Best-Selling SUVs in America

Best-Selling SUVS — So Far
Americans love SUVs — and the trend probably won’t be slowing anytime soon — at least based on the latest sales numbers. Through the third quarter of 2017, five of the top 20 best-selling SUVs are up more than 20 percent year-to-date over 2016, and 10 of the top 20 are up more than 10 percent. As a group, sales of the top 20 SUVs through the third quarter of 2017 are up 9.3 percent over the same period for 2016. GMC Acadia, Hyundai Tucson, Toyota Highlander, Nissan Rogue and Chevrolet Equinox have all shown impressive growth for 2017. Here’s a look at the top-selling SUVs in America based on sales in the first three quarters of 2017, according to numbers compiled from individual auto manufacturers’ sales reports and goodcarbadcar.net.

20. GMC Acadia
YTD Sales: 82,778
Vs. 2016: 41.40%
The GMC Acadia was redesigned for 2017 and the sales numbers show buyers like the changes — year-to-date sales are up over 40 percent year over year. Although most vehicles typically increase in size with a redesign, the 2017 Acadia actually bucks the trend — it’s about 7 inches shorter in length and 3.5 inches narrower than the previous model, while still offering similar or better interior space. GMC even managed to knock 700 pounds off the total weight for better performance and fuel economy from either the new 2.5-liter 4-cylinder or the 3.6-liter V6. A number of trims are offered, including the top-of-the-line Denali and the new All-Terrain offering improved off-road capability. Acadia is available with 5-, 6- or 7-passenger seating — the third row is a 50/50 split and when folded provides a flat cargo floor for easy loading.

19. Hyundai Tucson
YTD Sales: 82,839
Vs. 2016: +26.80%
Sales continue to be strong for the compact Hyundai Tucson, with 2017 numbers up 26 percent over 2016 year to date, moving the Hyundai Tucson into the top 20 best-selling SUVs for 2017. Hyundai’s compact crossover was redesigned for the 2016 model year with sporty styling and the addition of a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine combined with a 7-speed EcoShift Dual Clutch transmission. Late in the 2017 model year the Value trim replaced the Sport trim, which includes a Panoramic Sunroof, dual automatic climate control, an auto-dimming mirror and rear parking sensors.

18. Honda Pilot
YTD Sales: 84,203
Vs. 2016: -7.47%
Honda’s Pilot three-row SUV was redesigned for the 2016 model year; it went on sale in August 2015 and recorded a huge increase for 2015 over the previous model. Pilot sales are down 7 percent year-over-year but surged in September with an 11.8 percent increase month-over-month compared to a year ago. For 2017 Pilot added Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality for upper trim levels. Pilot is powered by a3.5-liter 280-horsepower V6 engine combined with a 6-speed automatic (9-speed for upper trim levels) and an available intelligent all-wheel-drive system.

17. Chevrolet Traverse
YTD Sales: 88,864
Vs. 2016: +3.16%
Chevrolet’s three-row crossover, the Traverse is redesigned for 2018 and just starting to hit the market. Traverse sales were up dramatically in September with an increase of 50 percent compared to last year, pushing Traverse to a 3 percent increase year-over-year for the first three quarters 2017. The new 2018 Traverse features a bold new look that follows Chevrolet’s larger full-size SUVs with a focus on interior volume, including seating for up to eight. Two new trim levels are added: RS and High Country. The standard engine is a new 3.6-liter V6 combined with a 9-speed automatic transmission, with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The Traverse RS is offered exclusively with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that delivers more torque than the V6, also paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.

16. Mazda CX-5
YTD Sales: 92,550
Vs. 2016: +12.26%
Already the top-selling model in Mazda’s lineup, the redesigned 2017 Mazda CX-5 debuted last November at the Los Angeles Auto Show and went on sale early in 2017. Sales are up over 12 percent through the third quarter of 2017 — an impressive number since 2016 was the best sales year for CX-5 since its debut as a 2012 model. The new 2017 Mazda CX-5 adopts the styling of the larger CX-9, with the new design enhanced by the available specially-developed Soul Red Crystal paint that enables both brighter highlights and darker shadows to accentuate the lines and details of the design. The new CX-5 is refined in nearly every way, with a revised chassis, updated SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter gasoline engine, new interior design and many additional available features. The new CX-5 is the first Mazda vehicle to feature G-Vectoring Control, the first SKYACTIV-VEHICLE Dynamics technology, which is designed to achieve high levels of vehicle responsiveness and stability while reducing sideways sliding of the occupants for a more comfortable ride.

