Why 2025 and 2026 Will Be Huge SUV Years
The SUV market is about to explode — again.
2025 and 2026 are shaping up to be two of the biggest years for SUV launches and redesigns we have seen in a decade.
Automakers are not just refreshing grilles and adding new paint colors — they’re rebuilding some of their most popular models from the ground up, bringing in brand-new electric SUVs, hybrids with real efficiency, and next-generation designs loaded with technology.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your ride, or if you’re wondering whether to hold onto your current SUV a little longer, it’s worth knowing what’s around the corner.
This blog walks through the top new SUVs coming for 2025 and 2026, covering real-world expectations: how they’ll drive, what buyers should watch for, and whether they’ll be worth waiting for.
This is not just a list. This is the inside scoop.
Ford Explorer EV – Electric Icon Reborn
Expected release: Early 2025
Why it matters: Ford’s biggest EV SUV move yet.
Ford is pushing hard into electric, and the Explorer EV is a key piece.
Built on a dedicated EV platform, this will not be a gas SUV with a battery crammed into it — it’s a clean-sheet design.
Real expectations behind the wheel:
- Low center of gravity (battery pack) should improve handling
- Torque-rich electric motors will make it quick for its size
- Range targeting 300 miles, but likely closer to 275 in real-world use
Inside, Ford is promising smart storage solutions, a new infotainment system, and plenty of passenger space.
If the Mach-E is any guide, expect a family-friendly, easy-to-live-with EV.
Should you wait for it?
If you want a mainstream three-row electric SUV without paying Rivian or Tesla money, absolutely yes.
Toyota 4Runner – Finally, a Full Redesign
Expected release: Mid 2025
Why it matters: It’s the 4Runner.
The current Toyota 4Runner is tough — but it’s ancient.
The 2025 model will finally give buyers a modern, rugged SUV without giving up its legendary durability.
What’s changing:
- New turbocharged engines (say goodbye to the old V6)
- Likely hybrid options for better mileage
- Updated frame for smoother on-road comfort without killing off-road chops
Inside, expect a huge leap: larger screens, better safety tech, and a cleaner, more modern dashboard.
Should you wait for it?
If you want a real off-roader you can daily drive, the 2025 4Runner should finally feel like it belongs in this decade.
Honda Passport – Sharper, Tougher, Better
Expected release: Fall 2025
Why it matters: Honda’s SUV game is strong — and the Passport needed a refresh.
The 2025 Honda Passport is getting a serious redesign aimed at people who want real off-road ability without buying a Jeep or Bronco.
Real-world expectations:
- More aggressive, squared-off styling
- New TrailSport versions that are actually trail-ready (not just trim packages)
- Likely sticking with a V6, but tuned for better torque and slight hybrid assist
Interior? Honda is betting big on comfort — expect wider seats, more usable cargo room, and better touchscreens.
Should you wait for it?
If you love the idea of an outdoor-capable, Honda-reliable SUV, the 2025 Passport should finally be the one worth serious attention.
Kia EV9 – Affordable Big EV Family SUV
Expected release: Spring 2025 (already launching, bigger rollout coming)
Why it matters: Three-row EVs are rare and pricey — until now.
The Kia EV9 is one of the most important family EVs hitting the market.
It’s big. It’s comfortable. And it’s way cheaper than a Tesla Model X or Rivian R1S.
Driving feel:
- Calm, solid highway ride
- Great rear visibility
- Instant torque for quick city maneuvers
Real-world range should sit around 270–280 miles for AWD versions.
Should you wait for it?
If you need a real SUV with a real third row, but want to go electric without taking out a second mortgage, yes.
Chevrolet Traverse – Big SUV, Big Upgrade
Expected release: Early 2025
Why it matters: Families love the Traverse — but it needed a modern push.
The 2025 Traverse is boxier, bolder, and better.
Big changes:
- Squared-off new body that looks tougher
- Turbocharged four-cylinder engines replacing the old V6
- New Z71 off-road model for buyers who want to camp, climb, and haul
Interior space stays massive — if anything, it’s better packaged now with flatter floors and smarter third-row access.
Should you wait for it?
If you want a big gas-powered three-row that doesn’t feel sluggish, yes.
Subaru Forester – Subtle but Important Changes
Expected release: Mid-to-late 2025
Why it matters: Subaru buyers are loyal for a reason — and the Forester just keeps getting better.
The 2025 Subaru Forester is not a radical redesign, but it does sharpen everything up:
Improvements:
- Tighter steering feel
- Quieter cabin materials
- New mild hybrid option for better MPG
The real story will be refinement — less noise, smoother tech, smarter AWD management.
Should you wait for it?
If you love practical, durable, go-anywhere SUVs that don’t scream for attention, yes.
Jeep Wagoneer S – The Real Luxury Electric Jeep
Expected release: Late 2025
Why it matters: Jeep needs a flagship EV — and this is it.
The Wagoneer S will be Jeep’s first real shot at the high-end EV SUV world.
Expectations are high:
- 600+ horsepower
- 0–60 mph in about 3.5 seconds
- Range around 400 miles (if early targets hold)
Inside, it’ll lean more luxury than Wrangler — think high-end leather, open-pore wood, and screens everywhere.
Should you wait for it?
If you want a luxury EV SUV with off-road attitude, absolutely yes.
Mazda CX-70 and CX-90 – Quietly Brilliant SUVs
Expected release: Throughout 2025
Why it matters: Mazda is pushing upscale hard.
