Best Crossovers | 2023 New CUVs Ratings

Characteristics of Top-Rated Crossovers

Even as new crossovers hit the market in greater numbers, the differences between each model are not as big as you may think. These are vehicles designed to fill a specific niche, so they naturally need to tick certain boxes. As such, you can expect to see a lot of similarities in any comparison between the top crossovers. The qualities you will most likely see extolled, or criticized, in our ratings include:

Maneuverability: Naturally, due to their smaller dimensions in comparison to SUVs or pickup trucks, crossover vehicles are highly adept at weaving through traffic. They also don’t struggle to find a parking spot or fit into just about any parking garage. However, they still benefit from a higher riding position that gives the driver a great view of the road.
Affordability: While there are many luxury names, especially among the best crossover vehicles, the fact is that the majority of these cars have a very low starting price. Mean to support small families or young professionals, it is essential that they offer great value at an affordable starting point. Further supporting their value proposition is their excellent gas mileage figures. This comes from their lower overall weight and reliance on small-capacity turbocharged engines. The cost of ownership, therefore, remains low throughout their lifespan.
Customization: As one of the fastest-growing segments in the world, it should come as no surprise that there are numerous crossover models on offer. This gives buyers a great deal of choice when it comes to customizing their purchases. Furthermore, most automakers aim to hit as many different demographics as possible, so they present each model in a wide array of trims. Especially higher up in the lines, these trims can be further altered via packages and optional extras.
Safety: High-riding sport utility vehicles are among the safest cars on the road, and while they may not be as bulky, crossovers inherit much of this peace of mind. They do still suffer from slightly lower rollover scores, due to their height, but their added weight over sedans ensures that crossovers keep their footing and their crumple zones are top-notch. Furthermore, since these are vehicles are largely targeted at families, almost all new models come equipped with a whole slew of advanced driver-assistance features as standard.

What to Consider Before Buying a Crossover

Despite their popularity, crossovers are not perfect. Just like any other body style, they have certain strengths and flaws that you should be aware of. Even models at the top of our crossover ratings share many of these qualities. So, before you commit yourself to five to seven years behind the wheel of one, carefully weigh the pros and cons:

Pros

Highly affordable
Better-than-average mpg figures
Nimble around town
More practical than a sedan
Comfortable, featureful cabins that are easy to live with

Cons

Generally not very powerful
Limited towing capacities
Low price often means low-quality materials
Lack the utility and versatility of larger SUVs

FAQs about CUVs

What is the difference between a crossover and an SUV?

It all comes down to the frame. Traditional SUVs are built on pickup truck platforms, which explains their ruggedness, high weight, and ability to go just about anywhere. Crossovers, on the other hand, make use of sedan platforms, which means they have a much smaller footprint and handle far more dextrously. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses to impart.

What are the best crossover brands on the market?

There are plenty of great options out there to be sure. However, our personal opinions draw us more towards brands like Kia and Mazda for value and dependability or Mercedes-Benz and Tesla for luxury and comfort.

What are the top-rated 2022 crossovers?

Everyone has their own take on which car comes out on top, and even we have a hard time picking a winner in this segment. The Kia Soul is impossible to dismiss for its extremely low asking price, great warranty, and great fuel economy, but it lacks features at base level as its looks are not for everyone. The Telsa Model Y is more modern and has the added benefit of being all-electric. However, it is one of the most expensive crossovers out there.

Best Crossovers of 2023