The crossover SUV segment has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, with manufacturers addressing previous shortcomings while adding compelling new features that make these vehicles more attractive than ever.
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From budget-friendly options to luxury performers, several crossovers have made significant improvements that warrant serious consideration from today’s car buyers. Below are five of the most improved crossovers that are now worth your money.
Also here are four crossovers expected to drop in price this summer.
The Value Champion Leading the Pack
Some of the crossover market’s most impressive turnaround stories come from vehicles that have addressed fundamental issues while maintaining competitive pricing. These improvements aren’t just cosmetic updates; they represent genuine enhancements in reliability, features and overall ownership experience.
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Chevrolet Trax: Redefining Budget-Friendly
The Chevrolet Trax represents one of the most dramatic improvements in the affordable crossover space. Starting at just $20,500, this compact SUV has transformed from a forgettable economy option into a compelling value proposition.
“The 2025 Chevrolet Trax is an incredible value pick. It also boasts solid features and reliability from a top name brand,” according to Scott Kunes, chief operating officer of Kunes Auto & RV Group.
The new Trax addresses previous generations’ criticisms with improved build quality per owner reviews, according to Edmunds and a more refined interior, according to Car and Driver. This represents Chevrolet’s commitment to making quality accessible at entry-level pricing.
Electrification and Efficiency Gains
The push toward electrification has been a major catalyst for improvement across the crossover segment, with manufacturers using hybrid and electric powertrains to address performance and efficiency concerns.
Mitsubishi Outlander: Hybrid Innovation
Mitsubishi’s Outlander has undergone perhaps the most significant transformation in the segment. The 2025 model’s plug-in hybrid drivetrain represents a complete departure from the brand’s previous offerings.
“The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander is a solid choice. It has received numerous awards and has an IIHS Top Safety Pick to its credit,” Kunes said.
The Outlander’s improvement story is particularly compelling because it addresses multiple pain points simultaneously: family practicality with three-row seating, according to MotorTrend and an IIHS Top Safety Pick, according to Kelley Blue Book.
This comprehensive approach has transformed the Outlander from an also-ran into a legitimate family SUV contender.
Kia EV6: Future-Forward Design
Kia’s transformation is perhaps most visible in the EV6, which represents a complete departure from the brand’s previous design language.
“The Kia EV6 is a futuristic-looking, all-electric crossover … very fast and has good range,” said Patrick Warren, CEO of Litespeed Racing.
The EV6’s improvement story extends beyond styling to include competitive electric range anf and performance that rivals luxury brands according to Wired and fast-charging capabilities, per InsideEVs, This comprehensive approach has helped establish Kia as a serious player in the premium electric vehicle space.
Luxury Segment Disruption
The luxury crossover space has seen significant disruption from brands that have elevated their game to compete with established premium manufacturers.
Genesis GV70: Luxury Redefined
Genesis has emerged as a formidable luxury competitor, with the GV70 representing the brand’s successful push upmarket.
“This entry-level luxury crossover SUV checks all of the boxes. [Genesis is] quickly becoming a real competitor to traditional luxury car brands,” Warren said.
The GV70 features strong warranty coverage with a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, according to Car and Driver and delivers premium features and build quality often matched only by traditional luxury brands at higher prices, per Edmunds.
Mazda CX-50: Premium Without the Price
Mazda’s approach to improvement has been particularly strategic, positioning itself between economy and luxury segments.
“The Mazda CX-50 is a reflection of Mazda’s overall push to create a more premium feel. [It] gets good gas mileage, [and is a] great choice if you don’t want the same crossover that everyone else has,” Warren said.
The CX-50 delivers upscale material quality that rivals luxury cars and a comfortable, spacious and well-appointed interior, according to Edmunds.
Market Impact and Consumer Benefits
These improvements across the crossover segment have created a more competitive marketplace that benefits consumers through better value propositions, enhanced features and improved reliability. The manufacturers that have made the most significant improvements have done so by addressing specific consumer pain points rather than simply adding superficial updates.
The result is a crossover market where buyers have access to vehicles that combine practicality, efficiency and features at price points that were unimaginable just a few years ago. Whether seeking budget-conscious transportation, family-friendly functionality or luxury amenities, today’s improved crossovers offer compelling options that justify serious consideration from car shoppers.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I’m a Car Expert: 5 Most Improved Crossovers That Are Now Worth Your Money