The CX-70 (two rows) and CX-90 (three rows) are some of the most overlooked SUVs right now.
Driving feel:
- Fantastic steering precision
- Strong turbocharged inline-6 engine available
- Plug-in hybrid versions with 30+ miles EV-only range
Inside, these Mazdas feel more Audi than Toyota — stitched leather, real metal trim, understated luxury.
Should you wait for it?
If you want something that drives better than anything else under $60K, yes.
Acura ZDX – Acura’s First Real EV Push
Expected release: Early 2025
Why it matters: Acura needs a serious EV — the ZDX might finally deliver.
Built on GM’s Ultium platform, the ZDX blends sharp styling with strong EV range and real Acura driving dynamics.
- Range around 325 miles
- Super fast DC charging
- Quiet, confident ride
Interior looks excellent too — wide screens, premium seating, and clean design.
Should you wait for it?
If you want a premium EV that flies under the radar, this is it.
Hyundai Santa Fe – Big Redesign for 2025
Expected release: Spring 2025
Why it matters: Hyundai turned the Santa Fe into a boxy, rugged family hauler — and it works.
Driving the 2025 Santa Fe feels different:
- Higher seating position
- Square, SUV-like shape
- Smarter interior packaging (more usable third row)
Engines stay familiar: turbocharged 2.5L and hybrid options.
Real-world usability is where it wins — tons of storage space, wide rear doors for car seats, and standard AWD available.
Should you wait for it?
If you want an affordable, stylish family SUV that doesn’t feel boring, yes.
Lexus GX – Old-School Toughness with Modern Luxury
Expected release: Mid-2025
Why it matters: Lexus buyers have been begging for a new GX — they’re getting one.
Built on the new GA-F platform, the GX finally moves into modern times while keeping serious off-road ability.
- Twin-turbo V6 with over 350 horsepower
- Real 4WD system, not just AWD
- Luxurious but durable interior
The GX will compete with Land Rover buyers who want reliability without sacrificing ruggedness.
Should you wait for it?
If you want a serious off-road SUV with Lexus comfort, absolutely yes.
Full Comparison Table: New SUVs Coming 2025–2026
| SUV | Powertrain | Real-World Range/MPG | Launch Timing | Best Fit |
| Ford Explorer EV | Electric | 275 miles | Early 2025 | Family electric SUV lovers |
| Toyota 4Runner | Turbo/Hybrid | 20–28 MPG est. | Mid 2025 | Off-roaders wanting reliability |
| Honda Passport | V6/Hybrid | 22–28 MPG est. | Fall 2025 | Rugged adventure families |
| Kia EV9 | Electric | 270–280 miles | Spring 2025 | Affordable 3-row EV seekers |
| Chevy Traverse | Turbo gas | 20–24 MPG est. | Early 2025 | Big families needing real cargo space |
| Subaru Forester | Hybrid AWD | 32–35 MPG est. | Mid 2025 | Practical, low-key adventurers |
| Jeep Wagoneer S | Electric | 400 miles est. | Late 2025 | Luxury EV buyers who still go off-road |
| Mazda CX-70/CX-90 | Inline-6/Plug-in Hybrid | 28–34 MPG / 30 EV mi | Throughout 2025 | Drivers wanting luxury without overspending |
| Acura ZDX | Electric | 325 miles | Early 2025 | Quiet premium EV shoppers |
| Hyundai Santa Fe | Gas/Hybrid | 24–34 MPG est. | Spring 2025 | Stylish families who need real space |
| Lexus GX | Twin-turbo V6/Hybrid | 17–24 MPG est. | Mid 2025 | Serious off-road luxury buyers |
Real-World Ownership Costs: New SUVs 2025–2026
- Electric models — Lower running costs (especially charging at home), but higher insurance
- Hybrid models — Lower gas bills without range anxiety
- Luxury models — Higher maintenance costs (especially tires, sensors)
- Mainstream models — Easier dealer service networks, simpler repairs
Buying a 2025 SUV means higher tech inside — bigger screens, better driver-assist systems — but also means learning to live with more software updates and digital quirks.
FAQs About Waiting for 2025 and 2026 SUVs
Q: Should I wait for the 2025 or 2026 SUVs?
If you are thinking of replacing your vehicle and can hold off 6–12 months, yes — the new models bring real upgrades in tech, safety, fuel economy, and design.
Q: Will new SUVs be more expensive?
Yes — but many will offer more standard features for the price, closing the value gap.
Q: What’s the best upcoming 3-row SUV?
Kia EV9 for electric buyers, Chevrolet Traverse for gas buyers, Volvo EX90 if you want luxury electric.
Q: Are the new electric SUVs reliable?
Early data on the Mach-E, Ioniq 5, and Rivian R1S suggests yes — but always watch early customer reviews before buying.
Q: What’s the most rugged upcoming SUV?
Toyota 4Runner and Lexus GX — both finally getting modernized without losing their toughness.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy Now or Wait?
If you have a good car today, waiting for these 2025 and 2026 SUVs could be one of the smartest moves you make.
You will see:
- Better range for EVs
- Better MPG for hybrids
- Safer cabins with smarter driver assists
- More rugged choices for people who love the outdoors
- Luxury SUVs that actually justify the price tag
But if you need something right now — there are still solid buys on current models like the 2024 Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Highlander Hybrid, and Tesla Model Y.
Bottom line:
If you can wait six to twelve months, the next generation of SUVs will reward your patience.
