15 Best-Selling SUVs in the US in 2021
There's a type of SUV for nearly everyone on this list. In the first half of 2021, inventory shortages and shoppers ravenously looking for a new vehicle have shaken up the best-selling SUVs landscape but the most popular models in America are still the ones that first come to mind - the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.
The newest model on the list is the Hyundai Tucson, which was redesigned this year, and the Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue, Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander, which were new a few years back. Jeep recently introduced a new plug-in hybrid version of its Wrangler, the 4xe.
There were a few surprises with the Rogue solidly claiming the third position while the Subaru Forester and Hyundai Tucson slipped amid low inventories. Scroll down to see the 15 bestsellers.
No. 15 - Toyota 4Runner
69,949 sold in 2021
The aging Toyota 4Runner still has a solid fanbase. It is off-road-ready at a moment's notice and manages to handle on-road capabilities with a certain level of comfort you won't get in more modern prowlers. New for the 2022 model year, Toyota introduced a more luxe version of the 4Runner for drivers that primarily stick to paved surfaces.
No. 14 - Honda Pilot
76,560 sold in 2021
Honda's Pilot is about ready for a generational redo but that hasn't stopped buyers from shelling out for its spacious three-row accommodations. Honda recently added the Black Edition version of the SUV to its lineup and gave the model a standard nine-speed automatic transmission, paddle shifters and dual-zone climate control.
No. 13 - Chevrolet Traverse
83,431 sold in 2021
The mid-cycle refresh of the Chevy Traverse was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Chevrolet is now slated to have the revised versions of the Traverse to arrive on dealership lots for the 2022 model year. Until then, buyers are still finding the current version of the three-row crossover a formidable choice as Suburbans and Tahoes supplies are strained.
No. 12 - Hyundai Tucson
83,517 sold in 2021
The redesigned 2022 Hyundai Tucson only recently arrived on dealership lots. Hyundai packed the model with above-class standard and available features, and gave the SUV a unique design. Critics say that the hybrid version of the Tucson is the way to go for buyers looking to save fuel and have better driving performance.
No. 11 - Ford Escape
85,492 sold in 2021
Just one year after its redesign, the Escape is pretty much the same today as it was in late 2019 and throughout 2020. Ford has improved the SUV's 1.5-liter engine fuel economy by 1 mpg, added more safety technology, and given the Escape a few new appearance packages for 2021.
No. 10 - Mazda CX-5
88,113 sold in 2021
Mazda added some features to the CX-5 for the 2021 model year in order to make the model more attractive to buyers in the competitive compact SUV segment. It now has the largest infotainment display every in a Mazda, a fresh list of safety features, and a Carbon Edition.
No. 9 - Subaru Forester
95,965 sold in 2021
Decreased inventories pushed the Forester further down on this list than where it typically sits. The two-row Forester continues to offer impressive passenger and cargo space, and a host of standard safety technology.
No. 8 - Jeep Grand Cherokee
107,923 sold in 2021
Jeep has redesigned the Grand Cherokee, but only the three-row Grand Cherokee L has made its way to dealership lots. The two-row Grand Cherokee will arrive soon after its debut, which is on the schedule for later this year. The Grand Cherokee L is more premium than other Jeeps in the stable, setting the tone for the forthcoming Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer.
No. 7 - Ford Explorer
118,241 sold in 2021
A large portion of Ford Explorer sales are fleet vehicles, but traditional shoppers love the Explorer as well. The SUV is noted for its towing capacity and 4x4 capability. Ford has expanded the Explorer lineup in recent months offering new trim levels and packages.
No. 6 - Chevrolet Equinox
118,666 sold in 2021
Like the Traverse, the Chevy Equinox was slated for a refresh for the 2021 model year that was pushed to 2022 due to the pandemic. Even without the update, the Equinox remains a good choice for buyers thanks to a powerful available engine, comfortable seats and good cargo space.
No. 5 - Jeep Wrangler
118,667 sold in 2021
The Wrangler is Jeep's best-selling automobile. The go-anywhere SUV is currently available in 14 variants including the new V8-powered Wrangler Rubicon 392 and the celebratory 80th Anniversary edition. Jeep sells most of the models in the buyer's choice of a two- or four-door setup.
No. 4 - Toyota Highlander
144,380 sold in 2021
The Toyota Highlander is the top-selling three-row SUV in the U.S. The model delivers a good amount of first- and second-row passenger space, and enough cargo space for a run to the grocery store. For more power and fuel efficiency, opt for the Highlander Hybrid.
No. 3 - Nissan Rogue
182,288 sold in 2021
The Rogue is Nissan's best-selling vehicle. It delivers on comfort, convenience and quality. The two-row SUV features desirable technology including adaptive cruise control with available navigation-linked speed control. Rogue's pricing is very competitive with the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.
No. 2 - Honda CR-V
213,199 sold in 2021
The Honda CR-V is available with a traditional gasoline-powered engine or with a hybrid power plant, making the CR-V one of the more fuel-efficient compact SUVs you can buy. The CR-V Hybrid gains 10 mpg and over 100 miles of range on its non-hybrid counterpart. The CR-V is noted for its massive rear cargo space and roomy accommodations.
No. 1 - Toyota RAV4
221,195 sold in 2021
The Toyota RAV4 has traditionally held the top spot in the best-selling SUV rankings and 2021 is no exception. The popular RAV4 comes with either a gasoline or hybrid powertrain and in the buyer's choice of seven grades. The efficient hybrid gets over 40 mpg in the city without cramping on passenger or cargo space.
