© Toyota Motor Sales, USA
Best-Selling SUVs in America
Final U.S. vehicle sales figures for 2020 have been released, and while the worldwide Coronavirus outbreak has impacted overall sales, a number of models have shown improvements during the fourth quarter of 2020 — as well as during December alone. Although SUV sales continue to make up a large segment of the market, even these popular vehicles are not immune to the economic slump — almost all models are down for the year compared to 2019, and sales of the 25 best-selling SUVs have dropped 12.7 percent for the year. Here are the best-selling SUVs in America based on final sales figures for 2020, according to numbers compiled from auto manufacturers’ sales reports.
© General Motors
25. Chevrolet Blazer
2020 Sales: 94,599
Vs. 2019: +62.8%
One of only two models in the top 25 best-selling SUVs in America to post a sales increase for 2020 compared to 2019, the new Blazer launched in the first quarter of 2019, so sales are still on the increase despite the current pandemic. The all-new Blazer marks the return of a storied name from one of the original truck-based SUVs that debuted 50 years ago. Unlike the original boxy design, the new Blazer is a bold, sporty midsize crossover. Available as the L, Blazer, RS and Premier, the Blazer comes well equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and dual-zone climate control. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder unit producing 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. A 3.6-liter V6 is standard for RS and Premier and optional for Blazer, producing 308 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque.
© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience
24. Volkswagen Tiguan
2020 Sales: 100,687
Vs. 2019: -8.1%
Sales of the second-generation Tiguan were down for the first half of 2020 but bounced back in the second half of the year, with third-quarter sales nearly identical to 2019 and fourth-quarter sales up slightly with a 1.9-percent improvement. Volkswagen’s compact crossover was redesigned specifically for the U.S. market, offering more interior space and third-row seating. Adopting VW’s current design language, Tiguan’s exterior includes sharper, stronger lines and a lower, wider stance. Motivated by a new version of the German automaker’s turbocharged 2.0-liter TSI engine producing 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, Tiguan delivers power to the front wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission. Volkswagen’s signature 4Motion all-wheel drive with Active Control is optional.
© Hyundai Motor America
23. Hyundai Santa Fe
2020 Sales: 100,757
Vs. 2019: -20.9%
Santa Fe has been Hyundai’s most successful SUV in the U.S. market. Although December 2020 sales increased 20 percent compared to the previous year, Santa Fe finished the year down more than 20 percent. Fear not, an all-new 2021 Santa Fe is due to arrive int the first quarter. The 2021 Santa Fe features a new exterior design, advanced lighting technology, new engines, an available hybrid with all-wheel drive and a new Calligraphy trim level. The standard 2.5-liter engine produces 191 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid drivetrain pairs a turbocharged 1.6-liter gasoline engine producing 178 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque with a 44.2 kW electric motor and 1.49 kWh battery pack for an estimated total system output of 225 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
© Toyota Motor Sales, USA
22. Lexus RX
2020 Sales: 101,059
Vs. 2019: -9.0%
The best-selling model in the Lexus lineup, the RX led the brand to an all-time sales record for SUVs in 2019. However, sales dropped off in the first half of 2020 — down 23 percent before rebounding strongly in the second half to finish just 9 points down for the year. Last year Lexus upped RX utility with the addition of the RX L — a slightly larger model that offers seating for up to seven via a new third row. Both the original and L versions of the RX are available as the RX 350 or the RX 450h, the latter featuring a powerful and fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain. For 2021 a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert are standard equipment on all trim levels.
© General Motors
21. Chevrolet Trax
2020 Sales: 106,299
Vs. 2019: -9.0%
Chevrolet’s compact SUV started 2020 strong with a sales increase of nearly 15 percent in the first quarter, although things have abated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sales were down 21 percent in the fourth quarter, ending the year off 9 percent. Trax is offered in three trim levels: LS, LT and Premier, with the Trax LS starting at $21,300. Trax draws power from an Ecotec 1.4-liter turbocharged engine making 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is optional on all trim levels. Trax receives EPA ratings of 26 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined, and when equipped with AWD is rated at 24 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 26 mpg combined.
