2018 Lexus RX
$43,470 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.6/10
The Lexus RX was redesigned a few years ago, and that redesign made it look great. The new RX features more aggressive lines along its sides that lead to a grille that defines Lexus’ new design language. The grille’s hourglass shape can be seen on almost every Lexus model that’s currently available.
Move to the rear of the RX and you’ll notice a dual exhaust system, sharp taillights, and a large rear window that gives the driver a good sightline.
2018 Lexus RX
U.S. News Interior Score: 7.9/10
While the RX’s exterior is striking, it’s nothing compared to the opulence of the interior. Five passengers can fit comfortably on leatherette upholstery in base models, but those who upgrade will have real leather seats. Lexus offers up to five different colors for the RX’s interior besides the standard black trim.
Standard features on this luxury midsize SUV include dual-zone automatic climate control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, two USB ports, an 8-inch infotainment monitor, and a suite of driver assistance features. Spend a little extra money and your RX will be equipped with a rear-seat entertainment system, the Enform app suite, a 12.3-inch display screen, and even more safety features.
2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio
$41,995 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.3/10
A brand-new model from the Italian carmaker, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio currently sits midpack in our luxury compact SUV rankings. The performance-tuned crossover is immediately recognizable due to the triangular grille that Alfa Romeo has used across all its models.
All it takes is one look at the Stelvio to know that it is fast. Two massive air intakes sit under each side of the grille. The Stelvio’s rear window is small, which may cause blind spots. However, a low load floor should help make loading golf clubs easier.
2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio
U.S. News Interior Score: 7.3/10
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio’s interior has a tough time matching the good looks of the exterior and the impressive performance from its engine. There is seating for five, though rear-seat legroom can get tight if the front seats are moved back. Standard features include Bluetooth, three USB ports, a rearview camera, and a 6.5-inch display screen.
If you decide to add some extras to your Italian stallion, you can equip it with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, an upgraded infotainment system with an 8.8-inch display, satellite radio, a 14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and a multitude of driver assistance features.
2018 Hyundai Kona
$19,500 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Hyundai Kona is new to the subcompact SUV scene for the 2018 model year, and it arrived with a bang. The Hawaiian-named SUV currently sits in the top spot among all subcompacts. Thin daytime running lights sit just under the corners of the hood, with more conventional headlights under them. A pentagonal, honeycomb grille sits in between the two headlights.
The rear of the SUV features taillights that are similar in look to the daytime running lights in the front. The rear windshield may be small, but it matches the rest of the subcompact Kona.
The Kona’s roof can be equipped with a different color than the rest of the SUV. Hyundai offers seven different colors for the body of the vehicle.
2018 Hyundai Kona
U.S. News Interior Score: 8.0/10
The Kona uses some hard plastics throughout the cabin, but they’re used tastefully and don’t take away from cabin’s overall comfort. Cloth upholstery comes standard with piping that matches the exterior color of the subcompact.
A 7-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, a USB port, and a rearview camera come standard. If you’re willing to spend a little extra you can add an 8-inch touch screen, HD Radio, satellite radio, an eight-speaker Infinity audio system, a sunroof, and a suite of active safety features.
2018 Mazda CX-9
$32,130 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.4/10
The Mazda CX-9 is just one of the many Mazda models following the KODO-Soul of Motion design language. Mazda hopes to invoke a sense of motion in every vehicle, even if it’s standing still. It definitely works for the CX-9, which sits in the top third of our midsize SUV rankings. The CX-9 features long, almost wavy lines that start from the rear of the vehicle and work their way towards the end of the hood. That hood hangs just over the grille, making it look like a wave about to crash.
The rear of the midsize SUV features a long, thin line that stretches across the trunk, connecting the taillights. The Mazda logo hangs just below the chrome line. A large rear windshield allows the driver to easily see what’s behind them.
