With an increasing demand for SUVs and crossovers of every size, automakers are flooding the segment with potential contenders. Recently, U.S. News put together a roster of the top SUV choices for 2021. And whether you’re more concerned with cargo, ride quality, tech, or price points, you’re sure to find an SUV that fits your needs. For those of you considering a hybrid or maybe need that third row, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid should be one of your top picks this year. It made the best-of list too and rightfully so.

Top crossovers for 2021 to consider

U.S. News did all the research-heavy lifting for you and evaluated the 2021 model SUVs. Assigning scores based on measurables like fuel economy, ride quality, safety ratings, and predicted reliability, the team came up with a shortlist of 13 contenders. The scores are based on a one through 10 scale and include the opinions of the automotive press, as well. The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid made the cut, with an impressive score of eight.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a worthy contender

Part of the reason why the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is such a crowd pleaser is its ability to provide the best of both worlds – size and fuel economy. This three-row SUV achieves nearly 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The ride is quiet and smooth, with its combination four-cylinder engine and two electric motors. Enjoy the third-row seating capacity as well as a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. In a way, this large SUV is like the Goldilocks contender in the segment.

Surprising top-notch performance capability out of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, in conjunction with the two electric motors, can harness 243 hp. It’s not a super-fast ride, which to some is a drawback, especially when maneuvering through highway traffic. Car and Driver clocked it reaching a 0 to 60 mph in 7.3-seconds. But most people aren’t buying a large SUV because they want fast. And the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid has plenty to offer beyond the acceleration points. This hybrid variation has a CVT transmission, and you’ll have your choice of all or front-wheel drive capability. Enjoy decent towing ratings as well.

A hybrid with all the features you love

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid isn’t short on features and amenities. Inside, you’ll enjoy a host of simple-to-use standard extras including, the 8-inch touchscreen, four USB ports, tri-zone climate controls, and pairing for both Android and Apple devices. This SUV offers better-than-average cargo capacity, too, offering 84.3 cubic feet.

You can choose between the XLE, Limited, and the most popular, Platinum trims, each with a robust menu of extras. Enjoy standards like adaptive cruise control, interior air filtration system, hands-free entry, and heated mirrors. But also have options to upgrade features to include the front, side, and rear camera, as well as JBL premium speakers.

Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, considering how many sizes and variations there are available. But this recent best-of list can be helpful in narrowing down your potential selection. And if you need three rows, towing, cargo, and fuel efficiency, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid may be your best bet. It’s one of the best you can buy this year and definitely worth a look.