© FCA US
20. Jeep Compass
2020 Sales: 107,969
Vs. 2019: -25.0%
Jeep Compass sales more than doubled in 2018 after the small SUV went through a redesign that made it look a lot like a miniature Grand Cherokee. Sales cooled in 2019 and continued to slide in 2020, although things improved in the fourth quarter. Built on FCA’s small-wide 4 x 4 architecture, Compass has four trim levels: Sport, Latitude, Limited and Trailhawk. Compass gets powered by a 2.4-liter Tigershark engine producing 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. An 80th Anniversary Edition based on Latitude includes 19-inch wheels with Granite Crystal finish, leather seats with Light Tungsten accent stitching, a Uconnect 4C nav with an 8.4-inch touchscreen display, a 7-inch full-color TFT instrument cluster display and Piano Black and Anodized Gun Metal interior accents.
© Ford Motor Company
19. Ford Edge
2020 Sales: 108,886
Vs. 2019: -21.4%
Ford’s midsize crossover received a new exterior look for 2019, boosting Edge sales to a modest 3.3 percent increase for the year. Sales slowed significantly for the first three quarters of 2020, although the fourth quarter improved to a 14.9 percent drop. Edge is offered in SE, SEL and Titanium trim levels, as well as the new ST — the first utility vehicle from Ford Performance. All trim levels received new front and rear fascias as well as a new grille, hood and liftgate. The Edge ST is motivated by a 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine producing 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. It also has an 8-speed automatic transmission, standard all-wheel drive with selectable traction control, ST-tuned suspension and an available performance brake package. A new Titanium Elite Appearance Package includes 20-inch bright machined aluminum wheels and a body-color rear bumper, front bumper and lower fascia.
© Subaru of America
18. Subaru Crosstrek
2020 Sales: 119,716
Vs. 2019: -8.7%
Sales of Subaru’s popular compact crossover fell in 2019 and continued to drop in 2020, with third-quarter numbers off 22 percent. But that trend changed in September thanks to the arrival of the updated 2021 Crosstrek, and December sales increased 47.5 percent compared to the previous year. For 2021 Crosstrek adds a new Sport trim with more aggressive styling; unique wheel arch moldings; 17-inch alloy wheels with a dark gray finish; and a gunmetal gray treatment for the grille, side mirrors and badges. For 2021 the Limited and Sport trim levels are powered by a new a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. All Crosstrek trim levels have redesigned wheels as well as a new front fascia, bumper, and grille.
© Hyundai Motor America
17. Hyundai Tucson
2020 Sales: 123,657
Vs. 2019: -10.0%
Tucson sales in the U.S. dropped during 2020, although things are looking up for 2021 with the imminent arrival of a redesigned 2022 model. (The Tucson, hybrid and N Line are scheduled to arrive in spring, with a plug-in hybrid to follow in summer.) The new Tucson is longer, wider and taller than the previous model, and has lower, wider headlights and daytime running lights that seem to be an extension of the grille. The profile reveals a chrome accent that begins at the mirror and follows the shape of the roof. Tucson’s standard powertrain is a 161-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid drivetrain pairs a turbocharged 1.6-liter gasoline engine with a 44.2 kW electric motor and 1.49 kWh battery pack for an estimated total system output of 226 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
© American Honda Motors
16. Honda Pilot
2020 Sales: 123,813
Vs. 2019: -8.3%
Refreshed for 2019, Pilot sales dropped more than 25 percent early in 2020, although things improved in the second half to finish with December sales up 16 percent. The refreshed Pilot features more aggressive exterior styling, an available hands-free power tailgate, powertrain refinements, and an available new Display Audio touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter 280-horsepower V6 engine combined with available all-wheel drive. For 2021 the V6 gets paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, paddle shifters and Idle Stop for all trim levels. For 2021 Pilot also adds the Special Edition with black 20-inch wheels, black trim, wireless phone charging and a hands-free power liftgate.