2018 Mazda CX-9
U.S. News Interior Score: 8.2/10
As we move inside, there is plenty of room for adults in all three rows of seats. Not many midsize SUVs can say the same. Simple yet luxurious, the CX-9’s interior won’t seem gaudy, but it doesn’t feel cheap either.
Standard features on the CX-9 include tri-zone automatic climate control, blind spot monitoring, dual USB ports, a 7-inch touch screen, and low-speed automatic braking. Spend some extra dough and you’ll find yourself with a 12-speaker Bose audio system, a moonroof, navigation, an 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system, and a long list of active safety features.
2019 Volvo XC40
$33,200 | U.S. News Overall Score: 9.1/10
The Volvo XC40 is an all-new entry into the luxury subcompact SUV market, and it takes the top spot in our rankings. The XC40 leaves a little, but incredibly upscale footprint. A small grille in the front bumper is flanked by two thin, sharp looking headlights. There is also a two-tone design with the roof being painted a different color than the rest of the body.
The back of the subcompact SUV features a large rear windshield, angled tail lights, and the brand’s name.
2019 Volvo XC40
U.S. News Interior Score: 8.5/10
The interior of the XC40 features a driver-centric design. There is a large, 9-inch touch screen that resembles a tablet in the center console. Multimedia controls can be used through the touch screen or the buttons underneath.
The back seat features comfortable seating for three, with the middle seat able to be folded down to add cup holders. Like the exterior, the interior can be designed with a two-tone color.
2018 Jeep Renegade
$18,445 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.8/10
The Jeep Renegade, which was introduced for the 2015 model year, is one of the more interesting looking vehicles on this list. However, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t look good. The boxy shape of the Renegade brings back memories of the Honda Element, although Jeep decided to forgo the suicide doors.
The Renegade’s interior is quite busy, with a small display screen along with buttons and knobs to control the infotainment system, drive systems, and climate controls. There are also additional infotainment controls on the steering wheel.
2018 Jeep Renegade
U.S. News Interior Score: 7.8/10
Possibly the most interesting part of the Jeep Renegade is the amount of Easter eggs throughout its interior and exterior. In the Renegade’s headlights and tail lights you’ll find what looks like the classic Jeep grille. An old Willys Jeep is featured on the lower corner of the windshield, the latch that helps remove the roof, and on the floor mats.
There are a few more Easter Eggs sitting around the Renegade (including a nod to its Italian builders behind the fuel door), so keep your eye out for them when you go for your test drive.
2018 Mazda CX-5
$24,150 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.7/10
The Mazda CX-5 shares the same design language, KODO Soul-of-Motion, as its brother, the CX-9. Similar to the CX-9, the CX-5 looks fast even when it’s standing still. That, along with the CX-5’s impressive agility and drivability, are what help the CX-5 earn a top spot in our compact SUV rankings. It was also a finalist for our 2018 Best Compact SUV for the Money award.
The CX-5’s front end is dominated by a large grille that features the Mazda logo front and center. The grille is flanked by two sharp, sleek headlights. The rear of the compact SUV features a prominent Mazda logo with tail lights that are similar looking to the headlights.
2018 Mazda CX-5
U.S. News Interior Score: 8.4/10
The CX-5’s interior is pretty tame. A small infotainment screen sits on top of the center console, while physical buttons and knobs are in easy-to-reach places below the screen. There are also infotainment controls on the steering wheel to help you stay focused on the road.
While there’s no special two-tone design like those we’ve seen in other vehicles, the CX-5’s interior is a class in simplicity.
2018 Lincoln Navigator
$72,555 | U.S. News Overall Score: 9.2/10
Completely redesigned for the 2018 model year, the Lincoln Navigator claims the No. 1 spot in our luxury large SUV rankings. There is no other way to put it, the Navigator is a massive SUV. Lincoln’s new design language features a large, mesh-like grille that has the Lincoln logo dead center. Large headlights flank either side of the grille.
