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Overview
In the battle of winning the hearts of SUV connoisseurs, crossovers have always been ahead in the game. A crossover blends engine power, passenger space, and the ease of use of a car with the ruggedness and four-wheel drive capability of an SUV. Although many people still need the versatility of a pickup truck, more and more customers are gravitating towards crossovers instead, because of their ease of handling and versatility. These types of vehicles offer you all the comfort of a car without sacrificing any cargo space.
If you plan to invest in an SUV this year, you are in luck. After a dip in 2020, the leading automobile companies have launched their new vehicles in 2021, and we can’t get over how powerful they are. Here are the top 21 best crossovers you can get right now.
Table of Contents
21. Ford Explorer
Source: Ford
Why We Picked It: This three-row crossover is one of the hottest vehicles you can buy for yourself in 2021. The Ford Explorer is powered by a 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine with an output of 300 hp (Base, XLT, and Limited), and offers a powerful ride on all kinds of roads. But if you’re looking for more strength and authority, you may opt for Platinum or the hybrid trim. And for the hardcore off-roaders out there, Timberline would be a great choice, thanks to its sturdy body and lifted suspension. The vehicle comes with a limited warranty of 3 years or 36000 miles.
Pros
Large boot space
Five-star NHTSA safety rating
Towing capacity of up to 5300 pounds (Limited Hybrid trim)
Cons
Plastic elements in the interior
Lack of space in the third row
Specs
- Standard heated seating and optional heated steering wheel (XLT trim)
- Standard 8 inch touchscreen display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Forward collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, with an option to upgrade to self-parking assist.
20. Dacia Duster
Source: Dacia
Why We Picked It: Dacia Duster has been given an impressive facelift, and it’s all set to steal the show. The Comfort Blue trim is equipped with a diesel engine, producing an output of 115 hp, while the base model comes with a 1 liter 90 hp engine. The brand-new additions are the headlights, radiator grille with chrome finish, and wide Y-shaped daytime running lights that make the car look larger. The 16/17 inch alloy wheels promise improved aerodynamics. If you’re on a budget but you don’t want to compromise on a sporty SUV experience, this would be a good buy.
Pros
Great for off-roading
Affordable pricing
Roomy interior and cargo area
Cons
Lack of standard features in the base trim
Boring infotainment system
Specs
- 7-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration available for Comfort and Prestige trims
- Comfortable and spacious passenger seats
- Height adjustable driver’s seat (except the entry-level trim)
19. Toyota Highlander
Source: Toyota
Why We Picked It: Toyota Highlander 2021 is the ideal family car everyone wants to own. It’s spacious, luxurious, and offers smooth handling. With multiple trim levels available, you get the option to stick to your budget and find a trim that suits your needs. It comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine which produces an output of 295 hp and goes from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.7 seconds. The hybrid trim has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which when combined with the two electric motors, produces an output of 243 hp. It doesn’t bring a lot of thrill to the game, rather offers a stable and controlled ride.
Pros
Wide list of standard features available on all trims
Impressive styling and interiors
High safety ratings by NHTSA and IIHS
Cons
Less space and leg-room in the third row
Specs
- Standard 8 inch display with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Sirius XM, 4G wifi hotspot available for every trim
- Blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, pedestrian detection, and automated emergency braking
- Second-row captain’s chair (available for Hybrid trim onwards)
18. SEAT Arona
Source: SEAT
Why We Picked It: SEAT Arona is a lineup that gives you the perfect balance between a sporty and controlled ride. The interiors look impressive, minus the plastic accents and the exterior is nothing extraordinary either. What makes a difference is the availability of multiple engines and the stability it has to offer. For the base model, you get 3 engine options– a 1-liter petrol engine with 95 hp (manual/ front-wheel drive), an automatic 1-liter engine with 110 hp, and another automatic 110 hp 1 liter variant with FWD.
Pros
Large cargo space
Stylized steering wheel with leather trimming
Diverse engine options available
Cons
The higher trims are on the expensive side
Specs
- Intuitive 8- inch display with Mirror link, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto (for the lower trim, it’s a 6.5-inch screen)
- Cruise control, speed limiter, and RPM counter
- Powerful 17-inch alloy wheels
17. Honda Pilot
Source: Honda
Why We Picked It: For the car connoisseurs who want to enjoy the spaciousness of a minivan in a modern SUV, the Honda Pilot would be a great purchase. Featuring a robust design, elevated ground clearance, and AWD, this vehicle is suitable for going on long trips with a big family, as well as for off-roading. Driving isn’t so exciting, but it offers a considerably stable and smooth ride. It’s powered by a V6 engine, and fuel economy is impressive, considering the size of the vehicle. Honda Pilot is counted as a top safety pick by IIHS, and it has also received a 5-star safety rating from NHTSA.
