Best SUVs for Work in 2024: Top Picks for Every Professional Need
When it comes to choosing the best SUV for work you're not just looking for a ride to get you from point A to point B. You're searching for a partner in your daily grind—one that can haul your gear tow your trailer and keep you comfortable through long hours on the road. Whether you're in construction sales or any other field that demands reliability and utility there’s an SUV that can fit your needs. Let's break down the 10 best SUVs for work in 2024 each tailored to a specific type of professional.
Why Choose an SUV for Work?
SUVs have become a staple for work vehicles due to their versatility and practicality. Unlike commuter cars or even some full size trucks SUVs offer a balance of interior space cargo capacity and towing power. You get a vehicle that can handle rough terrain transport a team of workers and carry a load of equipment all in one package. Plus with the rise of hybrid models and electric vehicles (EVs) SUVs are also becoming more fuel efficient—a crucial factor for any work vehicle that racks up the miles.
What Makes a Great Work SUV?
Before diving into our top picks let's discuss what makes an SUV ideal for work. Here are a few key features to consider:
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Towing Capacity: Whether you're hauling a trailer or a load of tools a good work SUV needs to have strong towing capabilities.
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Cargo Space: You need room for your gear and more. Look for models with expansive storage options and versatile rear seats that fold flat.
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Safety Features: Since work often means long hours on the road advanced safety features like lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking are essential.
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Durability: You want a vehicle that can handle tough conditions without constant trips to the shop.
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Fuel Economy: With rising gas prices finding an SUV with good fuel economy can save your business money in the long run.
Now let's get to the good stuff.
1. Toyota RAV4: The Reliable All-Rounder
When it comes to choosing the best SUV for work the Toyota RAV4 often comes up as a top contender. Known for its reliability and fuel efficiency the RAV4 is a solid choice for professionals who need a dependable daily driver.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: Up to 3500 lbs (with the Adventure or TRD Off-Road trim)
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Cargo Space: 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 28 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Includes standard safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning
Drawbacks: While the RAV4 excels in many areas some users have noted that the rear seats can feel a bit cramped for adults on long rides. And let's not forget the infamous infotainment system that seems to have a mind of its own at times—you might need to “persuade” it with a firm press or two.
Alex Collantes from Avenue Motors comments “The Toyota RAV4 has been a top seller for a reason—it’s just a great all-around vehicle. Sure the infotainment system can be a little frustrating but for most of our customers reliability is the number one priority and the RAV4 delivers.”
2. Ford Everest: The Rugged Powerhouse
If your work takes you off the beaten path the Ford Everest is a beast of an SUV that can handle just about anything you throw at it. With four-wheel drive and a strong towing capacity the Everest is designed for tough jobs in challenging environments.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 6600 lbs
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Cargo Space: 48.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 23 mpg combined
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Safety Features: Blind spot monitoring rear cross traffic alert and roll stability control
Drawbacks: The Everest's size can be both a blessing and a curse. While it’s great for carrying a ton of gear it can be a real pain to park in tight spots. Also you might want to avoid those gas stations as the Everest loves to drink—it’s not the most fuel-efficient ride on this list.
Alex Collantes says “For those who need serious capability the Ford Everest is an excellent choice. Just make sure you’ve got a good parking spot at the office because this thing is a bit of a tank.”
3. Honda CR-V: The Practical Workhorse
The Honda CR-V has long been a favorite for those seeking a practical reliable SUV that’s perfect for work and daily driving alike. With a reputation for longevity and excellent fuel economy the CR-V is an easy pick for professionals.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 1500 lbs
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Cargo Space: 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 28 mpg city / 34 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Forward collision warning lane departure warning and standard safety features galore
Drawbacks: While the CR-V is great for light-duty tasks it’s not the best choice if you need serious towing power. Plus the rear seats are fine for shorter trips but taller rear seat passengers might feel a little cramped.
Alex Collantes notes “The CR-V is a solid choice for those who need a reliable daily driver with enough space for gear. It’s not going to tow a boat but for most professionals it’s more than enough.”