15. Toyota 4Runner
YTD Sales: 95,086
Vs. 2016: +14.13%
One of the few truck-based SUVs left on the market, the 4Runner has been a part of the Toyota lineup since the mid-1980s. This highly-capable SUV continues to experience impressive growth, with sales up more than 14 percent year-to-date and September sales up 25 percent year over year. For 2017 Toyota added the TRD Off-Road and TRD Off-Road Premium trims to the 4Runner lineup, offering excellent backcountry capability while maintaining a luxurious, comfortable interior. For 2018 two additional packages will be offered: the Wilderness Package and the TRD Enhancement Package. 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.

14. Hyundai Santa Fe
YTD Sales: 95,655
Vs. 2016: -2.69%
The Hyundai Santa Fe is one of the few SUVs with sales off slightly for 2017, with a drop of 2.69 percent year over year, although September sales are essentially even with an increase of 0.62 percent. Santa Fe is offered in two versions: the 7-seat Santa Fe and the 5-seat Santa Fe Sport. Hyundai engineers made a number of improvements to the Santa Fe for the 2017 model year, including updated exterior styling, a fresh interior, LED lighting and — more importantly — the latest in high-tech safety features. The Santa Fe Sport Value package gets added for 2018.

13. Ford Edge
YTD Sales: 104,727
Vs. 2016: +1.60%
Edge sales had been dropping off a few years ago, but in 2015 the stylish crossover received a major refresh and sales have improved ever since, continuing steady for 2017 with a modest 1.6 percent increase year-to-date, although sales surged by 11 percent in September. For 2018, Edge adds the SEL Sport Appearance Package that includes dark exterior trim and 19-inch Magnetic Metallic-painted wheels, grille, mirror caps and a rear spoiler. Inside, the SEL Sport Appearance Package features Mayan Gray fabric seats, Umber-colored Miko sueded-cloth perforated inserts, a Copper Sands textured applique and embroidered floor mats. Edge is offered with three different engines including a twin-turbo 2.7-liter EcoBoost that generates an impressive 315 horsepower.

12. Jeep Cherokee
YTD Sales: 117,835
Vs. 2016: -25.58%
The first of three Jeep models in the Top 20 SUVs, Cherokee sales are struggling for 2017 with a decrease of 25 percent over last year, and sales were down 29 percent in September. Cherokee was the No. 8 best-selling SUV for 2016, but sales had started to drop in December. Cherokee returned to the Jeep lineup as a 2014 model after a 12-year hiatus, and with all the new competition in the compact segment it’s probably time for an update. Like all Jeep products, Cherokee delivers legendary off-road capability with available features that include a lifted off-road suspension with skidplates, tow hooks, Selec-Terrain traction control, Jeep Active Drive Lock with rear locker and Selec-Speed Crawl Control.

11. Subaru Forester
YTD Sales: 132,030
Vs. 2016: +1.05%
One of Subaru’s best-selling models, the Forester is updated for 2017 with revised exterior styling, new driver assistance technology, added interior comfort and improved fuel economy. Offered with either a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine or a turbocharged 2.0 liter, all Foresters have standard full-time all-wheel drive. The Forester earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating via Subaru’s innovative EyeSight system, which integrates Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Vehicle Lane Departure Warning. For 2018 Subaru adds the 2.5i Forester Black Edition Package, which includes a Lineartronic CVT with paddle shifters for manual mode, X-Mode, Hill Descent Control and LED Steering Responsive Headlights. The Black Edition also includes 18-inch black alloy wheels, fog lights with black trim, black badges, black mirrors and a blacked-out grille with a chrome frame.

10. Subaru Outback
YTD Sales: 140,491
Vs. 2016: +11.13%
The top-selling model in the Subaru lineup, Outback sales were up almost 30 percent last December, helping Subaru set an all-time sales record. Sales continue to be strong for 2017 with an increase of 11 percent through the third quarter, although sales were down 3.8 percent year over year in September. One of the original crossovers, Outback combines SUV utility with the comfort and convenience of a wagon. The last redesign was for the 2015 model year, and the 2018 Outback receives 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.

9. Jeep Wrangler
YTD Sales: 150,142
Vs. 2016: +1.02%
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. Even though a new version of the Wrangler is coming soon (expected to debut in November at the Los Angeles Auto Show), Wrangler sales for 2017 are steady year over year with a 10 percent increase for the month of September. Still a body-on-frame design with live axles and available electronic locking differentials, the Wrangler offers extreme off-road capability. For 2018 Jeep adds the ‘Wrangler JK’ decal on the driver’s side front quarter panel to recognize this generation Wrangler model.

