2027 SUV Matchups
New 2027 SUV Comparisons Highlight Major Differences in Price and Features
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Key Points
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The Defender is offered with either five or eight seats, while the RVR has five seats; the featured Defender Trophy Edition also earns four stars for Power and Cargo Space despite lacking enough data for an overall rating.
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The Audi SQ5 Sportback Progressiv is rated four stars for Power and Cargo Space. The SQ5 lineup ranges from $83,490 to $86,790, plus $3,060 in Freight & PDI, while the Solterra’s six trims range from $47,995 to $53,995, plus $2,295 in Freight & PDI.
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The Ford Expedition MAX offers seven- or eight-seat configurations, and its Platinum trim receives five stars for Cargo Space.
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The Rivian R1S lineup ranges from $151,990 to $202,990, plus $2,695 in Freight & PDI; its electric powertrain produces 655 horsepower and 610 lb-ft of torque, with NRCan-rated combined efficiency of 2.8 Le/100 km.
The 2027 SUV market spans a massive price and performance range, from the budget-friendly Mitsubishi RVR at $25,278 to the premium Rivian R1S at $151,990. Driving.ca data shows the Rivian R1S Premium dominates with a 4.63 out of 5 rating, while dozens of competing models—including luxury options from Audi, Land Rover, and Ford—cluster in the 3.38 to 3.90 range.
The year's lineups reflect two competing trends: affordable entry SUVs with solid ratings, and ultra-premium electric vehicles with top efficiency scores. According to Driving.ca's ratings, the electric-focused Rivian and Subaru Solterra stand out for efficiency, while traditional midsize luxuries from Audi and Ford emphasize passenger and cargo capacity.
Budget to Mid-Range: Value and Ratings
The Mitsubishi RVR emerges as the affordability leader, starting at just $25,278 with a 3.90 rating. Its SE trim delivers solid marks for a five-seat crossover at that price point. Moving up, the Buick Enclave Sport Touring costs $60,899 and earns a 3.50 rating, offering more luxury touches and more seating capacity.
The Audi Q5 sits between them at $68,240 with the same 3.50 rating. According to Driving.ca, the Q5's Progressiv trim scores well for overall balance, making it a popular midsize luxury option for buyers with modest budgets compared to performance variants.
Luxury Lineups: Land Rover, Ford, and Audi Performance
The Land Rover Defender starts at $77,100 and offers flexible seating: five or eight seats depending on trim. Its Trophy Edition earns four stars for both power and cargo space, though Driving.ca's data lacks enough information for an overall rating. The vehicle appeals to off-road buyers prioritizing capability over raw performance scores.
The Ford Expedition MAX costs $90,000 and scores 3.38 out of 5. Its Platinum trim earns five stars for cargo space and fits seven or eight passengers. The Audi SQ5 Sportback Progressiv reaches $83,490 and achieves a 3.50 rating with four-star marks for power and cargo. Both cater to families needing maximum space rather than luxury features.
Electric Leaders: Rivian and Subaru Efficiency
The Rivian R1S Premium stands alone at the top, priced at $151,990 with a remarkable 4.63 rating. Its electric motor produces 655 horsepower and 610 pound-feet of torque, achieving 2.8 liters per 100 kilometers in combined efficiency according to NRCan ratings. The vehicle earns five-star marks for both efficiency and cargo space, setting an industry benchmark.
The Subaru Solterra provides electric performance at a lower price. Starting at $47,995 with six trim options, it scores 3.63 out of 5 and wins praise from Driving.ca for accessible EV efficiency. It costs $104,000 less than the Rivian while delivering strong efficiency credentials for budget-conscious electric buyers.
Freight Fees and Total Cost Reality
Destination charges significantly impact total purchase prices across all segments. The Rivian R1S adds $2,695 in freight and PDI fees, while Audi models tack on $3,060—the highest among these options. Subaru charges $2,295, creating a $765 swing in bottom-line costs for buyers comparing luxury electric models.
Budget buyers save on these fees proportionally. The Mitsubishi RVR's $25,278 base price benefits from lower destination charges, making it truly the entry gateway. These hidden costs matter most for luxury buyers—a $3,060 fee represents over 3 percent of an Audi Q5's base price, versus 12 percent of the Solterra's cost.
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