It’s no secret that SUVs have taken the automotive industry by storm. With more options from more brands than ever before, narrowing down to the best option can be tough. But that doesn’t stop some from trying. Online auto retail platform Cars.com is among the latest to deliver its verdict on the best of 2023. Can we narrow it down to just three models? We’re here to break it down.
2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee: capability in many forms
named the Jeep Grand Cherokee as its best SUV of 2023, citing the midsize model’s versatility as its crowning achievement.
as the cornerstone of the Grand Cherokee’s versatility. On one hand, the plug-in hybrid powertrain delivers an impressive 56 mpg rating. That’s an impressive feat for an SUV of the Grand Cherokee’s stature. On the other hand, it generates horsepower to tow 6,000 pounds and uses a sophisticated all-wheel drive system.
2023 Chevy Tahoe: Full-size family hauler
Named runner-up for Best SUV 2023 by Cars.com, the 2023 Tahoe follows in the footsteps of Chevy’s longtime heavy-duty SUV (along with its Suburban sibling).
In its roundup, Cars.com praises the space and power of the Tahoe.
“Chevrolet’s Tahoe is a versatile SUV in its own right…” says Cars.com. “And under the skin is a comfortable and roomy three-row SUV that can tow a maximum of 8,400 pounds.”
With its truck-based platform and big V8 engine options, the 2023 Tahoe is a proponent of an old-school approach to SUV design. This gives it an edge in capability over many competitors who have opted for the ride advantages of unibody construction. Large displacement powertrains and ladder frame construction offer inherent towing benefits. Chevy also offers a .
But that doesn’t mean it’s all brutal and no beauty. The Tahoe has a cavernous cabin, and Chevy ditched the old solid-axle setup in favor of independent suspension ride quality a few years ago. Cars.com cites the 2023 Tahoe’s comfort as an asset to its success.
“Comfort is also king in the Tahoe, with roominess in all three rows.”
2023 Kia Sorento: Korean crossover consideration
Cars.com ranks the 2023 Kia Sorento as a value proposition in its ratings of the best SUVs of 2023.
“Space is at a premium for growing families, but not every growing family has the space or budget for a full-size SUV,” says Cars.com. “Enter the three-row Kia Sorento, which offers a high-quality, more affordable alternative to the hard-to-get Telluride.”
The review paints Kia’s crossover as a well-designed, practical package with just the right . A range of powerful and efficient powertrains allow the driver to choose a style of performance that works for them. Kia is even offering a plug-in hybrid version of the Sorento, a sign of the growing presence of electrification in family-sized SUVs as well.
While the 2023 Sorento may be smaller than the other two SUVs considered by Cars.com, the site implies that Kia packs punch above its weight. Comfort across all three rows, a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, and rugged technology reside in an SUV that starts at just over $30,000.
What is the best SUV to buy in 2023?
Cars.com has compiled a list of SUVs that shine with versatility. Each has its strong argument, from the rugged performance of the Grand Cherokee to the abundantly roomy Tahoe and economical Sorento. Unfortunately, any shortlist is likely incomplete, considering the huge variety of driver needs and the models that meet them. The best SUV to buy in 2023 ultimately depends on one person: you.
