© Toyota Motor Sales; American Honda Motor Company; General Motors; Nissan North America
Migration Continuation
In 2018 car buyers in the U.S continued their migration away from traditional sedans and passenger cars toward sport-utility vehicles and crossovers, contributing to a sales increase of nearly 10 percent for the SUV category. Of the 17.3 million vehicles sold in the U.S last year (a slight overall sales increase compared with 2017), more than 8 million were SUVs and crossovers. Here are the top-selling SUVs in America based on total sales for 2018, according to numbers compiled from individual auto manufacturers’ sales reports and goodcarbadcar.net.
© General Motors
25. Chevrolet Tahoe
2018 Sales: 104,153
Vs. 2017: +5.2%
A full-size truck-based SUV, the Chevrolet Tahoe traces its roots back to trucks designed to carry people to the train depot or work crews to the job site, long before the label sport-utility vehicle was conceived. Today’s Tahoe covers a broad spectrum from utility work vehicle to top-shelf luxury transportation and even offers a Tahoe Police Pursuit Vehicle. Available in rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive, Tahoe is offered in LS, LT and Premier trim levels. For 2018 the Tahoe RST (Rally Sport Truck) special edition added a street-performance look with most of the chrome deleted; a gloss black grille and mirror caps; and black roof rails, window trim, badging and Chevy bowties. The Performance Package includes a 420-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 engine, a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Magnetic Ride Control suspension with performance calibration.
© Kia Motors America
24. Kia Sorento
2018 Sales: 107,846
Vs. 2017: +8.2%
Sales of Kia’s largest crossover — the 7-passenger, 3-row Sorento — increased during the second half of 2018 after the refreshed 2019 model arrived in dealerships. Sorento sales ended 2018 up 8 percent. Refreshed for 2019 with subtle design changes, a revised interior and new technology, the Sorento front-end design includes a more detailed grille, a new bumper design and new headlights with full LED lighting for SX and SXL trims. At the rear, Sorento receives a new bumper, new exhaust tip and new taillight design with LEDs for EX trim and higher. Inside, the Sorento updates include a revised instrument cluster, a new steering wheel and shift knob, revised air vents and center stack design. A third-row seat is now standard on all trim levels. New technology includes driver assistance systems, Harman Kardon audio with Quantum Logic and wireless charging.
© Toyota Motor Sales USA
23. Lexus RX
2018 Sales: 111,641
Vs. 2017: +3.1%
One of the original luxury crossover vehicles when it debuted as a 1998 model, the Lexus RX continues to be one of the top-selling luxury brand crossovers and the only luxury brand to crack this Top 25 list. The sales leader in the Lexus lineup, the RX showed only a modest sales increase of 3 percent for 2018 despite the addition of the 3-row RX L for the 2019 model year. The Lexus RX L is slightly longer than the RX but rides on the same wheelbase, adding a third row with seating for up to seven. Both the standard and longer versions of the RX are available as the V6-powered RX 350 or the RX 450h, which has a powerful and fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain.
© General Motors
22. GMC Terrain
2018 Sales: 114,314
Vs. 2017: +33.8%
The redesigned 2018 Terrain went on sale in the summer of 2017 and started 2018 on fire with first quarter sales up 44.2 percent. Terrain sales were up nearly 34 percent for the year. The new Terrain features a bold grille, sculpted headlights and C-shaped rear light graphics. In addition to the top-line Denali trim, Terrain is available in SL, SLE and SLT trims and three engine choices, all with available all-wheel drive. The standard engine is a turbocharged 1.5-liter unit that produces 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, combined with a 9-speed automatic transmission. An optional turbocharged 2.0-liter powerplant produces 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, also mated with a 9-speed automatic. An available 1.6-liter turbodiesel produces 137 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque.
© Hyundai Motor America
21. Hyundai Santa Fe
2018 Sales: 117,038
Vs. 2017: -12.1%
Santa Fe has been Hyundai’s most successful SUV in the U.S. market. The all-new fourth-generation 2019 Santa Fe should attract more buyers with a bold design, more interior space and improved ride comfort. For 2019 Santa Fe will be the model name for the 5-seat version, dropping the Santa Fe Sport name used for the 2018 model, while the 7-seat version will now be known as the Santa Fe XL. The 5-seat Santa Fe will offer more interior room thanks to a 2.8-inch increase in overall length and an increase of almost a half inch in width. To improve driver visibility, the outside mirrors are mounted lower and farther back from A-pillars, and the rear quarter glass has been increased by more than 40 percent.
