Top 10 SUVs 2010 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Toyota Highlander

The Highlander was the complete package of 2010, which is exactly why it tops this retrospective. The mainstream choice paired a 270-hp 3.5-liter V6 (a 187-hp four-cylinder was the price leader) with a six-speed automatic, returning 18 city and 24 highway mpg in front-drive form and 17/23 with all-wheel drive.

This is the do-everything family hauler that never lets you down, trading nothing critical for its competence. The third row is tight for adults on long trips, and the styling and cabin are competent rather than exciting, but those are minor quibbles against bulletproof durability and strong resale. Compared to the Lexus RX 350 ranked just below, the Highlander offers nearly the same refinement for thousands less and adds a usable third row.

2. Lexus RX 350

The RX 350 was the best-selling luxury crossover in America for good reason. Its 275-hp 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic moved it to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds, while EPA figures of 18/25 mpg (one less each way with AWD) were respectable for a premium SUV.

This is for luxury-minded buyers who valued silence and dependability over sport, trading away any pretense of handling for a whisper-quiet, beautifully built cabin. Numb steering and soft, uninvolving handling are the price of that serenity, and the premium price kept it out of value territory. Compared to the Toyota Highlander ranked above, the RX 350 is more cosseting and badge-prestigious but costs thousands more and offers no third row.

3. Honda CR-V

The CR-V was the sensible heart of the compact class. Its 180-hp 2.4-liter i-VTEC four and five-speed automatic were not quick, but they were efficient — 21 city and 28 highway mpg in front-drive form — and almost comically durable. The cabin was airy, the cargo hold was deep, and the whole thing had a reputation for running to 200,000-plus miles with basic care.

This is the safest compact-crossover bet on the market, for buyers who want legendary reliability and low running costs above all else. It trades away modest acceleration from the four-cylinder and plain interior materials, but those are easy sacrifices for a vehicle that is cheap to maintain and practically indestructible. Compared to the Lexus RX 350 ranked above, the CR-V is far less luxurious but costs a fraction of the price and delivers comparable dependability.

4. Subaru Outback

Fully redesigned for 2010 and noticeably taller and roomier, the Outback blurred the line between wagon and crossover better than anything else. Standard symmetrical all-wheel drive was the headline; the 170-hp 2.5-liter boxer four (with an available 256-hp 3.6-liter six) and a CVT or six-speed manual delivered up to 19/27 mpg. It rode well, swallowed gear, and went confidently where weather stopped lesser crossovers.

This is for outdoorsy buyers in snow country who wanted a wagon's manners with SUV ability, trading away a traditional SUV silhouette for genuine all-weather capability. The four-cylinder needed working to keep up, and the CVT feel took adjustment, but the standard AWD and comfortable long-distance ride more than compensate. Compared to the Honda CR-V ranked above, the Outback offers superior all-weather traction and more cargo versatility, though its four-cylinder is less refined.

5. Mazda CX-9

The CX-9 proved a seven-seater could still be fun. Its 273-hp 3.7-liter V6 and six-speed automatic gave it the most engaging chassis in the three-row class, with steering and body control that genuinely rewarded a winding road. EPA figures of 16/22 mpg were the price of that V6 and the bulk. The cabin was handsome and the third row was usable, making it a credible Highlander and Pilot alternative for the enthusiast parent.

This is for three-row families who refused to give up driving enjoyment, trading away fuel economy for a genuinely rewarding driving experience. The thirsty 16-mpg city rating and heavier feel than its sporty image suggested are the main drawbacks, but the strong V6 and upscale interior make it a satisfying pick. Compared to the Subaru Outback ranked above, the CX-9 offers a third row and more power, though it lacks the Outback's all-weather capability.

6. Honda Pilot

Boxy and unapologetically practical, the Pilot was built around its eight-passenger interior. A 250-hp 3.5-liter V6 and five-speed automatic returned 17/23 mpg front-drive (16/22 AWD), and the upright body maximized headroom and cargo space in all three rows. It was not stylish and it was not efficient, but it was hugely useful and it inherited Honda's reliability reputation.

This is for big families who wanted eight seats and Honda dependability, trading away style and efficiency for maximum utility. The slab-sided styling and middling fuel economy are easy to forgive when you have genuine room for eight and the peace of mind of Honda V6 durability. Compared to the Mazda CX-9 ranked above, the Pilot is less fun to drive but offers more passenger space and a stronger reliability record.