One thing drivers and passengers alike will notice is how high off the ground the Navigator sits. This may become an issue when getting in and out of the vehicle. However, there are motorized running boards that allow you to take a step up into the vehicle.
2018 Lincoln Navigator
U.S. News Interior Score: 9.2/10
If you enjoy sitting in thrones, then you’ll feel right at home inside the Lincoln Navigator. There are plenty of wood and soft-touch materials throughout the cabin. As our reviewer put it, “any complaints about the Navigator’s interior will qualify as nitpicking.”
A massive touch-screen infotainment system dominates the center console. A few inches below the screen lie physical buttons and knobs. Audio controls on the steering wheel help keep the driver’s attention on the road. If you have issues getting comfortable in your seat, Lincoln offers 30-way power-adjustable front seats so you can find the most comfortable position.
2018 Jaguar F-Pace
$42,065 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.3/10
The Jaguar F-Pace is one of a few vehicles on this list that look like a raised sports car. Taking a piece of the Jaguar F-Type’s design, the F-Pace features sharp lines that lead to aggressive-looking headlights and a large grille with the Jaguar logo placed in the middle. Large air intakes are featured on the bottom corners of the bumper.
The rear of the F-Pace features sharp and slim tail lights, a prominent Jaguar logo below the rear windshield, and the roof hangs just over the rear windshield. Even when it’s parked, you can tell that the F-Pace is fast.
2018 Jaguar F-Pace
U.S. News Interior Score: 8.0/10
The first thing you see when stepping into an F-Pace is the large, 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system. However, the touch screen can be difficult to use at times. There are also some buttons and knobs below the touch screen. On certain trims you can upgrade the seats to have a two-tone design.
Most of the F-Pace’s cabin is designed with soft-touch and upscale materials. However, there are some plastic pieces that add to the vehicle’s durability without detracting from the high-end styling.
2019 Jaguar I-Pace
$69,500 | U.S. News Overall Score: 9.2/10
Who says electric cars and SUVs have to look boring? Apparently not Jaguar. The all-new electric SUV from the British automaker brings together style and efficiency. In most ways, the I-Pace does not resemble any other SUV on the market. It looks more like a tall wagon than anything else.
Still, the same sharp lines that were featured on the F-Pace are recreated here. Though the I-Pace has a smaller front grille than the F-Pace, its headlights are just as thin and sharp. Faux air intakes sit just below the headlights.
2019 Jaguar I-Pace
U.S. News Interior Score: 7.0/10
The I-Pace’s cabin is exactly what you would expect from Jaguar. It features upscale materials, comfortable front seats, and a high-tech infotainment system with a multitude of standard features.
However, the infotainment system can be finicky at times. Another small gripe with the I-Pace’s interior is that it can be loud at high speeds. Reviewers agree that the interior is better than what they find in Tesla vehicles.
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC
$40,050 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.8/10
Our No. 4 ranked luxury compact SUV, the Mercedes-Benz GLC, was an all-new model just a few years ago. Originally called the GLK, the GLC was an improvement over the previous version’s design, performance, and comfort. The GLC’s sharp lines and forward-leaning body start at the front grille, which features two horizontal lines with the Mercedes star in between them.
The back of the GLC is quite plain, but it is in line with the rest of the Mercedes model range. The Mercedes logo underneath the rear windshield is what draws your eye. The GLC was a finalist for our 2018 Best Luxury Compact SUV for Families award.
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC
U.S. News Interior Score: 8.6/10
The interior of the GLC is covered in soft-touch surfaces, and it even uses small amounts of wood in the center console. That center console is topped with a 7-inch display. A few small buttons to control the climate systems and a touchpad controller are located near the bottom of the center console. Comfortable front seats with strong side bolsters keep the driver wrapped in luxury. Adults can even fit comfortably in the rear row.
2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
$123,600 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.2/10
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is one of the most iconic looking vehicles in automotive history. The boxy design has been copied by a number of auto manufacturers. The G-Class, also known as the G-Wagen, is a tank of an SUV. A large metal bumper sits just in front of the grille, which features a prominent Mercedes logo.