4. Subaru Forester: The Outdoor Enthusiast’s Dream
For professionals who love to mix business with pleasure the Subaru Forester offers a perfect blend of practicality and outdoor adventure readiness. With all-wheel drive as standard and plenty of interior space the Forester is ready for work and play.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 1500 lbs
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Cargo Space: 35.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Eyesight Driver Assist Technology lane-keeping assist and pre-collision braking
Drawbacks: The Forester’s engine can feel a bit underpowered especially when the SUV is fully loaded. And while all-wheel drive is great for rough roads it can make the Forester a bit noisy on the highway.
Alex Collantes adds “The Subaru Forester is fantastic for those who want an SUV that’s as capable in the city as it is on a weekend camping trip. Just don’t expect to win any drag races with it!”
5. Ford Bronco Sport: The Compact Off-Roader
If you need something that’s both rugged and compact the Ford Bronco Sport is a great option. It’s built for off-road adventures but its smaller size makes it easier to navigate through town.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 2200 lbs (with the Badlands trim)
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Cargo Space: 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 25 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Includes standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert
Drawbacks: While the Bronco Sport is a fun ride it’s not the most comfortable on long drives. The rear seats in particular can feel a bit tight and the suspension is a bit stiff—great for off-roading but not so much for your daily commute.
Alex Collantes mentions “The Bronco Sport is a fun little SUV that’s great for those who want something rugged but don’t need a full-size off-roader. Just be prepared for a bit of a bumpy ride.”
6. Chevrolet Tahoe: The Big Boss
For those who need a big SUV that can do it all the Chevrolet Tahoe is a fantastic choice. With tons of interior space and a powerful engine the Tahoe is ready to take on the toughest jobs.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: Up to 8400 lbs
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Cargo Space: 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row 72.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 15 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Automatic emergency braking lane departure warning and a whole suite of standard safety features
Drawbacks: The Tahoe’s size can make it a bit unwieldy especially in tight urban environments. And don’t even think about squeezing it into a compact parking spot. Plus with its big V8 engine your wallet might feel a bit lighter after each trip to the gas station.
Alex Collantes says “The Tahoe is a beast. It’s perfect for those who need a full-size SUV with serious towing power and cargo space. Just make sure you’ve got the budget for those fuel stops!”
7. Toyota Tacoma: The Best of Both Worlds
Okay we know the Toyota Tacoma is technically a pickup truck but it’s a compact pickup that’s perfect for those who need a bit more utility than your typical SUV. With its truck’s bed and four-wheel drive the Tacoma is incredibly versatile.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 6800 lbs
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Cargo Space: A truck’s bed instead of a typical rear seats setup
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Fuel Economy: 20 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Adaptive cruise control lane departure warning and pedestrian detection
Drawbacks: While the Tacoma is great for work it’s not as comfortable as an SUV. The rear seats are more of an afterthought and the ride can be a bit harsh. Plus let’s be honest if you’re planning to fit five people in here you better be good friends.
Alex Collantes jokes “The Tacoma is the best choice for those who want a little truck but don’t want to admit they’re driving a pickup. It’s versatile it’s capable and it’s got that tough Toyota reliability.”
8. Jeep Grand Cherokee: The Luxury Off-Roader
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is where luxury meets rugged capability. If you need a work SUV that can also serve as a comfortable family vehicle the Grand Cherokee is an excellent choice.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 7200 lbs
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Cargo Space: 37.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Blind spot monitoring rear cross traffic alert and full-speed forward collision warning
Drawbacks: The Grand Cherokee isn’t the cheapest option on the list. Plus while it’s great off-road it might be overkill if most of your work is in the city. And those leather seats? They’re luxurious but they can be a bit of a sweatbox in the summer.
Alex Collantes says “The Grand Cherokee is the SUV for those who want it all—luxury capability and performance. Just be ready to shell out for it.”
9. Kia Telluride: The New Kid on the Block
The Kia Telluride has quickly become a favorite among SUV buyers and for good reason. It offers a ton of interior space a comfortable ride and a long list of standard features that make it a great value.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs
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Cargo Space: 21 cubic feet behind the third row 46 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Adaptive cruise control lane keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring
Drawbacks: While the Telluride is great in most areas it’s not exactly a speed demon. The engine can feel a bit underpowered especially when the SUV is fully loaded. And while the third row is a nice touch it’s best suited for kids or small adults.
