Top 10 SUVs 2020 — Best Overall plus Best Value

Direct Answer

The best overall SUV of 2020 was the 2020 Kia Telluride (2020 MSRP: $31,690), an all-new three-row crossover that arrived with a 291-hp V6, near-luxury cabins in upper trims, and a price thousands under the Japanese and German competition. The best value of 2020 was the 2020 Honda CR-V (2020 MSRP: $25,050), a compact two-row that paired strong reliability, a turbocharged engine, and class-leading interior space with a starting price that undercut almost every rival on this list.

Looking back, 2020 was a landmark model year: it brought the acclaimed new Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade twins, and it delivered ground-up redesigns of the Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, and Subaru Outback. Five years on, the standouts have held their value remarkably well, and the bargains of the era have become some of the smartest used buys around.

How We Ranked the Top 10

This retrospective weighs each SUV on six criteria, scored from period reviews and current used-market data:

• Reliability and ownership cost (25%) — long-term dependability reputation, repair frequency, and total cost to keep on the road, drawn from J.D. Power dependability data and owner reports.
• Value in period (20%) — what the 2020 MSRP bought relative to direct rivals, measured in period dollars against contemporary Car and Driver and Edmunds pricing.
• Space and versatility (15%) — passenger room, cargo volume, seating count, and towing or off-road capability.
• Efficiency (15%) — EPA-rated combined MPG for the most representative drivetrain, hybrid availability factored in.
• Comfort and tech (15%) — ride quality, cabin materials, infotainment, and driver-assist features as reviewed in period.
• Used value now (10%) — how well each model has retained value and demand on the current used market.

Sources weighted into the ranking include period Car and Driver, MotorTrend, and Edmunds road tests, U.S. News rankings, Consumer Reports, J.D. Power reliability scores, Kelley Blue Book values, and manufacturer specifications.

1. Kia Telluride 🏆 BEST OVERALL

2020 MSRP: $31,690 | Best for: Families who wanted three rows without a luxury badge or a luxury price.

The 2020 Kia Telluride was the breakout star of the year, and it earned every award it won. Under the hood sat a 291-hp 3.8-liter V6 paired to an 8-speed automatic, returning an EPA-rated 23 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and 21 mpg with all-wheel drive, seating up to eight across three genuinely usable rows.

It was known for a cabin that punched far over its price — quilted leather and real wood trim in the SX trim made it feel like a vehicle costing many thousands more. Kelley Blue Book named it the 2020 Best New Model, and Kia's reputation for long warranties backed it up. On the used market it has barely depreciated; clean examples still command strong money five years on.

Pros:

• 291-hp V6 standard across every trim, with smooth 8-speed automatic.
• Three-row seating for up to eight with real adult space in row two.
• Near-luxury interior materials at a mainstream price.
• Outstanding used-value retention and a long original warranty.

Cons:

• Fuel economy is merely average for the class at 21 to 23 mpg combined.
• High demand has kept used prices stubbornly high.

Verdict: The 2020 Telluride did everything a family SUV needed to do and made the rest of the segment look overpriced — the clear best overall of the year.

2. Toyota Highlander

2020 MSRP: $35,720 | Best for: Buyers who wanted a hybrid three-row with bulletproof resale.

Fully redesigned for 2020, the fourth-generation Highlander brought a fresh platform, sharper styling, and a hybrid powertrain that genuinely mattered. The V6 model made 295 horsepower and returned 23 to 24 mpg combined, while the standout hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four with two electric motors for 243 horsepower and an exceptional 35 to 36 mpg combined.

Seating ran to eight, and the cabin was a clear step up from the prior generation. It was known above all for Toyota dependability and resale strength. On the used market today, the 2020 Highlander Hybrid is among the most sought-after family haulers of its era, holding value better than almost any rival.

Pros:

• Hybrid model delivered a remarkable 35 to 36 mpg combined.
• Legendary Toyota reliability and resale value.
• Standard Toyota Safety Sense driver-assist suite.
• Comfortable, quiet, redesigned cabin.

Cons:

• Third row was tighter than the Telluride or Palisade.
• V6 fuel economy was unremarkable next to the hybrid.

Verdict: The redesigned Highlander, especially as a hybrid, remains one of the smartest long-haul family buys of 2020.

