These 2021 SUVs Were New Then & Still Great Used Options Now

Shopping for a used SUV? These 2021 models were fully redesigned and are worth a look today, including new electric SUVs at the time.

This article was first published in 2021, now updated and republished.

Editor’s Note: due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many automakers had pushed back their 2021 model official release dates. This includes 2021 availability instead of 2020, and some 2021 models were sold as 2022 model year. We’ve reflected those changes here.

2021 Kia Seltos

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Kia Seltos had a starting MSRP of $21,990 for the base LX trim.
  • Used Price Today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Kia Seltos models are listed between $14,987 and $20,998, with an average selling price of $19,860.
2021 Kia Seltos front view parked on street
2021 Kia Seltos

Key features:

Sync up to two phones at once

Largest cargo hold in its class

“Find you Seltos” mobile app

2021 Kia Seltos rear view parked on street
2021 Kia Seltos

Release date: Late 2020

It seems consumers are so in love with SUVs that current vehicle categories are no longer enough. Carmakers now create new, niche sub-segments to implement new models. It’s the case with the 2021 Kia Seltos, a new genre of sub-compact crossover that slots between a Kia Soul and a Kia Sportage. While sharing a platform and engines with its corporate cousin, the Hyundai Kona, the Seltos is longer and higher, allowing for more leg and head room for its passengers. 

It also comes with all-wheel-drive the largest cargo capacity in its class and a full range of cool connectivity technology. The Seltos promises to give you a lot for your money. Considering a Seltos? Check out our first drive review here first.

2021 Genesis GV80

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Genesis GV80 had a starting MSRP of $48,900 for the base 2.5T RWD model.
  • Used Price Today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Genesis GV80 models are listed between $28,789 and $37,500, with an average selling price of approximately $33,000.
2021 Genesis GV80 review
2021 Genesis GV80

Key features:

All-new twin-turbocharged V6

First ever 3D gauge cluster

Smart cruise control with machine learning – adapts to driving habits

2021 Genesis GV80 rear driving
2021 Genesis GV80

Release date: Summer 2020 (unchanged)

If the Kia Seltos is an indication that the Korean brands have understood smart packaging, the Genesis GV80 is proof that they can now build genuinely luxurious vehicles. The GV80 marks the first premium SUV from a Korean carmaker and the first utility vehicle under the Genesis nameplate. Riding on a heavily revised Kia Telluride / Hyundai Palisade architecture, the 2021 Genesis GV80 is powered by a choice of two all-new force-fed engines. 

Entry level models will host a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, while top-shelf trim levels will be powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6; and engine which has so far never been used in a Hyundai, Kia or Genesis product.

The GV80 is highly luxurious inside, presenting a plush, stylish and upscale cabin at a much more attainable price point than competing luxury brands.  There’s even a rumour of a hybrid variant currently in the works.  Expect the 2021 Genesis GV80 to arrive mid to late 2020. Read our full GV80 review here.

2021 Cadillac Escalade

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Cadillac Escalade had a starting MSRP of $76,195 for the base Luxury trim.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Cadillac Escalade models are listed between $55,000 and $75,000, with an average selling price around $65,000.
2021 Cadillac Escalade front view
2021 Escalade Premium Luxury Platinum

Key features:

First ever OLED 36-inch dashboard

Max towing rating of 7.716 pounds

Can seat up to eight passengers

2021 Cadillac Escalade Premium Luxury Platinum rear driving on road
2021 Escalade Premium Luxury Platinum

Release date: Fall 2020

The 2021 model year won’t only bring us all-new models, but heavily revised versions of old nameplates like the Cadillac Escalade, which should hit showrooms at the fall of 2020. It’s long been the Hollywood Boulevard king due to its imposing presence and “baller” demeanor.

The Escalade sees a full model refresh for 2021. While its design and interior are entirely new, featuring the first-ever OLED interface which stretches 36-inches across the dashboard, the Escalade is rather conservative underneath. 

It’s still body on frame, which means it can tow up to 7,716 pounds, and its default engine is still a tried and proven 6.2-liter V8. Except now, the Escalade comes with a diesel option; a 3.0-liter turbocharged straight-six that cranks out 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to an all-new ten-speed automatic gearbox, and all Escalades, whether you opt for the short (5,382 mm) or long wheelbase (5,766 mm) models can be had with a Magnetic Ride suspension. 

