Toyota continues to dominate the SUV market in 2025, offering a mix of reliability, efficiency, and performance across its lineup. In our detailed guide on Best Toyota SUVs of 2025, we explore which model truly stands out as the best.
In this guide, we rank the top Toyota SUVs of 2025, based on Car and Driver’s rigorous 200+ data point evaluation. Their real-world tests cover:
- Performance (acceleration, handling, braking)
- Comfort & Interior Space (seating, cargo capacity)
- Fuel Efficiency (MPG, hybrid benefits)
- Value for Money (features vs. price)
- Driving Experience (daily usability and fun factor)
Whether you need a fuel-efficient compact, a rugged off-roader, or a family-friendly three-row, this list will help you find the best Toyota SUV for your needs.
How We Ranked the best Toyota SUVs of 2025
Toyota’s SUVs were rigorously tested and evaluated using a mix of real-world driving impressions and instrumented testing. Here’s what we considered:
Key Factors in Our Rankings
✔ Performance – Acceleration, power delivery, and handling in various conditions.
✔ Fuel Efficiency – Real-world mileage compared to official EPA estimates.
✔ Interior Comfort – Seating quality, space, and ride smoothness.
✔ Cargo Space – Practicality for everyday use and long trips.
✔ Technology & Safety – Infotainment systems, driver-assistance features, and crash test ratings.
✔ Off-Road Ability – For models built for rugged terrain.
✔ Value for Money – Price vs. features, reliability, and resale value.
Why Real-World Testing Matters
Unlike lab tests, real-world driving reveals:
- How an SUV performs in daily conditions (traffic, rough roads, weather).
- Actual fuel consumption under different driving styles.
- Ride comfort and noise levels on highways and city streets.
🏆 Best Toyota SUVs of 2025 Ranked
1. 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander ⭐ (Best Overall Toyota SUV)
- Car and Driver Rating: ⭐ 9.5/10
- Starting Price: 💰 $42,310
- EPA MPG: ⛽ 22–24 combined
🔹 Why It’s the Best Overall SUV
The Grand Highlander is Toyota’s ultimate 3-row SUV, offering exceptional interior space, smooth handling, and modern tech. Unlike the regular Highlander, it gives adults real third-row comfort.
✔️ Pros
✅ Spacious and premium interior
✅ Smooth and quiet ride
✅ Competitive pricing for a 3-row SUV
❌ Cons
⛔ Larger size makes city driving trickier
🏠 Who It’s For: Families needing a comfortable, high-tech, and spacious 3-row SUV.
2. 2025 Toyota RAV4 ⭐ (Best Compact Toyota SUV)
- Car and Driver Rating: ⭐ 8/10
- Starting Price: 💰 $30,645
- EPA MPG: ⛽ 28–30 combined
🔹 Why It’s the Best Compact SUV
The Toyota RAV4 remains one of the most versatile compact SUVs. It’s fuel-efficient, roomy, and comes with Toyota’s legendary reliability.
✔️ Pros
✅ Excellent fuel economy
✅ Spacious interior for a compact SUV
✅ Rugged, adventure-ready styling
❌ Cons
⛔ Not the most powerful in its class
🚗 Who It’s For: Commuters and small families looking for an efficient, practical SUV.
3. 2025 Toyota Highlander
- Car and Driver Rating: ⭐ 8/10
- Starting Price: 💰 $41,270
- EPA MPG: ⛽ N/A
🔹 Why It’s a Solid Choice
The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that balances efficiency, comfort, and reliability. However, its third row is tight, making the Grand Highlander a better option for bigger families.
✔️ Pros
✅ Fuel-efficient hybrid option available
✅ Strong safety features
✅ Comfortable ride quality
❌ Cons
⛔ Cramped third-row seats
⛔ Less engaging to drive
🏡 Who It’s For: Families who need Toyota reliability in a midsize package.
