If you are shopping for a new SUV right now, you are probably seeing a lot of 2024 models still on dealer lots. They are fine. Some are even pretty good. But here is the thing no dealer is telling you yet: some seriously good new SUVs are right around the corner for 2025 and 2026. And depending on what you are looking for, it might be worth waiting a little bit longer.
Whether you want a gas-powered rig, a plug-in hybrid that saves you trips to the pump, or a full-on electric SUV ready for the next decade, there are a lot of new choices coming fast. And this time, it is not just a bunch of expensive luxury stuff or wild concepts that will never hit the street. These are real vehicles, from real brands, that will actually be in showrooms soon.
I have been watching the 2025 and 2026 SUV pipeline closely. Here is the real list of the best models you should keep your eye on, which ones are worth waiting for, and a few honest thoughts on whether it is smarter to grab something now or hold out for what is next.
The Best New Gas-Powered SUVs Coming in 2025 and 2026
Not everyone is ready to give up gasoline yet. And luckily, there are still some great internal combustion SUVs rolling out before everything turns electric.
2025 Toyota 4Runner
The 4Runner is finally getting a full redesign after more than a decade. And from what we know, it will be worth it.
Toyota is bringing the 4Runner onto the TNGA-F platform, shared with the new Tacoma and Land Cruiser. Expect a turbocharged four-cylinder, available hybrid power, serious off-road chops, and a cleaner, more modern interior.
If you have been holding off on getting a 4Runner because the old one felt ancient, this is the one you have been waiting for.
Who it is for: Drivers who want an SUV that can handle real trails and daily life without blinking.
2025 Honda Passport
Honda is refreshing the Passport with a sharper design, better off-road ability, and updated tech.
Expect more aggressive styling, a TrailSport version with real all-terrain tires and underbody protection, and the same reliable V6 under the hood.
It is not a hardcore rock crawler, but it will be the perfect balance for buyers who want comfort Monday through Friday and adventure on the weekends.
Who it is for: Families who still want a little bit of fun without sacrificing reliability.
2025 Ford Explorer
The Explorer is getting a big mid-cycle update for 2025. New exterior design, a completely revamped interior, bigger screens, and smarter safety tech are all on the way.
It will still offer turbocharged four-cylinder and V6 powertrains, along with hybrid options. Ford knows this is a bread-and-butter model, and they are finally treating it like it.
Who it is for: Anyone who wants a solid three-row family SUV without overcomplicating things.
2025 Chevrolet Traverse
The Traverse is going back to looking like a real SUV again. The new model is boxier, bolder, and tougher-looking, with a big V6 under the hood and much-improved tech inside.
It will have seating for up to eight and a ton of cargo space. Plus, the new Z71 trim brings legitimate off-road capability with a lifted suspension and underbody protection.
Who it is for: Big families who need real space and capability but do not want to pay Tahoe prices.
The Best New Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid SUVs Coming in 2025 and 2026
If you want better fuel economy without jumping full electric, the next two years are bringing some great hybrid SUVs.
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Prime
Toyota is building a plug-in hybrid version of the Grand Highlander.
It will pair a turbocharged four-cylinder with an electric motor for around 350 horsepower, offer over 35 miles of electric-only range, and still give you the three-row space families need.
This will be one of the most practical and efficient big SUVs on the market.
Who it is for: Families who want size, efficiency, and a little speed too.
2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV
Mazda is bringing a plug-in hybrid version of the CX-70 to the U.S., built on their new rear-wheel-drive platform.
Expect luxury-level interior materials, sporty handling, and around 30 to 35 miles of electric-only range. Mazda has been quietly making some of the best-driving SUVs out there, and this one will be no exception.
Who it is for: Drivers who want style, efficiency, and a more dynamic drive than the typical family hauler.
2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid and PHEV
Hyundai’s redesigned Santa Fe is hitting the market hard with both regular hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions.