3. Hyundai Palisade

2020 MSRP: $31,775 | Best for: Shoppers who wanted the Telluride formula with a softer, more luxurious flavor.

The Telluride's corporate twin, the 2020 Hyundai Palisade, shared the same 291-hp 3.8-liter V6, 8-speed automatic, and platform, but wore more elegant, flowing styling and a plusher cabin. EPA figures landed at 22 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and 21 mpg with all-wheel drive, and seating ran to eight, or seven with second-row captain's chairs.

Reviewers at the time struggled to find anything substantially wrong with it, praising fit, finish, and styling that rivaled luxury brands. It was known for delivering a near-premium experience at a mainstream price, and like the Telluride it has held value strongly as a used buy.

Pros:

• 291-hp V6 and refined ride matching the Telluride mechanically.
• Upscale cabin materials and elegant styling.
• Available second-row captain's chairs for a seven-seat layout.
• Strong warranty and solid used demand.

Cons:

• Early infotainment software felt a step behind the styling.
• Shared mechanicals mean fuel economy is only average.

Verdict: A virtual tie with its Telluride sibling — pick the Palisade if you prefer its softer, more luxury-leaning character.

4. Honda CR-V 💎 BEST VALUE

2020 MSRP: $25,050 | Best for: Value-minded buyers who wanted maximum space, efficiency, and reliability for the least money.

The 2020 Honda CR-V was the value champion of the year. Its 1.5-liter turbocharged four made 190 horsepower through a CVT, returning 30 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and 29 mpg with all-wheel drive, while a hybrid version pushed that to 38 mpg combined. It was known for the most usable interior in the compact class, a flexible cargo hold, and a predicted-reliability reputation that made it a default family recommendation.

With a starting price near $25,000 it undercut nearly everything here while giving up almost nothing. On the used market it remains a benchmark of dependability and demand, making it the bargain that has aged best.

Pros:

• Lowest starting price on this list at near $25,000.
• Class-leading interior and cargo space for a compact.
• Efficient turbo and a 38-mpg hybrid option.
• Honda reliability reputation and strong resale.

Cons:

• CVT drone under hard acceleration disappointed some drivers.
• Two rows only, so no third-row option.

Verdict: The most car for the money in 2020 and still a benchmark used buy — the clear best value of the year.

5. Mazda CX-5

2020 MSRP: $25,090 | Best for: Drivers who wanted a premium-feeling compact that was genuinely fun to drive.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 punched above its price on materials and driving feel. The base inline-four made 187 horsepower, while the turbocharged Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims produced up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. Efficiency landed around 24 to 28 mpg combined depending on engine, with available all-wheel drive.

It was known for being the most agile and enjoyable-to-drive SUV in the compact class, with an interior that felt a class above its sticker. Used examples today are prized by enthusiasts, especially the turbo Signature, which delivered near-luxury polish for mainstream money.

Pros:

• Best-in-class handling and steering feel.
• Available 250-hp turbo with abundant torque.
• Upscale interior materials, especially in Signature trim.
• Sharp value, starting near $25,000.

Cons:

• Cargo space trailed the CR-V and rivals.
• Older infotainment software frustrated some reviewers.

Verdict: The driver's choice among 2020 compacts, with a cabin that still feels special as a used buy.

6. Subaru Outback

2020 MSRP: $26,645 | Best for: Active buyers who wanted standard all-wheel drive and genuine off-pavement ability.

Redesigned for 2020, the Subaru Outback grew from adventure wagon into a full-fledged SUV. The standard 2.5-liter four made 180 horsepower at 26/33 mpg city/highway, while the returning turbocharged 2.4-liter XT delivered 260 horsepower at 23/30 mpg. Every Outback came with standard all-wheel drive, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and an X-Mode off-road setting, making it uncommonly capable for the price.

It was known for safety, practicality, and a rugged go-anywhere reputation. Used demand remains strong among outdoor and cold-climate buyers who value the standard all-wheel drive.

Pros:

• Standard all-wheel drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance.
• Available 260-hp turbo for confident passing and towing.
• Strong safety scores and abundant tech.
• Practical wagon body with real cargo room.

Cons:

• Base 180-hp engine felt leisurely when loaded.
• Large portrait touchscreen drew mixed reactions.