© General Motors
15. Chevrolet Traverse
2020 Sales: 125,546
Vs. 2019: -14.7%
The Chevrolet Traverse had strong sales in 2019 before dropping early in 2020, although the 3-row crossover finished with fourth quarter sales up 23.5 percent. Last year Chevrolet debuted a refreshed 2021 Traverse scheduled for release last fall, but the launch has been pushed back to this year as a 2022 model. For 2021 Traverse is offered in seven trim levels: L, LS, LT Cloth, LT Leather, RS, Premier and High Country. Chevrolet Infotainment 3 and an HD rear vision camera are standard. The standard engine is a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, combined with a 9-speed automatic transmission with either front- or all-wheel drive. The Traverse RS is offered with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 257 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
© Toyota Motor Sales USA
14. Toyota 4Runner
2020 Sales: 129,052
Vs. 2019: -2.2%
After 35 years, 4Runner remains one of the few truck-based SUVs left on the market. This highly capable contender has a loyal following, although sales were down nearly 10 percent early in 2020. The 4Runner continues to be powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, delivered through a 5-speed automatic transmission. New for 2021, the 4Runner Trail Edition is based on the SR5 trim with either 2WD or 4WD and exterior color choices of Army Green, Cement, Midnight Black and Super White. The 4Runner Trail Edition includes black exterior badging, black seating with tan stitching, all-weather floor liners, dark gray TRD Off-Road wheels, a Yakima LoadWarrior rooftop cargo basket, a custom 40-quart cooler and a sliding cargo tray.
© FCA US
13. Jeep Cherokee
2020 Sales: 135,855
Vs. 2019: -29.0%
The Jeep Cherokee received an update for 2019; however, Coronavirus and tough competition had sales lagging nearly 35 percent earlier in 2020 before fourth quarter sales picked up. Cherokee’s updated exterior includes a more vertical 7-slot grille, a new fascia, new headlights and a lightweight aluminum hood. Like all Jeeps, this popular SUV delivers legendary off-road capability with available features including a lifted off-road suspension, skidplates, tow hooks, Selec-Terrain traction control, and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. An 80th Anniversary Edition based on Latitude LUX includes a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, 19-inch wheels with Granite Crystal finish, power front seats with lumbar, dual-zone automatic climate control, remote start, Uconnect with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, premium leather seats with Light Tungsten stitching, Anodized Gun Metal interior accents and Berber floor mats.
© Mazda North America
12. Mazda CX-5
2020 Sales: 146,420
Vs. 2019: -5.3%
Following four consecutive years of record sales numbers, CX-5 sales were down early in 2020 but rebounded in the second half of the year. Adopting the styling of the larger CX-9, the CX-5 is refined in nearly every way with a revised chassis, an updated SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter gasoline engine, a new interior and many available features. For 2019 Mazda added the Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trim levels, both powered by the turbocharged SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine, rated for 2021 at 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel; i-ACTIV all-wheel drive is standard. The Carbon Edition includes Polymetal Gray paint, gloss black door mirrors, 19-inch black metallic aluminum alloy wheels, red leather seats, black honeycomb interior trim and leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob with red stitching.
© Subaru of America
11. Subaru Outback
2020 Sales: 153,294
Vs. 2019: -15.4%
The Outback is one of the original crossovers, combining SUV utility with the comfort and convenience of a wagon. Despite the arrival of the all-new 2020 Outback, sales dipped more than 33 percent for the first half of the year but posted a strong comeback in the second half, with September sales up 50 percent. As the latest Subaru built on the company’s new global platform, last year Outback received updated exterior styling, many new features, a greatly improved interior, updated powertrains and the latest version of EyeSight — Subaru’s suite of advanced safety technology. EyeSight includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist. All Outbacks feature Subaru’s Symmetrical all-wheel drive with active torque vectoring, vehicle dynamics control and a generous 8.7-inches of ground clearance. For 2021 Outback receives steering-responsive LED headlights.