2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe had a starting MSRP of $49,600 for the base LS trim.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe models are listed between $35,000 and $55,000, with an average selling price around $45,000.
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe RST Duramax Diesel front white
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe RST Duramax Diesel. Photo: Amee Reehal

Key features:

Off-road ready Z71 package

Active cylinder deactivation allowing to run on only two cylinders

All-new ten-speed automatic transmission

2021 Chevrolet Tahoe RST Duramax Diesel white rear profile view
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe RST Duramax Diesel. Photo: Amee Reehal

Release date: Fall 2020

It would be impossible to mention the Chevy Suburban without talking about its little brother, the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe, which also sees an entire overhaul and is scheduled to hit the market at the same time as its larger sibling. Engine choices are the same, and so is the ten-speed transmission, but the overall wheelbase is shortened for people who still need the benefits of body on frame, but in a smaller, tighter package.

While technically identical to a Suburban, the Tahoe does nevertheless pack its own share of surprises. The Z71 variant goes a step further by incorporating a lifted suspension, off-road dedicated tires and skid plates, classic ingredients for anyone looking to take on rough terrain in their SUV. The Tahoe Z71 also boasts a unique front fascia, a higher approach angle to aid off-road capability and comes standard with a two-speed transfer case and Hill Descent Control, along with 20-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and red tow hooks. 

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer had a starting MSRP of $19,000 for the base L trim.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer models are listed between $15,000 and $22,000, with an average selling price around $19,000.
2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer RS front
2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer RS

Key features:

All-new fuel-efficient turbocharged three-cylinder engines

HD Rear Vision camera 

Three drive modes: Normal, Snow and Sport

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer ACTIV
2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer ACTIV

Release date: Spring-Summer 2020

Just like the Kia Seltos, the Chevrolet Trailblazer is a new type of subcompact crossover that fills an entirely new niche. Squeezed between the very tiny Chevrolet Trax and the compact Chevrolet Equinox, the Trailblazer aims at taking on new rivals like the Kia Seltos and the Mazda CX-30. Two all-new and efficient turbocharged engines will be offered, ranging from 1.2 to 1.3 liters in displacement, with power rated between 155 and 174 lb-ft. Base models will only comes with front-wheel-drive, allowing them to compete against urban crossovers like the Nissan Kicks, Toyota C-HR and Hyundai Venue, while higher trim levels will feature standard all-wheel-drive. 

While the Trailblazer has a familiar, rugged name, the new vehicle, which was originally scheduled to hit the market in the spring, focuses on urban commuting, a light carbon footprint and optimal fuel efficiency. We reviewed the Trailblazer’s interior, here’s what we thought.

2021 GMC Yukon

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 GMC Yukon had a starting MSRP of $50,700 for the base SLE trim.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 GMC Yukon models are listed between $40,000 and $60,000, with an average selling price around $50,000.
GMC Yukon AT4 front view parked on street
2021 GMC Yukon AT4. Photo: Amee Reehal

Key features:

All-new AT4 off-road dedicated package

First-ever turbodiesel straight six

Two wheelbase options

2021 GMC Yukon AT4 rear
2021 GMC Yukon AT4. Photo: Amee Reehal

Release date: Fall 2020

When General Motors releases a new range of full-size SUVs, it does it with a bang. Not only will we see an all-new Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban and Cadillac Escalade in 2021, we’ll also be treated to an entirely redesigned GMC Yukon.

Unsurprisingly, this new Yukon will also share the same T1 platform and available V8 engines as its corporate cousins, as well as the all-new turbodiesel straight six.  And just like the other GM big-boy SUVs, it’ll come in both standard and XL wheelbase variations, as well as a fully independent rear suspension, which should increase overall room for rear passengers and cargo. The traditional high-luxury Denali model remains, while an all-new rugged AT4 package allows the Yukon to set itself apart while inheriting some off-road goodies of its own. 

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had a starting MSRP of $38,635 for the base Laredo trim.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L models are listed between $30,000 and $45,000, with an average selling price around $37,500.
2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe. Photo: Jeep

Key features:

New 3-row model for the first time

All-aluminum 3.6L V6 engine

Spacious interior with loads of new features

2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe driving up hill
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe

Release date: Spring 2021

Jeep quickly followed up the Grand Wagoneer with another 7-passenger SUV: the 2021 Grand Cherokee L – placing the popular sport utility in the full-size segment for the first time in its 30-year history. The entire Grand Cherokee lineup, including the good old 2-row version, are redesigned for 2021, built on a new architecture, independent front and rear suspensions and Quadra-Lift air suspension with electronic adaptive damping. Power comes from an all-aluminum 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 257 lb.-ft. of torque.

