Best Midzise SUVs Reviews & Ratings

Midsize SUVs are typically characterized by the ability to accommodate at least five passengers comfortably and even more with an optional third row while still having adequate cargo space. However, this third row tends to be limited in capacity and is usually better suited for smaller adults or children. Although their fuel economy and handling are better than that of large SUVs, midsize SUVs do not handle as well as a passenger sedan or station wagon. Whereas the initial SUVs on the market were truck-like with a body-on-frame construction, most midsize SUVs are now based on the crossover model with a unibody passenger car architecture. As such, they are more comfortable than truck-like SUVs, being lighter in weight with softer suspensions. The towing capacity of a midsize SUV, however, is typically limited to 3,500 pounds. Midsize SUVs which are crossovers are usually front-wheel drive vehicles with all-wheel or four-wheel drive as an option. They are also usually not designed for heavy duty off-roading.

One of the best medium SUVs is the Honda Pilot. It accommodates eight passengers comfortably with 18 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and 87 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down. As a front-wheel drive vehicle like typical midsize SUVs, its fuel economy is average for its class, rated at 17 mpg in the city, 23 mpg on the highway and 19 mpg combined. Its V6 engine can shut down half its cylinders to increase fuel economy.

Another of the best medium SUVs is the Hyundai Santa Fe. It seats five passengers comfortably and does not offer an optional third row. Its fuel economy is rated better than other vehicles in its class and cargo capacity can expand to 78 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down. The Santa Fe provides a cabin with high-quality materials and upscale features that not only facilitate driving but make for a superbly safe vehicle.

The Mazda CX-7 is a midsize SUV that is sportier and more stylish than other medium SUVs and accommodates five passengers. Its cargo capacity is less than that of the typical midsize SUV but its fuel economy is better at 20 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway and 23 mpg combined. A four cylinder engine is responsive and handles the road well.

The Acura MDX is another medium SUV that also offers sporty performance and handling due to its crossover build and powerful V6 engine. It seats seven comfortably and has a fuel economy of 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway, about average for a midsize SUV. Unlike others in its class, all-wheel drive is standard.

Another in the line of best midsize SUVs is the BMW X5. Available in four versions, all of which come standard with all-wheel drive, the BMW X5 is a powerful vehicle that drives nimbly and handles the road well like others in its class. Its fuel economy is comparable with ratings of 15 mpg in the city, 21 mpg on the highway and 18 mpg combined. Standard seating is for five.

The Toyota Highlander is another midsize SUV that can seat up to seven passengers, with front-wheel drive as standard like most midsize SUVs and a fuel economy that is comparable to others in its class, delivering 20 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway and 22 mpg combined. Antilock brakes, stability and traction control and front, front-side and curtain airbags are standard safety features that are included as with other vehicles in its class.

The Volvo XC60 is a five-passenger midsize SUV that drives well on the road with a comfortable ride and tight handling, characteristic of vehicles of this class. Also like vehicles of its class, it has proven to lack stability and agility when off-roading. Front-wheel drive is standard, like other midsize SUVs and fuel economy is also comparable with 18 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway and 21 mpg combined.

Another medium SUV is the Nissan Xterra, available with two-wheel drive or a part-time four-wheel drive that is specifically designed for off-road use or hazardous road conditions. Yet, like others in its class, every day driving on pavement in an urban environment is comfortable and responsive. Cargo capacity is slightly less than other vehicles in its class, providing 66 cubic feet of space when the rear seat is down.

The Lexus RX 350 is a highly recommended midsize SUV that is safe and reliable and comfortable for daily driving with a tweaked suspension that makes it more nimble than previous models. Like other vehicles in its class, the interior is spacious and plush with a maximum cargo capacity of 80 cubic feet. Front-wheel drive is standard and fuel economy is similar to that of others in its class rated at 18 mpg in the city, 25 mpg on the highway and 21 mpg combined.

Another medium SUV is the Kia Sorrento which can accommodate up to seven passengers with an optional third row seat. Like other midsize SUVs in its class, it has a unibody, carlike construction and is a comfortable, family-friendly vehicle. Cargo capacity is rated at 72.5 cubic feet with all the rear seats folded down and front-wheel drive is standard.