It’s no secret that SUVs have taken over the auto industry, dominating sales year after year. With more options from more brands than ever, narrowing it down to the best option can be challenging. But that doesn’t stop some from trying. Online auto retail platform Cars.com is among the latest to hand down its verdict on the best SUVs of 2023. Is it possible to narrow it down to just three models? We’re here to break it down.

2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Capability in Many Forms

Cars.com named the Jeep Grand Cherokee as its Best SUV of 2023, pointing to the midsize model’s versatility as its crowning achievement. 

“There’s a Jeep Grand Cherokee for every lifestyle and taste — and there’s a Grand Cherokee for a lot of budgets, too, with prices starting in the low $40,000 range,” Cars.com said. 

The versatility claim is on point in the case of the 2023 Grand Cherokee. Jeep offers its ever-popular nameplate in more configurations than ever, with two-row, three-row, and hybrid-equipped variations available. A heap of trim levels and packages are available as well. 

Jeep indeed designed the 2023 Grand Cherokee for a wide variety of use cases. Cars.com nods to the Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid as the keystone to the Grand Cherokee’s versatility. On the one hand, the plug-in hybrid powertrain offers an impressive 56 mpg rating. It’s an impressive feat for an SUV of the Grand Cherokee’s stature. On the other hand, it generates power to tow 6,000 pounds and uses a sophisticated four-wheel drive system.

2023 Chevy Tahoe: Full-Size Family Hauler

Named a runner-up for Best SUV 2023 by Cars.com, the 2023 Tahoe follows in the footsteps of Chevy’s longtime heavyweight SUV nameplate (together with its Suburban sibling).  

In its roundup, Cars.com lauds the Tahoe’s space and power. 

“Chevrolet’s Tahoe is a versatile SUV in its own right…,” Cars.com says. “And under the skin is a comfortable, roomy three-row SUV that can tow a maximum of 8,400 pounds.”

With its truck-based platform and large V8 engine options, the 2023 Tahoe is a stalwart of an old-school approach to SUV design. That gives it a capability edge over many competitors that have opted for the ride benefits of unibody construction. Large displacement powertrains and ladder-frame construction offer inherent towing benefits. Chevy even offers a 2023 Tahoe off-road trim. 

But that doesn’t mean it’s all brute and no beauty. The Tahoe has a cavernous cabin — and Chevy ditched the old solid-axle setup in favor of independent suspension ride quality a few years ago. Cars.com mentions the 2023 Tahoe’s comfort as a boon to its success.

“Comfort is also king in the Tahoe, with roominess in all three rows.”

2023 Kia Sorento: Korean Crossover Consideration

Cars.com frames the 2023 Kia Sorento as a value proposition in its Best SUVs of 2023 ratings. 

“Space is at a premium for growing families, but not every growing family has the space or budget for a full-size SUV,” Cars.com says. “Enter the three-row Kia Sorento, which provides a high-quality and more affordable alternative to the hard-to-get Telluride.” 

The review paints Kia’s crossover as a practical, well-designed package with the right features for everyday use. A lineup of both powerful and efficient powertrains lets the driver pick a performance style that works for them. Kia even offers a plug-in hybrid version of the Sorento — a sign of electrification’s growing presence even in family-sized SUVs. 

While the 2023 Sorento may be smaller than the other two SUVs in consideration by Cars.com, the site implies that Kia’s offering punches above its weight. Comfort through all three rows, a 3,500-pound towing capacity, and robust technology reside in an SUV that starts at just over $30,000.

Which is the Best SUV to Buy in 2023?

Cars.com has compiled a list of SUVs that shine with versatility. Each has its strong argument, from the rugged performance of the Grand Cherokee to the abundantly spacious Tahoe and the cost-effective Sorento. Unfortunately, any shortlist is likely incomplete, considering the sheer variety of driver needs and models that fill them. The best SUV to buy in 2023 is ultimately up to just one person: you.