© Ford Motor Company
20. Ford Edge
2018 Sales: 134,122
Vs. 2017: -5.9%
The Edge is due for a refresh to remain on pace in the highly competitive midsize crossover segment. After the last major refresh in 2015, Edge sales were off by 9.6 percent before rebounding in the second half of 2018 to finish the year down 5.9 percent. For 2018 Edge added the SEL Sport Appearance Package that includes dark exterior trim and 19-inch Magnetic Metallic-painted wheels, grille, mirror caps and rear spoiler. Edge offers a choice of three engines including a twin-turbo 2.7-liter EcoBoost that generates an impressive 315 horsepower. For 2019 Ford adds the Edge ST, 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.
© Toyota Motor Corporation
19. Toyota 4Runner
2018 Sales: 139,694
Vs. 2017: +8.9%
After 35 years 4Runner remains one of the few truck-based SUVs on the market. This highly-capable contender continues to be popular; 2018 sales were up almost 9 percent compared to 2017. For 2019 Toyota adds the 4Runner Nightshade Special Edition for the Limited trim ,which adds 20-inch black-colored wheels, black grille accents, black roof rails, black badges and a black exhaust tip. Inside, Nightshade adds a black steering wheel, center cluster, shift knob and shifter panel. The TRD Pro returns for 2019 with new additions including a new suspension package, 2.5-inch Fox Internal Bypass Shocks, a TRD roof rack, a moonroof and a new front skidplate with red TRD lettering. The 4Runner continues to be powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine that produces 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, delivered through a 5-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift mode.
© Hyundai Motor America
18. Hyundai Tucson
2018 Sales: 142,299
Vs. 2017: +24.0%
The Hyundai Tucson finished 2018 in a strong position with a 32 percent sales increase in December compared to 2017, and a 24 percent increase for the year after the redesigned 2019 Tucson arrived at dealers in the fall. The updated Tucson includes a Hyundai cascading grille similar to the new Santa Fe, a new headlight design with LED daytime running lights, a new rear fascia, redesigned taillights and new wheels. Two new engines are added: a 164-horsepower 2.0-liter and a 181-horsepower 2.4-liter — both combined with 6-speed automatic transmissions with an electronic shift lock system and SHIFTRONIC manual shift mode. Interior updates for 2019 include a new center stack, instrument cluster, leather seat design, vent design and rearview mirror.
© Subaru of America
17. Subaru Crosstrek
2018 Sales: 144,384
Vs. 2017: +31.1%
Subaru’s redesigned 2018 Crosstrek finished 2018 at No. 17 with a 31 percent increase in sales over 2017. The new 2018 Crosstrek is longer and wider than the previous model, with new styling that features the familiar hexagonal grille, “hawk-eye” headlights and an impressive 8.7-inches of ground clearance. Built on an all-new global platform that significantly enhances body and chassis rigidity, the Crosstrek receives suspension improvements, a lower center of gravity and more responsive steering to improve driving dynamics. Inside, seats have been updated, the steering wheel has been redesigned and more space is available for passengers and cargo. The infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen display and Apple CarPlay / Android Auto connectivity. Crosstrek is powered by a revised 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine producing 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque.
© General Motors
16. Chevrolet Traverse
2018 Sales: 146,534
Vs. 2017: +18.6%
Chevrolet’s 3-row crossover, the redesigned 2018 Traverse hit the market in fall 2017. The 2018 Traverse featured a bold new look that follows Chevrolet’s larger full-size SUVs with a focus on interior volume, including seating for up to eight. 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. For 2019 the Traverse RS AWD is offered with a V6 engine. The LT Premium Package includes Surround Vision, 20-inch aluminum wheels, a rear camera mirror, 8-inch diagonal navigation radio, Bose speakers and a 110-volt outlet.
© Mazda North American Operations
15. Mazda CX-5
2018 Sales: 150,622
Vs. 2017: +18.1%
in 2018 Mazda CX-5 sales continued strong with an 18 percent increase. The third consecutive year of record sales, CX-5 sales were higher than the combined sales of all other Mazda models. 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. The new CX-5 is the first Mazda to feature G-Vectoring Control, which enhances vehicle responsiveness and stability while reducing sideways sliding of occupants. For 2019 Mazda turns up the heat by adding the Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trim levels, both powered by the turbocharged SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine producing 250 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque; i-ACTIV all-wheel drive is standard.
© American Honda Motors
14. Honda Pilot
2018 Sales: 159,615
Vs. 2017: +25.4%
The 2018 Honda Pilot had a sales jump of 40 percent during the first half of 2018, finishing the year with a 25 percent increase. Honda looks to continue that trend with the refreshed 2019 Pilot that began arriving at dealers in August 2018, featuring 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 functionality. Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter 280-horsepower V6 engine combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission and an available all-wheel-drive system. The Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies is standard on all trim levels and includes a collision mitigation system with forward collision warning, Road departure mitigation, lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control.
