeot 2008 also offers an intelligent driving experience, with driving assistance features like lane keeping assist, which gradually fixes steering to keep the car in the lane, and active blind spot monitoring, which activates when you’re overtaking, being overtaken or when there’s another car in your blind spot. Driving has never been so seamless.

For your cargo and luggage, every powertrain comes with a 434-litre boot with a false floor that can be positioned to create additional space beneath. Not only is the 2008 absolutely packed with tech and driver-assist features, it’s also extremely practical for a compact SUV.

References

1. https://www.smmt.co.uk/vehicle-data/car-registrations/