From January’s Los Angeles Auto Show to April’s annual New York Auto Show, the 2018 auto shows unveiled entire lineups of new, redesigned, and updated SUVs that immediately excited experts in the auto industry. And now that these brand new SUVs are finally hitting dealerships across the country, some are proving to be better buys than others.
The Redesigned Toyota RAV4
Toyota unveiled its 2018 RAV4 at the April 2018 New York Auto Show, and SUV fans finally got to see this completely redesigned favorite. Now in its fifth-generation, the RAV4 has been a long time top-rated SUV. The 2018 model arrives on a longer platform, which offers more space inside the car, and with a 2.5 liter, 4-cylinder engine. For drivers who want a solid SUV with great fuel efficiency, there’s even the new option to get the RAV4 as a hybrid.
According to experts at CNET, the number-one reason SUV fans will want to buy the 2018 RAV4 is for its interior. Redesigned to include the latest and greatest smart home technology, the RAV4 now offers Apple CarPlay and Alexa integration – meaning you can speak to Alexa just like you would at home, asking for directions, music, local information, and more. With one of the savviest car interiors on the market, the Toyota RAV4 is both smart and capable now.
The All-Electric Hyundai Kona EV
Hyundai may have been a sedan-focused carmaker for the past decade, but 2018 is seeing a host of new SUVs join the Hyundai fleet. And, according to CNET’s reviewers, the new 2018 Kona EV is the electric counterpart to the regular gas-powered Kona – but the Kona EV is considered even more exciting because it’s one of the first all-electric options for SUV drivers.
What really makes the 2018 Kona EV a standout top SUV of the year is its power and range. While electric cars have a reputation for driving only short distances and running on low-powered engines, Hyundai’s newest SUV can drive 250 miles on a single charge. Packing 201 horsepower and 291 pound-feet of torque make the Kona EV a thrill to drive and accelerate.
The All-New Cadillac XT4
Cadillac is known for its luxurious cars and its spacious sedans, but the newest addition to the automaker’s brand is shaking things up. The brand new XT4 is the first of its kind: a crossover SUV that packs spacious legroom for passengers, a roomy cargo space, and the luxury amenities drivers know and love from Cadillac. Nearly 10 inches smaller than its predecessor, the XT5, the 2018 Cadillac XT4 is cozy without being small, making it a top choice for families.
In addition to a stellar interior not always common for SUVs, the XT4 also makes waves with a 2.0 liter turbo engine, 237 horsepower, and 258 pound-feet of torque. It’s a powerful SUV that drivers will love, complete with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The interior is fun, too, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration to work with any smart devices, a sizeable infotainment system, and state-of-the-art safety features that make the XT4 adaptable and enjoyable to drive.
The Subcompact Volvo XC40
SUVs don’t have to be bulky and big in order to offer power and excitement – and according to reviewers at Edmunds, the 2018 Volvo XC40 is one of the year’s top new releases due to its compact size and powerful new upgrades. Loaded with the very latest safety and technology features, the XC40 includes impressive updates like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and a highly rated infotainment system.
Even more exciting are the cool new features sprinkled throughout the 2018 XC40’s interior. While drivers are sure to enjoy the punchy acceleration and powerful turbo engine, what makes Edmunds rank this newly released SUV so highly is its spacious and innovative cabin. Drivers will find – and love – a trash can, takeout food holder, and laptop pockets along the doors are just a few of the features designed to make driving or riding comfortable.
Explore These Top SUVs Today
Right now, the newest SUVs of 2018 are available – and they’re even better than previous years’ models. These new releases offer helpful features, innovative technology, and safety additions that make getting behind the wheel of an SUV exceptionally appealing. You can see for yourself why car experts and SUV fans love these newly unveiled models that were released just for the 2018 model year by searching online to learn more, compare pricing, and check out different dealership offers for interested drivers.
Like anything, it’s always a good idea to be aware of the latest research. We recommend comparing at least 3 or 4 options before making a final decision. Doing a search online is typically the quickest, most thorough way to discover all the pros and cons you need to keep in mind.
