The best large SUV in the has been announced (stock) (Image: Images By Tang Ming Tung via Getty Images)
SUVs have been around for decades but are becoming more popular than ever. The cars, which stand for Sports Utility Vehicles, have become the most popular vehicle choice for Brits in recent months. In fact, three of the top four most popular cars of 2026 so far (the Ford Puma, Jaecoo 7 and Nissan Qashqai) are all SUVs.
We recently had the chance of reviewing the legendary Nissan and it’s clear to see why they are so popular. Given the love for SUVs, it’s no wonder countless publications have been releasing a list of their favourite cars in the category.
BANGKOK, THAILAND – 2026/03/24: A Hyundai Santa FE hybrid SUV is seen at the Hyundai booth is seen at the 47th Bangkok International Motor Show at the IMPACT Challenger Hall. Around 45 car and motorcycle makers attend the show. This year, the theme is “THE ICONIC SYNCHRONICITY”, signifying the seamless integration of automotive innovation, advanced technology, and unique design. (Photo by Patrick Chengzhi Wang/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images) (Image: SOPA Images, SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
3rd: Hyundai Santa Fe
And Auto Express is one of them, updating its list of the best large SUVs on sale in the UK and have now come to the conclusion of the best one to buy.
Third-best SUV – Hyundai Santa Fe
Coming in third place was the Korean-built Hyundai Santa Fe. It received plaudits for being “comfortable to drive”, boasting an impressive design and a generous array of equipment. Nevertheless, it dropped points for its hefty price tag, a boisterous petrol engine, and the absence of a diesel variant.
In fact, this car was tested by the Express earlier this year. In my review I concluded: “Is the Hyundai Santa Fe perfect? No. I do feel the amenities of the third row of seats should be moved to the second row, or at least the second row should have the same options as the third.
“The haptic touch pads should be replaced by buttons, and the four cylinder engine sounds very stretched when it’s revved hard or charging the battery.
A Volkswagen Tayron (Image: Sjoerd van der Wal, Getty Images)
2nd: Volkswagen Tayron
“There were several occasions when I was in town at sub 20mph speeds and the battery is 50 percent, but the engine is still charging it and I thought ‘Why isn’t it waiting until the battery is at 20 percent to start charging?’.
“In the grand scheme of things these are only very little problems to consider; and it has changed my mind that SUVs aren’t all leaning too much towards the S side of the acronym. If you’re looking for a capable family SUV that isn’t German or British, give this a look.”
Second-best SUV – Volkswagen Tayron
Claiming second place was the Volkswagen Tayron, which earned plaudits for its seven-seat configuration, comfortable ride, and generous standard equipment levels.
It was marked down for being “dull to drive”, for its PHEV hybrid version accommodating only five passengers, and for R-Line trim levels proving “expensive”.
A Skoda Kodiaq (Image: Sjoerd van der Wal, Getty Images)
1st: Skoda Kodiaq
Best SUV to buy – Skoda Kodiaq
Topping AutoExpress’ list is the Czech-built Skoda Kodiaq. Reviewers commended it for offering excellent value for money, boasting a generous boot space, and featuring “clever cabin options”. However, it dropped points for its styling, “flimsy-feeling rotary dials”, and a “fidgety ride” on the larger wheel options.
Despite this, it remained their standout choice, with the publication concluding: “The Skoda Kodiaq embodies all that the Czech firm stands for: solid value for money, quality, practicality, and a few little surprises that add to the ownership experience.”
The magazine’s senior road test editor Dean Gibson further remarked: “Skoda’s ‘Simply Clever’ philosophy is perfectly suited to a car such as the Kodiaq – family-friendly features make it a useful accessory to family life.”