Best Midsize SUVs of 2024 and 2025

The Edmunds experts test midsize SUV contenders on our test track and in the real world. Our ratings assess performance, comfort, technology, utility, value and more. How we rank

Best Midsize SUVs

For growing families or frequent road trippers, midsize SUVs make a lot of sense. They have a larger back seat and more cargo room than their smaller siblings.

1st
The top-ranked Honda Passport is one of the most versatile midsize SUVs in the market. It exudes athletic qualities but also delivers a comfortable ride, tons of passenger and cargo space, and a good list of standard features. Put this at the top of your list. Read full review

MSRP
$41,900 - $47,970
Combined MPG
21
2nd
The Subaru Outback offers excellent ground clearance and capable all-wheel drive. It's a go-anywhere vehicle with car-like driving qualities on paved roads, making it a more versatile choice than many SUV competitors. Read full review

MSRP
$28,395 - $42,295
Combined MPG
23 - 28
3rd
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is comfortable and relatively spacious and has class-leading towing and genuine off-road capability. Where it comes up short is value. It doesn't offer as much standard equipment as rivals and is priced well into luxury territory when you check all the boxes. Read full review

MSRP
$36,495 - $68,940
Combined MPG
22
4th
The Bronco is a highly-capable off-roader that makes minimal sacrifices to on-road drivability. From its character and design to its helpful drive modes and wide availability of its off-road package, the Bronco is a best-buy among its competition for most shoppers. Read full review

MSRP
$39,130 - $89,835
Combined MPG
15 - 20
5th
Toyota resurrects its Venza to once again compete in the midsize SUV segment. Offered solely as a hybrid, it's easily the most efficient choice in the segment, but it's also surprisingly quick. Toyota shot the moon with this one. Read full review

MSRP
$35,070 - $43,215
Combined MPG
39
6th
The Toyota 4Runner favors rough terrain — this truck-based SUV has all the hardware you need for off-road adventures. Other choices are more civilized for everyday use and offer superior technology features. Read full review

MSRP
$40,705 - $55,170
Combined MPG
17
7th
The Blazer isn't the off-road scrambler you may remember from years ago. Today's Blazer is better suited to on-road performance thanks to its sharp handling and comfortable ride. Its small cargo capacity limits its utility, but advanced tech broadens its appeal. Read full review

MSRP
$35,400 - $45,700
Combined MPG
21 - 25
8th
The Nissan Murano is a family-oriented SUV with excellent seats and nice materials, making it a comfortable people mover. Poor visibility, dated-feeling technology, and some quirks in the powertrain keep it from being a top pick. Read full review

MSRP
$38,190 - $47,900
Combined MPG
23

Best Midsize 3-row SUVs

Midsize three-row SUVs provide lots of utility at a reasonable price. Expect advanced safety features, too, along with capable acceleration when you need it.

1st
The Kia Telluride is our top pick for a midsize three-row SUV. Its upscale cabin is quiet, comfortable and thoughtfully designed. It comes packed with standard features and tech, and it even has adult-friendly third-row seating. For the money, there are few more appealing ways to move seven or eight people. Read full review

MSRP
$35,990 - $53,185
Combined MPG
20 - 22
2nd
The Hyundai Palisade is putting its competition on notice. Packed with value, comfort, and capability throughout its trim levels, the Palisade is a great pick for a three-row family SUV. Read full review

MSRP
$36,650 - $53,850
Combined MPG
21 - 22
3rd
The Grand Highlander is larger than a regular Highlander but also gets a number of tweaks that help make it one of our top recommendations for a midsize three-row SUV. It has one of most adult-friendly third rows you'll find and still scores high for fuel efficiency, comfort and technology. The Grand Highlander is, indeed, pretty grand. Read full review

MSRP
$43,320 - $53,795
Combined MPG
22 - 24
4th
The Mazda CX-90 is undeniably luxurious and outperforms just about everything else in its class with its sharp handling and quick acceleration. Though third-row space and cargo capacity are a bit lacking, the CX-90 is otherwise a highly recommended pick for a three-row SUV. Read full review

MSRP
$37,845 - $57,450
Combined MPG
25
5th
The Volkswagen Atlas is an appealing pick thanks to a roomy cabin that provides comfortable, adult-size seating in all three rows. The cargo area is massive too. Read full review

MSRP
$37,995 - $52,890
Combined MPG
20 - 23
6th
The latest Honda Pilot is comfortable and plenty spacious for its front and middle-row passengers. But it lags behind class leaders in third-row room and cargo space, and its tech is a half-step behind the curve. Some competitors deliver more bang for your buck. Read full review

