Best-Selling SUVS of 2017
The popularity of SUVs continues to grow, fueled by 2017 U.S. sales figures. Total SUV sales increased 5 percent for the year, while total vehicle sales were down 2 percent. In 2017 seven of the top 15 most popular vehicles were SUVs, with five cars and three trucks taking the other spots. Sales of the 20 best-selling SUVs were up 9 percent for 2017 compared to 2016, with three up more than 20 percent for the year. Here are the top-selling SUVs in America based on total sales for 2017, according to numbers compiled from individual auto manufacturers’ sales reports and goodcarbadcar.net.
20. GMC Acadia
2017 Sales: 111,276
Vs. 2016: 25.8%
Redesigned for 2017, GMC Acadia sales numbers have increased more than 25 percent, confirming that buyers like the changes. Although vehicles typically increase in size when redesigned, the 2017 Acadia bucks that 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 a new 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine or a 3.6-liter V6. Available with 5-, 6- or 7-passenger seating, Acadia can be configured in many trim levels, including the top-of-the-line Denali and the new All-Terrain, which offers improved off-road capability.
19. Hyundai Tucson
2017 Sales: 114,735
Vs. 2016: 27.9%
Sales continue to be strong for the compact Hyundai Tucson, with 2017 numbers up 27.9 percent over 2016, moving the Tucson into the top 20 best-selling SUVs of 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. Chevrolet Traverse
2017 Sales: 123,506
Vs. 2016: 5.8%
Chevrolet’s 3-row crossover, the redesigned 2018 Traverse hit the market in fall 2017 with a dramatic 50 percent sales increase in September when compared to the same month of the previous year. Traverse finished the year with December sales up 18.6 percent over 2016 and an overall increase of 5.8 percent for 2017. The 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.
17. Honda Pilot
2017 Sales: 127,279
Vs. 2016: 5.4%
Honda’s Pilot 3-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 were down 7 percent year-over-year through September 2017, but with strong sales in the last quarter Pilot moved past Chevrolet’s Traverse in total sales, tallying a 5 percent increase year-over year. Pilot sales were up 57 percent month-over-month for November and 54 percent for December. For 2017 Pilot added Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality for upper trim levels. Pilot is powered by a 3.5-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.
16. Mazda CX-5
2017 Sales: 127,563
Vs. 2016: 13.7%
Already the top-selling model in Mazda’s lineup, the redesigned 2017 Mazda CX-5 went on sale early last year. The CX-5 finished 2017 with a 17.6 increase for December month-over-month and a 13.7 percent increase for the full year — an impressive number since 2016 was the best sales year for CX-5 since its debut as a 2012 model. 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 design and many additional 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 the occupants for a more comfortable ride.
15. Toyota 4Runner
2017 Sales: 128,296
Vs. 2016: 14.6%
One of the few truck-based SUVs left on the market, the 4Runner has been 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. 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 are 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
2017 Sales: 133,171
Vs. 2016: 1.5%
The Santa Fe finished the year with a modest sales increase, up 1.5 percent for 2017. Sales were down most of last year, but a 21 percent increase in December pushed sales to the plus side for the year overall. Santa Fe is offered in two versions: the 7-seat Santa Fe and the 5-seat Santa Fe Sport. Hyundai engineers made many 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
2017 Sales: 142,603
Vs. 2016: 6.0%
A few years ago, sales were dropping off the Edge, but in 2015 the stylish crossover received a major refresh and the numbers have improved ever since, continuing steady for 2017 with a modest 6 percent increase for the year. For 2018 the Edge adds a SEL Sport Appearance Package that includes dark exterior trim and 19-inch Magnetic Metallic-painted wheels, grille, mirror caps and rear spoiler. Inside, the SEL Sport Appearance Package features Mayan Gray fabric seats with Umber-colored Miko sueded-cloth inserts and a Copper Sands textured applique. Edge is offered with three different engines, including a twin-turbo 2.7-liter EcoBoost that generates an impressive 315 horsepower.
12. Jeep Cherokee
2017 Sales: 169,882
Vs. 2016: -14.9%
The first of three Jeep models in the Top 20 SUVs, Cherokee sales struggled in 2017 with a decrease of nearly 15 percent over last year, when Cherokee was the eighth-best-selling SUV. Sales were down 25 percent in September but rebounded in the last quarter of the year with sales up 18.2 percent year-over-year in December. Cherokee returned to the Jeep lineup as a 2014 model after a 12-year hiatus, and considering the new competition in the compact segment don’t be surprised to see an updated Cherokee arriving soon. 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
2017 Sales: 177,563
Vs. 2016: -0.6%
Sales of Subaru’s popular Forester were flat for 2017, but that consistency helped Subaru of America once again set a new annual sales record — the ninth consecutive year of such sales. Forester was updated for 2017 with revised exterior styling, new driver-assistance technologies, 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.