Inside, the new SUV is spacious, as you’d expect. Second row captain’s chairs, a 19-speaker sound system, 12 USB ports, electronic remote release in the rear cargo area – the list of interior features goes on and on. Here’s a full look at the L’s interior.

2021 Kia Sorento

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Kia Sorento had a starting MSRP of $29,390 for the base LX trim.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Kia Sorento models are listed between $22,000 and $32,000, with an average selling price around $27,000.
2022 Kia Sorento PHEV
2022 Sorento PHEV

Key features:

All-new turbocharged four-cylinder engine

First ever hybrid powerplant for the nameplate

Class-competitive towing rating

Editor’s Note: Kia also released the 2022 Sorento PHEV – a new hybrid-powered model.

2022 Sorento PHEV
2022 Sorento PHEV

Release date: Early 2021

Kia has been on a roll lately with the introduction of the overachieving full-size Telluride and the charming little Seltos. It aims at maintaining this momentum by introducing an all-new version of its stalwart Sorento next year, the brand’s original midsize SUV.

Except this time, the Sorento will compete against a new crop of two-seater contenders, vehicles like the all-new Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, Honda Passport and Chevrolet Blazer. 

The Sorento gets a modern and upscale look, housing Kia’s now recognizable signature front grille and a rear taillight treatment that’s both bold and innovative. Power will come from the same turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine as the Genesis GV80 good for 277 horsepower. The 2021 Sorento will also boast a hybrid powertrain – a first in this segment – comprised of turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder and a tiny electric motor for a combined total output of 227 horsepower.  No official release date has yet been published for the new Sorento.

2021 Toyota Venza (Hybrid only)

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Toyota Venza had a starting MSRP of $32,470 for the base LE trim.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Toyota Venza models are listed between $25,000 and $35,000, with an average selling price around $30,000.
2021 Toyota Venza review
2021 Toyota Venza

Key features:

2.5L engine & three electric motors for a combined 219 HP

Venza Limited is the first Toyota to offer the Star Gaze roof

Combined fuel consumption figure is an impressive 39mpg or 6.0L/100km

2021 Toyota Venza rear profile
2021 Toyota Venza

Release date: Fall 2020

After five years away, the Venza 5-seater returns for the 2021 model year as an AWD and hybrid-only, premium-focused five-seater that slots in as a niche product between the big-selling RAV4 and three-row Highlander. It’s on sale now.

The new Venza ushers in a styling direction that’s different to Toyota’s core SUVs. It has a coupe-like roofline and smooth, curved front end with distinctive, narrow LED headlamps. In fact, there are two forms of LED available at the front: parabola (reflector) for the LE and projector on the higher grades. All models get a full-width, LED combination light strip at the rear.

Like the upcoming 2021 Sienna minivan, all Venzas will be hybrid-only, adopting the RAV4 Hybrid’s setup of 2.5-litre engine and three electric motors for a combined 219 HP. The lithium-ion battery pack is under the rear seat and a rear-mounted electric motor provides AWD across the board.

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA had a starting MSRP of $42,320 for the GLA 250 Sport Utility 4D.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA models are listed between $24,482 and $24,946, with an average selling price around $24,700.
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA front
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA

Key features:

All-new MBUX infotainment interface

Completely revised platform – more rigid, solid and larger overall

Available 302-horspower AMG version

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA rear
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA

Release date: Fall-Winter 2020

If subcompact luxury crossovers are so popular now, it’s largely thanks to Mercedes-Benz, who released one of the first examples of the thing with the very first GLA back in 2015. 

Now facing more competition, Mercedes updates the GLA. Smaller than any other utility vehicle sold under the diamond star, the new GLA, scheduled to arrive in early 2021, will carry on where the game-changing A-Class subcompact sedan/hatchback left off. It’ll get the latest MBUX infotainment system with full the full LCD dashboard treatment and will be powered by an entirely revised turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder.

The vehicle itself is said to be 10 cm higher than its predecessor, allowing for improved overall headroom. Two models will be offered: the GLA 250 will pump out 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the more powerful GLA 35 will churn out a healthy 302 ponies and 296 lb-ft of torque.

