2025 Rivian R1S – 8.4/10 (same)
The Rivian R1S electric SUV offers suburbanites much of what they’re looking for. It combines three rows of seating with cutting-edge technology and eliminates the need for fuel stops. With 104.7 cubic feet of space, including 11 cubic feet in the front trunk, the R1S can easily haul sports, school and music equipment. And the R1S features all-wheel drive, ride height adjustment and tires for nearly any off-road occasion.
2024 Volvo XC60 – 8.4/10 (tie)
The mid-size Volvo XC60 is a plug-in hybrid SUV that offers suburbanites a spacious and comfortable ride, as well as impressive efficiency and performance. Capable of driving up to 32 miles on electric power alone and easily charging at home overnight, the XC60 features advanced driver assistance systems and a Scandinavian-inspired, sleek interior with easy-access LATCH connectors for child seats and a 9-inch touchscreen with all the expected apps from Apple and Google.
2025 Rivian R1T – 8.2/10
For the suburbanite who needs more workmanlike utility, the Rivian R1T electric pickup offers something in almost every way. Like the SUV, the truck has been redesigned for the 2025 model year. The front trunk offers plenty of storage for groceries, and the transmission tunnel can store golf clubs, skis, or other long and narrow items. Battery and drivetrain options are numerous, with the R1T achieving a maximum all-electric range of 420 miles. When the trip is interrupted, R1T owners can use the plugs to charge devices and use tools.
2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge – 8.1/10
The electric Volvo XC40 Recharge is compact but powerful. In the rear-wheel drive version, it can travel 293 miles on a single charge and is still fun to drive. The all-wheel drive version with Twin Motor has a range of 254 miles. Like most Volvos, the XC40 has safety awards and a level of comfort not found in many electric vehicles. Smart storage compartments and clever cubby holes will please suburbanites, as will compatibility with Google, Android and Apple.
Audi Q8 E-Tron 2024 – 8.1/10
The redesigned 2024 Audi Q8 E-Tron features new aerodynamic wheel options, projection lighting, and a longer range thanks to a battery that’s more efficient and has a larger usable capacity. Suburbanites who value storage will appreciate the boxier E-Tron’s extra cargo space over the sloping-roof E-Tron Sportback model; both, however, achieve excellent safety and crash-test scores. Buyers get two years of free DC fast charging on the Electrify America network, included in the purchase price.
Kia EV9 2024 – 8.0/10
The 2024 Kia EV9 is a revolutionary design and engineering feat for the company, and it’s so well executed that it sets the bar high not only for Kia competitors, but for the luxury automakers as well. Suburbanites can use the third row in carpools or fold the seats flat to create 43.5 cubic feet of space. That’s enough room for coolers, gear, groceries, and more. Seat heating and cooling functionality extends to the second row, and USB-C ports are available for rear passengers.
Lexus RX 2024 – 7.8/10
Although it’s built on a new platform, the new Lexus RX has almost the same footprint as the old version, with two rows of seats and a generous cargo area for suburbanites. It’s still comfortable to drive and features easy-to-use technology. There are several efficient powertrain options to choose from, including a hybrid that now gets 36 miles per gallon combined. This car has been one of the best-selling luxury SUVs in America for years, and it’s easy to see why.
2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E – 7.4/10
Like the traditional Mustang coupe, the Ford Mustang Mach-E is a relatively inexpensive, capable vehicle with a list of things that appeal to many suburbanites. The low-roof SUV has more torque from an updated electric motor, faster charging and more standard features than the outgoing model. It comes standard with numerous safety and driver-assist technologies. It also comes with Blue Cruise, Ford’s hands-free, eye-controlled driver-assist system that can make family road trips less stressful.
2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 – 7.4/10
Hyundai’s retro-modern, boxy Ioniq 5 electric SUV offers the same balanced equation as the Mustang Mach-E: a right-sized body that’s easy to park and offers plenty of interior space, is fun to drive, and stands out in the suburban carpool lane. The Ioniq 5 has plenty of storage for kids and their band and sports gear. Plugged into a DC fast charger, it can recharge 80 percent of its battery in just 18 minutes, about the length of a family rest stop.
Acura MDX 2024 – 7.3/10
The Acura MDX is both premium and practical. The luxurious midsize SUV offers suburbanites a stylish and versatile vehicle for their family needs. It features three rows of seating that can accommodate up to seven passengers, with ample leg and headroom. The cabin is well-appointed with leather, wood and metal accents, as well as multiple storage compartments and cup holders. All-wheel drive is standard, ensuring worry-free driving in inclement weather. Standard safety features include lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.
Honda CR-V 2024 – 7.3/10
The 2024 Honda CR-V is a compact SUV that offers suburbanites a reliable and spacious vehicle for their daily needs. The CR-V can be equipped with a hybrid powertrain that achieves a combined gas mileage of 40 miles per gallon. The CR-V also comes with standard safety features such as collision mitigation braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. A standard 9-inch touchscreen has a physical volume knob and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Wireless smartphone charging is also included.