The Top Toyota SUVs: Which SUV should you buy?

When it comes to SUVs, Toyota has long been a trusted brand, offering a range of vehicles that deliver on reliability, performance, and innovation. Whether you need an SUV for rugged terrain, family trips, or daily commuting, Toyota's lineup has something to offer.

Toyota RAV4: Versatility Meets Efficiency

The Toyota RAV4 is one of the most popular compact SUVs on the market, thanks to its combination of fuel efficiency, spaciousness, and advanced technology. Designed with both urban drivers and adventure seekers in mind, the RAV4 balances city-friendly driving dynamics and the capability to handle off-road terrains. For 2024, the RAV4 is offered in several trims, including the hybrid model, which appeals to eco-conscious buyers.

A black 2024 RAV4 drives on a dirt road in the mountains.

Highlights

  • Hybrid Efficiency: The RAV4 Hybrid delivers an impressive 40 mpg combined fuel economy, making it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class. This is ideal for both city commuters and long-distance travelers looking to save on gas.
  • Toyota Safety Sense 2.5: Every RAV4 comes standard with Toyota's Safety Sense suite, which includes pre-collision systems, dynamic radar cruise control, lane tracing assist, and road sign assist. These features enhance both driver and passenger safety, especially in busy urban settings.
  • All-Wheel Drive (AWD): The available AWD system, with Multi-Terrain Select, allows drivers to easily switch between driving modes for improved performance on various surfaces, whether it's snow, mud, or rocky terrain.

The RAV4's design focuses on comfort and functionality. Its spacious interior has foldable rear seats for extra cargo space, making it an excellent option for families or weekend adventurers who need room for sports equipment, groceries, or camping gear.

Toyota 4Runner: Rugged Capability for Off-Road Adventures

If off-roading and rugged performance are what you're after, the Toyota 4Runner is a solid choice. Built on a body-on-frame platform, the 4Runner is designed to tackle challenging terrains, from mountains to deserts, easily. It's one of the few remaining mid-size SUVs that still adhere to traditional SUV construction principles, which makes it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.

A white 2024 Toyota 4Runner on a rocky shore next to a river while a family carries their fishing gear back to the vehicle.

Highlights

  • Body-On-Frame Design: This design gives the 4Runner incredible off-road prowess. Combined with its 4WD capability and optional locking rear differential, the 4Runner can handle rugged trails that many modern SUVs cannot.
  • TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro Trims: For drivers who demand peak off-road performance, the TRD trims come with features like upgraded suspension systems, skid plates, and off-road tires. These trims are purpose-built for the toughest conditions.
  • Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select: These features allow drivers to adjust the vehicle's traction and throttle for different surfaces, making off-road driving more accessible and controlled. Crawl Control is an off-road cruise control that manages the throttle and brakes on challenging terrains.
  • While its primary focus is on off-road capability, the 4Runner doesn't skimp on interior comfort. It features a high-tech infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, ensuring drivers remain connected while venturing far from the grid. However, its fuel efficiency (around 16-19 mpg) is less competitive than other SUVs in the lineup.

Toyota Highlander: The Ideal Family SUV

The Toyota Highlander is an excellent choice for families who need space without sacrificing luxury. As a mid-size SUV, the Highlander offers three rows of seating, making it an excellent option for larger families or those who frequently travel with friends or cargo. The 2024 model introduces even more features to improve both comfort and convenience for long journeys.

Two 2024 Toyota Highlanders next to eachother next to a mountain cabin overlooking a valley.

Highlights

  • Spacious Interior with Three-Row Seating: The Highlander seats up to eight passengers, and the second-row bench or captain's chairs offer flexibility depending on your family's needs. Fold-flat rear seats provide additional cargo space, making switching from passenger to cargo configurations easy.
  • Hybrid Powertrain Option: The Highlander Hybrid is a standout in its class, delivering up to 36 mpg combined, which is exceptional for a three-row SUV. This allows families to go further without breaking the bank on fuel.
  • Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+: Like the RAV4, the Highlander is equipped with Toyota's latest safety technology, which includes features like lane departure alert with steering assist, full-speed dynamic radar cruise control, and a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection.
  • The Highlander also boasts a refined interior with premium materials and advanced tech features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone charging, and a JBL sound system. It's perfect for families who want comfort and safety without compromising style.

Toyota Corolla Cross: Compact and Affordable with Advanced Features

The Toyota Corolla Cross is a relatively new addition to Toyota's SUV lineup, and it's quickly gaining popularity for its affordable price point and compact size. Ideal for urban drivers or young professionals, the Corolla Cross provides the fuel efficiency and reliability of the popular Corolla sedan but in a more versatile SUV format.

A white 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross speeding down a city road at night.

Highlights

  • Affordability: With a starting price lower than many other compact SUVs, the Corolla Cross provides excellent value. It's a great entry point for buyers looking for a reliable and efficient SUV without a hefty price tag.
  • Advanced Technology: The Corolla Cross comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, making it one of the best-equipped compact SUVs in its price range.
  • AWD Option: For drivers living in areas with inclement weather or who need extra traction, the Corolla Cross offers an available AWD system, which enhances its stability on wet or slippery roads.
  • The Corolla Cross strikes a balance between a sedan's economy and an SUV's practicality. It offers ample cargo space, a comfortable ride, and a responsive 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers decent performance for city driving. Although it doesn't have the off-road capabilities of the 4Runner or the spaciousness of the Highlander, it's an excellent option for those seeking a smaller, more efficient SUV.

Which Toyota SUV is Right for You?

Toyota's SUV lineup caters to a wide range of drivers, from adventurers to families to urban commuters. The Toyota RAV4 is ideal for those looking for a compact SUV with advanced safety features and fuel efficiency. If you need something rugged and capable of tackling challenging off-road conditions, the Toyota 4Runner is the go-to vehicle. The Toyota Highlander offers three-row seating and hybrid efficiency for families seeking space and comfort. Lastly, the Toyota Corolla Cross is perfect for budget-conscious buyers who need the versatility of an SUV in a compact package.

Each SUV comes with Toyota's reputation for reliability, safety, and long-lasting value, making them strong contenders in their respective categories. Toyota's diverse range of SUVs has something to offer regardless of your lifestyle or needs.

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