Hello, fellow car enthusiasts! Welcome back to another episode of CarsJade. Today, we’re diving into the exciting world of 10 Best-Selling SUVs for the US market in 2023. These are not just SUVs – they’re the ones that everyone’s talking about, making waves on the roads.
SUVs have become the go-to choice for many. So, get comfy as we unveil the top 10 best-selling SUVs stealing the show.
2023 Toyota RAV4: 224,838 units sold
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 continues its legacy as a top contender in the USA SUV market. It starts at $29,625 and remains popular due to its practicality and efficiency. It is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It also offers a spacious cargo-friendly interior.
Toyota provides various powertrain options, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. The RAV4’s rugged appearance aligns with its capable performance, making it an ideal choice for daily commutes and urban errands. Toyota equips the RAV4 with standard driver-assistance technology and user-friendly infotainment features, enhancing its value compared to competitors.
For 2023, the RAV4 features an updated infotainment system with larger display screens. Models like the LE, XLE, XLE Premium, and Adventure receive an 8.0-inch display, while the Limited and TRD Off-Road have a larger 10.5-inch screen.
Under the hood, the RAV4 houses a 203-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offers a choice between front-wheel drive and various all-wheel-drive configurations.
2023 Honda CRV: 196,794 units sold
On the second spot of my list is the 2023 Honda CR-V, a redesigned and practical compact SUV. Honda CRV costs $29,705 and has been fully redesigned to compete fiercely in the competitive compact SUV segment.
The new model has a fresh exterior look and a more spacious interior. Inspired by the Civic compact car, the CR-V’s interior showcases an attractive design and modern technology, including a 9.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard driver assists like adaptive cruise, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist enhance its appeal.
The CR-V is powered by a 190-horsepower turbo-four and delivers a comfortable ride. A hybrid variant with a 204-horsepower powertrain is also available.
Under the hood, a standard 190-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine is mated to a CVT and available with front- or all-wheel drive. The hybrid models feature a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and two electric motors, delivering 204 horsepower.
Tesla Model Y: 190,500 units sold
Finally, a name familiar to many. You all would have been waiting when Tesla would make an entry to the list, and here it does. The 2023 model enters the market with a price tag of $52,630. The lineup also includes the Long Range version that costs a couple of thousand bucks more, at $54,630, and maxes out at the Performance model, priced at $58,630.
Purchasing an electric vehicle centers around its driving capacity, and the Long Range and Performance editions present 330 and 303 miles of range correspondingly.
Personalization options for the Model Y are limited, with a mere selection of five exterior colors— and three of these cost extra charges. If you are looking for an extra row of seats- that is $3000 and not much comfortable for adults to sit in.
In real-life testing, The all-wheel drive Long Range accelerated from zero to 60 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds, which is only 0.4 seconds slower than the Model 3 sedan. As for the Performance model, it impressed even more with its rapid acceleration, reaching 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds.
The Tesla Model Y is great for people who want a roomy inside, fast speed, and can go a long way without needing to fill up on power.
However, the Model Y has a raised center of gravity, owing to an SUV-style body. Therefore, it does not provide the same satisfaction as does the Model 3. You’ll notice a slight deterioration in sharp handling, and the ride isn’t as smooth while traversing rough tracks. But, the interior is great, the central screen takes the stage and replaces most of the physical buttons. No falcon wing doors, but you still get an all-glass roof.
Toyota Highlander: 121,854 units sold
Coming in at number four is the Toyota Highlander. The 2023 Toyota Highlander enters the midsize SUV arena, offering a well-rounded package but facing strong competition. With a starting price of $38,015, the Highlander offers a variety of hybrid and nonhybrid trims, with front-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive as an option.
The interior has modern features and user-friendly infotainment across all trims, even the base L. The Limited and Platinum models take things up a notch, exuding a Lexus-like aura with leather seats, a premium JBL stereo, and extra tech.
For the 2023 model year, a new turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine replaces the standard V-6, delivering 265 horsepower and 309 pound-feet of torque. The fuel economy remains on par with the outgoing V-6. A 12.3-inch infotainment display and a digital gauge cluster debut on Limited and Platinum trims.
Meanwhile, the XLE and XSE trims gain a hands-free power-operated rear liftgate. Among the trim choices, the midrange XLE stands out, offering heated front seats, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and a power sunroof.
Under the hood, the Highlander offers a new turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 265 horsepower. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder and two electric motors team up for 243 horsepower in the Highlander Hybrid, providing both efficiency and performance.
Ford Explorer: 113,057 units sold
Next on my list is the 2023 Ford Explorer. It costs $38,355 and continues its legacy as a versatile midsize SUV. With roots dating back to 1990, the current generation offers roomy interiors, attractive exteriors, and multiple powertrain options. While it’s a great choice for families and comes with a high-performance variant, it faces tough competition in a crowded segment.
For the best value, consider the mid-level Limited trim. It features a smaller single-turbo four-cylinder engine that balances efficiency and performance. It is equipped with all-wheel drive and offers a substantial towing capacity of 5300 pounds.
Under the hood, the Explorer offers a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower for the base, XLT, and Limited trims. The King Ranch, Platinum, and ST models feature a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 with 400 horsepower, adding more power to the mix. A hybrid option provides an efficient 318-horsepower configuration, making it suitable for city driving. All models have a 10-speed automatic transmission, and ride comfort remains balanced.
