SUV Crossover Design Aesthetics of the past Five Years -- Elements of Design and an Evaluation of the "Best" Among Chief Competitors

 

Most striking SUV/crossover design aesthetics (roughly 2021–2026 models)

Hyundai Ioniq 5 (2022–present)

The most distinctive “retro-future” look in the segment: sharp origami-like creases, pixel lighting, and a squared-off hatchback/SUV hybrid profile that reads like an 80s concept car made real. It stands out because it’s coherent from the smallest details (lights) to the overall silhouette.

Kia EV6 (2022–present)

More “athletic coupe-crossover” than upright SUV: long wheelbase, low roofline, aggressive stance, and a dramatic rear light bar. Its design is striking because it looks fast even parked, without needing huge grilles or busy surfacing.

Hyundai Santa Fe (redesign, 2024–present)

A bold pivot to boxy and architectural: upright greenhouse, flat surfaces, and the controversial “H” motif lighting. It’s striking because it rejects the curvy, generic crossover template and aims for a modern utilitarian vibe.

Kia Telluride (2021–present, incl. refresh)

Not flashy, but “commanding”: squared proportions, clean lines, and a premium, confident face. Striking in a different way—because it looks expensive and composed without gimmicks, which is rare in mainstream three-row SUVs.

Land Rover Defender (2021–present)

A modern icon: utilitarian massing, high shoulders, alpine windows, and exposed-feeling details that signal capability. It’s striking because it balances nostalgia with crisp modern execution; it looks purpose-built rather than styled.

Ford Bronco (2021–present)

The clearest retro design success of the last few years: circular headlamps, flat body sides, removable elements, and a “tool-like” aesthetic. It’s striking because it communicates function and identity instantly—very few vehicles do that now.

Rivian R1S (2022–present)

Minimalist but unmistakable: the oval “stadium” headlights and full-width light bar are instantly recognizable, and the body reads clean and friendly rather than aggressive. Striking because it built a new brand identity without copying legacy cues.

BMW iX (2022–present)

Polarizing by design: oversized grille treatment, unusual proportions, and sculptural surfacing. It’s striking because it’s intentionally disruptive—people notice it immediately, for better or worse.

Genesis GV70 (2021–present)

A “scaled luxury” look: quad light signatures, elegant surfacing, and a strong crest grille. Striking because it looks genuinely upscale and tailored compared with many similarly priced competitors.

Toyota Crown Signia (2025–present)

A wagon-like crossover silhouette with a sleek, understated premium vibe. Striking because it leans into a long-roof, road-focused aesthetic instead of the usual tall, rugged cues.

My “best looking” SUV/crossover picks from roughly the last 5 years (about 2021–2026) prioritize clean proportions, distinctive lighting/signatures, and designs that will age well.

Mainstream

• Rivian R1S — minimalist, instantly recognizable lighting, friendly-but-purposeful stance.
• Hyundai Ioniq 5 — retro-futurist shape that’s cohesive and bold without looking faddish.
• Kia EV6 — sleek, athletic proportions; looks genuinely fast for a crossover.
• Mazda CX-50 — rugged-but-refined; great surfacing and stance without visual clutter.
• Kia Telluride (incl. refresh) — squared, premium presence; very well resolved.

Luxury

• Genesis GV70 — arguably the prettiest “compact luxury crossover” shape; elegant details.
• Range Rover (2022–present) — modern, reductive luxury; very clean and confident.
• Land Rover Defender — iconic utilitarian design executed in a modern way.
• Porsche Macan (late ICE years) / Macan EV (if you include newest) — taut proportions and restraint that read expensive.
• Volvo XC60 / XC90 (recent years/refreshes) — calm Scandinavian design that ages extremely well.