© Stellantis North America
Best-Selling SUVs in America
Total vehicle sales for the first half of 2022 are estimated to be down about 18 percent compared to the first half of 2021. Even the most popular SUVs are not immune to the downturn. As the ongoing chip shortage continues to impact new vehicle inventories, many popular SUV models recorded double-digit sales declines for the first half of the year, and only one model in the 10 best-selling SUVs posted a sales increase. For the first half of 2022, sales of the top 10 SUVs were down 18.5 percent compared to the same period for 2021, with the top 25 down 12.1 percent. Although most SUVS struggled to maintain sales, a few models posted significant increases and moved up in sales ranking for the first half of the year. Here are the best-selling SUVs in America during the first half of 2022, according to numbers compiled from automaker sales reports.
© American Honda Motors
25. Honda Pilot
2022 Sales: 46,435
Vs. 2021: -39.3%
Honda Pilot sales rebounded in 2021 to finish with a 15 percent increase over the previous year, but that rally has been lost. First-half 2022 sales are down nearly 40 percent compared to 2021, dropping Pilot from 15th position at year end to the last position on the top 25 list. Refreshed for 2019, Pilot features aggressive exterior styling, an available hands-free power tailgate, powertrain refinements, and an available 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 2022 Honda adds the entry-level Pilot Sport with standard 2WD, as well as the off-road-ready Pilot TrailSport with raised ground clearance and bolder exterior styling.
© Kia America
24. Kia Telluride
2022 Sales: 46,893
Vs. 2021: +3.2%
A new addition to the Kia lineup for 2020, the Telluride midsize crossover offers bold styling, a premium interior, a powerful engine and seating for up to eight occupants. The revised 2023 Telluride debuted at the New York Auto Show in April and will be coming later this year. Designed specifically for the U.S. market at Kia’s design center in California, Telluride joined the lineup next to the midsize Sorento. Telluride sales continued to increase in 2021, moving it into the top 25 best-selling SUVs for the first time in the fourth quarter; after a slight downturn Telluride returns midyear with a modest increase of 3.2 percent for the year. For Telluride Kia focused on creating an upscale user experience with quality materials, particularly within the top-line Telluride SX with the Prestige Package, which includes double-stitched Napa leather ventilated seats, a premium headliner, a head-up display and a dual-panel sunroof. Telluride is powered by a 291-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine combined with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
© General Motors
23. GMC Terrain
2022 Sales: 47,702
Vs. 2021: +42.3%
GMC Terrain sales were down by 45 percent for 2021, but that trend has been reversed thanks to a refreshed 2022 model helping it post a 42 percent increase for the first half of 2022, earning Terrain a top 25 position on this list of best-selling SUVs. For 2022 Terrain receives a new front-end design with a new front fascia, a new grille, and redesigned LED headlights and LED taillights for all trim levels. The all-new Terrain AT4 has standard all-wheel drive and unique off-road trim including a steel front skidplate. Terrain also has new interior fabrics and trim, and an available Tech Package includes HD Surround Vision, an all-new head-up display, and front and rear park assist.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
22. Subaru Forester
2022 Sales: 50,937
Vs. 2021: -46.9%
Forester set a sales record in 2019 and finished 2020 close to another record before sales dropped in 2021. Despite new exterior styling for the 2022 model year and the addition of Forester Wilderness, first-half 2022 sales are off 47 percent, dropping Forester from 10th position among best-selling SUVs at the end of 2021. The new look includes a redesigned grille, a new front bumper, LED headlights, a revised lower rear bumper and new exterior trim details. Easily identified by its distinctive copper exterior accents, the Forester Wilderness receives upgraded suspension, all-terrain tires, a revised drivetrain, standard X-MODE and 9.2 inches of ground clearance to become the most off-road-capable Forester ever.