2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Coupe had a starting MSRP of $113,950.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 models are listed between $70,000 and $90,000, with an average selling price around $80,000.
2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 front
2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63

Key features:

Over 600 horsepower

Supercar-rivaling acceleration

Full adjustable suspension with ride height control

2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 rear
2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63

Release date: Fall 2020

SUVs come in all shapes and sizes, how about one that produces 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque? Insane? Yes, but also very impressive. Two decades ago, the fastest production automobile in the world, the McLaren F1, could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just under 3.5 seconds, a number nobody could fathom at the time. Today, the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63, a 5,380-lb all-wheel-drive sport utility vehicle, accelerates just as fast.  Yes, you read that right.

All that power is possible thanks to a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, 4MATIC all-wheel-drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission with launch control. The GLE 63 isn’t just fast, it’s immensely comfortable, luxurious and spacious enough to carry the kids, the dog and all the gear that comes with them.  

2021 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 had a starting MSRP of $160,500.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 models are listed between $150,000 and $180,000, with an average selling price around $165,000.
2021 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 front driving
2021 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600

Key features:

Near endless customization options

The most luxurious SUV on the road

Available on-board refrigerator

2021 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 rear
2021 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600

Release date: Late Summer – Fall 2020

There was a time when rich executives rode around in expensive plush limousines. Now, the ultimate coach isn’t a car; it’s an SUV. The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 is the rolling definition of wealth and opulence. Based on the largest three-row SUV sold by the brand – the GLS -, the Maybach version only has two rows of seats with either a three-seat rear or the option of a pair of separate reclinable chairs. Furthermore, the rear seats are positioned 4.7 inches farther back than in the normal GLS, with legroom up to 43.2 inches, or 52.8 inches with the front passenger seat motored forward in chauffeur position. 

The rear seats can also be reclined by up to 43.5 degrees and feature lower leg supports. Other visible technology includes multiple touchscreens and a 64 color LED lighting. Do you get it now? This thing is expensive, large, brash in immensely spacious inside.

2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E had a starting MSRP of $42,895 for the Select trim.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E models are listed between $30,000 and $40,000, with an average selling price around $35,000.
2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium
2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium. Photo: Amee Reehal

Key features:

Available rear and all-wheel-drive propulsion

Two different battery packs and range to choose from

Over-the-air vehicle updates

2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E rear
2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E. Photo: Amee Reehal

Release date: Fall 2020

If you were to go back in time and ask Mustang enthusiasts to dream up the Mustang of the future, none of them would have pictured an SUV. Yet, that’s exactly what will happen to Ford’s legendary pony car in 2021.

Scheduled to hit dealerships this Fall, the Mach-E won’t replace Ford’s coveted sports car, but will instead add another flavour to the lineup. Yes, it’s a utility vehicle, one that also gets rid of its traditional gasoline engine in favour of a fully electrified powerplant. Two batteries will power it, ranging from 75.7 kWh to 98.8 kWh, which will allow consumers to choose between rear or all-wheel-drive, as well as two different range possibilities; from 375 to up to 475 km. 

But the Mach-E isn’t just some other electric crossover. Ford claims the super quick GT Performance Edition will sprint from a standstill to 100 km/h in only 3.5 seconds and will feature torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive.

2021 Ford Bronco (Compact and Full-Size Models)

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Ford Bronco had a starting MSRP of $28,500 for the base 2-door model.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Ford Bronco models are listed between $25,000 and $45,000, with an average selling price around $35,000.
2021 Ford Bronco Sport front
2021 Ford Bronco Sport. Photo: Amee Reehal

Key features:

Three different trims to cover all bases

Bronco Sport gets 4×4 as standard

Segment-exclusive 7-speed manual transmission

2021 Ford Bronco Wildtrak 2-Door. Photo: Amee Reehal
2021 Ford Bronco Wildtrak 2-Door. Photo: Amee Reehal

Release date: Spring 2021

Well, the wait if finally over – Ford officially reveals the new Bronco SUV available in full-size 2-door, 4-door, and the compact Bronco Sport trims. Few new vehicle debuts are as eagerly anticipated as that of Ford’s new Bronco, which is making its comeback after 25 years away. The 2-door and 4-door Broncos will go into production in early 2021 with the first models arriving in Ford dealerships next spring.

When Ford put together its plan for the Bronco’s comeback, it identified the need for a smaller model below the main 2- and 4-door off-roader – something that was more of an everyday vehicle for a customer base evenly split between male and female buyers. Welcome the Bronco Sport – the smaller, more rugged Escape SUV-based offering built for adventurers.