Verdict: The redesigned Outback remains the value pick for buyers who want all-weather capability standard.

7. Lexus RX

2020 MSRP: $45,070 | Best for: Luxury buyers prioritizing comfort, quiet, and long-term dependability.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was the reliability-first luxury choice. Its 3.5-liter V6 produced 295 horsepower through a smooth 8-speed automatic, returning roughly 23 mpg combined, with a three-row RX L available for those needing extra seating. It was known for a first-rate cabin, hushed ride, and an ownership experience that consistently topped luxury-SUV dependability charts.

RepairPal rated it among the most reliable luxury midsize SUVs, and it remains a favorite for low cost of ownership and excellent resale. As a used buy now, the RX is the rare luxury SUV that does not punish owners with depreciation or repair bills.

Pros:

• Outstanding luxury-segment reliability and low ownership cost.
• Quiet, plush, beautifully finished cabin.
• Available three-row RX L layout.
• Strong resale value for a luxury vehicle.

Cons:

• Touchpad infotainment was widely criticized in period.
• Not engaging to drive next to sportier German rivals.

Verdict: The dependability-minded luxury pick of 2020, and the used luxury SUV least likely to surprise you with bills.

8. Toyota 4Runner

2020 MSRP: $36,120 | Best for: Off-road enthusiasts who wanted body-on-frame toughness above all else.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner was the rugged outlier, a body-on-frame throwback in a sea of car-based crossovers. Its 4.0-liter V6 made 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft, available with part-time or full-time four-wheel drive, though efficiency was poor at just 16/19 mpg city/highway. It was known for near-bulletproof durability and genuine trail capability, with TRD trims adding Fox shocks, skid plates, and crawl control.

Reviewers dinged its rough ride and dated cabin, but none of that has dented its standing on the used market, where its legendary reliability keeps prices unusually high years later.

Pros:

• Body-on-frame durability with a near-bulletproof reputation.
• Serious off-road capability in TRD trims.
• Exceptional used-value retention.
• Simple, proven V6 with no turbo complexity.

Cons:

• Poor fuel economy at 16/19 mpg city/highway.
• Rough on-road ride and a dated, low-rent cabin.

Verdict: Not for everyone, but for trail-bound buyers the 4Runner was, and remains, in a class of its own.

9. Subaru Forester

2020 MSRP: $24,495 | Best for: Safety-focused families who wanted standard all-wheel drive on a budget.

The 2020 Subaru Forester delivered standard all-wheel drive and top-tier safety at one of the lowest starting prices here. Its 2.5-liter flat-four made 182 horsepower for 29 mpg combined, and every Forester came with all-wheel drive standard — unusual in the compact class. It was known for excellent outward visibility, a roomy and practical cabin, and class-leading safety, earning a five-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus.

Owners rated it highly for reliability, and on the used market it holds appeal for buyers in cold or rural areas who want all-weather traction without a price premium.

Pros:

• Standard all-wheel drive at a sub-$25,000 starting price.
• Five-star safety and IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus.
• Roomy cabin with excellent visibility.
• Strong reliability reputation.

Cons:

• 182-hp engine and CVT prioritized economy over fun.
• Plain styling and modest cabin materials.

Verdict: The budget all-weather and safety pick of 2020, and a sensible, affordable used buy today.

10. Ford Explorer

2020 MSRP: $36,675 | Best for: Buyers who wanted a sporty-handling three-row with available big power.

Redesigned for 2020, the Ford Explorer returned to a rear-wheel-drive architecture that paid off in handling. The base 2.3-liter turbo four made 300 horsepower at 24 mpg combined (rear-drive), while the high-performance ST cranked the turbo V6 to 400 horsepower. It was known for newfound agility and a spacious, quiet cabin, but the redesign's launch was rocky — period reviews flagged a clunky transmission and stiff ride, and Ford issued recalls covering powertrain control modules and a rear axle bolt.

Those early gremlins mean used buyers should choose carefully, but a well-sorted later-build Explorer offers strong power and space for the money.

Pros:

• Sporty rear-drive-based handling, rare in a three-row.
• 300-hp standard turbo, with a 400-hp ST option.
• Spacious, quiet cabin with real third-row room.
• Competitive value among redesigned three-rows.