MSRP
$37,090 - $52,480
Combined MPG
20 - 22
7th
The Toyota Highlander gets high marks for its superb comfort, responsive acceleration, and above-average fuel economy. But if third-row-seat space is important to you, the Highlander's accommodations can't compete with the top SUVs in this segment. Read full review

MSRP
$39,270 - $51,675
Combined MPG
24 - 25
8th
The Mazda CX-9 is one of the best, and best-looking, three-row crossovers on the road. It's a pleasure to drive and offers a loaded feature list and an upscale interior. Notably, there's less cargo and third-row space than you'll find in some competitors. Read full review

MSRP
$38,750 - $48,460
Combined MPG
23
9th
The Enclave is a close cousin of the Chevrolet Traverse but slightly dressed up. It's a well-rounded three-row SUV with excellent interior space. But it doesn't strike us as a vehicle people aspire to own, especially not at the asking price. Read full review

MSRP
$43,900 - $59,500
Combined MPG
20 - 21
10th
The Ford Explorer has uncommonly good balance and poise. It's not the roomiest three-row SUV, but its standard infotainment and safety tech offerings are competitive, and the available engines are strong. The Explorer is mainly held back by subpar interior material quality and high pricing. Read full review

MSRP
$36,860 - $56,770
Combined MPG
20 - 24
11th
The Nissan Pathfinder is spacious and pleasant to drive and packed with in-car tech and driver aids, too. The Pathfinder may not be the most exciting choice, but it is great for hauling people and cargo in relative comfort. Read full review

MSRP
$36,080 - $50,950
Combined MPG
21 - 23
12th
As a three-row SUV, the Toyota 4Runner struggles due to its cramped third row seat. But if you need that extra measure of versatility, you could do worse than a three-row 'Runner. Read full review

MSRP
$40,705 - $55,170
Combined MPG
17
13th
The Dodge Durango does things a little differently, carrying on with an aging but proven formula. Excellent towing capacity, available V8 power and a roomy interior are bundled up with healthy helping of attitude. Read full review

MSRP
$41,670 - $107,200
Combined MPG
13 - 21
14th
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L supplies generous room for passengers and outmatches competitors with its off-road and towing capabilities. But it's also less comfortable than some of its rivals. Read full review

MSRP
$41,535 - $70,940
Combined MPG
21

Best Midsize luxury SUVs

Midsize luxury SUVs generally provide stout performance, the latest in luxury options and lots of space. Also included here is a new sub-class of SUV "coupes," which sacrifice practicality for style.

1st
The Mercedes GLE is one of the best luxury SUVs on sale today. It brings the heat with a top-notch interior, exceptional build quality, helpful technology features and a diverse lineup of engines. Read full review

MSRP
$62,650 - $127,700
Combined MPG
16 - 23
2nd
The Cayenne is an athlete among luxury SUVs, and its comprehensive lineup ranges from a green-cred plug-in hybrid to a sports-car-beating all-star with a turbo V8. It's an intriguing choice for shoppers whose life circumstances preclude a 911. Read full review

MSRP
$79,200 - $146,900
Combined MPG
17 - 19
3rd
The GV80 offers bucket loads of amenities, enviable ride comfort, and striking design at a price that undercuts the stalwarts from Germany. Read full review

MSRP
$57,700 - $81,750
Combined MPG
20 - 22
4th
If you find the current crop of luxury crossovers overly subdued, the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe might be the cure. Its fastback profile stands out on the road, and its rapid acceleration will knock your lederhosen off. However, its sleek bodywork reduces passenger and cargo space. Read full review

MSRP
$89,800 - $129,050
Combined MPG
16 - 20
5th
The Audi Q8 features muscular styling, solid interior build quality and pleasing handling and performance. Only a few compromises in terms of practicality and ease-of-use keep it from being the overall favorite in the class. Read full review

MSRP
$72,800 - $83,100
Combined MPG
20
6th
The Lexus RX continues the brand's tradition of expertly built, quiet and comfortable luxury vehicles. With a relatively low starting price and a long list of standard features, the RX represents solid value in the segment but lacks the performance and cargo capacity of some rivals. Read full review

MSRP
$48,600 - $69,230
Combined MPG
24 - 36
7th
The Land Rover Defender packs legitimate off-road capability, provided you pick the right options, and makes no sacrifice in on-road comfort. It's an admirable accomplishment. Overall, we're impressed with this modern interpretation of a classic nameplate. Read full review