2021 Volkswagen ID.4

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 had a starting MSRP of $39,995 for the Pro trim.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 models are listed between $25,000 and $35,000, with an average selling price around $30,000.
2021 Volkswagen ID.4 front driving
2021 Volkswagen ID.4

Key features:

Estimated range of more than 250miles / 400km from the standard 82kWh

Choice of RWD or AWD

Optional Statement package includes leatherette power seats, a panoramic glass roof, a bi-colour ‘Gradient’ package with a black roof and a 12in central screen

2021 VW ID-4 compact electric suv rear cargo
2021 Volkswagen ID.4

Release date: Early 2021

The first of Volkswagen’s new generation of ID electric vehicles for North America will be the ID.4, a compact SUV that will arrive in the US in early 2021. The first Canadian deliveries will follow in the summer.

There will be a choice of RWD or AWD ID.4s. The RWD model will have 201 HP and a zero-60mph (100km/h) time of 7.8 seconds; the 302-HP AWD model shaves two seconds off that figure for GTI-like performance and has a towing capacity of 2,700 lb. US ID.4s will be RWD-only to begin with, with the AWD arriving later in 2021. Canada will get both from day one.

ID.4s will initially come in limited quantity from VW’s production facility in Zwickau, Germany for the 50-state US launch. Volkswagen Canada will begin its rollout in the three provinces with the highest EV sales volumes – Quebec, British Columbia and Ontario – before selling nationwide. 

2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge had a starting MSRP of $55,085.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge models are listed between $20,673 and $29,699, with an average selling price around $25,000.
2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge front
2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge

Key features:

Dual-motor all-wheel-drive

Free charging for the first year of ownership

First-ever Android Automotive infotainment system

2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge rear
2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge

Release date: Fall 2020

It’s not just Ford that’s converting to full electric SUVs. Volvo will introduce a new electrified member to its lineup called the XC40 Recharge towards the end of 2020. 

Promising the same Scandinavian styling and practical square body as its gasoline counterpart, the all-wheel-drive XC40 Recharge will be powered by two electric motors and a 78 kWh battery good for up to 400 km of range according to the European cycle, which should translate to roughly 360 km once it arrives here. Furthermore, this cute urban crossover will feature a 4.6-second 0-100 km/h acceleration time, making it quicker than anything else in its class.

To entice consumers to turn towards electricity as their main source of propulsion, Volvo will reimburse electricity costs for the first year, which will all be manageable through a free mobile app.

2021 Tesla Model Y

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Tesla Model Y had a starting MSRP of $49,990 for the Long Range AWD model.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Tesla Model Y models are listed between $18,900 and $54,045, with an average selling price around $30,725.
2022 Tesla Model Y blue driving
2021 Tesla Model Y

Key features:

Available dual-motor all-wheel-drive

Highest range in its price range

Supercar-rivaling acceleration

2022 Tesla Model Y red rear view driving
2021 Tesla Model Y

Release date: On sale now

While most carmakers are still scrambling to release a fully electric model, Tesla is already deploying its fourth vehicle. It’s called the Model Y, and it’s a compact luxury crossover that’s hitting the market as we write this. It’s here to take on vehicles like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Jaguar i-Pace and Audi e-Tron Quattro, except it promises more range than all those vehicles.

Heavily based on the Tesla Model 3 sedan, the Model Y’s most powerful variant will offer up to 00 km of range and allow this cute-looking family shuttle to bolt from a standstill to 100 km/h in about three seconds flat, numbers that would put some supercars to shame. Expect the Model Y to offer a slew of modern technology, like full self-driving features and over-the-air updates that improve the car’s available equipment, performance, and range. 

2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime had a starting MSRP of $38,100 for the SE trim.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime models are listed between $30,000 and $40,000, with an average selling price around $35,000.
2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime front driving
2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime

Key features:

Up to 38 miles of pure electric range

Still comes with all-wheel-drive

Sub five second 0-60 mph acceleration times. 

2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime rear driving
2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime

Release date: Summer 2020

What if you took one of the best-selling and most reliable compact crossovers and gave it a plug-in hybrid drivetrain? Would you end up with an instant sales hit? We believe so. Scheduled to hit showrooms later this year, the RAV4 Prime was first received with open arms when Toyota pulled the drape off at the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show. According to Toyota, even if the darn thing is still months from being in showrooms, and it’s already all sold out.

Why so popular? The classic RAV4 formula of practicality, user-friendliness and low maintenance costs associated with the possibility of being able to drive on fuel at all is very appealing. While all electric range isn’t exactly Tesla-rivaling at 38 miles, it’s more than enough for the daily grind, further reducing the RAV4’s operating costs, all while also considerably dropping its carbon emissions. 

