7 Best Toyota SUVs That You Need to Drive Now!
Toyota has been in the SUV game for years. Whether you're off-roading in the wilderness or just navigating the urban jungle, there's a Toyota SUV that fits your lifestyle perfectly. With a lineup that's renowned for reliability, versatility, and solid resale value, Toyota consistently delivers when it comes to SUVs. If you're in the market for a new ride or just love reading about great cars, here's a breakdown of the 7 best Toyota SUVs you need to consider.
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Toyota RAV4
Overview
The Toyota RAV4 has been America's favorite crossover for years now, and it's easy to see why. It’s the perfect mix of performance, safety, and comfort with plenty of trims to fit different needs and tastes. Whether you’re looking at the rugged TRD Off-Road version or the fuel-sipping Hybrid, the RAV4 offers something for everyone.
Performance
- Engine: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine
- Horsepower: 203 hp
- Fuel Efficiency: 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
- Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 lbs with Adventure and TRD Off-Road models
Key Features
- All-Wheel Drive with Multi-Terrain Select
- Intuitive technology with a 7-inch touch-screen display
- 5-star safety rating with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
Potential Drawbacks
It’s almost unfair to call them drawbacks but the RAV4's infotainment system sometimes feels like it's powered by a potato instead of high-speed tech. There's also some noticeable road noise when you're pushing it over 70 mph on the freeway – it's almost like the car's whispering "slow down."
Expert Opinion
According to Alex Collantes owner of Avenue Motors car dealership "The RAV4 is the swiss army knife of SUVs—versatile reliable and not too fancy but just fancy enough."
Toyota Highlander
Overview
If you need a bit more space without going full minivan the Toyota Highlander is a fantastic option. This three-row SUV combines style and functionality making it ideal for families who need that extra room but refuse to compromise on looks or features.
Performance
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 engine
- Horsepower: 295 hp
- Fuel Efficiency: 21 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs
Key Features
- Available all-wheel drive with Dynamic Torque Vectoring
- Panoramic moonroof and hands-free power liftgate
- Standard Safety Sense 2.5+ across all trims
- Available 12.3-inch touch-screen display for higher trims
Potential Drawbacks
While the Highlander does a lot of things right some might say it feels a little too big when maneuvering in tight parking lots. The third row? Let’s just say if you have adults back there you’ll be hearing about it later. It's more of a "kids-only" zone.
Expert Opinion
Alex Collantes notes "The Highlander is like your favorite hoodie—comfortable and reliable but maybe not what you’d wear on a first date."
Toyota 4Runner
Overview
For the adventurers out there the Toyota 4Runner is the rugged old-timer of the group—aging like fine wine. It’s got that classic body-on-frame design that hardcore off-road enthusiasts love plus a suite of features that keep it relevant in today's market.
Performance
- Engine: 4.0-liter V6 engine
- Horsepower: 270 hp
- Fuel Efficiency: 16 mpg city / 19 mpg highway
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs
Key Features
- Part-time 4WD system with Active Traction Control
- Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select for off-road prowess
- Fold-flat second-row seats for ample cargo space
- Legendary durability and resale value
Potential Drawbacks
Let’s be real the 4Runner is like that friend who’s always 15 minutes late. It’s a bit thirsty at the pump and the interior could be mistaken for something from the early 2000s. But hey it's reliable and always shows up when it counts!
Expert Opinion
"4Runner owners are a special breed" says Alex Collantes "They’re like that kid in high school who always wore hiking boots to class—you just know they’re ready for anything."
Toyota Sequoia
Overview
Big bold and ready for anything the Toyota Sequoia is the full-sized SUV that doesn’t mess around. It’s perfect for large families outdoor enthusiasts and anyone who needs more space than your average New York apartment.