© Ford Motor Company
21. Ford Edge
2022 Sales: 51,453
Vs. 2021: +30.7%
Ford Edge sales were off nearly 22 percent for 2021, dropping Ford’s midsize crossover out of the top 25, but Edge sales came back in the first half of 2022 with a 30 percent increase, moving the crossover up to 21st position. Edge is offered in SE, SEL, ST-Line, Titanium and ST trim levels, with all-wheel-drive standard for all trims. Edge ST was the first utility vehicle from Ford Performance, powered by a 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine producing 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque that gets mated with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Edge ST also features selectable traction control, ST-tuned suspension and an available performance brake package. The standard Edge engine is a 2.0-liter EcoBoost producing 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque (with premium fuel), combined with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
© Kia Motor America
20. Kia Sportage
2022 Sales: 52,356
Vs. 2021: -1.9%
The best-selling model in Kia’s U.S. lineup, the Sportage dropped out of the top 25 in the first quarter of 2022 but returns with the arrival of the redesigned 2023 model. June 2022 Sportage sales were up 20 percent year-over-year for the best sales month — ever — for Sportage. The 2023 Sportage features a bold new design and for the first time adds hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions. Built on the same platform as the Sorento, the new Sportage is 7.1 inches longer and rides on a 3.4-inch longer wheelbase. The Sportage Hybrid is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline direct injection engine producing 177 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, combined with 44 kW electric motor and a 13 kW starter generator for total combined output of 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
© Toyota Motor Sales, USA
19. Lexus RX
2022 Sales: 53,769
Vs. 2021: -5.1%
The best-selling model in the Lexus lineup, the RX led the brand to an all-time sales record for SUVs in 2019 before sales dropped in 2020. Sales were up more than 50 percent for the first half of 2021 and finished the year with a 14 percent increase. Sales are off 5 percent for the first half of 2022, although Lexus recently debuted the redesigned fifth-generation 2023 Lexus RX with a bold, new look and a range of electrified drivetrains. The 2023 Lexus RX will be offered in six trim levels with three powertrain options: RX 350 in both front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, RX 350h with all-wheel drive, and RX 500h F SPORT Performance with all-wheel drive. The RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid will arrive later.
© Ford Motor Company
18. Ford Bronco
2022 Sales: 54,842
Vs. 2021: N/A
Returning after a nearly 25-year absence from the market, the new Ford Bronco has been one of the most highly anticipated models in many years, paying tribute in both design and capability to the original Bronco of the 1960s. As deliveries of the new Bronco ramped up, it moved into the top 25 best-selling SUVs for the first quarter of 2022 and to the 18th position by the middle of the year. Although Bronco had only 801 first-half 2021 sales for comparison, first half 2022 sales easily surpassed 2021 total sales of 35,023. As an off-road-oriented vehicle, the new Bronco is available in a classic short-wheelbase 2-door as well as a 4-door version for the first time. The SUV features body-on-frame construction, a fully boxed high-strength steel chassis, quick-release stowable roof panels and removable doors.
© Hyundai Motor America
17. Hyundai Santa Fe
2022 Sales: 57,895
Vs. 2021: -8.3%
With the arrival of an all-new 2021 model, Santa Fe sales took off in the first half of 2021 — up 45 percent before cooling off to a commendable 11 percent increase for the year. Like many models, sales cooled off in the first half of 2022, although numbers were strong enough to move Santa Fe up three positions in this list of best-selling SUVs. The current 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 181 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.
© Ford Motor Company
16. Ford Bronco Sport
2022 Sales: 58,549
Vs. 2021: -3.2%
A brand-new model for 2021, the Ford Bronco Sport went on sale in the fourth quarter of 2020 and momentum moved it into the top 25 best-selling SUVs for 2021. Although the Ford Escape still tops Bronco Sport, the new compact SUV outsold Escape in September 2021 and has maintained its position in the top 25, with strong 2022 sales moving it up six positions. The Bronco Sport shares styling cues and off-road capability with the new Bronco now rolling into showrooms. A stepped-up roofline and upright body panels give the vehicle a bolder look compared with many of today’s compact SUVs. The 2022 Bronco Sport is offered in four trim levels at launch: Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks and Badlands. The standard engine for Bronco Sport Base, Big Bend and Outer Banks is a 1.5-liter EcoBoost producing 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm. The Badlands has a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine producing 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm.
© Toyota Motor Sales USA
15. Toyota 4Runner
2022 Sales: 66,829
Vs. 2021: -4.5%
After 35 years, 4Runner remains one of the few truck-based SUVs left on the market. This highly capable contender has a loyal following. Sales for 2021 were up 12 percent before dropping in the first half of 2022. 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. For 2021 Toyota added the 4Runner Trail Edition based on the SR5, with either 2WD or 4WD and exterior color choices of Army Green, Cement, Midnight Black and Super White. Toyota adds a 4Runner TRD Sport to the lineup for the 2022 model year. Designed to complement the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro versions, the TRD Sport gets unique color-keyed accents on the grille, rocker panels and body moldings.
© Subaru of America
14. Subaru Crosstrek
2022 Sales: 70,050
Vs. 2021: +9.1%
Subaru introduced a new Crosstrek for 2021, and last year sales were up more than 30 percent for the first nine months and finished at a 6.5 percent increase. Continuing that momentum, Crosstrek moved up to 13th position for the first quarter of 2022, but then dropped to 14th at midyear despite the 9 percent year-over-year increase. For 2021 Crosstrek added 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. Starting with the 2021 model year, the Limited and Sport trims are now powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. All Crosstreks have redesigned wheels as well as a new front fascia, bumper and grille.
