The demand for SUVs and crossovers has risen in America and Japan is ready to supply these rising demands. With the availability of quality high-end SUVs from Europe and America, why should you be interested in Japanese SUVs?
Well, for starters, Japanese cars are ranked high when it comes to reliability and practicality. SUVs from Japan have over the years proven to be versatile and adaptable.
Apart from this, these SUVs are pocket friendlier compared to their competition in Europe and even America. In fact, they offer some of the best value for your Dollar, thanks to their bulletproof reliability and rock-solid build quality. So, in this piece, we will be covering ten best Japanese SUVs that we should be on your shopping list if you're looking for a great bang for your buck.
10 Toyota RAV4
Toyota's driving dynamics tend to be going towards the mundane side of the spectrum. Many drivers will find the 2020 RAV4 ride comfortable and its handling proper. The generous amount of legroom in the front and rear seats will please adult passengers too.
The 2020 RAV4 upgrade is the TRD pro-off-road model that offers a rugged suspension along with aggressive tires and wheels that improve the RAV4s capability when hitting the rugged roads.
The 2020 RAV4 is powered by a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine that is paired with a standard eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine pushes 203 horsepower and delivers 184 lb-ft of torque to the vehicle’s drivetrain.
9 Lexus NX
Lexus has always had a sweet spot in the American market. Being Toyota’s luxury model, it is no surprise that the Lexus NX is competing for the title of best SUV in 2020. This ride features two powertrain choices. The first option is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that pushes 235 horsepower and delivers 258 lb-ft of torque to the drivetrain.
The second option features a hybrid propulsion system that promises efficiency on a budget. Achieving EPA rating of 35 miles per gallon within the city per 33 miles per gallon combined. The Lexus delivers in both luxury, performance, and reliability.
8 Nissan Pathfinder
The Nissan Pathfinder features a 3.5-liter V6 engine that pushes 284 horsepower and delivers 240 lb-ft of torque to the drivetrain. Front-wheel-drive in the Pathfinder comes standard, but you also have an option for an all-wheel-drive. The Pathfinders towing capability is 6000 pounds.
With third-row seating, the Nissan Pathfinder can haul a maximum of seven passengers in three rows of seats with ample leg and headroom.
This SUV is equipped with the latest safety technology including, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, adaptive cruise control, and cross-traffic alert which are also standard on the Pathfinder SV.
7 Infiniti QX50
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Infiniti is one of the many companies under the Nissan umbrella. Infiniti cars are quickly making their way into American homes. Infiniti SUVs are well part of this crusade. Since the debut of the Infiniti QX50 in 2016, this vehicle has undergone an amazing transformation.
The new QX50 has had its wheelbase extended by 3.2-inches. This has seen an increase of legroom in the vehicle by nearly 4.3inches.
This SUV is powered by a standard V6 engine that pushes 325 horsepower to the wheels. The Infiniti QX50 has an option for all-wheel-drive and rear-wheel drive.
6 Acura MDX
The work that has gone into developing the Acura MDX goes to show that Acura is not just focused on being a premium luxury car brand but a practical one too.
Honda has incorporated the latest versions of its signature Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive to the Acura MDX to improve its handling and torque management.
The new age MDX comes with a standard nine-speed automatic transmission that has replaced the traditional push-button gear selector.
The MDX also goes beyond many similar Japanese SUVs in its safety features. It comes packed with cutting-edge safety technology such as the AcuraWatch blind-spot system and new road-departure mitigation technology.
5 Mitsubishi Outlander
The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander is one of the most versatile and practical Japanese SUVs in the market today. The New Mitsubishi trim – the Special Edition, sits between the LE and SEL.
The Special Edition (SP) adds more flare to the Mitsubishi Outlander line. The base trim 2020 Outlander features a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine that is paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that pushes 166 horsepower. The ultra-trim for the Outlander is the GT trim that is powered by a 3.0-liter V-6 that pushes 224 horsepower.
Front-wheel-drive comes standard in the Outlander. You, however, have the option for all-wheel drive.
4 Subaru Forester
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Subaru has over the years made a name for itself as one of the best rally car manufacturing companies. Nonetheless, Subaru chose not to restrict itself within the boundaries of rally cars. So, in 1997, Subaru ventured out and started working on its flagship SUV – the Subaru Forester.
The 2020 Forester provides a legitimate off-road capability thanks to its high ground clearance.
The forester can carry five passengers across two rows. The cargo area of the Forester measures more than 30cubic feet with a hatch opening for easy loading.
This SUV is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that pushes 182 horsepower and delivers 176 lb-ft of torque. It has a standard all-wheel-drive system. A continuously variable automatic transmission is the only gearbox option available.
3 Toyota Land Cruiser
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a cosmic SUV with an outstanding four-wheel-drive capability. The 2020 Land cruiser comes in two trims – the base and the new heritage edition that dropped the running boards and third-row, swapping with the 18-inch special wheels and a roof basket.
The Land Cruiser is powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine that is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that pushes 381 horsepower to the standard four-wheel-drive system, with a two-speed transfer case.
The Cruiser’s four-wheeling bits include a multi traction control system, a trick system that helps reduce the turning radius tight spots and crawl control that allows the cruiser to lope along at a walking pace.
2 Honda HR-V
The 2020 Honda HR-V has an ample passenger space and a trick folding rear seat that maximizes cargo space, defying its petite classification with creative packaging.
Its 1.8-liter inline-4 powertrain pushes 141 horsepower to either the front-wheels or all the wheels for those who opt for an all-wheel-drive system. Its ride can be tough on uneven surfaces. The Honda HR-V fuel consumption is economically friendly
The Honda HVR’s notable upgrades include a sunroof, passive entry, heated front seats, and several driver assists such as – adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and an all-wheel-drive system.
1 Mazda CX-5
The 2020 Mazda CX-5 is the sportiest compact SUV in the market. The Mazda CX-5 boasts of a beautifully sculpted bodywork and an appealing interior with thoughtful ergonomics and engaging driving dynamics, despite trading the family space for fine handling and a powerful powertrain.
The Mazda CX-5 is powered by an inline 4 engine that pushes 187 horsepower. The Mazda CX-5’s engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that delivers power to all four wheels. Its limited ratios hold back the engines when it comes to passing power despite firing quick shifts most of the time.