7. Toyota 4Runner

Redesigned for 2010, the 4Runner was the standout among the survivors of the truck-based SUV era. Its 270-hp 4.0-liter V6 produced 278 lb-ft and was bolted to a five-speed automatic and a genuine 4WD system on the 4×4 grades; a 2WD four-cylinder SR5 started the line at $27,500. EPA economy of roughly 17/22 mpg reflected the ladder frame and weight.

This is for buyers who needed true body-on-frame off-road capability, trading away on-road refinement for rugged durability and unmatched resale value. The truck-like ride on pavement and the thirstiest fuel economy in this group are the costs of that capability, but the 270-hp V6 and off-road-ready 4WD hardware deliver where it matters.

8. Hyundai Santa Fe

The Santa Fe was the value play of 2010 and remains the best-value pick in this retrospective. The GLS started at just $21,695 with a new 175-hp 2.4-liter Theta II four, while the SE stepped up to a 276-hp 3.5-liter V6, both noticeably smoother and more efficient than the engines they replaced. The cabin punched above its price, the ride was composed, and Hyundai's long warranty gave first owners real peace of mind.

This is for value shoppers who wanted a refined two-row crossover for the least money, trading away a third row and the strongest resale for a lower entry price and a generous original warranty. The slightly weaker resale than the Toyota and Honda rivals is actually a benefit for used buyers, and the available 276-hp V6 makes it genuinely quick.

9. Chevrolet Equinox

Redesigned for 2010, the Equinox grabbed headlines with its efficiency. The standard 182-hp 2.4-liter four with direct injection delivered a combined 26 mpg and an EPA highway figure that topped the compact class, while an available 264-hp V6 added punch for those who wanted it. The cabin was spacious and quiet for the segment, and the sliding rear seat boosted flexibility.

This is for buyers chasing class-leading highway fuel economy in a roomy two-row, trading away long-term reliability for efficiency and a low used price. The timing-chain wear on the four is a real concern, so a thorough service history is essential, but the spacious, quiet cabin and flexible sliding rear seat are genuine strengths. Compared to the Hyundai Santa Fe ranked above, the Equinox offers better highway mpg but a less proven reliability record.

10. GMC Acadia

The Acadia rounded out the top ten as the roomiest three-row here. Its 288-hp 3.6-liter direct-injection V6 and six-speed automatic returned 17/24 mpg front-drive, and the wide body gave it the most usable third row and cargo hold of any crossover on this list — genuinely minivan-grade space in SUV clothing. It rode well and looked the part.

This is for families who wanted minivan-like space without the minivan stigma, trading away reliability peace of mind for the most passenger and cargo room in this group. The documented V6 and transmission concerns and weaker resale than the Toyota and Honda three-rows are significant drawbacks, but the strong 288-hp V6 and comfortable, confident ride are real assets.

How we ranked these

We weighted each 2010 SUV the way a thoughtful buyer would have — and the way a used shopper should today. Reliability and ownership cost got 25%, value in period 20%, space and versatility 15%, efficiency 15%, comfort and tech 15%, and used value now 10%. Sources included period road tests, Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, KBB, and Wikipedia.

We deliberately ignored brand prestige, styling trends, and the nostalgia of the era. We also excluded any focus on off-road capability unless it was a core purpose, since most buyers never left pavement. We prioritized data that predicts long-term satisfaction and cost of ownership over short-term impressions.

Related questions

What was the best overall SUV of 2010?

The Toyota Highlander. It combined a durable 270-hp V6, three-row practicality, car-based comfort, and the segment's best reliability at a base price of $25,855. It has aged better than almost any rival, with clean examples still commanding $8,000 to $12,000 today.

What was the best value SUV of 2010?

The Hyundai Santa Fe, starting at just $21,695. It offered a refined ride, a strong available 276-hp V6, a quality cabin, and a long warranty for thousands less than its Japanese rivals. Used examples are now a bargain at $6,000 to $9,000.

Was 2010 really the year crossovers took over from truck-based SUVs?

Yes. By 2010 unibody crossovers like the Highlander, CR-V, and RX 350 dominated sales, offering quieter rides, better economy, and far lower running costs. True body-on-frame SUVs such as the 4Runner survived as capability specialists rather than default family choices.