Performance
- Engine: 5.7-liter V8 engine
- Horsepower: 381 hp
- Fuel Efficiency: 13 mpg city / 17 mpg highway
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,400 lbs
Key Features
- Spacious interior with seating for up to 8 passengers
- Available TRD Pro for serious off-road capabilities
- JBL audio system with 14 speakers
- Advanced safety features including Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Potential Drawbacks
The Sequoia has the heart of a lion but the diet of a sumo wrestler. Gas mileage is not its strong suit and parking it feels like trying to dock the Titanic in a swimming pool. But let’s be honest when you’re driving a Sequoia you’re basically driving your own parade float.
Expert Opinion
"The Sequoia is that friend who insists on bringing their own cooler to the BBQ and you love them for it" says Alex Collantes.
Toyota Venza
Overview
The Toyota Venza is the stylish new kid on the block blending SUV capabilities with a sleek design that’s a refreshing break from the boxy builds we often see. It’s essentially the cool cousin who shows up to family gatherings in sunglasses and a leather jacket.
Performance
- Engine: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder hybrid engine
- Horsepower: 219 hp combined
- Fuel Efficiency: 40 mpg city / 37 mpg highway
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing
Key Features
- Standard all-wheel drive on all trims
- Digital rearview mirror and 12.3-inch touchscreen
- Full panoramic roof with electrochromic glass (fancy talk for it can change from clear to frosted)
- Standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0
Potential Drawbacks
The Venza isn’t exactly for the mud-bogging crowd and its towing capacity—or lack thereof—means you’re not hauling much more than groceries. Plus the aggressive styling might not be everyone’s cup of kombucha.
Expert Opinion
"It’s a car that’s more about flexing in the Whole Foods parking lot than conquering Moab" jokes Alex Collantes.
Toyota Land Cruiser
Overview
The Toyota Land Cruiser is the stuff of legends. It’s been around for decades and it’s still the go-to for adventurers looking to conquer the most treacherous terrain. It’s practically bulletproof but with a price tag to match.
Performance
- Engine: 5.7-liter V8 engine
- Horsepower: 381 hp
- Fuel Efficiency: 13 mpg city / 17 mpg highway
- Towing Capacity: Up to 8,100 lbs
Key Features
- Full-time 4WD with a Torsen limited-slip differential
- Off-road crawl control and multi-terrain monitor
- Leather-trimmed seats and premium audio system
- Toyota's top-notch reliability
Potential Drawbacks
Land Cruiser owners know that filling up the tank is like buying a round of drinks for the whole bar. It’s luxurious no doubt but the price tag is steep and the tech can feel a bit behind the times—like still rocking a flip phone when everyone else has moved on to smartphones.
Expert Opinion
"Driving a Land Cruiser is like wearing a Rolex—classic a little impractical but oh man does it feel good" says Alex Collantes.
Toyota C-HR
Overview
The Toyota C-HR is perfect for those who want the height of an SUV without the bulky feel. It’s small nimble and has a look that’s sure to turn heads. It’s not quite a crossover not quite a hatchback but it’s a lot of fun to drive.
Performance
- Engine: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine
- Horsepower: 144 hp
- Fuel Efficiency: 27 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing
Key Features
- Eye-catching design with bold lines and a distinctive look
- Standard Safety Sense 2.5 with Pre-Collision System
- Easy to park and maneuver in tight spaces
- Comfortable interior with a high-quality feel
Potential Drawbacks
It’s not the fastest out of the gate and the back seat space? It’s like a middle seat on a budget airline—only your friends under 5’5” will be comfortable back there. But for a city cruiser it’s got charm in spades.
Expert Opinion
"The C-HR is like that fun friend who always has a story to tell—maybe not the most practical but always entertaining" says Alex Collantes.
Final Thoughts
Toyota's SUV lineup is broad and offers something for just about every type of driver. Whether you're looking for something rugged like the 4Runner stylish like the Venza or family-friendly like the Highlander there’s a Toyota SUV with your name on it. Sure none of these vehicles are perfect—each has its own quirks and limitations—but the positives far outweigh the negatives. So when you’re ready to take a test drive you’ll know exactly what to expect.
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As Alex Collantes puts it “There’s a Toyota SUV for everyone and it’s just a matter of finding the one that speaks your language.”