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- We have updated this article to bring information about 2026 model year SUVs, as well as added new entries.
Boxy cars are making a comeback, and for good reason. They make a lot of sense despite their seemingly old-school look. The upright design provides the interior with more usable cabin space, better headroom, and greater vertical cargo capacity than swoopy SUVs. The upright pillars and flat glass panes also improve outward visibility and give an open feel to the cabin. While futuristic, alien-esque designs tend to age poorly, the square SUV’s timeless proportions never go out of style.
It’s no surprise that these square SUVs are in demand again. Automakers are responding to the demand with a wide range of options, whether you’re looking for something affordable, ultra-luxurious, or ready for an overlanding expedition. From the practical Ford Bronco Sport to the luxurious Cadillac Escalade and the legendary Jeep Wrangler, here are some of the best boxySUVs you can get your hands on today.
Does Anyone Have Recommendations For A "Boxy" Car Or SUV?
Let's say someone wants to get into a "boxy" looking car or SUV. It can be new or pre-owned. What are some models that do this style well? Does Chevrolet? What about Cadillac? Land Rover? Kia? Who's doing the boxier aesthetic BEST in 2024?
Updated: November 2025
We have updated this article to bring information about 2026 model year SUVs, as well as added new entries.
2026 GMC Terrain
Starting Price: $30,100
The2026 GMC Terrain is one of the most affordable boxy SUVs you can buy today, offering a balance of performance and practicality. It’s powered by a 175-horsepower 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers solid performance and efficiency, too, making it an ideal choice for both city driving and weekend getaways. The SUV also features an optional all-wheel-drive system for more traction and stability, along with a bump in torque.
Despite starting at around $30,000, theTerrain still offers plenty of features. The base trim features heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, a 15-inch infotainment system, and over 16 standard safety and driver-assistance features. For 2026, there are two new trims: AT4 and Denali. The AT4 features an off-road-focused kit, including all-terrain tires, underbody protection, red front recovery hooks, and more.The Denali trim adds heated rear seats, 19-inch wheels, and comfort-tuned suspension.
2026 Ford Bronco Sport
Starting Price: $33,840
The Ford Bronco Sport is another affordable boxy car you can buy, and this one is ready to go off-road, too.It borrows its name from the midsize Bronco stablemate and wears it well, given its capability. Every Bronco Sport comes equipped with all-wheel drive and a turbocharged engine sourced from the Ford Escape, producing 180 horsepower. You can even opt for a 2.0-liter engine that produces 250 horsepower.
Along with promising good on-road manners, the Bronco Sport also features a wealth of in-cabin technology. Some of these features include forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 13.2-inch touchscreen. For 2026, the Bronco Sport also gets the Bronze Package, available on the base Big Bend and top Badlands models. This package adds 17-inch bronze wheels, specific exterior trim, and more bronze accents on the interior.
2026 Jeep Wrangler
Starting Price: $34,395
The2026 Jeep Wrangler is a classic choice and a dream car for many off-road enthusiasts, so it doesn’t need much introduction. It's a square SUV offered in two- and four-door variants, with a spacious yet sparse interior that can seat up to five. It also packs decent technology, including a 12.3-inch screen and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The Jeep Wrangler isn’t meant for comfort; where it really shines is off-roading.
TheWrangler is powered by a range of engine options, including a 270-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, a 285-horsepower V-6, and a 470-horsepower V-8. This performance is paired with four-wheel-drive capability and large tires, promising to be a formidable SUV on dirt roads. Jeep also offers a range of optional accessories, including rock rails, winches, steel bumpers, and suspension systems for better off-road capabilities.
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2026 Hyundai Santa Fe
Starting Price: $34,800
Love it, hate it, or call it a Defender copy, the2026 Hyundai Santa Fe’s boxy design is here to stay, at least for a while. While design may be subjective, there’s no doubt that this Hyundai offers the proper bang for your buck. It’s powered by a 277-horsepower turbocharged engine, promising peppy performance and a towing capacity of 4,500 pounds. The 2026 model year also swaps out the eight-speed DCT with a conventional torque converter unit.
On the interior,Santa Fe buyers will be greeted with plenty of standard and available equipment, including dual 12.3-inch displays, dual wireless phone charging docks, and wireless phone integration. It also comes standard with three-row seating, competitive cargo space, and attractive pricing. This combination of performance, features, and boxy dimensions has earned ita spot among the top contenders for 2025.
2026 Ford Bronco
Starting Price: $40,495
The2026 Bronco isFord’s answer to the fabled Jeep Wrangler. That means it can provide drivers with a fun, mud-slinging experience on the weekends, while also taking them to work once Monday rolls around. Under theBronco’s hood are two available engines, the standard one being a 300-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder. The optional twin-turbo V6 provides the Bronco with plenty of power for rock crawling and towing.