© Subaru of America
10. Subaru Forester
2020 Sales: 176,996
Vs. 2019:-1.8 %
Following the arrival of the fifth-generation 2019 model, Forester set a sales record in 2019. Sales in 2020 were up and down, finishing the year close to another record. Forester sales increased more than 16 percent in September, which helped Subaru set a new sales record for the month. The current Forester is the roomiest version ever offered, with a 1.2-inch-longer wheelbase, more rear-seat legroom and more cargo capacity, as well as improvements in crash protection, comfort, quietness and driving dynamics. EyeSight driver-assist technology is standard, and Forester Touring debuts DriverFocus safety technology that can alert the driver of fatigue or distraction. Forester is powered by an updated direct-injection 2.5-liter Boxer engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. For 2021 steering-responsive LED headlights and high-beam headlight assist are standard.
© Ford Motor Company
9. Ford Escape
2020 Sales: 178,496
Vs. 2019: -26.1%
Ford’s original compact 5-seat crossover, Escape was the best-selling American-brand SUV for many years. Although redesigned for the 2020 model year, Escape sales dropped 36 percent year-to-date in June and 32 percent year-to-date in September before coming back in the last three months to finish 2020 down 26 percent. The redesigned Ford Escape is lower, wider and longer than its predecessor, with a look quite different from the previous generation. The front end features an all-new grille surprisingly similar to those on the Focus and Fusion passenger cars rather than Ford SUVs. The Escape is available with a choice of four engines; the standard unit is a 3-cylinder 1.5-liter EcoBoost producing 180 horsepower. With the latest generation Escape, Ford also brought back the Escape Hybrid — available as a standard hybrid or as a plug-in.
© FCA US
8. Jeep Wrangler
2020 Sales: 201,311
Vs. 2019: -11.7%
Not even Wrangler is immune to the pandemic — sales dropped almost 12 percent during 2020. The modern descendant of the original U.S. military vehicle, Wrangler upholds the Jeep name and legacy of extreme off-road capability. Both 2- and 4-door versions are available in Sport, Sport S, Sahara and Rubicon trims with numerous special editions including Willys, Freedom and the luxurious High Altitude. For 2020 Jeep added a fuel-efficient diesel powertrain to the Wrangler, as well as the new luxurious High Altitude edition. For 2021 Jeep adds Wrangler 80th Anniversary Edition and Islander. Current engine options for 2021 are a turbocharged 2.0-liter, a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, a 3.6-liter mild hybrid and a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel. Also coming in 2021: the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid and the 470-horsepower Wrangler Rubicon 392.
© FCA US
7. Jeep Grand Cherokee
2020 Sales: 209,786
Vs. 2019: -13.7%
One of the original and most popular SUVS of all time, the Grand Cherokee set a new sales record for 2019 and moved past Wrangler as top-selling Jeep model. Despite the pandemic and without a major redesign in 10 years, Grand Cherokee recorded respectable sales numbers in 2020. Jeep has already unveiled the all-new 2021 Grand Cherokee L, which is scheduled to go on sale this spring. Grand Cherokee L is 15 inches longer than the current version and offers a third-row seat for the first time. The updated two-row Grand Cherokee — as well as the hybrid Grand Cherokee 4xe — will arrive later in 2021. The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L features slim LED headlights, a smaller forward-leaning 7-slot grille, a roof that tapers to the rear spoiler and slim wraparound taillights. Initial engine choices will be a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and a 5.7-liter HEMI V8.
