New features for the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid SUV
Kia’s popular hybrid models get the latest lights and screen as they hit slightly fuel economy.
They are the most popular vehicle segment in the United States for a reason. Everyone wants the space, comfort and styling of an SUV. They are family cars for weekend sports tournaments and can be turned into off-road homes for their annual camping trips.
However, not all SUVs are created equally.
The USA Today Network’s automotive critics have tried a lot among the many fascinating SUV options that permeate buyers. Building insights from the initial looks and test drive, these are some great SUVs with a variety of powertrains that our critics enjoyed, and features they loved most.
2025 Cadillac Optiq
In recent years, Cadillacs have leaned against electric powertrains, offering high-performance, luxurious EVs that critics have enjoyed. The 2025 Cadillac Optiq is a successful SUV that has great value for Detroit Free Press auto critic Mark Phelan, and has impressed his impressive power and flashy interior.
All of these features are packed into a sleek, small body, and are married to a short, parkingable wheelbase that will appeal to city residents.
Luxury electric SUVs start at $50,900 and come in solid prices for Cadillac-style luxury.
2025 Lincoln Navigator
Lincoln Navigator offers the highest quality, looks and fancy features at around twice the price ($99,995).
Features like a sophisticated two-piece tailgate and a 48-inch wide infotainment display help the navigator stand out among the class’s luxury SUVs.
But the navigator is more than just a floating and luxurious SUV. It also packs in some serious power.
The navigator features four-wheel drive with a 440 horsepower twin-turbo V6 and a 10-speed automatic transmission. Do I need to tow the cargo? The navigator can tow up to 8,700 pounds, making it easier with the “hitch assist” feature that guides the vehicle to trailer towing hookup without the headache of completing the geometry.
2025 Hyundai Ionyk 9
As for electric SUVs, the 2025 Hyundai Ionti 9 is located near the front of the pack.
“Hyundai’s 2025 Ioniq 5 gets pretty much everything right,” writes Phelan, emphasizing that the latest model year for the vehicle has implemented several important changes that have lifted the vehicle into a wise and convenient choice from the daily commuter to future SUV buyers.
The IONIQ 5 is the first non-Tesla vehicle equipped with a NACS charging port, allowing the battery to be charged through Tesla’s extensive DC first charge network.
With the right options, everyone has an Ioniq 5. In addition to the standard IONIQ 5 starting at $44,220, Hyundai offers a competent off-road-centric XRT option for $57,100.
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
The Grand Highlander Hybrid has great fuel economy, three rows of seats, plenty of cabins and storage space, a luxurious touch, and good pans in your bag.
Part of the appeal of this vehicle comes from the badges and powertrain. Toyota continues to innovate its hybrid powertrain by pioneering the hybrid segment with its popular Prius. In addition to a capable and efficient hybrid engine, the Grand Highlander is equipped with plenty of space for luxurious features and bargain prices.
Starting at $44,210 – under thousands of dollars above the average price of a new US car – The Grand Highlander is perfect for families and others looking for a spacious and efficient SUV.
2025 Toyota Land Cruiser
The Grand Highlander is not just the acclaimed hybrid Toyota SUV. I didn’t get enough of the hybrid Toyota Land Cruiser either.
Detroit Free Press car critic Mark Phelan returned after his second drive, saying, “Is it still love, or is it love in the second sight?”
Phelan writes that the Land Cruiser is expensive, but it is a victory for comfort and off-road capabilities. The two-tone paint scheme and classic boxy look make the vehicle go back to Toyota’s old Land Cruiser and offer modern high-tech amenities.
With 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, the hybrid provides the power needed for both off-road and highway cruising. The biggest disadvantage? The engine requires premium fuel, adding an additional cost that hybrid powertrains can usually save on high fuel consumption.