© FCA US
13. Jeep Compass
2018 Sales: 171,167
Vs. 2017: +105.6%
To say the redesigned Compass is a success would be an understatement, since it started 2018 with first quarter sales up more than 400 percent. The new Compass looks a lot like a miniature Grand Cherokee. Built on FCA’s small-wide 4X4 architecture, Compass is offered in four trim levels: Sport, Latitude, Limited and Trailhawk. Compass is powered by a 2.4-liter Tigershark engine producing 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, combined with a 9-speed manual transmission for 4X4 models and a 6-speed manual for 4X2 versions. Two full-time 4-wheel-drive systems are offered: Active Drive and Active Drive Low. For 2019 Jeep Compass Sport adds the Upland special edition with 17-inch Trailhawk wheels, front Trailhawk fascia, black tow hooks, a front-suspension skidplate and gloss black accents. Also new is the Compass Limited High Altitude Appearance Package, which includes 19-inch Satin Gloss Granite wheels, HID headlights LED signature, LED taillights and tungsten stitching.
© Subaru of America
12. Subaru Forester
2018 Sales: 171,613
Vs. 2017: -3.4%
After debuting in March at the New York Auto Show, the fifth-generation 2019 Forester began arriving in dealers in the fall; it’s the roomiest version ever offered with a 1.2-inch-longer wheelbase, more rear-seat legroom and rear cargo capacity. The 2019 Forester offers improvements in crash protection, comfort, quietness and driving dynamics. EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is standard, and Forester Touring will debut DriverFocus safety technology that can alert the driver of fatigue or distraction, and also will automatically adjust many driver settings at startup. The new Forester is powered by an updated direct-injection 2.5-liter Boxer engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The 2019 Forester is available in standard, Premium, Limited, Touring and a new Sport trim level.
© Subaru of America
11. Subaru Outback
2018 Sales: 178,854
Vs. 2017: -5.3%
One of the original crossovers, Outback combines SUV utility with the comfort and convenience of a wagon. The last extensive redesign was for the 2015 model year, and for 2018 Outback received revised exterior styling and interior updates with more premium materials. Chassis suspension and steering updates target a smoother ride with a more direct driving feel. New multimedia features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Nuance voice recognition, while steering-responsive LED headlights are offered. The 2019 Outback includes EyeSight driver-assist technology standard for all trim levels. EyeSight includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist.
© FCA US LLC
10. Jeep Grand Cherokee
2018 Sales: 224,908
Vs. 2017: -6.6%
Sales of the flagship Grand Cherokee were down slightly for 2018 after an increase of more than 13 percent for 2017. Despite remaining true to the original formula it debuted over 25 years ago, Grand Cherokee continues to face strong competition, even from its siblings, since Compass, Cherokee and Wrangler were all up more than 25 percent for the year. Offered with several 4WD systems as well as trim levels, the Grand Cherokee line now boasts the off-road-focused Trailhawk and the luxurious Summit, followed by the Trackhawk, powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter engine producing 707 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque — capable of accelerating from zero to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds.
© FCA US
9. Jeep Cherokee
2018 Sales: 239,437
Vs. 2017: +40.9%
The new 2019 Cherokee receives a refreshed design for the first time since returning to the Jeep lineup as a 2014 model, bringing the styling in line with other Jeeps. Exterior changes include a revised, more vertical 7-slot grille; a new fascia; new headlights and a lightweight aluminum hood. An all-new turbocharged 2.0-liter direct-injection engine is added, producing 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Also available is a 3.2-liter Pentastar V6 that produces 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque, as well as a 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir2 four cylinder that produces 180 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. A new 9-speed automatic transmission is standard.
© FCA US LLC
8. Jeep Wrangler
2018 Sales: 240,032
Vs. 2017: +26.0%
The all-new 2018 Jeep Wrangler was introduced last year, and it had record sales for 2018, making it the top-selling Jeep model. As the all-new Wrangler JL arrived in showrooms, Jeep continued to produce the outgoing Wrangler JK as another 2018 model, but production of the Wrangler JK officially ended in April. If any vehicle deserves the “iconic” label, it’s the Jeep Wrangler — the modern descendant of the original U.S. military vehicle that spawned the Jeep name and began the legacy of extreme off-road capability. The 2018 Wrangler retains its 7-slot grille and round headlights but is more aerodynamic than the previous generation. Two hardtops, a new Sunrider soft-top and a new Sky One-Touch power top are offered. Both 2- and 4-door versions are available in Sport, Sport S, Sahara and Rubicon trims.
