It’s that time of year again! Many buyers are drawn to SUVs for their elevated ride height, all-wheel drive, improved off-road ability, interior versatility, and image compared to their car counterparts. They are the go-to vehicles these days, so there’s a constant stream of new models making their debuts. Whether you’re looking for something sporty, luxurious, or rugged, there are SUV and crossover options out there for you. And in a sign of the times, many electric models are gaining traction, as well. If it’s an all-around vehicle you are looking for, we’ve got our top recommendations for the most popular 2024 SUVs and crossovers.

SUVs and Crossovers – What’s the difference?

According to the Consumer Report website, the majority of modern SUVs, sometimes called Crossovers or Crossover Utility Vehicles (CUVs), utilize a structure that resembles a typical car more closely than it does a body-on-frame truck, as was more common in the past. As such, expect better handling and ride comfort in crossovers than in truck-based models. Usually, they also offer all-wheel drive (AWD) and can handle only moderate off-road situations.

The various sizes of SUVs available:

  • Subcompact SUVs Compact or small (subcompact) SUVs are designed on the whole as practical and versatile options for young families.
  • Small SUVs – Also referred to as a compact SUV.
  • Mid-size SUVs – A midsize SUV is a vehicle with two or three rows of seats that slot between compact and full-size SUVs, striking the best balance for most families.
  • Large SUVs – Large SUVs have prodigious towing ability, with every model in this segment capable of hanging at least 6,000 lbs on its hitch. Each provides three rows of seating and a modest level of off-road capability, too.

Now that we’ve learned a little bit of background information when shopping for the different types of SUVs, let’s take a look at our list of the top 2024 SUVs and Crossovers:

Subcompact SUVs

1. 2024 Kia Niro

In addition to a city-friendly size and an affordable starting price, the 2024 Kia Niro boasts fashionable styling that’s as eye-catching as it is tasteful. Inside, the Niro’s contemporary image continues, with a cabin that’s equally as chic as the exterior. The Niro feels right at home in urban environments. If you’re looking to go all-electric, Kia also sells the Niro EV.

Niro starting price: $33,283, kia.ca

2. 2024 Mazda CX30

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 is a small SUV that easily satisfies our desire for fun-to-drive transportation. The CX-30 is based on the Mazda 3 compact car, which explains its athleticism and its class-above cabin furnishings. Both of these set it apart from rivals such as the Subaru Crosstrek and the Volkswagen Taos. All-wheel drive is standard, and it comes with a six-speed automatic transmission. The higher-end trims offer near-luxury accommodations inside, which makes the CX-30 a more luxurious option in the subcompact crossover segment.

CX30 starting price: $28,150, mazda.ca

3. 2024 Volvo XC40

Volvo continues to delight us with models that are elegant and expressive. That includes the spunky entry-level XC40 SUV, which blends excellent protection with an upscale ambiance and a youthful character. The cabin offers drivers a higher seating position than what’s found in rivals such as the BMW X1. Even the least expensive variant features an inviting and nicely trimmed interior, and the upper trims look thoroughly premium. Every XC40 is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive. Volvo also hasn’t skimped on any standard safety or assistance technology, which is why we couldn’t skip this one on our list of 2024 SUVs and crossovers.

XC40 starting price: $49,939, volvocars.com

Compact SUVs

4. 2024 Honda CR-V

The CR-V offers reliably good performance, with plenty of usable space, friendly driving dynamics, front- or all-wheel drive, a 190-hp turbocharged engine, and an optional 204-hp hybrid version. Even in base form, the CR-V shines with a deep layer of modern tech and safety features that don’t hog the spotlight deservedly occupied by its superb chassis. The CR-V is our favourite in the highly-popular compact SUV segment. This is amid stiff competition from the Mazda CX-50 and Volkswagen Tiguan.

CR-V starting price: $34,899, honda.ca

5. 2024 Kia Sportage

To keep a firm hold on new-vehicle shoppers, compact crossovers such as the Kia Sportage make space their number-one priority. The Sportage includes a bevy of standard features and equipment and an affordable starting price to make it an especially sweet compact SUV option. Front-wheel drive is standard on most trims, but all-wheel drive is available. The Sportage’s distinct design keeps it from being mistaken for another crossover.