4. 2025 Toyota bZ4X ⚡ (Best Toyota Electric SUV)
- Car and Driver Rating: ⭐ 7.5/10
- Starting Price: 💰 $38,465
- EPA Est. Range: 🔋 222–252 miles
🔹 Toyota’s First Dedicated EV
Toyota’s bZ4X is a futuristic electric SUV with a comfortable ride and Toyota’s commitment to durability. However, its range lags behind rivals.
✔️ Pros
✅ Modern, futuristic design
✅ Smooth, quiet electric drive
✅ Loaded with driver-assist tech
❌ Cons
⛔ Limited highway range
⚡ Who It’s For: Buyers wanting a stylish, all-electric Toyota SUV.
5. 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross
- Car and Driver Rating: ⭐ 7.5/10
- Starting Price: 💰 $25,485
- EPA MPG: ⛽ 30–32 combined
🔹 Best Budget-Friendly Toyota SUV
The Corolla Cross is a small, affordable SUV that prioritises efficiency and safety. However, it’s not the most exciting drive.
✔️ Pros
✅ Great fuel efficiency
✅ Affordable price
✅ Solid safety features
❌ Cons
⛔ Dull driving experience
💰 Who It’s For: Budget-conscious buyers wanting a small, efficient crossover.
6. 2025 Toyota Sequoia 🏋 (Best for Towing and Power)
- Car and Driver Rating: ⭐ 7.5/10
- Starting Price: 💰 $64,370
- EPA MPG: ⛽ 20–22 combined
🔹 Best Toyota SUV for Heavy-Duty Use
The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size, hybrid-powered SUV built for towing. It has strong performance but a tight third row.
✔️ Pros
✅ Hybrid powertrain boosts fuel efficiency
✅ Best-in-class towing capacity
❌ Cons
⛔ Expensive
⛔ Third-row seating feels cramped
🏋 Who It’s For: Drivers needing a powerful, hybrid full-size SUV.
7. 2025 Toyota 4Runner ⛰ (Best Off-Road Toyota SUV)
- Car and Driver Rating: ⭐ 9/10
- Starting Price: 💰 $42,220
- EPA MPG: ⛽ N/A
🔹 The Ultimate Off-Road Toyota SUV
The Toyota 4Runner is a rugged, off-road-ready SUV with strong resale value and durability. The 2025 update improves refinement while keeping its legendary toughness.
✔️ Pros
✅ Incredible off-road capability
✅ Highly durable and reliable
❌ Cons
⛔ Outdated tech compared to rivals
⛰ Who It’s For: Off-road enthusiasts wanting a tough, adventure-ready SUV.
🏆 The Best Toyota SUVs of 2025, Ranked
1️⃣ Toyota Grand Highlander – Best Overall Toyota SUV
🛠 Expert Take: If you want a Toyota SUV that does it all, the Grand Highlander is your best bet.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Starting Price | £34,000+ |
Seating | 7-8 passengers |
MPG | 22–24 combined |
Pros | Spacious, premium interior, smooth ride |
Cons | Large size may not suit city driving |
Who should buy it?
- Large families needing a comfortable three-row SUV
- Drivers who want luxury without Lexus pricing
2️⃣ Toyota RAV4 – Best Compact Toyota SUV
🛠 Expert Take: The RAV4 is a reliable all-rounder that’s practical, efficient, and great for daily use.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Starting Price | £24,000+ |
Seating | 5 passengers |
MPG | 28–30 combined |
Pros | Excellent fuel economy, spacious interior |
Cons | Not the most powerful in its class |
Who should buy it?
- Commuters needing great fuel economy
- Small families looking for a practical daily SUV
3️⃣ Toyota Highlander – Best for Families
🛠 Expert Take: A solid choice for families who need space and safety.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Starting Price | £32,000+ |
Seating | 7-8 passengers |
MPG | 25+ combined (hybrid option available) |
Pros | Safe, comfortable, efficient |
Cons | Third-row space is tight |
Who should buy it?