Oh, did we mention this thing pumps out 302 combined horsepower?

2021 Subaru Crosstrek

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek had a starting MSRP of $22,245 for the base trim.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Subaru Crosstrek models are listed between $18,000 and $25,000, with an average selling price around $21,500.
2021 subaru crosstrek sport driving in the rain
2021 Subaru Crosstrek Sport

Key features:

New 2.5L 182-hp engine

New Crosstrek Sport trim

Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering standard with CVT-equipped EyeSight models

2021 subaru crosstrek limited sideview driving fast
2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited

Release date: Summer 2020

The 2021 Crosstrek isn’t a complete redesign, still in its second-generation since 2018. However, the new model gets a significant mid-cycle refresh so worthy of making this list.The 2.5L 182-hp engine first debuting in the larger 2019 Forester is now standard with the 2021 Crosstrek Sport and Limited trims; the Base and Premium trims keep the 2.0L 152-hp powerplant.

The Sport trim is completely new as well for 2021, receiving a dual-function X-MODE (the only Crosstrek trim to offer this), distinct exterior and interior accents, exclusive StarTex upholstery, different wheel arch moldings, and Sport-type 17-inch alloy wheels with dark gray finish. On the safety front, all CVT-equipped Crosstreks with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology now also get Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering.

Across the board, Subaru ramped up the styling to an already good-looking, adventure-ready little hauler, adding a redesigned front bumper with new-design fog light insert covers (Base trim) or fog light covers (all other trims), plus new-design front grille, with details specific to each trim.

2021 Nissan Armada

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Nissan Armada had a starting MSRP of $52,600 for the base S trim.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Nissan Armada models are listed between $35,000 and $50,000, with an average selling price around $42,500.
2021 Nissan Armada front off roading
2021 Nissan Armada

Key features:

Most towing capacity in full-size class with 8,500 lbs.

New 12.3-inch touch screen comes standard

Front end gains several design tweaks for sleeker look

2021 Nissan Armada SUV exterior updates
2021 Nissan Armada

Release date: January 2021

Nissan has significantly updated its big Armada SUV’s interior for 2021, coupled with worthy exterior styling changes, mainly up front. From a more rugged yet upscale exterior design to a simplified interior, gaining additional tech and features. For 2025, the Armada is completely redesigned.

Powering this beast is the same 5.6L DOHC Endurance V8 engine carried over from 2020, paired to a 7-speed automatic transmission. This setup solidifies the Armada as the most powerful in the full-size SUV segment, putting down 400-hp at 5,800 rpm and 413 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.

Gone is the 8-inch touch screen, replaced by a more robust 12.3-inch touch screen nicely incorporated up top. With the new screen comes better resolution, jumping up from 800×480 to 1920×720. Nissan says the new screen is the largest in the full-size SUV class, at the moment. 

2021 Buick Envision

  • Price in 2021: The 2021 Buick Envision had a starting MSRP of $31,800 for the base Preferred trim.
  • Used price today: As of February 2025, used 2021 Buick Envision models are listed between $25,000 and $35,000, with an average selling price around $30,000.
2021 Buick Envision
2021 Buick Envision

Key features:

Redesigned sculpted, bolder exterior look

New 10.2-inch colour touchscreen and redesigned interior layout

Upscale Avenir trim new for 2021

2021 Buick Envision rear
2021 Buick Envision

Release date: Early 2021

Buick’s compact SUV gains a major overhaul for 2021, including a much sportier design compared to the outgoing Envision, a new range-topping Avenir trim, new Sport Touring Package adding a darker look, and the luxury brand’s first 10.2-inch colour touchscreen. Read our full 2021 Envision preview here.

In the cockpit, the new instrument panel is more driver-centric and leans towards the driver for a better, clearer view. The centre console gains a completely new look as well, including a dual-wing centre armrest, a coverage storage compartment, and a space-saving electronic shifter setup integrated next to the massive cup holders. 

Whereas the outgoing Envision came with two engine choices, including an EcoTec 2.5L inline-4, it appears Buick is sticking with one powerplant for 2021: a 2.0L turbo engine paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission with electronic shift control. 


There you have it, a long list of 2021 SUVs to consider; models that were all-new at the time or received their next-generation updates with major redesigns. If you’re interested in full reviews, check out our 2021 SUV & crossover reviews here. Here’s a look at 19 new and redesigned 2022 SUVs.

Up Next