Best SUVs of 2026

SUVs have surged in popularity in recent years, with a vast range of models now available in different sizes and styles. With so many options on the market, finding the right SUV for your needs can feel overwhelming.

Some models, like the Kia Sportage and Dacia Bigster, provide excellent value as practical family vehicles. On the other end, large seven-seat SUVs such as the Skoda Kodiaq and BMW X7 offer maximum space, while rugged options like the Land Rover Defender excel off-road. Buyers can also choose from petrol, diesel, hybrid, and fully electric powertrains.

Modern SUVs are far more user-friendly than older versions. Instead of being fuel-hungry off-roaders, many are now refined, comfortable, and surprisingly enjoyable to drive. However, they still tend to cost more to buy and run than smaller hatchbacks or saloons. To help simplify your decision, Carwow’s expert team has compiled a list of the best SUVs currently available in the UK.

Chery Tiggo 8

You may not be familiar with the Chery Tiggo 8, but it impressed enough to win Carwow’s 2026 Car of the Year award. It stands out for delivering exceptional value, especially for families needing space without overspending.

Pricing is a major advantage. As a seven-seat SUV, it undercuts most rivals significantly. While a basic petrol version is available, the plug-in hybrid is the better option, offering electrified driving at a price far lower than competitors like the Peugeot 5008 or Kia Sorento—even in top-spec trim.

Inside, the quality is competitive, with premium-feeling materials and solid construction. A large infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto comes standard, although the menu layout can be slightly awkward.

Space is another highlight. The rear seats comfortably fit teenagers or child seats, and the third row works well for kids. With all seats up, boot space is limited, but folding the rear rows creates a large cargo area suitable for most family needs.

The petrol engine lacks refinement, but the plug-in hybrid excels, offering around 56 miles of electric range and strong fuel efficiency—even on longer journeys.

BMW X5

BMW’s “ultimate driving machine” philosophy is clearly evident in the X5. Despite its size, it handles more like a sporty saloon than a bulky SUV, regardless of whether you choose diesel, petrol, hybrid, or the high-performance V8 version.

Its blend of driving ability, off-road capability, and practicality earned it Carwow’s “Adventurer’s Choice” award in 2025. The standard six-cylinder diesel offers strong performance with decent efficiency, while the plug-in hybrid provides over 60 miles of electric range along with impressive power.

The hybrid version is limited to five seats, but other variants offer an optional third row. Inside, there’s plenty of room, and the cabin feels luxurious, with high-end materials and a striking widescreen display setup. Optional crystal-style controls add a unique touch.

Although expensive, the X5 justifies its price with its overall quality. For even more space, the BMW X7 is a strong alternative with standard seven-seat capacity.

BMW iX3

The all-new BMW iX3 is a major step forward in electric SUVs, offering a potential range of up to 500 miles on a single charge. Built on BMW’s advanced “Neue Klasse” platform, it features highly efficient batteries and ultra-fast charging capability.

Its exterior design is more refined than previous BMWs, with smaller grilles and modern lighting elements. Inside, the cabin is even more impressive, featuring a wide panoramic display that stretches across the dashboard, eliminating the need for a head-up display.

There’s ample space inside, along with a 520-litre boot and additional front storage. On the road, the iX3 delivers the engaging driving experience expected from BMW, with responsive steering and well-controlled suspension.

Real-world testing shows its range is genuinely impressive, maintaining strong performance across various driving conditions.

Hyundai Ioniq 9

Hyundai’s large electric SUV takes a unique design approach, with a streamlined shape that differs from more traditional rivals like the Kia EV9. While its styling may divide opinion, it offers slightly better range thanks to a larger battery.

The Ioniq 9 focuses on comfort, making it ideal for long journeys, though its size can make it less suited to narrow roads. The interior is spacious and well-built, with enough room for adults in the third row.

The boot is enormous, especially with the rear seats folded, and fast charging adds to its practicality. Despite some minor usability issues with the infotainment system, it remains a strong choice for families seeking an electric SUV.

Citroen C5 Aircross

The Citroen C5 Aircross prioritizes comfort above all else. It isn’t designed for sporty driving, but instead delivers a smooth, relaxed ride thanks to its advanced suspension system.

Its seats are particularly comfortable, making it ideal for long trips. The car is also attractively priced, often competing with smaller SUVs, yet offering far more space and practicality.

With a large boot, roomy rear seats, and an elevated driving position, it’s a great option for buyers wanting SUV benefits at a lower cost.

Volvo XC90

Despite being on sale for around a decade, the Volvo XC90 remains a strong contender. Originally set to be replaced by the all-electric EX90, it continues due to ongoing demand.

The interior feels premium, with thoughtful details such as a built-in child booster seat and subtle Swedish design touches. There’s space for seven passengers, though the boot is slightly smaller than newer rivals.

The plug-in hybrid version is the best choice, offering strong performance but requiring regular charging to keep fuel costs down. While comfortable overall, the ride can feel firm on rough roads.

Skoda Kodiaq

The Skoda Kodiaq is a practical, no-nonsense family SUV. It still offers diesel engines and provides plenty of space, with optional seating for seven—though the third row is best suited for children.

The plug-in hybrid version delivers up to 60 miles of electric driving but sacrifices the third row due to battery placement. Regardless of configuration, the boot is large and the cabin offers generous space.

While not particularly exciting to drive, it is comfortable and practical, though optional extras can significantly increase the price.

Hyundai Santa Fe

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a standout all-rounder, previously winning Carwow’s Car of the Year award. Its bold, boxy design gives it a distinctive presence.

It comes with seven seats as standard, offering plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The interior includes numerous storage compartments and an impressive number of cupholders.

Available with hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, as well as optional all-wheel drive, it balances comfort, efficiency, and practicality better than many rivals.

BMW iX

The BMW iX may have a controversial design, but it excels in nearly every other area. Its interior is particularly impressive, featuring a futuristic layout with high-quality materials and advanced technology.

Performance is strong across the range, with even base models offering quick acceleration. Higher-spec versions deliver exceptional speed while still maintaining a range of over 300 miles.

It’s spacious, refined, and comfortable, making it a top-tier electric SUV—albeit at a premium price.

Dacia Bigster

The Dacia Bigster builds on the success of the Duster, offering more space and a stronger road presence while maintaining affordability.

Its design closely resembles the Duster but includes subtle differences such as updated lighting and a larger body. Inside, it’s functional and easy to use, though materials reflect its budget focus.

The increased size provides excellent interior space and a very large boot. While ride comfort could be better on rough roads, it performs well on motorways and feels surprisingly agile for its size.