© American Honda Motors
13. Honda HR-V
2022 Sales: 73,016
Vs. 2021: +6.7%
The smallest SUV in Honda’s lineup, HR-V sales surged in 2021 to move the diminutive model into the top 25 best-selling SUVS — all the way to the 16th position by the end of the year. Strong sales in the first half of 2022 moved HR-V even higher in the ranking. First appearing as a 2016 model, the second-generation HR-V arriving soon should bolster sales. The 2023 HR-V receives a sporty new exterior design, a high-tech interior with standard digital instrumentation, and a more powerful engine. The new HR-V is 9.4 inches longer and 2.6 inches wider than the previous model, offered in three trim levels: LX, Sport and EX-L. A new 2.0-liter engine produces 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, combined with a continuously variable transmission. Real-time AWD is an available option, retuned to deliver more torque to the rear wheels in slippery conditions.
© Ford Motor Company
12. Ford Escape
2022 Sales: 73,920
Vs. 2021: -13.5%
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 were down in 2020 and 2021, due in part to the arrival of the all-new Bronco Sport (which is of similar size) and accounted for 108,169 sales in 2021. The redesigned Ford Escape is lower, wider and longer than its predecessor, with a look markedly different from the previous generation. Escape is available with a choice of four engines; the standard unit is a 3-cylinder 1.5-liter EcoBoost unit 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.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
11. Subaru Outback
2022 Sales: 77,341
Vs. 2021: -11.7%
One of the original crossovers, Outback combines SUV utility with the comfort and convenience of a wagon. Outback sales were strong in early 2021 but finished the year at the same pace as the year previous, before dropping in the first half of 2022. Built on Subaru’s new global platform, Outback received updated exterior styling for 2020, as well as 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 Subaru added the Outback Wilderness to the lineup — the most rugged, capable Outback the company has ever built, easily identified by its rugged appearance and Anodized Copper trim.
© Mazda North America
10. Mazda CX-5
2022 Sales: 81,804
Vs. 2021: -11.7%
Following four consecutive years of record numbers, CX-5 sales slowed in 2020 but finished 2021 with a 12.7 percent increase for the year. Continuing that momentum into 2022, CX-5 sales are up 24 percent for the first quarter of 2022, but dropped 60 percent in June to finish the first half of the year down 11.7 percent. When CX-5 was redesigned for 2017 it adopted the styling of the larger CX-9 and became more refined in every way. For 2022 CX-5 receives exterior design updates, vehicle dynamic improvements and drops front-wheel drive versions with i-Active all-wheel drive standard for all trim levels. Exterior updates include a new grille with three-dimensional texture, revised headlights with horizontally spaced LEDs, redesigned LED taillights and new wheel designs. The CX-5 2.5 Turbo replaces the Grand Touring Reserve alongside the 2.5 Turbo Signature, both powered by Mazda’s SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine rated at 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel.
© Hyundai Motor America
9. Hyundai Tucson
2022 Sales: 84,071
Vs. 2021: +0.7%
Tucson sales in the U.S. were up in 2021 with the arrival of a redesigned 2022 model and that momentum has continued into 2022. The new model includes the addition of a Tucson Hybrid, Tucson N Line and the Tucson Plug-In Hybrid. Longer, wider and taller than the previous model, the new Tucson 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.
© Nissan North America
8. Nissan Rogue
2022 Sales: 87,675
Vs. 2021: -51.9%
The top-selling model in Nissan’s lineup, the arrival of an all-new 2021 Rogue boosted sales to a strong 25 percent increase for the year. With a drop of more than 50 percent for the first half of 2022, Rogue has lost five positions on this top 25 list of best-selling SUVs. Built on a new platform with fresh styling, advanced safety features and a family friendly interior, the Nissan Rogue features 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 2022 Nissan Rogue has a 1.5-liter 3-cylinder variable-compression turbo engine that produces 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, paired with Nissan’s Xtronic continuously variable transmission.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
7. Jeep Wrangler
2022 Sales: 99,497
Vs. 2021: -16.2%
Not even Wrangler has been immune to the pandemic — sales dropped almost 12 percent during 2020 but finished 2021 with a slight increase for the year before a drop in the first half of 2022. 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 added the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid and a 470-horsepower Wrangler Rubicon 392. Other engine options are a turbocharged 2.0-liter, a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, a 3.6-liter mild hybrid and a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel. For 2022 Jeep adds the Wrangler High Tide edition with standard equipment for the beach including 35-inch tires, beadlock-capable wheels, a body-color hardtop with a Sunrider Flip Top and a Gorilla Glass windshield.