Pros
Wide and spacious seating area
Large boot space
Towing capacity of up to 5000 pounds (for AWD)
Cons
Bulky body
Light steering results in lack of control
Specs
- The lineup is equipped with standard safety features such as lane departure warning, lane keep assist, forward collision warning, automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control
- 8-inch touchscreen display integrated with Apple CarPlay, android auto, and SiriusXM
- Elevated driver’s seat, second-row captain’s chair (available for higher trims), adjustable boot space, climate control
16. Citroën C3 Aircross
Source: Citroën
Why We Picked It: Citroën C3 Aircross has received a whole suite of upgrades this year. The new stylized body features LED headlights and a bold exterior. Its 110 bhp 1.2-liter turbo three-cylinder engine is quite impressive, offering 51.5 mpg. It isn’t too exciting to drive, much like most other small crossovers. But in terms of price and specs, it’s a worthy investment.
Pros
Spacious passenger and cargo space
Powerful engine options
Aggressive body
Cons
Doesn't offer a highly comfortable ride
No thrill in driving
Specs
- The relaxing interior features geometrical surfaces, quality upholstery, with generously padded seating
- 7 inch (for base model) or 9-inch touchscreen display with USB, Bluetooth, and sat-nav (for higher trims)
- Grip Control offers hill descent control and helps switch between multiple driving modes
Source: Chevrolet
Why We Picked It: Chevy Equinox 2021 is a roomy crossover that offers a host of safety features, a powerful engine, and stunning interiors. FWD is standard, and it’s powered by a 1.5 liter 170 hp engine, with an optional AWD. The standard 17 or 18-inch wheels can be switched for an optional 19 inch, but in that case, the drive will be more sporty and less smooth. It has received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA and is covered by a standard 36,000 miles or 3-year warranty.
Pros
Good fuel economy, despite the size
Spacious cargo area
Convenient driver and passenger seating
Cons
Not particularly quick
Specs
- Standard 7 inch or optional 8-inch display with Wi-Fi, auxiliary input channel and audio streaming options, Bluetooth, and USB
- Auto high-beam headlamps, automated emergency braking, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control
- Luxurious interiors available for higher and more expensive trims
14. Peugeot 2008
Source: Peugeot
Why We Picked It: The brand-new Peugeot 2008 offers a sporty experience, thanks to its rugged exterior and high-performing engine. The GT Line trim of Peugeot is powered by a 1.2 liter 130 hp petrol engine. It comes with quite a lot of standard driver-assist features, infotainment upgrades and offers enough room to haul cargo.
Pros
Stylized body and cabin
Two infotainment display
Spacious boot area with adjustable floor
Cons
Cramped back seats
Specs
- iCockpit cabin design and 60/40 split rear seats
- Heated front seats, 18-inch alloy wheels, and black trimming (GT Line)
- Lane-keep assist, rear parking sensor, temperature indicator, driver attention warning (entry-level Active Premium trim)
13. Volkswagen T-Cross
Source: Volkswagen
Why We Picked It: Despite its small size, Volkswagen T-Cross comes with a large and spacious interior that’s more than enough for a small family. Thanks to the roomy legroom, you will get ample comfort for long rides. You can choose between two 1-liter three-cylinder petrol engines, a 1.6-liter diesel engine, or a 1.5 three-cylinder petrol variant. It’s not the fastest SUV on the road, but it performs well if you’re driving around town.
Pros
All trim levels are packed with loads of standard features
Ample storage space
Comfortable seating in the passenger area
Cons
No thrill in driving
Noisy engine
Specs
- The standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display
- Convenient sports seats with embossed logo (available for R-Line)
- Standard driver-assist features such as adaptive cruise control, power-assisted steering, driver alert system, lane assist, blind-spot monitoring
12. Lexus RX
Source: Lexus
Why We Picked It: The Lexus RX 2021 is a handsome amalgamation of sporty and rugged design, with cozy and smooth ride quality. RX 350 boasts a 3.5-liter V6 engine, and it goes 0 to 60 mph in just 6.9 seconds. For regular driving to long journeys, this vehicle would be a great company for large families. The limited warranty by Lexus offers coverage of 4 years or up to 50,000 miles, and complimentary maintenance for 1 year or 10,000 miles.
Pros
Smooth ride on all roads
Low fuel consumption
Sporty yet comfortable
Cons
Infotainment system needs improvement
Interiors lack ergonomics
Specs
- Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keep assist
- Standard 8 inch display, with an optional 12-inch upgrade, integrated with a 12-speaker audio system and in-dash navigation
- Soft leather trimming upholstery with wood or metal accents, and comfortable seat cushions
11. Skoda Kamiq
Source: Skoda
Why We Picked It: The new Skoda Kamiq is all about clean designs and practical features that make it one of the most desirable small SUVs in the market. The 1.0 liter 94 bhp petrol engine helps you save some bucks on fuel, and offers a convenient performance on-road. If you’re looking for more power, you can choose the 108 bhp engine.