Alex Collantes comments “The Kia Telluride is a great all-around SUV. It’s got tons of space and it’s packed with features. Just don’t expect it to win any drag races.”
10. Land Rover Defender: The Ultimate Adventure SUV
If your work takes you to the ends of the earth—literally—the Land Rover Defender is the SUV you want. It’s built for extreme conditions with four-wheel drive a high ground clearance and a durable design.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 8200 lbs
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Cargo Space: 34 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 17 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Adaptive cruise control lane keep assist and 360-degree camera
Drawbacks: The Defender is as rugged as they come but that comes at a price—literally. It’s one of the more expensive options on this list. And while it’s great off-road it’s not the most comfortable ride on the highway. Plus its boxy design means you’ll get a few funny looks in the parking lot.
Alex Collantes laughs “The Defender is the SUV for those who need serious capability. It’s not the most practical daily driver but if you need to get to the top of a mountain it’s the one to pick.”
11. Nissan Pathfinder: The Versatile Work Companion
The Nissan Pathfinder is a great option for professionals who need a three row SUV that offers both comfort and utility. It’s a vehicle that’s equally at home on the highway as it is on a rough construction site making it an excellent choice for those who need a versatile work companion.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 6000 lbs
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Cargo Space: 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row 47.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Includes standard safety features such as automatic emergency braking blind-spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert
Drawbacks: While the Pathfinder offers good interior space the third row can be a bit tight for adults. Plus while it has decent towing capacity it might not be enough for those who need to haul very heavy loads on a regular basis. And let’s not forget that the Pathfinder’s CVT (continuously variable transmission) has been a bit of a hit-or-miss for some drivers—sometimes it’s smooth as butter but other times it can feel a bit sluggish.
Alex Collantes comments “The Nissan Pathfinder is great for those who need a lot of seating and decent towing capacity. It’s a solid choice for work and family use. Just make sure you test that CVT before you buy to see if it’s your cup of tea.”
12. Hyundai Palisade: The Feature-Packed Family SUV
The Hyundai Palisade has made a name for itself as a three row SUV that offers a lot of bang for your buck. With its upscale interior and long list of standard features the Palisade is a great option for those who need a comfortable work vehicle that can also double as a family car.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs
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Cargo Space: 18 cubic feet behind the third row 45.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Adaptive cruise control lane-keeping assist and standard safety features like forward collision warning
Drawbacks: While the Palisade is well-equipped and comfortable it’s not exactly a powerhouse in terms of performance. The engine while adequate can feel a bit underpowered when the vehicle is fully loaded. And while the interior is luxurious for the price point some might find the ride to be a bit on the softer side—great for comfort but not as great for spirited driving.
Alex Collantes notes “The Hyundai Palisade offers a ton of features for the price. It’s a great choice for those who want a lot of SUV for their money. Just don’t expect it to set any land speed records.”
13. Mazda CX-9: The Stylish and Sporty Workhorse
The Mazda CX-9 is perfect for professionals who want a work SUV that doesn’t sacrifice style for functionality. With its sleek design and sporty handling the CX-9 stands out in a sea of more traditional-looking SUVs.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs
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Cargo Space: 14.4 cubic feet behind the third row 38.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Includes standard safety features such as adaptive cruise control blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist
Drawbacks: The CX-9’s sporty design comes with a few trade-offs. The interior space while beautifully designed is a bit more cramped compared to some competitors. The third row is best suited for kids or short trips with adults. Also while the CX-9’s handling is top-notch for an SUV it’s not the best choice if you need heavy towing capacity or a ton of cargo space.
Alex Collantes adds “The Mazda CX-9 is a great choice for those who want a bit of fun in their daily drive. It’s stylish and drives like a dream but if you need more room or towing capacity you might want to look elsewhere.”
