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The Tesla Model Y has been celebrating being the best-selling vehicle in the world. However, Americans prefer a different SUV instead. The bestselling SUV in America actually beat the Tesla Model Y by about 50,000 models. 

The bestselling SUV beat the Tesla Model Y 

If you guessed that the Tesla Model Y was the best-selling SUV in America, then you did a pretty good job. 

However, while the Model Y is one of the most popular options in the world, Americans like something else. The best-selling vehicle in the United States is the Toyota RAV4. 

In 2023, the Toyota RAV4 sold 434,943 units. It experienced a 9% sales increase compared to 2022. It was the bestselling SUV in 2022 as well and came in fourth place on the list of the 25 bestselling vehicles. 

The Tesla Model Y sold an estimated 385,900 units in 2023. It landed in fifth place. Critics are shocked by its success because it only has an electric powertrain. 

So, the RAV4 beat the Model Y by about 49,043. This is a substantial lead that could continue to grow as the Tesla Model Y struggles against declining sales in 2024. 

Pricing might have something to do with it. The 2024 RAV4 starts with an MSRP of $28,675. The 2024 Model Y has a starting MSRP of $42,990. 

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 off-roading
2024 Toyota RAV4 | Toyota

So, the RAV4 is already $14,315 cheaper than the Model Y before the destination fees and dealership markups have beenfactored in. 

The RAV4 might also be the bestselling SUV because it provides tons of variety. It has a gas-powered, hybrid, and PHEV powertrain available. 

There are six trim levels available. You can go for the basics, a model loaded with luxury, and for the rugged off-roading oriented TRD Off Road trim. 

Plus, the RAV4 might be seen as a better long-term investment. Drivers don’t trust EVs to be reliable or to provide a solid resale value. 

This checks out as the RAV4 earned a reliability rating of 76 out of 100 from J.D.Power and a resale value of 84. The Model Y has a reliability rating of 70 and a resale value of 81. 

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Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.