© Toyota Motor Corporation
7. Toyota Highlander
2018 Sales: 244,511
Vs. 2017: +13.3%
Toyota Highlander sales continued to increase in 2018 — up 13 percent for another record year. Highlander benefited from a major update for 2017 including performance upgrades, refreshed styling and a new SE trim level for a sportier version. Highlander’s new 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, combined with a new direct-shift 8-speed automatic transmission. Highlander is available with front- or all-wheel drive and a choice of 4-cylinder, V6 or hybrid powertrains. The fuel-efficient Highlander Hybrid features a direct-injection 3.5-liter V6 gas engine teamed with an electric drive motor-generator to produce a total of 306 horsepower while delivering a combined 29 mpg.
© Ford Motor Company
6. Ford Explorer
2018 Sales: 261,571
Vs. 2017: -3.5%
The best-selling SUV of all time, Explorer sales dropped slightly for 2018 but remained strong despite almost 10 years since the last major redesign. An all-new, redesigned 2020 Explorer debuted the second week of January 2019 and is expected to go on sale in summer 2019. Built on an all-new rear-wheel-drive flexible architecture designed to improve ride, handling and capability, the new structure is 25 percent stronger while reducing weight. About the same size and width as the previous model, the wheelbase is more than 6 inches longer. The standard engine in the new Explorer will be a 2.3-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder unit producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Also available is a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 that bumps power to 365 horses and 380 lb-ft of torque. Two new versions will be added: the powerful ST and the Limited Hybrid.
© Ford Motor Company
5. Ford Escape
2018 Sales: 272,228
Vs. 2017: -11.7%
Ford’s compact 5-seat crossover, Escape has been the best-selling American-brand SUV for a long time, but after record sales for 2017 Escape lost the title with declining 2018 sales. Two EcoBoost engines are available: a turbocharged 1.5 liter producing 179 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged twin-scroll 2.0-liter unit producing 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. For 2018 Ford added a higher-end SEL trim to the Escape lineup that includes leather seats, a power liftgate and the latest version of SYNC, Ford’s high-tech infotainment and connectivity system.
© General Motors
4. Chevrolet Equinox
2018 Sales: 332,618
Vs. 2017: +14.5%
Chevrolet’s second-best-selling vehicle after the full-size Silverado pickup, the redesigned 2018 Equinox went on sale in September 2017, pushing numbers to nearly a 20 percent increase and continuing into 2018 with a 14.5 percent increase and record sales for the year. Taking over as the best-selling American-brand SUV, the new Equinox features a new exterior design with projector-beam headlights, LED running lights, wider horizontal taillights and LED taillights for upper trim levels. Inside, the new Equinox features a down-and-away instrument panel with a low windshield base for improved outward visibility. Three engine choices for Equinox in the U.S. market are a 170-horsepower 1.5-liter turbo, a 252-horse 2.0-liter turbo combined with a new 9-speed automatic transmission, and a 136-horsepower 1.6-liter turbodiesel.
© American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
3. Honda CR-V
2018 Sales: 379,013
Vs. 2017: +0.3%
Sales of Honda’s CR-V started out slowly for 2018, but a strong 17 percent increase in December helped the small SUV retain the No. 3 position on this list.. Redesigned for the 2017 model year, the fifth-generation CR-V continues to be Honda’s top-selling model in the U.S. market, with more than 4.5 million sold since its introduction in 1997. The CR-V offers consumers a comfortable, small crossover with great utility and excellent fuel economy. In fact, CR-V’s 2.4-liter 185-horsepower engine teamed with a new continuously variable transmission makes it one of the most fuel-efficient crossovers on the market.
© Nissan North America, Inc.
2. Nissan Rogue
2018 Sales: 412,110
Vs. 2017: +2.1%
Rogue is the best-selling Nissan model in the U.S., as well as the best-selling SUV in America during the first quarter of 2018. Sales momentum slowed in the second half of the year and Rogue dropped to second position. The Rogue’s success can be attributed to updated styling and added features, as well as the addition of the smaller Rogue Sport to the lineup. Rogue features a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with an advanced Xtronic transmission with Eco mode, boasting an EPA fuel economy rating as high as 33 mpg. Rogue also includes a new hybrid in the lineup. Rogue Sport rides on a 2.3-inch shorter wheelbase and is 12.1 inches shorter than Rogue, motivated by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 141 horsepower. For 2018, the Rogue became available with ProPILOT Assist — Nissan’s first step toward building autonomous vehicles.
© Toyota Motor Corporation
1. Toyota RAV4
2018 Sales: 427,170
Vs. 2017: +4.8%
The Toyota RAV4 finished 2018 as the best-selling crossover SUV in America thanks to another record sales year due to the arrival of the redesigned 2019 RAV4. One of the original compact crossovers on the American market, the new RAV4 receives bold styling, improved capability, better performance and an array of new safety and convenience features; bad news for the competition, since this fifth-generation RAV4 is likely to remain popular with American car shoppers. In addition to the updated styling and efficient powertrains, the RAV4 now comes standard with automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection as well as lane departure alert.