The rear of the truck features a full-size spare tire, and the trunk opens like a truck tailgate. Rectangular tail lights sit just above the rear bumper near either corner. Just above the rear windshield wiper near the roofline sits the rearview camera, which stands out more than the rearview cameras of most other SUVs.
2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
U.S. News Interior Score: 7.5/10
The interior of the G-Class is large and lavish. Seating up to five people in Nappa leather upholstery, the G-Wagen’s seats are nice to sit in, though other luxury large SUVs feature more comfortable seats.
A floating screen sits above the center console, though it doesn’t block the driver’s view of the road. Standard features include a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, Mercedes’ COMAND infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a number of driver-assistance features.
2018 Maserati Levante
$74,050 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.6/10
The Maserati Levante is the Italian automaker’s first foray into the luxury SUV market. Like some of its German and British rivals, take one look at the Levante and you’ll know it’s quick. The Levante’s body makes it feel as if it is in motion, even when it’s sitting at the curb in front of the best restaurant in town. The grille is adorned with Poseidon’s Trident, one of the most iconic logos in automotive history.
The rear of the luxury midsize SUV is quite plain compared to rivals. “Maserati” is written in script above the handle that opens the trunk. The shape of the tail lights resemble eyes, and the rear windshield is surprisingly small.
2018 Maserati Levante
U.S. News Interior Score: 7.4/10
The interior of the Levante matches the exciting, lavish look of the vehicle’s front end more than the bland styling of its rear. An 8.4-inch touch screen dominates the center console, though there are a few climate control buttons below it. The Poseidon’s Trident logo adorns the steering wheel.
Standard features in the Levante include an eight-speaker audio system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, Bluetooth, and satellite radio. Though the eight-spear system works well enough, for true concert-like sound you should upgrade to the 17-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system.
2018 Toyota 4Runner
$34,810 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.5/10
The Toyota 4Runner is a midsize SUV that feels more at home off the road than on it. Standing tall, the 4Runner’s boxy design makes it a practical choice for those who like to get muddy. The Toyota logo sits high on a twin-panel grille that’s flanked on both sides by angular headlights and small-but-noticeable fog lights.
You’ll find another somewhat bland rear end around on the 4Runner. The only defining features of the 4Runner’s back are the name of the vehicle in blocky text above the trunk handle and the Toyota logo just above that. Tall rectangular tail lights flank both sides of the 4Runner.
2018 Toyota 4Runner
U.S. News Interior Score: 7.2/10
The 4Runner’s interior features a very plain and straightforward design. A 6.1-inch touch-screen infotainment display sits high in the center console and is surrounded by buttons and knobs for audio and climate controls. You’ll be able to adjust most settings with the steering wheel controls if you don’t want to take your eyes off the road. Cloth upholstery comes standard, and the seats can feature a two-tone design.
Standard features include the touch screen, an eight speaker audio system, HD Radio, a 120-volt power outlet, navigation, and the Entune Audio Plus interface. If you’re willing to spend a little extra cash, you can get niceties like dual-zone automatic climate control, push-button start, the Entune App Suite, and a 15-speaker JBL sound system.
2018 Jeep Wrangler JL
$23,995 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.5/10
The Jeep Wrangler has been completely redesigned for the 2018 model year. The compact SUV has been a popular choice for off-road enthusiasts ever since the original Willys was introduced to the Army in the 1940s. The new Wrangler JL features a sportier design than the outgoing Wrangler JK. The windshield is also set at more of an swept-back angle than the one’s previous generations had.
The rear of the Wrangler hasn’t changed too much. A full-size spare tire still dominates the view, and the truck-like tailgate opening is still largely the same. It has more distinct lines, however. The tail lights are more square than those on the JK model, too.