14. Volkswagen Atlas: The Big and Bold Contender
The Volkswagen Atlas is one of the bigger options in the three row SUV segment offering a ton of interior space and a spacious third row that can actually fit adults comfortably. It’s a strong contender for those who need a big SUV for work and family duties.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs
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Cargo Space: 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row 55.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Includes standard safety features such as automatic emergency braking blind-spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert
Drawbacks: The Atlas is big and it drives like it. While it offers plenty of room it’s not the most agile SUV on the road. Parking in tight spots can be a bit of a challenge and the fuel economy is nothing to write home about. Also while the Atlas is well-built the interior materials aren’t quite as premium as you might expect for the price.
Alex Collantes comments “The Volkswagen Atlas is great if you need lots of space. It’s one of the few three row SUVs where the third row isn’t just for kids. Just be prepared for its size—it’s a lot of SUV to handle!”
15. Chevrolet Suburban: The King of Cargo Space
When it comes to cargo space the Chevrolet Suburban is the undisputed king. If your work requires you to haul a lot of gear on a regular basis the Suburban offers more room than almost any other SUV on the market.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 8300 lbs
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Cargo Space: 41.5 cubic feet behind the third row 93.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 14 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Includes automatic emergency braking lane-keeping assist and a rearview camera
Drawbacks: The Suburban’s massive size is both its greatest strength and its biggest drawback. While it offers unparalleled cargo space it can be a bit of a beast to drive especially in urban environments. The fuel economy is also quite poor so if you’re driving long distances regularly you’ll be spending a lot at the gas station.
Alex Collantes says “The Chevrolet Suburban is perfect for those who need to haul a ton of gear. It’s almost like driving a full size truck but with more enclosed space. Just be prepared for its appetite at the gas station—it’s not the most fuel-efficient ride.”
16. GMC Yukon: The Luxurious Workhorse
The GMC Yukon combines the rugged capability of a full size truck with the luxury features of a high-end SUV. It’s perfect for those who need serious towing capacity and cargo space but don’t want to sacrifice comfort.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 8400 lbs
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Cargo Space: 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row 72.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 15 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Adaptive cruise control lane departure warning and rear cross traffic alert
Drawbacks: Like the Suburban the Yukon’s size can make it a bit unwieldy in tight spaces. Also while it offers a luxurious ride it comes with a luxurious price tag too. Plus with its V8 engine you’ll be making frequent trips to the gas station.
Alex Collantes notes “The GMC Yukon is a fantastic choice if you need something big and powerful but still want to be comfortable. It’s like a luxury full size truck in SUV form. Just make sure your budget can handle the price and the fuel costs.”
17. Ford Explorer: The All-Around Performer
The Ford Explorer has been a popular choice for decades thanks to its combination of interior space towing capacity and everyday usability. It’s a great option for those who need a reliable work SUV that can also handle family duties.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 5600 lbs
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Cargo Space: 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row 47.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Includes standard safety features like automatic emergency braking lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring
Drawbacks: While the Explorer is a solid all-around performer it doesn’t excel in any one area. The cargo space while decent isn’t as impressive as some competitors and the towing capacity is solid but not class-leading. Plus while the Explorer’s interior is functional it’s not the most luxurious or spacious compared to other three row SUVs.
Alex Collantes adds “The Ford Explorer is like the Swiss Army knife of SUVs—it does everything pretty well but doesn’t really stand out in any one area. It’s a solid choice for those who need a good all-around vehicle.”
18. Tesla Model X: The High-Tech Workhorse
If you’re looking for an electric vehicle that can double as a work SUV the Tesla Model X is one of the best options available. With its impressive electric motors and cutting-edge technology the Model X offers a unique blend of performance and practicality.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs
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Cargo Space: 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row 88 cubic feet with the rear seats folded
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Range: Up to 351 miles on a single charge
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Safety Features: Autopilot advanced safety features like collision avoidance and lane-keeping assist
Drawbacks: The Model X’s high-tech features come at a high price. It’s one of the more expensive options on this list and while the electric motors provide instant torque and impressive acceleration it’s not the best choice for those who need a lot of towing capacity. Plus while the falcon wing doors are cool they can be a bit of a hassle in tight spaces or low garages.
Alex Collantes says “The Tesla Model X is perfect for those who want to go green but still need a capable work vehicle. Just be prepared for the price tag and the fact that it’s not going to tow as much as a traditional SUV.”