8. Toyota Highlander
YTD Sales: 158,196
Vs. 2016: +24.52%
The Toyota Highlander had its best sales year ever in 2016, and looks to be on pace to top that mark in 2017 with an increase of nearly 25 percent through the third quarter, and September sales up 36 percent for the month. Highlander is available with front- or all-wheel drive and can be equipped with a variety of safety and luxury features. Highlander is available with a choice of 4-cylinder, V6 or hybrid powertrains — the latter delivering up to 28 mpg on the highway.

7. Jeep Grand Cherokee
YTD Sales: 181,245
Vs. 2016: +17.75%
The top-selling Jeep model, the midsize Grand Cherokee has remained true to the original formula when it debuted 25 years ago as a 1993 model, adding a more upscale model for everyday use, while retaining the legendary Jeep off-road capability. Sales continue strong for 2017 with an increase of 17.75 percent through the third quarter, and monthly sales up 20 percent for September. Available with a number of 4WD systems as well as trim levels, for 2017 the Grand Cherokee line added the off-road-focused Trailhawk and the luxurious Summit. For 2018, the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk gets added, 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. Jeep also adds the Grand Cherokee Sterling Edition to commemorate its 25th anniversary.

6. Ford Explorer
YTD Sales: 199,034
Vs. 2016: +5.63%
Ford’s family-sized SUV has been a fixture on the best-sellers list for years, dropping to the sixth position through three quarters of 2017 after finishing 2016 in the fifth spot, even though 2017 sales are up by 5.6 percent and over 10 percent for September. One of the first midsize models as SUVs began to increase in popularity, the Explorer has grown in size and now features three rows of seating. The Explorer was refreshed for the 2016 model year with updated styling, new features and a new 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine good for 270 horsepower. Note: Explorer figures include sales of the Explorer-based Police Interceptor Utility, which is currently one of the most popular vehicles for law enforcement work.

5. Chevrolet Equinox
YTD Sales: 212,735
Vs. 2016: +22.45
The redesigned 2018 Chevrolet Equinox is now on sale, pushing sales numbers to a 22 percent increase for the year with an 80 percent jump in September. Equinox receives 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. The lower cushions of the rear seats tilt forward, and when the split-folding seatbacks get lowered Equinox has a flat cargo floor. Three engine choices for Equinox in the U.S. market are a 1.5-liter turbo, a 2.0-liter turbo combined with a new 9-speed automatic transmission, and a 1.6-liter turbodiesel. The 1.5 liter produces 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft or torque; the 1.6 liter produces 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque; and the 1.6-liter diesel delivers 136 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque.

4. Ford Escape
YTD Sales: 233,878
Vs. 2016: -0.38%
Ford’s small 5-seat crossover, the Escape continues as the best-selling American-brand SUV with sales essentially flat year-over-year through the third quarter. The Escape was updated for 2017 with a new exterior design that includes a raised trapezoidal grille that ties the compact SUV’s look more closely to other Ford SUVs. Interior changes include a new steering wheel, an electric parking brake, a repositioned gear shift, a media bin at the base of the center stack and new storage bins. Two new 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.

3. Honda CR-V
YTD Sales: 280,933
Vs. 2016: +6.62%
The Honda CR-V finished 2016 as the best-selling SUV in America, but despite a sales increase of nearly 7 percent for 2017 so far, it drops to the No. 3 position against strong competition. Redesigned for the 2017 model year, the CR-V continues to be Honda’s top-selling model in the U.S. market. 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.

2. Nissan Rogue
YTD Sales: 296,927
Vs. 2016: +22.89%
Nissan Rogue sales are on fire for 2017, with a 22 percent increase for the year and 47 percent increase for September. Sales momentum is due to updated styling and added features for the 2017 model year, as well as the addition of the smaller Rogue Sport to the lineup. The 2017 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. The 2017 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 overall than Rogue. Rogue Sport is powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 141 horsepower and 147 lb-ft of torque, combined with an Xtronic CVT and front- or all-wheel drive.

1. Toyota RAV4
YTD Sales: 312,230
Vs. 2016: +19.91%
The Toyota RAV4 moves to the top as the best-selling crossover SUV in America through the first three quarters of the year. Boosted by a 44 percent sales increase for September and nearly a 20 percent increase overall for the year, the Toyota RAV4 pushed past the Nissan Rogue, which was at the top through August. The RAV4 was redesigned for 2016 with edgier styling when the RAV4 Hybrid was added. All RAV4 Hybrids are 4WD — the gas engine combines with an electric motor to drive the front wheels, while an additional electric motor provides power to the rear wheels. The RAV4 was one of the first crossovers when it debuted over 20 years ago as a 1996 model, and today the RAV4 Hybrid is both the most powerful and the most fuel-efficient RAV4 ever, rated at an EPA-estimated 34 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 32 mpg combined.