2018 Jeep Wrangler JL
U.S. News Interior Score: 8.1/10
The new Wrangler’s interior has been greatly improved over the previous generation. The materials used in the cabin are far nicer, yet still extremely durable. You’ll never have to fear bringing mud into the Wrangler, as you are encouraged to hose out the interior. Cloth upholstery comes standard, though heated, leather seats are available.
Standard features include two 12-volt power outlets, Bluetooth, a rearview camera, and a 5-inch touch screen. If you’re willing to upgrade to one of the pricier models, you can get a 115-volt power outlet, an Alpine Audio system, a 7- or 8.4-inch touch-screen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and a Wi-Fi hot spot.
As for the Wrangler’s roof, a soft top comes standard and a hard top is available. Both tops are more easily removed than in the previous generation.
2019 Volvo XC90
$47,700 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.2/10
Four years after a full redesign, the 2019 Volvo XC90 is still one of the best-looking and classiest SUVs on the market. The luxury midsize SUV borders on the lower third of our rankings, but that’s due to a weak base engine and an unrefined transmission. The XC90’s large front grille features the Volvo logo front and center. Sitting parallel with the top of the grille are two sharp headlights. Fog lights sit near the bottom of the bumper.
In what seems to be a trend near the end of this list, the XC90’s rear end is very plain with “Volvo” written out just below the rear windshield. However, the XC90 may have one of the most interesting tail light designs on the market. The thin lights start near the bottom of the trunk and extend all the way to the top of the rear windshield.
2019 Volvo XC90
U.S. News Interior Score: 8.9/10
The XC90 quite possibly has the most elegant interior design on the market. The touch screen on the center console is shifted slightly towards the driver, this helps the driver spend less time staring at the screen before looking back to the road. Wood paneling is featured on the dash, center console, and doors.
Standard features include four-zone automatic climate control, a hands-free liftgate, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a 10-speaker audio system, and a 9-inch touch-screen infotainment system. Upgrade to one of the higher trims to get a head-up display, a 19- or 20-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system, a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, and a surround-view parking camera.
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The Best Looking SUVs of 2018
- 2018 Lexus RX - $43,470 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.6/10
- 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio - $41,995 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.3/10
- 2018 Hyundai Kona - $19,500 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.5/10
- 2018 Mazda CX-9 - $32,130 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.4/10
- 2019 Volvo XC40 - $33,200 | U.S. News Overall Score: 9.1/10
- 2018 Jeep Renegade - $18,445 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.8/10
- 2018 Mazda CX-5 - $24,150 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.7/10
- 2018 Lincoln Navigator - $72,555 | U.S. News Overall Score: 9.2/10
- 2018 Jaguar F-Pace - $42,065 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.3/10
- 2019 Jaguar I-Pace - $69,500 | U.S. News Overall Score: 9.2/10
- 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC - $40,050 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.8/10
- 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class - $123,600 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.2/10
- 2018 Maserati Levante - $74,050 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.6/10
- 2018 Toyota 4Runner - $34,810 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.5/10
- 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL - $23,995 | U.S. News Overall Score: 7.5/10
- 2019 Volvo XC90 - $47,700 | U.S. News Overall Score: 8.2/10
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SUVs That Will Make Your Jaw Drop
They say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but in this case, the SUVs on this list are objectively good looking. Whether it is due to sharp, aggressive lines that show the vehicle’s athleticism, or diamond-stitched leather seating that’s fit for royalty, you’ll find something that catches your eye.
This list includes more than just the top luxury SUVs in our rankings; you’ll even find a sub-$20,000 subcompact SUV here. With the massive amount of SUVs currently on the market it can be hard to stand out in the crowd. However, each one of the SUVs on this list surely makes a splash for its good looks, like the 2019 Volvo XC90.
Keep in mind that our rankings and scores change as we get new information, so what you see here may not match what’s on our reviews. Be sure to check out the full review of the SUVs that pique your interest the most.
Read on to see the best looking SUVs on the market.