From City Streets to Road Trips: These 10 SUVs Do It All
May 9, 2025
6 min read
I drive a Ford Bronco, and while I bought it for weekend getaways and mountain air, I still have to navigate downtown traffic, tight Trader Joe’s parking lots, and the occasional school pickup line. Like many SUV owners, I needed something that could pull double duty: practical for everyday life, but still fun enough to take on the open road.
That’s the thing about SUVs today—there’s no one-size-fits-all. What used to be a bulky “family car” category is now full of smart, efficient, and stylish options. Whether you’re hauling gear or groceries, these SUVs can transition seamlessly from city commuting to long-haul road tripping without making you choose between comfort, efficiency, or capability.
This list isn’t based on marketing hype or vague buzzwords like “adventurous spirit.” It’s grounded in expert reviews, reliability data, real-world usability, and yes—a few notes from my own glove box.
1. Honda CR-V
Best for: Everyday city use + reliable weekend getaways
If I had to pick a “unicorn” SUV—reliable, efficient, comfortable, and just the right size—it would be the Honda CR-V. This one wins big for those who don’t need luxury bells and whistles but still want refined comfort and easy maneuvering around town. It’s roomy without being bulky, gets great fuel efficiency (especially the hybrid model), and consistently ranks high in safety.
Plus, the CR-V’s cargo space is surprisingly generous. I’ve seen friends pack for four-day camping trips without breaking a sweat or folding down the seats.
Weekly Nugget: Want to know if an SUV is road trip-friendly? Check how flat the rear seats fold. A smoother fold often means more cargo versatility for luggage, gear, or—let’s be honest—impromptu naps.
2. Subaru Outback
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts who still run errands in yoga pants
I debated buying an Outback before I settled on the Bronco. It’s basically the SUV-hatchback hybrid of my dreams, with standard all-wheel drive and a ride height that makes uneven roads feel manageable without driving a tank. Plus, Subaru’s reputation for longevity is a real thing—these vehicles last.
Its cabin is clean and functional, and there’s plenty of room in the back for gear, dogs, or whatever your road trip demands. It may not be flashy, but it’s endlessly practical and perfect for people who don’t want to worry about their car—just drive it.
3. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Best for: Budget-conscious drivers who still want mileage and muscle
The RAV4 Hybrid is a standout in its class, offering the sweet spot between fuel economy and light off-road capability. With up to 41 MPG in the city, it’s hard to find another SUV this size that delivers that kind of efficiency without sacrificing cargo space or driveability.
Inside, it’s more upscale than you might expect, with intuitive tech and just enough trim customization to feel fun. If your dream SUV has to handle both Whole Foods runs and highway treks with equal ease, this is your move.
4. Ford Bronco Sport
Best for: Compact off-road flair without the full-size commitment
Okay, yes, I drive the full-size Bronco—but the Bronco Sport deserves its own shout-out. It’s built on a smaller platform (similar to the Ford Escape) but packs serious attitude and unexpected off-road talent in a compact frame.
It’s perfect if you want that weekend warrior vibe but still want to squeeze into a parking garage. The interior’s durable, the cargo space is smartly designed, and it just feels fun to drive. Plus, the rear swing-gate is surprisingly handy for tailgating or beach days.
Weekly Nugget: A swing-out rear hatch (instead of liftgate) can be a game changer for tight city parking—and makes post-hike gear access so much easier.
5. Mazda CX-50
Best for: Stylish drivers who want luxury without luxury pricing
Mazda has quietly become a go-to for design-forward, well-balanced vehicles that drive more like sport sedans than utility vehicles. The CX-50 is a newer entrant that turns heads with its upscale interior and refined on-road manners.
It’s not as rugged as some of the others on this list, but if you want an SUV that’s equally at home in your driveway or in a boutique hotel parking lot, the CX-50 delivers. Bonus: the ride quality and tech features punch way above its price point.
6. Hyundai Santa Fe
Best for: Multi-taskers who need room, comfort, and value
The Santa Fe hits that comfortable middle ground between a compact and midsize SUV. You get a more spacious cabin, solid cargo space, and Hyundai’s long warranty—all at a price that’s still budget-friendly. It’s not trying to be the flashiest option, but that’s kind of the charm.
Hyundai’s newer models also pack a lot more in terms of driver assistance tech and infotainment features. It’s a smart choice if you’re hauling kids, coworkers, or just way too many groceries.
7. Kia Sportage Hybrid
Best for: Drivers who want an edgy look and high MPG
The new Kia Sportage Hybrid feels like a glow-up in all the right ways. It’s efficient (with up to 43 MPG city), spacious, and full of clever interior storage features. I love that it doesn’t look like every other SUV in the school pickup line—but still has the tech and comfort of more expensive models.
Kia’s build quality has come a long way, and the hybrid model is especially great for those racking up miles between commutes and road trips.
8. Jeep Grand Cherokee
Best for: Trail lovers who still appreciate a leather-wrapped steering wheel
The Grand Cherokee is a longtime staple for people who want off-road prowess and city comfort. It’s larger and more luxe than other Jeep models, making it a great choice for drivers who value versatility—but with premium touches.
With available four-wheel drive, terrain management systems, and tons of safety features, the Grand Cherokee is road-trip ready. And for families? The newer models now offer third-row options, making it even more flexible.
Weekly Nugget: SUVs with adjustable suspension or terrain settings can make longer drives smoother and help you adapt to different climates or weather on the fly.
9. Chevrolet Traverse
Best for: Big families, big cargo, big plans
If you need real space—as in room for up to eight passengers, multiple strollers, or a band’s worth of gear—the Traverse is hard to beat. It’s a three-row SUV that doesn’t feel like a minivan and drives smoother than its size suggests. While not designed for serious off-roading, it handles highways and family vacations with ease. Bonus: the hidden underfloor storage in the back makes it easier to pack efficiently (or stash emergency snacks where little hands can’t reach).
10. Volvo XC60 Recharge (Plug-in Hybrid)
Best for: Eco-conscious drivers who want luxury and efficiency
If you’ve been flirting with going electric but aren’t quite ready to ditch gas entirely, a plug-in hybrid like the Volvo XC60 Recharge could be your perfect middle ground. With up to 35+ miles of all-electric range and the option to switch to gas for longer drives, it’s ideal for commuting, errands, and occasional road trips.
Inside, it’s as sophisticated as you’d expect from Volvo—clean lines, intuitive tech, and serene cabin vibes. It’s pricier than others on this list, but if comfort and sustainability rank equally for you, it’s worth the investment.
Final Thoughts
Shopping for an SUV today can feel overwhelming, but the good news is: there’s something out there for every kind of driver. From gas-sippers that still offer space to off-road beasts that can parallel park without breaking a sweat, the right SUV balances what you need daily with what you want on the weekend.
If you’re like me, you want a vehicle that can do a little of everything without sacrificing comfort or fuel efficiency. Take your time test-driving. Ask questions. Think about your daily routes and the road trips you dream about taking.