Which 2010 SUV holds its value best today?

The Toyota 4Runner, by a wide margin. Its body-on-frame durability and off-road reputation keep clean 2010 examples at $15,000 to $22,000, far above the $5,000 to $12,000 typical of the car-based crossovers here.

Which 2010 three-row SUV should a big family buy used?

The Highlander for maximum reliability, the Honda Pilot for the roomiest eight-seat layout from a dependable brand, or the GMC Acadia for the most outright space. But inspect the Acadia's V6 and transmission carefully before buying.

Are the four-cylinder versions of these SUVs worth buying?

For the CR-V, Equinox, and base Santa Fe, yes — the fours are efficient and adequate. The Highlander's four is underpowered for its size. The Subaru's boxer four has head-gasket history, so check records. The Equinox's four has timing-chain concerns.

What should I look for when buying a 2010 SUV used?

Check timing chains on the Equinox and Acadia, AWD service on all, and head gaskets on the Subaru. Prioritize maintenance history over low miles. A 150,000-mile Highlander with records is safer than a low-mile example with gaps.

FAQ

What was the best overall SUV of 2010?

The Toyota Highlander. It combined a durable 270-hp V6, three-row practicality, car-based comfort, and the segment's best reliability at a base price of $25,855, and it has aged better than almost any rival.

What was the best value SUV of 2010?

The Hyundai Santa Fe, starting at just $21,695. It offered a refined ride, a strong available 276-hp V6, a quality cabin, and a long warranty for thousands less than its Japanese rivals — and it is an even better bargain used today.

Was 2010 really the year crossovers took over from truck-based SUVs?

Yes. By 2010 unibody crossovers like the Highlander, CR-V, and RX 350 dominated sales, offering quieter rides, better economy, and far lower running costs. True body-on-frame SUVs such as the 4Runner survived as capability specialists rather than default family choices.

Which 2010 SUV holds its value best today?

The Toyota 4Runner, by a wide margin. Its body-on-frame durability and off-road reputation keep clean 2010 examples at $15,000 to $22,000, far above the $5,000 to $12,000 typical of the car-based crossovers here.

Which 2010 three-row SUV should a big family buy used?

The Highlander for maximum reliability, the Honda Pilot for the roomiest eight-seat layout from a dependable brand, or the GMC Acadia for the most outright space — but inspect the Acadia's V6 and transmission carefully before buying.

Are the four-cylinder versions of these SUVs worth buying?

For the CR-V, Equinox, and base Santa Fe, yes — the fours are efficient and adequate. The Highlander's four is underpowered for its size. The Subaru's boxer four has head-gasket history, so check records. The Equinox's four has timing-chain concerns.

What should I look for when buying a 2010 SUV used?

Check timing chains on the Equinox and Acadia, AWD service on all, and head gaskets on the Subaru. Prioritize maintenance history over low miles. A 150,000-mile Highlander with records is safer than a low-mile example with gaps.

How reliable is the 2010 GMC Acadia?

The Acadia has documented issues with the 3.6 V6 and six-speed transmission, including timing-chain wear and transmission failures. It's the least reliable pick here, but if you find one with full service records and a thorough inspection, it offers the most space.

What is the fuel economy of the 2010 Toyota Highlander?

The Highlander's 270-hp V6 returns 18 city and 24 highway mpg in front-drive form, and 17/23 with all-wheel drive. The four-cylinder version gets slightly better but is less popular.

Is the 2010 Subaru Outback a good used buy?

Yes, for snow-belt buyers who need all-weather capability. It has standard AWD, a comfortable ride, and strong resale. But check the head-gasket history on the four-cylinder and confirm CVT maintenance. Clean examples run $8,000 to $11,000.

Sources

• https://www.caranddriver.com/toyota/highlander
• https://www.motortrend.com/cars/toyota/highlander/2010/
• https://www.edmunds.com/toyota/highlander/2010/
• https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/highlander/2010/
• https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2010/toyota/highlander
• https://www.kbb.com/toyota/highlander/2010/
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Highlander
• https://www.cars.com/research/toyota-highlander-2010/
• https://www.honda.ca/en/crv
• https://www.gmc.com/future-vehicles/acadia-denali-ultimate-reveal

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