Let’s not forget the SUV's off-road modes, which provide traction on various surfaces, and its four-wheel-drive system, which should pair well with its 35-inch mud-terrain tires. On the inside, buyers can expect a reasonably modern yet utilitarian interior, and on the outside, a square car design that screams “go-anywhere, do anything” that outdoor lovers would adore.
2026 Toyota Grand Highlander
Starting Price: $41,360
The2026 Toyota Grand Highlander brings a larger, more practical option to Toyota’s lineup, with a boxy design that prioritizes both style and functionality. Its sharp lines and upright stance give it a commanding presence, while its spacious interior is designed for growing families and adventurers alike. It should strike a perfect balance between rugged capability and everyday comfort, and withits previous model year being one of the most reliable in the brand’s lineup, the 2026 model offers added peace of mind.
The GrandHighlander includes a thoughtfully designed interior with a 12.3-inch screen, seating for up to eight passengers, and all the essential driver-assistance tech. It’s powered by a 265-horsepower turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with optional all-wheel drive, offering up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. Put simply, it’s a standout choice for those looking for a versatile midsize (boxy) SUV that doesn’t compromise on looks or practicality.
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2026 Toyota 4Runner
Starting Price: $41,570
TheToyota 4Runner has a cult following, and it’s easy to see why, given its deft balance of on and off the road capabilities.It’s powered by a 278-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder, with an optional hybrid powertrain that makes 326 horsepower. It also offers optional full-time four-wheel drive, along with a suite of off-roading equipment, including a locking rear differential, off-road cruise control, and disconnecting stabilizer bars.
While it shares its underpinnings with the Tacoma, its boxy body can house two or three rows of seats and plenty of tech features. The cabin is similar to its pickup sibling, featuring an 8-inch display, an available 14-speaker JBL audio system, and wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. Safety is taken care of by Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes features like automatic emergency braking, a lane-centering feature, and adaptive cruise control. The4Runner is a terrific middleground among boxy SUVs today.
2026 Honda Passport
Starting Price: $44,750
The new2026 Honda Passport brings many updates and is ready to take the competition head-on with its rugged styling and hardware updates. While the 3.5-liter V6 returns, it gets a slight power bump to 285 horsepower, and a ten-speed automatic transmission replaces the older nine-speed unit. Other hardware updates include a stiffer chassis, beefed-up suspension, and a slightly longer wheelbase and wider track. The ground clearance is also up by a smidge, and the shorter front overhang gives it a better approach angle.
The boxy design and larger dimensions also give it 1.3 inches more rear seat legroom and more cargo space at the back. The interior is also fully revised with an emphasis on a simple layout. Other features include a larger infotainment screen, standard heated seats, emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and more. Luckily, you can still opt for the picnic table. ThePassport has always played the middle child between the Pilot and the CR-V, and in its new boxy SUV avatar, it has never looked better.
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser
Starting Price: $57,200
The latest Toyota Land Cruiser SUV is smaller than the model it replaces, with a retro-inspired boxy SUV silhouette. It backs up this J-Series-inspired look with genuine capability. It’s powered by a hybrid powertrain comprising a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine and two electric motors, producing 326 horsepower. All Land Cruiser models also come with a four-wheel drive system with a locking central differential, low range gearing, and crawl control system, which should work well with the SUV’s formidable off-road prowess.
This retro beauty isn’t all brawn, though. In addition to that power and off-road capability, this Toyota offers a spacious cabin featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, an available JBL sound system, and heated seats for a pleasant experience. Plus, with its rugged durability and reputation for longevity,the Land Cruiser continues to boast exceptional resale value. It’s a smart investment for those looking for a capable, boxy car that holds its value over time.
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2026 Land Rover Defender
Starting Price: $63,500
The2026 Land Rover Defender builds on its storied history with enough off-road chops to hang with Jeep Wranglers on OHV trails. It’s offered in two- and four-door body styles and three wheelbase lengths. You also get to pick from a range of engine options, from a 296-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder to a 626-horsepower twin-turbo V8 in the Octa flagship. There’s a Defender for everyone, whether you’re looking for a luxury grocery-getter or a weekend off-road adventurer.
It’s the off-road where theDefender shines,as it packs some serious off-road equipment: all-wheel drive, Terrain Response 2, and electronic differential torque vectoring. It balances this off-road utility with just enough tech to justify the price tag, including driver-assistance features, a Meridian surround system, and a 13.1-inch touchscreen with Land Rover’s Pivi Pro interface. It’s also one of the better-looking boxy cars out there, turning heads wherever it goes.