19. Lexus GX: The Luxury Off-Roader
The Lexus GX is a luxury SUV that doesn’t shy away from getting dirty. With its body-on-frame construction and four-wheel drive system the GX is ready for tough work conditions while keeping you comfortable with its high-end interior.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 6500 lbs
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Cargo Space: 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row 46.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 15 mpg city / 19 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Includes standard safety features like adaptive cruise control blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning
Drawbacks: The GX’s old-school construction means it’s a bit heavier and less fuel-efficient than more modern SUVs. Also while the interior is luxurious the tech is a bit dated compared to newer competitors. Plus the cargo space behind the third row is quite limited so if you’re planning to carry a lot of gear you might need to fold those seats down.
Alex Collantes notes “The Lexus GX is great for those who want a luxury vehicle that can still handle tough jobs. It’s a bit of a throwback in terms of design but that’s also what makes it so capable off-road.”
20. Volvo XC90: The Safe and Stylish Option
The Volvo XC90 is one of the safest SUVs on the market making it a great choice for professionals who prioritize safety. With its Scandinavian design and long list of standard safety features the XC90 is both stylish and practical.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs
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Cargo Space: 15.8 cubic feet behind the third row 41.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 21 mpg city / 30 mpg highway (with the plug-in hybrid model)
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Safety Features: Includes standard safety features like adaptive cruise control lane-keeping assist and pedestrian detection
Drawbacks: While the XC90 is one of the safest SUVs out there its towing capacity and cargo space are a bit more limited compared to some of its competitors. Also the interior space while beautifully designed isn’t as roomy as some other three row SUVs especially in the third row.
Alex Collantes says “The Volvo XC90 is perfect for those who want a safe stylish SUV. It’s not going to win any awards for towing capacity but for most work needs it’s more than enough.”
21. Audi Q7: The Tech-Savvy Work SUV
The Audi Q7 is a luxury SUV that’s packed with the latest technology making it a great choice for professionals who want a high-tech work vehicle. With its all-wheel drive system and advanced driver assistance features the Q7 is ready for any challenge.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 7700 lbs
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Cargo Space: 14.2 cubic feet behind the third row 35.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 19 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Includes standard safety features like adaptive cruise control lane-keeping assist and a top-view camera system
Drawbacks: The Q7’s third row is a bit cramped especially for taller passengers. Also while the cargo space is adequate it’s not as impressive as some competitors. And like many luxury SUVs the Q7 comes with a hefty price tag.
Alex Collantes adds “The Audi Q7 is great for those who want a tech-packed SUV that’s also luxurious. Just be prepared for the price and make sure you’re okay with the tighter third row.”
22. Range Rover Sport: The High-Performance Workhorse
The Range Rover Sport is perfect for those who need a work SUV that’s both powerful and luxurious. With its strong engine options and four-wheel drive capability the Range Rover Sport is ready for any work challenge.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 7716 lbs
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Cargo Space: 24.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Includes standard safety features like adaptive cruise control lane-keeping assist and a 360-degree camera system
Drawbacks: The Range Rover Sport’s luxurious nature comes with a luxurious price tag. Also while it’s great off-road it’s not the most practical choice for those who need a lot of cargo space or third-row seating. And let’s not forget that Range Rovers have a bit of a reputation for reliability issues—so you might want to keep your mechanic on speed dial.
Alex Collantes jokes “The Range Rover Sport is the SUV for those who want to arrive at the work site in style. It’s powerful it’s luxurious but you might want to set aside a little extra cash for those maintenance costs.”
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right SUV for work in 2024 is all about finding the right balance between towing capacity cargo space safety features and comfort. Whether you need a rugged off-roader like the Ford Everest or a luxurious daily driver like the Range Rover Sport there’s an SUV out there that can meet your needs.
As Alex Collantes puts it “When it comes to picking the best SUV for work there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. You have to consider what you’ll be using it for and what features matter most to you. But with so many great options on the market in 2024 you’re sure to find the perfect match.”
No matter which SUV you choose be sure to take it for a test drive and consider how it will fit into your daily work routine. With the right vehicle at your side your workday can be more productive more comfortable and maybe even a little more fun.