MSRP
$56,400 - $118,600
Combined MPG
16 - 20
8th
The Cayenne Coupe has a sportier roofline but has less cargo space and worse visibility compared to a regular Cayenne. All other Cayenne hallmarks remain, however. It's fast, comfortable and well built. Read full review

MSRP
$84,300 - $196,300
Combined MPG
17 - 19
9th
The Range Rover Sport drives a lot like the larger Range Rover. It's available with lots of in-car tech and has more off-road capability than most other SUVs on the road. Unfortunately, the Sport suffers from a lackluster driving experience and a high price tag. Read full review

MSRP
$83,600 - $199,450
Combined MPG
18 - 21
10th
The XT5 is a comfortable, smooth-driving SUV with accessible technology features and a sizable cargo area. However, some odd design choices impinge on usability, cabin space and outward visibility. Read full review

MSRP
$43,895 - $56,795
Combined MPG
21 - 24
11th
The Maserati Levante boasts pedigree, exclusivity and vibrant engine offerings. A spacious passenger area and modern technology help make it a viable class competitor. Limited cargo space and some subpar materials hold it back. Read full review

Best Midsize 3-row luxury SUVs

Midsize luxury three-row SUVs typically offer seating for seven, or six if you spring for second-row captain's chairs.

1st
The Audi Q7's combination of performance, comfort, high technology and value is hard to beat. With an impeccably built interior and sharp reflexes on the road, the Q7 is rewarding to both drivers and passengers. It could stand a bit more cargo and third-row passenger space, though. Read full review

MSRP
$59,500 - $73,300
Combined MPG
21
2nd
The Acura MDX is a pragmatic choice, with a standard third-row seat and generous feature content at an attractive price. There are more luxurious and sportier options, but the MDX does just about everything well. Read full review

MSRP
$50,150 - $73,800
Combined MPG
19 - 22
3rd
The new Aviator could be a prime pick for a three-row luxury SUV. Its distinctive styling, upscale interior and available hybrid model are big improvements compared to Lincoln SUVs of the recent past. Read full review

MSRP
$53,340 - $80,725
Combined MPG
20 - 21
4th
The Land Rover Discovery stands out with its luxurious interior and above-average off-road performance. A difficult-to-access third-row seat and bus-like driving position are the Disco's main drawbacks. Read full review

MSRP
$59,900 - $79,300
Combined MPG
19 - 21
5th
An upscale sibling to the Nissan Pathfinder, the QX60 is a comfortable and quiet people mover. It lags behind competitors in terms of technology, though, and there's none of Infiniti's appreciation for performance to be found here. Read full review

MSRP
$49,650 - $66,100
Combined MPG
22 - 23
6th
The Cadillac XT6 is a sharp-looking midsize three-row SUV. Appealing tech features and a comfortable cabin impart good initial impressions, but its drivability is underwhelming, and it's a bit overpriced. Read full review

MSRP
$48,795 - $60,295
Combined MPG
21 - 23
7th
The Lexus GX 460 exudes solidity, but it's saddled with dated technology, a thirsty engine, limited cargo space and seats that are less comfortable than you'd expect. Also, the aggressive lower bodywork impedes the GX's otherwise standout off-road capabilities by limiting ground clearance. Read full review

MSRP
$58,875 - $69,530
Combined MPG
16

Best Midsize performance SUVs

These steroidal SUVs boast incredible power and athleticism, yet they also deliver wagon-like practicality.

1st
The Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT is one of the best SUVs we've ever driven. Acceleration, braking and handling are all world-class, and the sport-tuned suspension doesn't punish you on the street. The interior is comfortable and reasonably spacious, and the Cayenne's tech and storage have been improved thanks to a mild interior refresh. Read full review

MSRP
$196,300
2nd
The Urus backs up its flamboyance with stunning performance and luxury. It merges an unabashedly Lamborghini driving experience with advanced, problem-free technology. Brash and fast, or quiet and refined, at the driver's whim, the Urus is the ultimate SUV. Read full review

MSRP
$229,268 - $260,676
Combined MPG
16
3rd
If you take Audi's already excellent midsize three-row SUV, the Q7, and inject it with a big dose of turbo V8, you'd end up with the Audi SQ7. It has sports car-beating acceleration with little compromise on comfort. It's almost too good to be real. Read full review