- Families needing seven-seater versatility
- Buyers wanting Toyota reliability with hybrid efficiency
4️⃣ Toyota bZ4X – Best Electric Toyota SUV
🛠 Expert Take: Toyota’s full-electric SUV is stylish but lacks the range of some rivals.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Starting Price | £30,000+ |
Range | 222–252 miles |
Pros | Sleek design, quiet ride |
Cons | Limited highway range |
Who should buy it?
- Eco-conscious drivers looking for a Toyota EV
- Urban commuters who can charge at home
5️⃣ Toyota Sequoia – Best for Towing & Power
🛠 Expert Take: A powerful SUV with a hybrid engine, but not ideal for tight city spaces.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Starting Price | £50,000+ |
Seating | 7 passengers |
MPG | 20–22 combined |
Pros | Powerful, best-in-class towing |
Cons | Expensive, limited third-row space |
Who should buy it?
- Drivers who tow boats, trailers, or caravans
- Buyers needing serious power and durability
6️⃣ Toyota 4Runner – Best for Off-Roading
🛠 Expert Take: The ultimate Toyota SUV for adventure seekers.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Starting Price | £35,000+ |
Seating | 5-7 passengers |
MPG | N/A |
Pros | Rugged, off-road capable |
Cons | Outdated tech compared to rivals |
Who should buy it?
- Off-road enthusiasts needing rock-solid durability
- Buyers who don’t mind an older-style interior
Here’s a tabulated comparison of the best Toyota SUVs for 2025:
Rank | Model | Best For | Starting Price | Car and Driver Rating | EPA MPG / Range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1️⃣ | Grand Highlander ⭐ | Best Overall SUV | $42,310 | ⭐ 9.5/10 | ⛽ 22–24 MPG |
2️⃣ | RAV4 ⭐ | Best Compact SUV | $30,645 | ⭐ 8/10 | ⛽ 28–30 MPG |
3️⃣ | Highlander | Best Midsize Family SUV | $41,270 | ⭐ 8/10 | ⛽ N/A |
4️⃣ | bZ4X ⚡ | Best Electric SUV | $38,465 | ⭐ 7.5/10 | 🔋 222–252 miles |
5️⃣ | Corolla Cross | Best Budget SUV | $25,485 | ⭐ 7.5/10 | ⛽ 30–32 MPG |
6️⃣ | Sequoia 🏋 | Best for Towing & Power | $64,370 | ⭐ 7.5/10 | ⛽ 20–22 MPG |
7️⃣ | 4Runner ⛰ | Best Off-Road SUV | $42,220 | ⭐ 9/10 | ⛽ N/A |
Each SUV excels in its own category, ensuring there’s a Toyota SUV for every driver’s needs. 🚗💨
💡 Which Toyota SUV is Right for You?
Best For… | Top Pick |
---|---|
Overall Performance | Toyota Grand Highlander |
City Driving & Efficiency | Toyota RAV4 |
Family-Friendly SUV | Toyota Highlander |
Off-Road Adventures | Toyota 4Runner |
Towing & Power | Toyota Sequoia |
Electric SUV Option | Toyota bZ4X |
❓ FAQs: Common Toyota SUV Questions
🔹 What is the most fuel-efficient Toyota SUV?
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offers up to 40 MPG combined, making it the most efficient option.
🔹 What is the most reliable Toyota SUV?
Toyota SUVs are known for their bulletproof reliability, but the Toyota 4Runner has the longest track record for durability.
🔹 Which Toyota SUV has the most cargo space?
The Toyota Grand Highlander offers an impressive 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space when seats are folded down.
📌 Final Thoughts: Which Toyota SUV Should You Buy?
Toyota continues to offer some of the most dependable, fuel-efficient, and versatile SUVs on the market. Whether you’re after an eco-friendly hybrid, an off-road-ready machine, or a spacious family hauler, Toyota has an SUV to fit your needs.
So, which Toyota SUV best matches your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! 🚙💨