Consumer Reports' Most Popular New Cars and SUVs

The redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester incorporates a host of new and improved safety technology. The most noticeable improvement is a quieter cabin. The engine is more subdued, and power delivery is prompt and predictable. The Forester remains an extremely functional, roomy, user-friendly vehicle with standard all-wheel drive. Large windows, a low belt line, and thin pillars ensure great outward visibility. It rides very comfortably and handles soundly. The rear seat is roomy, and the cargo space is generous. While pedestrian and cyclist detection are standard, BSW and RCTW are not available on the base trim and are optional on the Premium trim. A hybrid version is now on sale.

The incredibly popular CR-V is a practical and functional SUV. The 1.5-liter turbo-four mated to a continuously variable transmission delivers unobtrusive propulsion, but it feels underpowered at times. The CR-V’s ride is firm but absorbent, and handling is responsive and secure. The rear seat is generously sized and easy to get into. A relatively simple and boxy shape makes for ample cargo room. The controls and infotainment system are easy to use. BSW and RCTW aren’t available on the base LX, although they are standard on all other trims.

The Toyota RAV4’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder is paired with an eight-speed automatic, together delivering relatively quick acceleration. We found that Toyota’s small SUV was responsive in corners, and it remains under control even when pushed to its handling limits. The ride, however, is somewhat stiff, and the noisy engine hurts the driving experience. Most controls, such as the large climate knobs, are easy to use. BSW and RCTW are standard on all except the base trim. Recent updates included a new infotainment system. A redesigned RAV4 arrives this fall as a hybrid-only model. A redesigned RAV4 arrives this fall as a hybrid-only model.

Subaru’s Outback is a smart alternative to an SUV. Although its roofline is lower than a typical SUV’s, the Outback can easily haul long items. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder works fine during regular driving around town, but it can feel strained when a quicker speed is needed. The ride is very comfortable, and handling is responsive and secure. Some tasks through the large infotainment screen require more than one step, however, and the system is slow to respond to inputs. Thoughtful details, such as built-in crossbars and a dual-position cargo cover, are nice touches. BSW and RCTW are not available on the base trim and are optional on the second-tier Premium trim. A redesigned Outback, with a decidedly SUV-like appearance, arrives in late 2025.

The CX-5 remains one of the best small SUVs. A recent freshening brought transmission, suspension, and seat updates. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic make for a responsive and unobtrusive powertrain. High-end versions have a more powerful turbo engine. Handling is responsive and enjoyable, and the steady, compliant ride is among the best in the class. The cabin is quiet, and the interior quality is substantial and looks attractive. Soft-touch surfaces and chrome trim add to the interior ambience. But there is a learning curve to mastering the infotainment system, and the thick rear roof pillars compromise rear and side visibility.

The Subaru Crosstrek is essentially a raised Impreza hatchback. It has a very comfortable ride, standard all-wheel drive, and a decent amount of cargo room for the class. Responsive handling, mostly simple controls, and a practical but not fancy interior round out the package. Acceleration from the standard 2.0-liter engine is tepid, and it gets loud when pushed; the optional 2.5-liter has more oomph. The X-Mode for the all-wheel-drive system alters power distribution to help traverse tricky terrain in off-road situations. The newly optional power driver’s seat with adjustable lumbar support is a major improvement. BSW and RCTW are not available on the base trim and are optional on the Premium trim.

The RAV4 Hybrid feels energetic, with the electric drive producing immediate and quiet motivation from a standstill while delivering impressive fuel economy. The current generation’s lower roof compromises interior space compared with the previous generation’s. The RAV4 is responsive in corners, and it remains under control even when pushed. The ride, however, is somewhat stiff, and the noisy engine hurts the driving experience. Most controls, such as the large climate knobs, are easy to use. Recent updates include a new multimedia system. BSW and RCTW are standard on all except the base trim.

The CR-V Hybrid compact SUV gained size and weight from the previous generation, but it didn’t stray far from its proven formula of practicality and functionality. The fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with electric drive. It delivers ample oomph, and we appreciate the way Honda’s hybrid system delivers simulated upshifts, mimicking a traditional automatic. The ride is firm but absorbent, and the handling is responsive and secure. The rear seat is generously sized and easy to get into and out of. A relatively simple and boxy shape gives the CR-V good outward visibility and ample cargo room. The controls and infotainment system are easy to use.

The recent freshening saw the smooth and punchy V6 that used to power the Highlander get replaced by a 265-hp, 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder. This engine packs good midrange oomph but has a grittier engine sound. The ride is comfortable, and handling is sound and secure, but mundane. Seven- and eight-passenger seating configurations are available. Either way, the second row is very roomy, but the third row is tiny and not as useful as in some midsized SUV competitors. The Highlander’s infotainment system looks modern, but it’s less user-friendly than before.

The Highlander Hybrid gets excellent fuel economy without giving up any of the regular version’s practicality. It has far and away the best fuel economy of any three-row SUV. It can drive on its electric power at low speeds and delivers a smooth and prompt initial launch. The ride is comfortable, and the Toyota’s handling is sound but not agile. Both seven- and eight-passenger seating configurations are available. Either way, the second row is very roomy, but the third row is tiny. With the SUV’s recent freshening, it received a new infotainment system that is no easier to use than the version it replaced.

• Honda Pilot
• Nissan Rogue
• Toyota Camry
• Hyundai Tucson
• Ford F-150
• Chevrolet Equinox
• Toyota Corolla
• Toyota 4Runner
• Honda HR-V
• Ford Escape