01

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan, now in its 3rd iteration since its launch in 2008, remains one of the top compact SUV's in America due to its sophisticated styling, capable powertrain, agile handling, and European flair.  The Tiguan comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing 184 hp.

The cabin is practical and spacious enough for the weekend car camper, featuring comfortable seats and ample cargo space, expanding to 33 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The S trim includes as standard the IQ.DRIVE driver-assistance system and adaptive cruise control, while higher trims like the SE and SEL R-Line offer additional comforts, including upgraded wheels and a panoramic sunroof. The Tiguan's handling is sporty making those winding drives through the forest even more fun. With a roof rack installed, bikes, canoes or even your rooftop tent are ready for the wilderness.

03

The Santa Fe SUV has become one of the more recognizable SUVs on the road with its distinctive, jewel-cut exterior styling.  The stylish Santa Fe is still built for families as it accommodates seven passengers across three rows and features a spacious cargo area with a wide tailgate. Powering the Santa Fe is a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four engine producing 277 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission providing a smooth ride to the exotic destination of your choice. With the exception of the XRT trim that includes it as standard, AWD can be added to any trim level for about $1700.  The XRT trim also increases towing capacity from 3500 to 4,500 pounds. Inside, the cabin maintains the upscale aesthetic by including a dual wireless charging pad and even a UV-C sterilization compartment for cleaning personal items you might have dropped in a muddy puddle or worse. The Santa Fe offers truly significant cargo capacity-14.6 cubic feet behind the 3rd row, that expands to a voluminous 40 and 79 cubic feet respectively with the third and second rows folded. Technological features include dual 12.3-inch displays, physical controls for essential functions and wireless smartphone integration, Safety features are comprehensive, with standard adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automated emergency braking, making sure that everyone gets home safely with their memories of "roughing it" growing more epic by the mile.

05

Kia's SUV line up is expansive, with three separate models offering 3rd row seating. But the midsized Sorento is the most versatile choice among Kia's other 3rd row offerings, the Telluride and electric EV9. With a stylish design and practical cabin for each of its 8 trim levels, not including hybrid models, the Sorento is customizable to your needs. The entry-level trim is packed with features like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and copious driver-assistance and safety technologies. The base power plant is a non-turbo four-cylinder engine with optional all-wheel drive. For those seeking more power and off road capabilities, a 281-hp turbocharged four-cylinder mated to Kia's torque-vectoring AWD is available starting with the rugged X-Line trim. While the Sorento's third row is a bit less spacious than that of the Telluride and its towing capacity maxes out at 4,000 pounds, it's the perfect SUV for outdoor types who only need occasional third-row seating and don't require heavy-duty towing.

Inside, the Sorento features quality materials and an understated design, with serene ambient lighting and ample storage throughout. Its second row can be configured with captain's chairs for added comfort. Cargo space is more than adequate with the third row stowed. Perfect for young couples or even new families, the Sorento is a stylish, sensible SUV to get you safely to your happy place.

07

For 2025 Lexus updates the GX550 with a muscular exterior redesign, a new platform, updated powertrain, and new modern amenities. The classic Lexus GX has gained legendary status in the secondary market for its combination of overland capability and interior comfort.  The new GX Overtrail builds on that tradition and adds even more off-road cred. Built with the same body-on-frame architecture as the Sequoia and Tundra, the GX550 replaces the previous V8 with a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6 engine that delivers 349 horsepower and is paired with a standard 10-speed automatic transmission.

The GX550 Overtrail is truly off road ready with an ingenious package of performance technologies, including Full Time AWD, Adaptive Variable Suspension, an electronically controlled locking rear differential, Crawl Control and Downhill Assist Control. The Overtrail is a surefooted SUV to confidently get you to even the most remote camping spots. It can tow up to 9,000 pounds, more than enough for a camper or trailer full of off-road toys. The interior is the essence of Lexus; quiet, spacious, sumptuously appointed and well considered for passengers up front and in the rear.  Load up the Overtrail with genuine Lexus accessories to customize the GX for the ways you want to use it. With Lexus' reputation for reliability, this is an SUV you can count on taking you on adventures for years and years to come.

09

Honda's CR-V is known for its reliable build quality, smooth ride and great value. In 2025, the CR-V lineup includes gas-only models like the LX, EX, and EX-L, with hybrid options available in the Sport and Sport Touring trims. The new CR-V features a rugged exterior facelift and an increase in cabin space. With the rear seats folded the new CR-V has 76 cubic feet of cargo space. Meanwhile, fuel economy is competitive, with the both the FWD and AWD versions getting over 30 mpg in highway driving. As usual for Honda, safety measures including automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control are available on every trim level. Inside, the CR-V's cabin is sensibly laid out and comfortable for all passengers, including improved front seats designed to reduce fatigue, and reclining rear seats with more legroom for that long ride home from the campsite. Apple Car Play and Android Auto are standard but can only be used wirelessly on the upper end of the trim range. The CR-V is good for a long weekend of car camping up the central coast or driving out to the desert to catch the next meteor shower. With Honda's reputation for indestructible vehicles, the CR-V will be a loyal camping buddy for many years to come.