23. Jeep Wrangler: The Off-Road Kingpin
For those whose work often leads them off the beaten path, the Jeep Wrangler stands as the quintessential off-road SUV. Whether you’re a contractor needing to navigate rough terrain or a field engineer working in remote locations, the Wrangler’s legendary four-wheel drive system ensures that no job site is out of reach.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs
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Cargo Space: 12.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats; 31.7 cubic feet with seats folded
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Fuel Economy: 20 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring
Drawbacks: The Wrangler’s off-road prowess comes at a cost—primarily in the form of on-road comfort. The ride can be rough, especially on long highway drives, and wind noise is a constant companion. The Wrangler’s cargo space is also on the smaller side, especially with the rear seats in place. And if you’re not accustomed to driving a Wrangler, the steep learning curve of handling a high-centered, short-wheelbase vehicle might be a bit much at first.
Alex Collantes quips, “The Wrangler is for those who prioritize adventure in their workday. If your commute involves climbing a mountain rather than just a freeway, the Wrangler’s your best bet. Just be ready for a bumpy ride.”
24. Porsche Cayenne: The Executive Workhorse
If you’re in the market for an SUV that combines the performance of sports cars with the utility of a work vehicle, the Porsche Cayenne is in a class of its own. While not traditionally seen as a work SUV, the Cayenne’s robust towing capacity and spacious interior make it more than capable of handling serious tasks—all while looking incredibly sleek.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 7,716 lbs
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Cargo Space: 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats; 60.3 cubic feet with seats folded
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Fuel Economy: 19 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and surround-view camera system
Drawbacks: The Cayenne’s biggest drawback is its price. It’s an expensive SUV, both to purchase and to maintain. The cargo space is also somewhat limited compared to more utilitarian SUVs, and while it’s a joy to drive, it’s not the best choice if your work frequently takes you onto rough or unpaved roads. And, of course, driving a Porsche might attract a little more attention than you’re used to.
Alex Collantes observes, “The Cayenne is for those who want a work vehicle that doubles as a status symbol. It’s more than just a pretty face, though—it’s got the power and utility to back up its looks.”
25. Toyota Land Cruiser: The Reliable Titan
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a legendary name in the world of SUVs, known for its unparalleled reliability and off-road capability. If your work demands a vehicle that can go anywhere and handle anything, the Land Cruiser should be on your shortlist.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 8,100 lbs
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Cargo Space: 16.1 cubic feet behind the third row; 41.4 cubic feet behind the second row
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Fuel Economy: 13 mpg city / 17 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control
Drawbacks: The Land Cruiser’s biggest disadvantage is its fuel economy. It’s one of the thirstiest SUVs on the market, so if you’re clocking a lot of miles, be prepared for frequent stops at the gas station. The Land Cruiser is also quite large, making it a bit cumbersome in tight urban environments or crowded work sites. And with a hefty price tag, it’s a significant investment.
Alex Collantes says, “The Land Cruiser is a beast. It’s built to last and can handle just about anything. But it’s not the most practical for everyday commuting unless you’re regularly driving through a war zone.”
26. GMC Acadia: The Mid-Size Marvel
For those who need a balance of cargo space, towing capacity, and daily usability, the GMC Acadia offers a compelling package. It’s a mid-size SUV that provides the versatility needed for work without the bulk of a full-size SUV.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 4,000 lbs
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Cargo Space: 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row; 41.7 cubic feet behind the second row
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Fuel Economy: 21 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Rear parking sensors, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking
Drawbacks: While the Acadia is a great all-rounder, it doesn’t particularly excel in any one area. The cargo space is decent but not as expansive as some competitors, and the towing capacity is good but falls short of full-size SUVs. Additionally, the third row is tight, so it’s not the best choice if you need to transport a full crew regularly.
Alex Collantes notes, “The GMC Acadia is perfect for those who need a bit of everything—decent towing capacity, some cargo space, and the ability to fit in most parking spaces. It’s not the biggest or the baddest, but it gets the job done.”