10. Subaru Outback
2017 Sales: 188,886
Vs. 2016: 3.3%
The top-selling model in the Subaru lineup, Outback sales were up a modest 3.3 percent for 2017, but that was enough to set a new annual sales record for Outback at 188,886 units while contributing to Subaru’s best year ever. 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 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
2017 Sales: 190,522
Vs. 2016: -0.7%
Given that an all-new 2018 Wrangler is about to roll out, it’s no surprise that Wrangler sales dipped in December 2017, although overall annual sales remained flat. As the all-new Wrangler arrives in showrooms, Jeep will continue to produce the outgoing Wrangler JK as a 2018 model as well, so don’t be surprised if Wrangler sales climb dramatically in 2018. 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 and is offered in four trim levels: Sport, Sport S, Sahara and Rubicon.
8. Toyota Highlander
2017 Sales: 215,775
Vs. 2016: 12.7%
Last year Toyota Highlander had its best sales year ever, building on record numbers in 2016 with an increase of more than 12 percent after Toyota added more power, more safety and more trim level choices for the 2017 model year. 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. Added for 2017, the Highlander SE includes a dark grille, a dark headlight housing, dark roof rails and unique 19-inch wheels. Inside, the SE adds black leather seats with silver stitching, a dark dash and dark door trim. Highlander is available with front- or all-wheel drive and a choice of 4-cylinder, V6 or hybrid powertrains — the latter with an EPA rating of 30 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 29 mpg combined.
7. Jeep Grand Cherokee
2017 Sales: 240,696
Vs. 2016: 13.4%
The top-selling Jeep model, Grand Cherokee sales increased more than 13 percent for 2017 while remaining true to the original formula it debuted 25 years ago as a 1993 model. The first Grand Cherokee was billed as a more upscale Jeep for everyday use, while retaining the legendary Jeep off-road capability. Offered 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. Added for 2018, the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is 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 a Grand Cherokee Sterling Edition to commemorate the model’s 25th anniversary.
6. Ford Explorer
2017 Sales: 271,131
Vs. 2016: 9.1%
Posting its best sales year since 2005, Explorer sales were up more than 9 percent for the year and contributed to a new record for Ford SUVs, with a total of 796,302 sold in 2017. Ford’s family-sized SUV has been a fixture on the best-sellers list for years, but despite the sales gain it dropped to the sixth position on the 2017 list after finishing 2016 in the fifth spot. 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. The 2018 Explorer offers five new wheel options, a Safe and Smart Package, and available SYNC Connect with 4G modem and Wi-Fi hotspot that connects up to 10 devices. 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
2017 Sales: 290,458
Vs. 2016: 19.9%
Chevrolet’s second-best-selling vehicle after the full-size Silverado pickup, the redesigned 2018 Equinox went on sale in September, pushing sales numbers for the year to nearly a 20 percent increase. Sales were up 80 percent in September, finishing out the year with December sales up over 20 percent. 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 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.
4. Ford Escape
2017 Sales: 308,296
Vs. 2016: 0.4%
Ford’s compact 5-seat crossover, Escape continues as the best-selling American-brand SUV and retains the No. 4 position on this list thanks to a slight sales increase last year — enough to chalk up another year of record sales. 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 and new storage bins. 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.
3. Honda CR-V
2017 Sales: 377,895
Vs. 2016: 5.8%
The Honda CR-V finished 2016 as the best-selling SUV in America, but despite a sales increase of nearly 6 percent for 2017 and a new annual sales record, it drops to the No. 3 position against strong competition. 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 4.2 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.
2. Nissan Rogue
2017 Sales: 403,465
Vs. 2016: 22.3%
Nissan Rogue sales continued to be hot in 2017, with a 22 percent increase for the year after a 14.9 percent increase the previous year, moving it up to No. 2 on the list. Sales momentum is due to updated styling and added features for the 2017 model year, which went on sale in fall 2016, 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, and is motivated by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 141 horsepower.
1. Toyota RAV4
2017 Sales: 407,594
Vs. 2016: 15.7%
The RAV4 moved to the top as the best-selling crossover SUV in America for 2017, thanks to another record sales year. Boosted by a 15.7 percent annual sales increase, the small SUV pushed past the Nissan Rogue in September with a sales increase of 44 percent month-over-month. 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. RAV4 was one of the first crossovers when it debuted 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.