Pros
Multiple engines
Quality suspension
Smooth and stable ride
Cons
Feels bumpy on rough roads
Specs
- Adjustable seat height and lumbar support (except the entry-level trim)
- 10.3-inch display for navigation
- 60/40 split-fold rear seats to expand boot space
10. Ford Edge
Source: Ford
Why We Picked It: For Edge is a two-row SUV that offers ample space both in terms of passenger seating and cargo. The powerful 250 hp four-cylinder engine is standard, but if you want more strength, the ST trim comes with a 335 hp 2.7-liter V6 engine. Rated highly by both NHTSA and IIHS, this is one of the safest vehicles you can own in 2021. Besides a host of standard safety features, it comes with a 3 year or 36,000 miles warranty.
Pros
Upgraded infotainment system
Roomy and comfortable interiors
High safety rating
Cons
Outdated cabin design
Acceleration isn't too impressive
Specs
- 12-inch touchscreen display with Wi-Fi hotspot, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, along with optional in-dash navigation
- Standard blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, automated emergency braking for all trims
- Leather-covered steering wheel, 9-speaker stereo, power-adjustable passenger seat, LED fog lights available in the SEL trim
Source: Renault
Why We Picked It: The 1.3 liter 130 hp petrol engine works perfectly for driving around town, but you can also opt for the 115 hp diesel option, and of course, there is also the hybrid variant. The 130 hp engine goes from 0 to 62 mph in 12 seconds. The ride isn’t exciting or exceptionally quick, rather it gives you a stable grip on all types of roads.
Pros
Spacious passenger area
Convenient storage space despite being a small-size vehicle
Multiple engine options available
Cons
Infotainment system isn't very responsive
Not too comfortable
Specs
- 7-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (available in Play and Iconic trims)
8. Toyota RAV4
Source: Toyota
Why We Picked It: The Toyota RAV4 blends pick-up truck-like strength with the comfort and refinement of a regular car. The standard is a 2.5-liter engine with eight-speed auto transmission. It has been awarded as a Top Safety Pick+ vehicle by IIHS, and a whopping 5-star rating by NHTSA. Besides the standard 3 years or 36,000 miles warranty, this Toyota lineup also comes with two years worth of complimentary maintenance (or 25,000 miles).
Pros
Host of standard safety and driver-assist features
Smooth ride
Spacious and convenient interiors
Cons
Noisy engine
Specs
- Adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist as standard, and add-on blind-spot monitoring (for the base model)
- 8-inch display (XLE trim onwards) with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with optional wireless charging pad and JBL audio system
- Faux-leather seat covers, steering wheel covered in leather, padded dashboard, and armrest (XLE Premium)
7. Ford Puma
Source: Ford
Why We Picked It:Ford Puma is another name added to the list of high-performance small-size SUVs. The ST trim comes with a 197 hp 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine, along with six-speed transmission. The car is larger in size than the Ford EcoSport, and offers more comfort to the rear seat passengers. However, the vehicle is only available in Europe as of now.
Pros
Spacious, despite being a small-size SUV
Large cargo area
Six-speed manual transmission
Cons
Lower seating arrangement
Specs
- The base trim (Titanium) is equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display, integrated with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and satellite navigation
- Standard safety features such as lane-keep assist, lane-departure assist, automated emergency braking, and cruise control
- Rear-parking sensors and LED daytime running lights
6. Ford Escape
Source: Ford
Why We Picked It: The 2021 Ford Escape boasts a robust design and multiple powertrain options, but it’s also suitable for on-road journeys. You can pair the 1.5 liter turbocharged 181 hp engine with AWD or FWD for a power-packed performance. However, if you’re looking for more strength, you’ll have the option to upgrade to a more refined 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine with 250 hp. Rated by NHTSA and IIHS, the vehicle gives you safety and peace of mind, thanks to its standard safety features.
Pros
Diverse powertrains
Stylized cabin
Updated infotainment features
Cons
Plastic accents in the base trim look cheap
Specs
- Standard lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward-collision warning
- The most tech-savvy Titanium gets a 12.3-inch display, equipped with in-dash navigation, and B&O audio system
- Faux-leather or pure leather upholstery (available for higher trims)
5. Kia Soul
Source: Kia
Why We Picked It: If you’re looking for an SUV that offers comfortable seating and a great on-road performance, Kia Soul would be a good choice. This subcompact vehicle comes with a seating capacity of 5 people and a front-wheel-drive drivetrain. The entry-level trim is equipped with a 2 liter 147 hp engine. If you want more powerful acceleration, you can bump up to the 201 hp 1.6-liter engine. The standard four-cylinder engine coupled with manual transmission offers 25 mpg and 31 mpg, in city and highway respectively. The vehicle is backed by a 5-year or 60,000 miles warranty.
