I’ve driven nearly 30 new vehicles in 2026, including cars, trucks, SUVs and even a cargo van for USA TODAY Cars. I usually spend a week driving these vehicles on different types of terrain and completing typical daily driving tasks, such as going to the park, the gym or the grocery store.
I also take these vehicles on road trips as often as possible to test their real-world practicality, including passenger and cargo space. The most comfortable SUVs I’ve tested are easy to enter and exit. They also use high-quality seating materials, feature easily accessible controls and offer plenty of legroom for drivers and passengers.
Here are the five most comfortable SUV models I’ve tested in 2026.
5. 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid
Honda’s small hybrid SUV has body-stabilizing front seats designed to prevent muscle fatigue during long commutes and support the spine. I noticed this immediately as a driver who tends to slouch in seats and experience back pain.
Aside from thoughtfully designed seats, the CR-V Hybrid features plenty of physical controls, which are easy to use compared with the tricky touchscreen controls offered by competitors.
The shifter is a mechanical lever instead of a physical-button setup. The CR-V Hybrid is comfortable because its cabin design is driver- and passenger-centric, focusing on seating position and usability rather than deviating from the small SUV’s winning design formula.
Starting price: $35,630
4. 2026 Subaru Outback
Subaru’s Outback competes in the midsize two-row SUV segment, but its design clearly retains some of the nameplate’s original lifted-station-wagon genetics. Its lower center of gravity allows for more carlike handling than the average SUV.
The 2026 Outback is easy to enter and exit. It also offers generous cargo space — 34.6 cubic feet — and is easier to load than some larger SUV models.
Subaru’s redesigned midsize SUV is one of the most comfortable models I’ve tested because it has excellent cabin space and maneuverability.
Starting price: $34,995
3. 2026 GMC Yukon
GMC’s Yukon is a luxury-adjacent full-size SUV that shares its platform with the Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban and Cadillac Escalade. The Yukon’s interior is made for driver and passenger comfort, especially in upper trims.
The Yukon Denali Ultimate trim I tested comes with full-grain leather heated and ventilated seats that are extremely comfortable. Its cabin is cavernous, and its leather-wrapped heated steering wheel felt great during the winter.
GMC’s Yukon features an advanced independent rear suspension and plenty of luxury amenities.
Starting price: $69,200
2. 2026 Lucid Gravity
The 2026 Lucid Gravity is one of the most futuristic vehicles on the market. The electric vehicle charges quickly, and its cabin is both distinct and refined.
Lucid’s EV features an ergonomically placed steering wheel. Its second row offers an impressive 42.6 inches of legroom.
The 2026 Lucid Gravity comes with a massive panoramic glass roof that contributes to the tranquility of its cabin. It also features adaptive air suspension that provides a smooth ride.
Starting price: $79,900
1. 2027 Kia Telluride
The redesigned Kia Telluride is larger for its second generation. Kia’s midsize SUV has ample cabin space and was my wife’s favorite new vehicle of the year because of its comfortable interior.
The Telluride’s controls are easy to use, and it comes standard with creature comforts such as SynTex and cloth seat trim and a SynTex-wrapped steering wheel.
Kia’s Telluride is roomy and modern, making it a practical daily driver for buyers who travel with their families regularly or carry large groups of passengers.
Starting price: $39,190
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