The new model is bigger, boxier, and way more rugged-looking than before. Plus, the interior is seriously upscale, with a panoramic curved screen setup that would not look out of place in a luxury SUV.
Who it is for: Anyone who wants a hybrid SUV that does not scream hybrid from the outside.
The Best New Electric SUVs Coming in 2025 and 2026
This is where things get really interesting. The new EV SUVs coming in the next two years are finally hitting the right notes on range, performance, and practicality.
2025 Rivian R2S
Rivian is following up the R1S with a slightly smaller, more affordable R2S.
Expect about 300 to 350 miles of range, smart off-road capability, and a price point that puts it right in line with top gas SUVs.
Rivian has proven they know how to build a real SUV, and the R2S looks like it is going to be their best seller.
Who it is for: Adventurers who want electric power without giving up practicality.
2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV
The Equinox EV is coming in hot with a starting price under $35,000 and around 300 miles of range.
It is not flashy, but it is smart, affordable, and perfectly sized for families and commuters alike.
Chevy is betting big on this model bringing everyday buyers into the EV world, and honestly, it looks like a good bet.
Who it is for: First-time EV buyers and budget-conscious families.
2026 Toyota bZ5X
Toyota is taking its time with EVs, but the bZ5X looks promising. It is a mid-size electric SUV with available third-row seating, about 250 to 300 miles of range, and the kind of practical, straightforward design Toyota buyers expect.
It will not be the flashiest EV, but it will likely be one of the most durable.
Who it is for: Practical drivers who want an EV without the Tesla flash.
2026 Ford Explorer EV
Ford is spinning off a fully electric Explorer, built from the ground up as an EV, not a conversion.
Expect around 300 miles of range, rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive options, and serious cargo and towing capacity. Ford is aiming for family buyers who want electric without giving up space.
Who it is for: Families ready to go electric but not downsize.
2025 Lucid Gravity
If you want luxury, power, and space, the Lucid Gravity is coming for you.
Expect over 400 miles of range, a luxurious cabin that feels more like a private jet, and performance numbers that would embarrass some sports cars.
Lucid knows how to make an EV that feels special, and the Gravity should be no different.
Who it is for: Luxury buyers who want something different than the usual BMW or Mercedes SUV.
Quick Comparison Chart
| SUV | Powertrain | Estimated Range | Who It’s Best For |
| Toyota 4Runner (2025) | Gas/Hybrid | TBD | Adventure lovers |
| Honda Passport (2025) | Gas | N/A | Weekend warriors |
| Ford Explorer (2025) | Gas/Hybrid | N/A | Three-row families |
| Chevy Traverse (2025) | Gas | N/A | Big families |
| Toyota Grand Highlander Prime (2025) | Plug-In Hybrid | 35+ mi EV | Big family commuters |
| Mazda CX-70 PHEV (2025) | Plug-In Hybrid | 30–35 mi EV | Drivers who love to drive |
| Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid (2026) | Hybrid/PHEV | 30+ mi EV | Families upgrading |
| Rivian R2S (2025) | Electric | 300–350 mi | Adventure lovers |
| Chevy Equinox EV (2025) | Electric | 300 mi | Budget buyers |
| Toyota bZ5X (2026) | Electric | 250–300 mi | Practical EV drivers |
| Ford Explorer EV (2026) | Electric | 300 mi | Big families going electric |
| Lucid Gravity (2025) | Electric | 400+ mi | Luxury buyers |
Final Thoughts: Should You Wait or Buy Now?
If you have a great deal on a 2024 model today, it is not a bad time to buy. Inventory is still solid, and dealers are starting to negotiate again.
But if you can wait six to twelve months? You are going to see a wave of new SUVs that are better designed, more efficient, smarter inside, and in a lot of cases, cheaper to own long-term.
Bottom line: If you want the latest and greatest, 2025 and 2026 are going to be big years for SUVs across the board — gas, hybrid, and electric.
Stick with BidForAutos.com — where we keep you ahead of the market, one smart move at a time.