© Toyota Motor Sales USA
6. Toyota Highlander
2020 Sales: 212,276
Vs. 2019: -11.3%
All new for the 2020 model year, Highlander sales were trending upward until March, dropped almost 50 percent versus a year earlier. Highlander finished with a strong fourth quarter including a 31 percent increase for December. Highlander has fresh styling with a bold black grille, available premium projector headlights and a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces a plentiful 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque combined with a Direct Shift 8-speed automatic transmission — enough power to provide a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Highlander Hybrid is powered by the new-generation Toyota Hybrid System that combines a high-efficiency 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with two electric motors for a total output of 243 horsepower in a system that’s more compact and more efficient than before.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
5. Ford Explorer
2020 Sales: 226,217
Vs. 2019: 20.9%
The best-selling SUV of all time, Explorer sales slowed in 2019 but the arrival of an all-new 2020 model boosted sales. As a result, the revamped SUV is one of only two vehicles in the Top 25 SUVs to post positive numbers for 2020. With its first major redesign in 10 years, the new Explorer is built on an all-new rear-wheel-drive flexible architecture designed to improve ride, handling and capability. The standard engine is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder unit producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Two new versions have been added: the 400-horsepower ST and the 318-horsepower (combined) Limited Hybrid. Explorer now has Co-Pilot360, a suite of safety features including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, post-impact braking and a rearview camera with lens washer.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
4. Nissan Rogue
2020 Sales: 227,935
Vs. 2019: -35.0%
The top-selling model in Nissan’s lineup, Rogue sales cooled in 2020; however, an all-new 2021 Rogue is now in showrooms. Built on a new platform with fresh styling, advanced safety features and a family friendly interior, the 2021 Nissan Rogue should continue as one of the most popular SUVs in America. The 2021 Rogue features a more classic SUV design with a bold vertical V-Motion grille, strong fender flares and a squared-off tailgate. Unique multi-level LED headlights give the compact crossover a unique look. The 2021 Nissan Rogue has a 2.5-liter direct-injection 4-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque and gets paired with the Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission. Nissan was able to improve interior space up front in the 2021 Rogue with a new electronic shifter that takes less space.
© General Motors
3. Chevrolet Equinox
2020 Sales: 270,994
Vs. 2019: -21.7%
Chevrolet’s second-best-selling vehicle after the full-size Silverado pickup, Equinox moved up to second position on this list of best-selling SUVs for the first quarter of 2020. However, lower sales forced it back to third place for the year, although Chevy’s compact sport utility continues to be the best-selling American-brand SUV. Last year Chevrolet debuted a refreshed 2021 Equinox scheduled to arrive last fall, but the launch has been pushed back to this year as a 2022 model. For 2021 Equinox features projector-beam headlights, LED running lights, wider horizontal taillights and LED taillights for upper trim levels. Inside, the Equinox has a down-and-away instrument panel with a low windshield base for improved outward visibility. Engine choices for the U.S. market continue to be a 170-horsepower 1.5-liter turbo and a 252-horse 2.0-liter turbo combined with a new 9-speed automatic transmission.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2. Honda CR-V
2020 Sales: 333,502
Vs. 2019: -13.2%
The Honda CR-V set a new sales record for 2019, and up until March 2020 the compact SUV continued on the same pace, but after that things cooled along with the rest of the U.S. market. Sales improved in the second half of the year, with CR-V finishing 2020 with a 5.6 percent sales increase in December. The fifth-generation CR-V continues to be Honda’s top-selling model in the U.S. with more than 4.5 million sold since its introduction in 1997. For 2020 Honda refreshed the CR-V’s exterior styling and added the first hybrid to the lineup. Similar to the Honda Accord Hybrid, the CR-V Hybrid uses a 2-motor hybrid powertrain that teams two electric motors with a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine for a combined output of 212 horsepower, making it the most powerful variant in the CR-V lineup.
© Toyota Motor Sales USA
1. Toyota RAV4
2020 Sales: 430,387
Vs. 2019: -3.9%
The Toyota RAV4 repeats as the best-selling SUV in America for the fourth consecutive year, starting off 2020 with a 16.5 percent sales increase for the first quarter, although sales dropped 3.9 percent for the year overall. One of the original compact crossovers on the American market, the RAV4 was redesigned for 2019 with bold styling, improved capability, better performance and an array of new safety and convenience features. RAV4 now has automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection — as well as lane departure alert — as standard equipment. For 2020 Toyota added the RAV4 TRD Off-Road, and the 2021 the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid began arriving in summer 2020. Not only is the plug-in more fuel efficient, it is also the second-quickest vehicle in the Toyota lineup behind the GR Supra sports car.
