2025 SUV Overhaul: Design, Technology, Performance, and Interior Upgrades — In-Depth Overview for US Buyers

The 2025 model year brings one of the most extensive SUV redesigns in recent years. This article examines the updates — exterior styling, interior comfort, powertrain choices, driving dynamics, and new technology — to help US buyers evaluate the changes.

A Bolder, More Sophisticated Exterior Look

With the 2025 update, the SUV adopts a refreshed and more upscale design that elevates its road presence. Key exterior enhancements include:

Prominent, Geometric Cascading Grille: The grille has been enlarged and styled with a unique pattern, creating a bold and premium impression influenced by European design cues.
Slim LED Headlights and Vertical DRLs: Modern, slim-profile headlights paired with vertical daytime running lights sharpen the vehicle’s front-end aesthetics while boosting visibility.
Refined Body Lines and Larger Wheels: Enhanced sculpted lines improve visual appeal, complemented by available wheels up to 20 inches—extending to 21 inches on the newest trims—allowing better stance and style.
Improved Aerodynamics: Achieving a drag coefficient near 0.31, which is notable in this vehicle segment, this contributes to fuel savings and a quieter cabin.

Combined, these exterior updates highlight a blend of ruggedness and luxury, designed with US consumers in mind.

Larger Dimensions for Enhanced Space and Comfort

This generation grows in size compared to its predecessor:

Extended Length and Wheelbase: The SUV’s overall body length is increased by about 2.5 inches, while the wheelbase is stretched nearly 2.7 inches, directly enhancing interior space.
Improved Rear Cabin Access: The longer rear section significantly improves third-row entry and exit, making it easier for adults to access comfortably.
Capacity for Eight Passengers: Seating is configured to accommodate up to eight occupants, with optional second-row captain’s chairs facilitating simpler access to the third row.
Ample Cargo Volume: Around 18 cubic feet of cargo space remain available behind the third row, which expands dramatically to approximately 86.4 cubic feet when rear seats are folded down.

These dimensional upgrades clearly emphasize practicality and comfort, vital for families or those needing versatile passenger and storage options.

Innovative Technology for Connectivity and Ease of Use

The 2025 SUV comes packed with leading-edge technology aimed at simplifying driver interaction and enhancing entertainment features:

Dual 12.3-inch Curved Displays: A panoramic curved digital instrument cluster pairs with a touchscreen infotainment system, providing intuitive access to driving and multimedia data.
Wireless Smartphone Compatibility: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow seamless smartphone connection without tangled cables.
Advanced Voice Recognition and OTA Updates: Natural language voice commands make operation easier, while over-the-air software updates keep the system updated without dealership visits.
Digital Key 2.0 for Keyless Entry: Compatible smartphones or smartwatches can lock, unlock, and start the vehicle, adding convenience and security.
In-Car Wi-Fi and Alexa Integration: Passengers benefit from continuous connectivity and voice-activated controls throughout the journey.
Passenger Talk Function: This system amplifies the driver’s voice to rear seats via the audio system, eliminating the need to raise one’s voice across the cabin.
Wireless Charging with Cooling Fans: Charging pads equipped with fans prevent devices from overheating during wireless charging.
Bose Premium Sound System: An available 14-speaker surround sound setup offers rich, immersive audio across all seating rows.

These technological features enhance both driving ease and passenger enjoyment, catering to contemporary connectivity demands.

Interior Comfort and Luxury Feature Enhancements

The interior receives numerous upgrades focused on comfort and convenience:

Relaxation-Focused Seating: New front and second-row seats offer greater recline and include deployable upper leg supports to reduce fatigue on long drives.
Heated and Ventilated Seats: Heating and ventilation are available for front and second-row seats to maintain comfort across diverse climates.
Power-Adjustable and One-Touch Sliding Second Row: The second row tilts and slides with one-touch controls for effortless third-row access, while third-row seats feature power folding, sliding, reclining, and heating to support adult comfort.
Premium Upholstery Options: Higher trims provide Nappa leather and elegant multi-tone interior themes inspired by high-end residential design.
Improved Storage and Accessibility: Redesigned center console and armrests enhance ergonomics, while hands-free smart liftgate detects the key fob for convenient cargo loading and unloading.

This interior design balances the practical needs of families while offering a refined and spacious cabin environment.

Powertrain Variety and Performance Enhancements

Multiple powertrain configurations address various preferences for power, efficiency, and towing ability:

Refined V6 Engine: A 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V6 produces approximately 287–291 horsepower and about 260–262 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission equipped with a two-chamber torque converter for smooth, responsive shifting.
All-New Turbocharged Hybrid: A 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four hybrid combines with electric motors to deliver an estimated 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. This setup achieves over 30 mpg highway fuel efficiency, with a targeted driving range near 619 miles on a full tank and charge.
Towing Capacity: The V6 configuration supports towing up to 5,000 pounds, whereas the hybrid version can tow up to 4,000 pounds, making both well-suited for outdoor and family activities.

These powertrain options merge conventional power with hybrid efficiency, giving buyers flexibility based on their performance and economy priorities.

Sophisticated All-Wheel Drive and Driving Modes for Enhanced Handling

The SUV’s sophisticated all-wheel-drive system features numerous driving modes for improved control:

HTRAC AWD System: Electronically managed torque distribution between front and rear axles enhances traction, handling, and stability on different terrains.
Tow Mode: Optimizes gear management and shift timing to improve towing confidence and safety.
Terrain-Specific Modes: New settings for Mud, Sand, and Snow help drivers confidently navigate challenging road and weather conditions.
Dynamic Drive Settings: Normal, Sport, and Smart modes allow customization of powertrain and handling responses to suit driver preferences or road conditions.

This versatile AWD system supports various driving environments, enhancing safety and control.

Extensive Safety Systems and Innovations

Safety remains paramount, featuring a broad suite of advanced driver assistance technologies:

Forward Collision-Avoidance with Junction Turning: Detects and helps prevent collisions at intersections involving vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and oncoming traffic.
Blind-Spot Collision Warning and Safe Exit Assist: Warns drivers about unseen vehicles and alerts occupants if exiting could be unsafe.
Highway Driving Assist 2.0 and Lane Following: Maintains safe highway speeds and lane positioning using navigation data and traffic sensors.
Rear Cross-Traffic and Parking Collision Avoidance: Monitors side traffic and rear obstacles during reversing maneuvers.
Remote Smart Parking Assist: Enables remote parking or retrieval via key fob commands.
Dual-Camera Dash Cam: Continuously records during driving and parking to capture incidents or threats.
Rear Occupant Alert with Smartphone Notifications: Alerts the driver if movement is detected in rear seats after exiting to prevent forgetting passengers.
360-Degree Camera and Digital Rearview Mirror: Offers a full surround view and an unobstructed rearward vision.

These comprehensive active and passive safety systems enhance occupant protection and assist accident avoidance.

Conclusion

The 2025 SUV redesign in the US introduces significant advancements across styling, technology, powertrain options, comfort, and safety features. Whether a buyer is focused on connectivity, premium interiors, hybrid efficiency, or cutting-edge safety, this model aims to meet diverse needs while improving real-world usability for modern families. Having a detailed understanding of these enhancements enables buyers and enthusiasts to approach the evolving SUV market with confidence.

Disclaimer: Prices and availability for the 2025/2026 SUV model vary by location and dealer. Features and specifications are subject to change without notice. Consumers should verify current details with local dealerships and conduct research before making purchase decisions.