The Explorer’s interior offers comfort and practicality, though third-row space might be limited for adults. It also has foldable seats which enhance cargo capacity, making it a family-friendly option. The infotainment system, centered around an 8.0-inch touchscreen, supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2023 Hyundai Tucson: 100,591 units sold
Let’s move to number six on our list: The 2023 Hyundai Tucson. Starting at $32,685, the 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and its plug-in hybrid version offer a balanced blend of power. Both feature all-wheel drive, combining a front motor and a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine for 226 hp and 261 hp in the plug-in hybrid.
The new updates of Tucson in 2023 include standard features across trims including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and speed limit assist. A plug-in hybrid SUV under $40,000, the SEL trim stands out with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and heated front seats.
Performance-wise, the hybrid Tucson has a turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four engine and front motor, delivering a combined 226 hp. The plug-in hybrid ups the power to 261 hp. Both come with an all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission. The Tucson offers a comfortable ride, agile handling, and a quiet cruising experience.
The plug-in hybrid’s 13.8-kWh battery offers 33 miles of electric-only driving and recharges in about two hours with a 7.2-kW charger. Fuel efficiency is notable, with the Tucson Hybrid achieving an estimated 38 mpg city and highway and the plug-in hybrid achieving 80 MPGe combined.
Regarding infotainment and connectivity, the Tucson features digital gauges, a push-button shifter, and a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The backseat and cargo space are larger than before.
Subaru Outback: 93,831 units sold
Let’s move to number seventh on the list. The 2023 Subaru Outback stands out as a versatile SUV alternative with its rugged design and wagon practicality. It costs $29,620 and it offers a choice between a standard 182-hp engine and an optional 260-hp turbocharged engine, both paired with all-wheel drive and a CVT transmission.
The updated front-end styling enhances its appearance, and improved driver-assistance features boost safety. The Premium trim level, with its 11.6-inch touchscreen, heated seats, and extra USB ports, strikes a good balance between features and value.
On the road, it delivers a comfortable ride, aided by its 8.7 inches of ground clearance and all-wheel drive. Inside, the Outback provides a roomy and functional cabin with comfortable seating and ample storage. The cargo area offers practical space for daily use. Tech-wise, it comes with a choice of touchscreen sizes (7.0-inch or 11.6-inch) and includes standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
Mazda CX-5: 92,464 units sold
Taking the eighth spot on our list, say hello to the 2023 Mazda CX-5. It stands out as a great option in the small SUV category, combining Mazda’s signature agile handling with near-luxury features at an accessible price point.
It is available with two engine options, a standard 187-hp four-cylinder, and an optional 256-hp turbocharged four-cylinder. The CX-5 offers a spirited performance that matches its lithe handling.
However, as spacious as some rivals like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4, the CX-5 compensates with its stylish appeal and refined interior. The top-tier Turbo trim showcases an elegant sportiness with gloss-black accents and red interior accents and stitching.
In terms of performance, the standard engine provides nimble responses for city driving, while the turbocharged version offers great acceleration for highway merging and passing. Both engines pair with a responsive six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The CX-5 delivers a harmonious blend of comfortable ride quality on rough roads and dynamic handling on curvy routes.
Inside, the CX-5 has high-quality materials and a layout reminiscent of luxury vehicles. The upscale feel is accentuated by details like a floor-hinged accelerator pedal and a well-placed steering wheel. The infotainment system features a 10.3-inch display controlled via a rotary knob, voice commands, or steering wheel buttons.
Subaru CrossTrek: 87,371 units sold
Taking the ninth spot in our lineup is the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek. It might appear ready for the trails with its tough look and robust tires, but it’s more at home in the city than off the beaten path. With its standard all-wheel drive and raised suspension, it’s suitable for light off-road ventures.
The base 2.0-liter engine might feel a bit lacking, but there’s a more powerful 2.5-liter option for those seeking extra speed.
On the road, the Crosstrek’s handling is smooth and composed, providing a comfortable driving experience. The optional 2.5-liter engine offers improved acceleration. Fuel efficiency is great, particularly in real-world tests, and the plug-in hybrid version adds an eco-friendly aspect to the lineup.
Inside, the Crosstrek showcases Subaru’s practical approach with a straightforward design and durable materials. While the interior might not boast luxury, it offers functionality and comfort. The cargo area is versatile, and the infotainment system is user-friendly, including standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Kia Sportage: 83,742 units sold
Wrapping up the list with the tenth spot on our lineup, the 2023 Kia Sportage stands out with its bold design that’s anything but ordinary. Its eye-catching headlights and unique grille give it a distinctive edge. Beyond its striking looks, the new Sportage offers a more spacious interior and increased cargo capacity compared to previous models.
Inside, the modern design continues, featuring a sizable dash-mounted screen loaded with advanced tech.
Under the hood, you’ll find a 187-hp four-cylinder engine as the base option, while a hybrid and plug-in hybrid are also available. The hybrid powertrain offers a smoother and more efficient ride. Riding on a new platform with a longer wheelbase, the Sportage ensures improved ride comfort.
The Sportage impresses with its modern interior design, highlighted by a prominent digital display on the dashboard. The two-tone color scheme and all-black cabin options offer personalization for enthusiasts.
The infotainment system is a standout feature, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. A standard 8.0-inch display can be upgraded to a larger 12.3-inch version for improved connectivity and clearer graphics. Touch-sensitive controls add a modern touch, while available upgrades include a Harman/Kardon audio system, wireless phone charger, and Wi-Fi hotspot.