27. Honda Pilot: The Family-Friendly Workhorse
The Honda Pilot is an ideal choice for those who need a work SUV that can also double as a family vehicle. With its spacious interior and reliable performance, the Pilot offers a good mix of practicality and comfort.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
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Cargo Space: 16.5 cubic feet behind the third row; 46.8 cubic feet behind the second row
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Fuel Economy: 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist
Drawbacks: The Pilot’s styling is a bit on the conservative side, so it might not stand out in a crowd. The cargo space is also a bit limited if you’re using all three rows of seating. And while the Pilot is a reliable workhorse, it doesn’t offer the same off-road capabilities as some of its rivals, so it’s best suited for jobs that stay on paved roads.
Alex Collantes says, “The Honda Pilot is the SUV for those who need to balance work and family life. It’s got enough room for the kids and enough power to get the job done. Just don’t expect it to turn any heads.”
28. Toyota Sequoia: The Full-Size Family Hauler
The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV that offers a ton of interior space and strong towing capacity. It’s a great choice for those who need to transport a lot of people and gear without compromising on power.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 7,400 lbs
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Cargo Space: 18.9 cubic feet behind the third row; 66.6 cubic feet behind the second row
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Fuel Economy: 13 mpg city / 17 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking
Drawbacks: The Sequoia’s fuel economy is a weak point, especially if you’re driving long distances. The interior, while spacious, is starting to feel a bit dated compared to newer models. And like other full-size SUVs, it can be a challenge to maneuver in tight spaces.
Alex Collantes mentions, “The Toyota Sequoia is great for those who need a lot of space and power. It’s reliable and capable, but be prepared to spend a lot of time at the pump.”
29. Buick Enclave: The Quiet Performer
The Buick Enclave offers a refined ride and a quiet interior, making it a great choice for professionals who spend a lot of time on the road. It’s not the most rugged SUV, but it’s perfect for those who need a comfortable work vehicle.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
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Cargo Space: 23.6 cubic feet behind the third row; 58 cubic feet behind the second row
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Fuel Economy: 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Includes standard safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking
Drawbacks: The Enclave is more about comfort than capability, so it’s not the best choice if you need a tough off-road vehicle. The cargo space is good but not class-leading, and the towing capacity is adequate for most jobs but falls short of heavier-duty SUVs. The Enclave’s soft suspension is great for a smooth ride but can make the SUV feel a bit floaty on winding roads.
Alex Collantes observes, “The Buick Enclave is the SUV for those who value comfort above all else. It’s a great choice if your work involves a lot of driving, but it’s not the best option for rough terrain.”
30. Mercedes-Benz GLE: The Luxury Option
For professionals who want to make a statement with their work vehicle, the Mercedes-Benz GLE offers a perfect blend of luxury and utility. With its upscale interior and advanced technology, the GLE is a standout in the luxury SUV market.
Features at a Glance:
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Towing Capacity: 7,700 lbs
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Cargo Space: 33.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats
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Fuel Economy: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
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Safety Features: Includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a full suite of standard safety features
Drawbacks: The GLE’s biggest downside is its price—it’s one of the more expensive options in this segment. While the cargo space is decent, it’s not as large as some competitors. And while the interior is luxurious, some might find the tech features a bit overwhelming or unnecessary for a work vehicle.
Alex Collantes notes, “The Mercedes-Benz GLE is for those who want the best of the best. It’s got all the luxury features you could want and the power to back it up. Just be ready to pay for it.”
Whether it’s a rugged off-roader or a luxurious daily driver, there’s something for everyone in 2024.”
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Work SUV
Choosing the best SUV for work in 2024 comes down to your specific needs. Whether you need something rugged and capable like the Ford Everest or a reliable daily driver like the Toyota RAV4 there’s an SUV out there for you. Consider what’s most important—towing capacity cargo space fuel economy—and find the SUV that ticks all the boxes. And remember no vehicle is perfect so keep those quirks and drawbacks in mind as you make your choice.
With options like the Subaru Forester for outdoor enthusiasts the Chevrolet Tahoe for those who need to haul serious loads and the Land Rover Defender for the ultimate adventurers there’s an SUV for every type of work. So get out there and find your perfect partner for the job.
Alex Collantes sums it up perfectly: “When it comes to work SUVs there’s no one-size-fits-all. But with so many great options in 2024 you’re bound to find one that meets your needs and then some. Just don’t forget to factor in those gas stops!”