Sportage starting price: $29,995, kia.ca

An SUV is built on the same platform as a truck, also known as a “body on frame” design. All that means is the body and the frame are built separately and attached later on. A crossover is based on a car’s design, meaning the body and frame are built as one piece together.

6. 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 CX-50 is proof that there’s still plenty of zoom-zoom left in the tank. This compact SUV sports a ruggedly handsome look and a near-luxury interior, but doesn’t abandon the agile handling and fun-to-drive nature the brand is known for. All models come with all-wheel drive, but things get more fun when the optional 256-HP turbocharged four is under the hood. The CX-50’s size puts it in contention with winning entries, such as the Honda CR-V and the Volkswagen Tiguan.

CX-50 starting price: $39,300, mazda.ca

7. 2024 BMW X3

Are compact luxury crossovers the new sports sedans? Judging by the way the 2024 BMW X3 handles corners, we’re tempted to answer…yes! Based on the venerable 3-series four-door sedan, the X3 blends the same refined nature and engaging handling with a practical body style capable of hauling more cargo. Its interior is well-matched to its exterior styling, with an orderly look and smartly integrated technology. However, the X3’s focus on driving verve is something we can get behind, which is why it made it on our list of 2024 SUVs and crossovers.

X3 starting price: $56,700, bmwtoronto.ca

Midsize SUVs

8. 2024 Hyundai Palisade

Few SUVs offer the near-perfect blend of utility, value, and luxury of the 2024 Hyundai Palisade. It shares its underpinnings with the superb Kia Telluride, but it wears a unique look all its own. All Palisades come with a smooth-running 3.6-liter V-6 and an eight-speed automatic; all-wheel drive is optional. The Palisade’s on-road demeanor is nonetheless composed and relaxed, making it a great choice for long-distance treks. Its high-class cabin features upmarket finishes and three comfortable rows of seats. Hyundai has integrated plenty of connectivity and convenience features throughout the interior, so everyone feels at home.

Palisade starting price: $54,699, hyundaicanada.com

9. 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Jeep is the SUV expert. Vehicles like the 2024 Grand Cherokee appeal to a broader audience than the better-known Wrangler. The Grand Cherokee is a two-row mid-size SUV; and while it’s designed to be more at home on paved highways, Jeep has engineered it with enough off-road capability to stay true to its adventure-seeking spirit. To bolster the Grand Cherokee’s allure, Jeep offers a wide range of trims starting with the spartan Laredo and working up to the legitimately luxurious Summit Reserve.

Grand Cherokee starting price: $55,590, jeep.ca

10. 2024 Kia Telluride

The 2024 Telluride’s handsome styling, smooth-running V-6, and near-luxury cabin make it an attractive alternative to others in its class. This three-row SUV has the goods to satisfy a wide range of buyers, but most of all it’s set up nicely to cater to families with its spacious three-row interior. Adventure seekers will find plenty of capability too. Not only does the Telluride tow up to 5,500 pounds, but it also has plenty of room for cargo. The Telluride rides beautifully and provides quiet cruising that reduces long-distance driving fatigue.

Starting price: $50,395, kia.ca

Large SUVs

11. 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe

With tons of space inside for passengers and cargo, the 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe is big in all the ways you want it to be—but it feels more agile on the road than other large SUVs. Three engine options are available, and the Tahoe delivers decent towing capacity with any one of them. Its three-row seating is standard and even the base LS trim comes equipped with popular infotainment and driver-assistance features. Off-road adventurers will find the Z71 model best suited for their interests, as it includes a two-speed transfer case, an adjustable air suspension, and meaty all-terrain tires.

Tahoe starting price: $76,830, chevrolet.ca

12. 2024 GMC Yukon

General Motors’ GMC division is best known for commercial vehicles and work trucks, but the 2024 Yukon is one of the most accommodating and luxurious passenger vehicles in the brand’s history. This large family SUV offers spacious accommodations across three rows of seats and is even offered with a longer wheelbase—called Yukon XL—that opens up even more space for cargo. Most models are powered by a V-8, but a turbo-diesel 3.0-liter inline-six is also available. With a host of convenience and technology features offered as standard, upgrading to the Denali trims luxe things up to compete with premium entrants such as the Cadillac Escalade.

Yukon starting price: $77,699, gmc.com

When you’re ready to look at buying or leasing a new vehicle, learn more about 2024 Crossovers and SUVs and how to best insure them, speak with one of our isure representatives!

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