Cons:

• Early-build quality issues and multiple recalls.
• Clunky transmission and stiff ride noted in period reviews.

Verdict: The most powerful and athletic three-row of the group, but verify recall work before buying used.

Buyer Decision Tree — Which One Was Right for You?

What to Look For in a 2020 SUV (Then and as a Used Buy Now)

Shopping a 2020 SUV today means checking the things that age a vehicle, not just the badge:

• Known issues by model: Verify recall completion on the redesigned Ford Explorer (powertrain control module, rear axle bolt). First-year redesigns — Explorer, Highlander, Outback — deserve extra scrutiny of any early-build complaints.
• Mileage and service history: Aim for documented maintenance and reasonable mileage; a clean record matters more than a low odometer with gaps.
• Warranty remaining: Hyundai and Kia's long original powertrain warranties may still have years left, a real advantage on a used Telluride or Palisade.
• Tires, brakes, and AWD health: On Subaru and other all-wheel-drive models, confirm even tire wear and a healthy drivetrain.
• Infotainment and software: Several 2020 systems felt dated even when new; make sure Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work as expected.

One honest note: model-year prestige matters less than nostalgia implies. A well-maintained higher-mileage example from a proven model will serve you better than a lightly-used one with a spotty history. Buy the record, not the year.

FAQ

What was the best overall SUV of 2020? The Kia Telluride, starting at a 2020 MSRP of $31,690. Its 291-hp V6, eight-seat versatility, and near-luxury cabin at a mainstream price made it the standout of the model year and a multiple award winner.

What was the best value SUV of 2020? The Honda CR-V, starting near $25,050. It paired the lowest price here with class-leading space, an efficient turbo (plus a 38-mpg hybrid), and a top reliability reputation.

Were the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade really the same vehicle? Mechanically, yes — both used the same 291-hp 3.8-liter V6, 8-speed automatic, and platform. The Telluride leaned rugged and boxy; the Palisade leaned soft and luxurious. Choose by styling and cabin preference.

Which 2020 SUV holds its value best as a used buy now? The Toyota 4Runner, Toyota Highlander, and Lexus RX are the strongest value-holders, thanks to Toyota and Lexus reliability reputations. The Telluride and Palisade also retain value well due to continued demand.

Which 2020 SUV was the most fuel-efficient? The Honda CR-V Hybrid at 38 mpg combined and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid at 35 to 36 mpg combined led the field. Among gas-only models, the CR-V and Forester were strongest.

Should I avoid the redesigned 2020 Ford Explorer? Not necessarily, but buy carefully. Its first redesigned year had quality complaints and recalls (powertrain control module, rear axle bolt). Confirm recall work is complete and favor a later-build example.

Bottom Line

Looking back, 2020 was a genuinely great year to buy an SUV. The new Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade twins reset expectations for what a mainstream three-row could feel like, the redesigned Toyota Highlander made the hybrid family hauler mainstream, and stalwarts like the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, and Subaru Outback delivered dependable value across the size range.

If you want one answer, the Telluride was the best overall and the CR-V was the best value — and five years on, both remain among the smartest used SUVs you can buy. Match the body style and drivetrain to your real needs, check the service history, and a 2020 SUV will still serve a family well for years to come.

Sources

• 2020 Kia Telluride Review, Pricing, and Pictures — U.S. News
• 2020 Kia Telluride Review and Ratings — Edmunds
• 2020 Hyundai Palisade Review, Pricing, and Pictures — U.S. News
• 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Review and Ratings — Edmunds
• 2020 Honda CR-V Review, Pricing, and Pictures — U.S. News
• 2020 Mazda CX-5 Specs, Prices, MPG, Reviews — Cars.com
• 2020 Subaru Outback Reviews, Ratings, Prices — Consumer Reports
• 2020 Lexus RX 350 Review, Pricing, and Pictures — U.S. News
• 2020 Toyota 4Runner Review, Pricing, and Pictures — U.S. News
• 2020 Ford Explorer Reliability, Consumer Ratings, Pricing — J.D. Power
• 2020 Subaru Forester Reliability, Consumer Ratings, Pricing — J.D. Power

*SUV review — 2020 SUV reviews, rating, best SUV 2020, and a retrospective review of the top used SUV picks for buyers.*