MSRP
$90,400 - $94,900
Combined MPG
17
4th
The SQ8 is a sporty spin on Audi's Q8 midsize SUV that packs a 500-horsepower V8 and too many performance upgrades to count. It's considerably more dynamic than the standard Q8 and nearly as comfortable. Read full review

MSRP
$96,600 - $103,600
Combined MPG
17
5th
The X5 M is a fast, capable and well-appointed performance SUV that might be a little too high-strung for its own good. It's not as smooth or comfortable as the standard X5, so this M model is best suited for those willing to compromise comfort for performance. Read full review

MSRP
$122,300
Combined MPG
15
6th
The Type S treatment doesn't turn the MDX into a superstar athlete, but it does make for an all-around nicer three-row Acura. A comfortable and spacious cabin and a generous list of standard equipment are highlights. But we think the regular MDX is a better value. Read full review

MSRP
$68,450 - $73,800
Combined MPG
19
7th
The GLE 63 S AMG Coupe is for the buyer who wants more of everything from their everyday drive. It's lush with power, looks like it wants to steal your lunch money, and has a wonderfully luxurious interior. That said, despite being both fast and technically capable, the GLE experience doesn't quite come together as cohesively as we'd expect for such a lofty as-tested price. Read full review

MSRP
$89,800 - $129,050
Combined MPG
16 - 20
8th
The DBX blends Aston Martin's distinctive styling with a spacious cabin, a decent amount of utility, and a powerful V8 engine. But in a growing field of super SUVs, the DBX doesn't break any new ground in performance, function, or technology. In other words, you'll have to really want an Aston Martin SUV to justify paying for one. Read full review

8th
Is there a big market for a 700-hp, three-row SUV with launch control? Probably not. But that doesn't make the Durango SRT Hellcat any less fun to drive. It's practical and comfortable to drive daily and yet somehow also capable of hitting 60 mph in under 4 seconds. Oh, and it can tow up to 8,700 pounds too. This is a muscle car, albeit a pricey one, with three rows of seating. Read full review

MSRP
$74,995
Combined MPG
15
10th
The Levante has a lot going for it, especially in its top-level Trofeo trim, number one being a Ferrari-derived twin-turbocharged V8. It sounds great, looks good and is fun to drive without being punishing around town. Read full review

Top Selling Midsize-suvses of
2023

Table view of data

Vehicles included in the data set are exclusively retail registrations to individuals and do not include rental sales or registrations from government bodies*

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    20232023
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    Best Midsize SUVs

    Not too long ago, SUVs came in one size: large. But skyrocketing demand has ushered in a new era with seemingly endless variations on the SUV theme. Today, midsize SUVs, as the name suggests, slot neatly between compact and full-size SUVs, providing what many would call the best of both worlds.

    Midsize SUVs typically offer more passenger and cargo space than compacts, without the land-yacht footprint of full-size vehicles. Many midsizers employ a V6 engine to provide extra power and torque, although turbocharged four-cylinder engines are increasingly common. Depending on the model and specification, midsize SUVs can serve multiple purposes, from off-road adventuring to high-style boulevard cruising.

    Whether you're inclined to the tree line or the valet line, we've rated the top midsize SUVs to match your lifestyle. Let our expert vehicle ratings and evaluations help you find the right fit.

    Choosing the Best Midsize SUV for you

    Midsize SUVs cover a broad spectrum of today's most popular vehicles. Some aren't much larger than what we'd call compact SUVs, while others hang around the fringes of the full-size SUV class. Furthermore, there's a midsize SUV for practically any budget, with prices ranging from the high $20,000s to $100,000 and beyond.

    Pricing is perhaps the most important consideration when buying a midsize SUV. From there, you can narrow your choices based on fuel economy, available seating rows, maximum cargo space and, if it matters to you, towing capacity. Maneuverability is another concern since some SUVs move like smaller cars while others feel like boats. Visibility is something to be mindful of when you're test-driving the vehicle, although backup cameras and parking sensors help mitigate low-speed anxiety in driveways and parking lots.

    Next steps for buying a Midsize SUV

    Midsize SUVs are among today's most popular cars for good reason. With seating for five to eight passengers, power liftgates and large cargo spaces, plus essential tech offerings (Bluetooth, USB connectivity, even Wi-Fi hotspots), midsize SUVs often strike the best balance for growing families on the go. By blending sedan comfort with the utility of a covered truck, midsize SUVs offer multidimensional benefits. When it's time to find your midsize SUV, let Edmunds guide you with detailed expert insights and easy one-stop pricing.