© Ford Motor Company
6. Ford Explorer
2022 Sales: 102,917
Vs. 2021: -13.0%
If we were to compile a list of the best-selling SUVs of all time, the Explorer would top that list. Explorer was one of the few vehicles to finish pandemic-stricken 2020 with a sales increase over 2019 thanks to the arrival of an all-new model. Sales remained steady for the first nine months of 2021, although Explorer finished the year with a slight decrease over 2020. Explorer sales were off 35 percent in the first quarter of 2022, but with a 110 percent increase in June year-over-year, Explorer sales are only down 13 percent for the year. With its first major redesign in 10 years, the new Explorer gets 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. For 2021 Ford added the Explorer Timberline — a new trim level that offers a more rugged off-road appearance backed by engineering updates and new equipment to improve off-road performance.
© American Honda Motors
5. Honda CR-V
2022 Sales: 116,602
Vs. 2021: -45.3%
One of the top-selling SUVs of all time, the Honda CR-V remains the best-selling model in the Honda lineup. The CR-V finished 2021 with a modest sales increase for the year. However, sales dropped 34 percent in the fourth quarter of 2021 and continued downward into the first half of 2022. That sales slide may change after the recent introduction of the redesigned 2023 CR-V, scheduled to arrive this summer. Sporting a more rugged look, the new CR-V will be offered in four trims: EX, EX-L, Sport and Sport Touring. The EX and EX-L are powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. Real-time AWD is standard on Sport Touring and optional for all other trims. The CR-V Sport and Sport Touring draw power from a new fourth-generation two-motor hybrid electric system that combines a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with two electric motors for total system output of 204 horsepower.
© General Motors
4. Chevrolet Equinox
2022 Sales: 116,678
Vs. 2021: -1.7%
Chevrolet’s second-best-selling vehicle after the full-size Silverado pickup, Equinox sales have dropped during the last two years but have leveled out in the first half of 2022 with only a slight decrease over 2021. The arrival of the redesigned 2022 model helped maintain sales, although Equinox numbers have likely been impacted by the arrival of the all-new Trailblazer, as well as the delay of a redesigned Equinox originally planned as a 2021 model but pushed to the 2022 model year. The 2022 Equinox features refreshed styling with a new grille, slim LED headlights and new LED daytime running lights. Equinox has a long list of standard safety features including an updated infotainment system with an available 8-inch display screen, as well as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Power comes from a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 170 horsepower.
© Toyota Motor Sales, USA
3. Toyota Highlander
2022 Sales: 117,403
Vs. 2021: -18.7%
All new for the 2020 model year, Highlander finished 2021 with a strong 24 percent increase and posted a 3.4 percent increase for the first quarter of 2022, moving up to third position on this list of best-selling SUVs. Highlander retains third position despite a 33.6 percent drop in June sales and 18.7 percent decrease for the first half of 2022. 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 draws power from a new 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. For 2022 Toyota adds the Bronze Edition exclusively for Highlander Hybrid, in either Cement or Wind Chill Pearl exterior colors with exterior and interior bronze accents including 18-inch bronze wheels, bronze stitching, illuminated bronze sill plates, and SofTex-trimmed seats with fabric insert.
© Stellantis North America
2. Jeep Grand Cherokee
2022 Sales: 134,369
Vs. 2021: +24.5%
One of the original and most popular SUVS of all time, the Grand Cherokee set a new sales record for 2021 to finish the year as the top-selling Jeep model, likely due in part to the arrival of an all-new 7-seat 2021 Grand Cherokee L. Sales for the second quarter of 2022 were up 12.4 percent compared to the previous year, with numbers for the first half of the year 24.5 percent ahead of 2021. The Grand Cherokee L is 15 inches longer than the 2021 Grand Cherokee and offers a third-row seat for the first time. The updated two-row 2022 Grand Cherokee — as well as the hybrid Grand Cherokee 4xe — debuted in September. The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee features slim LED headlights, a smaller forward-leaning 7-slot grille, a roof that tapers to the rear spoiler and slim wraparound taillights. Gasoline engine choices are a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and a 5.7-liter HEMI V8, while the Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid version combines two electric motors with a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine.
© Toyota Motor Sales USA
1. Toyota RAV4
2022 Sales: 200,885
Vs. 2021: -9.2%
For the fifth consecutive year, the Toyota RAV4 finished 2021 at the top of this best-selling SUVs list in America, and continues to hold that position by a wide margin despite a 9 percent decrease in sales for the first half of 2022. 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 — and lane departure alert — as standard equipment. For 2022 Toyota adds the RAV4 SE Hybrid for a sporty option at a lower price than the XSE, featuring mono-tone paint, fabric seats and a 7-inch touchscreen.