Pros
Large cargo room
Intuitive infotainment system
Roomy passenger area
Cons
Interior needs improvement
Not very agile
Specs
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and leather-covered steering wheel
- Brake-assist, electronic stability control, traction control, and child-safety lock
- Standard 7-inch display with six-speaker stereo system, USB, and Bluetooth
4. Nissan Rogue
Source: Nissan
Why We Picked It: The newly designed Rogue 2021 boasts a sturdy and handsome exterior, offering a smooth driving experience. Nissan Rogue’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 181 hp, and in terms of acceleration, it goes 0 to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds. This lineup is yet to be tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it is equipped with a host of standard safety features. This vehicle is covered by a limited warranty for 3 years or 36,000 miles.
Pros
Impressive styling
Roomy passenger area
18-inch aluminium wheels (SV trim)
Cons
Could be a little less pricey
Cargo space has gone down if compared with the previous model
Specs
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat, luxurious upholstery, three-zone climate control, heated steering wheel, and heated front seats
- Standard ProPilot Assist available for Platinum (optional for SL)
- 8.0-inch standard display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, and optional Bose stereo system
3. Kia Niro
Source: Kia
Why We Picked It: This gas-electric crossover is all about minimizing fuel consumption on the road, without compromising on a smooth and comfortable ride. If you opt for the regular model, you’ll get a 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, coupled with an electric motor, producing 139 hp. The vehicle is covered by a premium 10-year warranty for the powertrain, along with a limited warranty of 5 years or 60,000 miles.
Pros
Excellent fuel economy (53 mpg city/ 48 mpg highway)
Rear seat reminder available for all trims
Complimentary map based adaptive cruise-control for 10 years
Cons
Interiors could be more practical
Poor acceleration
Driver-assist features missing on the base trim
Specs
- Standard 8 inch or optional 10.3-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Two-zone automatic climate control available for all trims
- Adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, and automated emergency braking
2. Nissan Juke
Source: Nissan
Why We Picked It: If you want to stand out on the road with an exceptionally stylized vehicle, the Nissan Juke would be a great choice. With a seating capacity of 5 people, this small crossover boasts a brand-new wheel design, a plethora of exterior paint options, and LED running lights. The interiors offer ample opportunity for personalization. The base trim Visia is powered by a 114 hp 1-liter turbo engine, available in manual and front-wheel drive. In terms of acceleration, it goes 0 to 60 mph in 10.7 seconds.
Pros
Wide range of standard safety features
Spacious interiors and boot space
Upgraded infotainment system
Cons
All-wheel drive not available
Lack of engine choice
Specs
- Comfortable Monoform seats crafted with cloth, faux-leather, or pure leather, depending on the trim level
- Cruise control, lane departure warning, speed limiter, and power steering
- 8-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth connectivity, Google Assistant, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto
1. Honda CR-V
Source: Honda
Why We Picked It: The 2021 Honda CR-V rightfully takes the top position on our list. A perfect ride for small families, this Honda lineup is highly versatile, powerful, and a great choice in terms of fuel economy. It’s powered by a 1.5-liter turbo engine with an output of 190 hp and offers a smooth ride. If you go for the hybrid variant, you’ll be greeted with an even more superior 2-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing 212 hp. The vehicle is covered by a limited warranty of 3 years or 36,000 miles.
Pros
Impressive fuel economy (40 mpg city/ 35 mpg highway)
Spacious cargo area
High safety rating by NHTSA and IIHS
Cons
Acceleration could be better
Low towing capacity
Specs
- Luxurious interiors with faux wood detailing and satin finish; comfortable seating
- Forward collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control
- 7-inch touchscreen display integrated with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM (except the base trim)
FAQs
1. What is the best SUV right now?
Right now, the best SUV in the market is the Honda CR-V 2021.
2. What SUV has the least amount of problems?
The SUVs that have the least amount of problems are: Lexus RX and Honda CR-V.
3. Which SUV lasts the longest?
In general, SUVs by Toyota, Ford, and Chevrolet last very long.
4. What makes the best SUV for the money?
Honda CR-V and Kia Soul are the best value-for-money SUVs.
5. Which is the best SUV to buy second-hand?
Lexus RX is the best SUV to buy second-hand.
6. What is the best 4x4 SUV to buy?
The best 4X4 to buy in 2021 is the Honda CR-V.
7. Is a Crossover Different Than an SUV?
SUVs are heavyweight, as they are built on a truck chassis. Crossovers are their lightweight cousin, built on a car platform. In terms of fuel economy, crossovers offer a better deal and are more affordable at the same time.
