Best Midsize SUVs of 2024 and 2025
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Midsize SUVs are a popular choice for families, road-trippers and outdoor enthusiasts who want extra seating and more cargo room, without the bulk of a larger vehicle. Most midsize SUVs come with a third row of seating, either standard or optional, with different configurations to maximize space.
With many midsize models available among the best SUVs, we’ve narrowed the field down to those we think stand out. Our ratings are based on safety, comfort, technology, driving features, fuel efficiency and — most important — cost and value.
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Best Midsize SUVs
Although each of these midsize SUVs has its own strengths, all landed on our list based on overall scoring for multiple categories and characteristics.
#1 for midsize SUVs
5.0
NerdWallet rating
on TrueCar's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
182 @ 5800 hp
Horsepower
28
Combined MPG
All Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
32.6 cu ft
Cargo Capacity
5 passengers
Seating Capacity
3 / 36,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
182 @ 5800 hp
Horsepower
28
Combined MPG
🏆 Award winner: Vincentric Best Certified Pre-Owned Value in America.
🦺 Safety winner: IIHS Top Safety Pick.
Our verdict: The Subaru Outback is among the most fuel efficient midsize SUVs. It also stands out with a low starting MSRP and cost of ownership, when compared to other SUVs in its category. The Outback also earned a Consumer Reports “above average” designation for reliability.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$48,608. This is on the low end.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Great. (84/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
#2 for midsize SUVs
4.5
NerdWallet rating
on TrueCar's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
291 @ 6000 hp
Horsepower
22
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
21 cu ft
Cargo Capacity
8 passengers
Seating Capacity
5 / 60,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
291 @ 6000 hp
Horsepower
22
Combined MPG
🏆 Award winner: Kelley Blue Book Best Buy.
🦺 Safety winner: IIHS Top Safety Pick+.
Our verdict: The Kia Telluride is a family-friendly SUV that offers third-row seating and a large cargo area. Known for holding its value, it has received a top J.D. Power Resale Value Award. The Telluride also comes with Kia’s top drivetrain warranty of 10 years/100,000 miles. It does score lower for fuel efficiency.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$59,003. This is middle of the range.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Best. (92/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
#3 for midsize SUVs
4.5
NerdWallet rating
on TrueCar's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
291 @ 6000 hp
Horsepower
22
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
18 cu ft
Cargo Capacity
8 passengers
Seating Capacity
5 / 60,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
291 @ 6000 hp
Horsepower
22
Combined MPG
🏆 Award winner: Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value.
🦺 Safety winner: IIHS Top Safety Pick.
Our verdict: With third-row seating and a spacious cargo area, the Palisade is an excellent option for families. If family adventures include hauling, the Palisade has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. It’s also covered by Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile drivetrain warranty. It does score below average for fuel efficiency.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$60,844. This is middle of the range.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Great. (86/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
#4 for midsize SUVs
4.5
NerdWallet rating
on TrueCar's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
191 @ 6100 hp
Horsepower
26
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
12.6 cu ft
Cargo Capacity
7 passengers
Seating Capacity
5 / 60,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
191 @ 6100 hp
Horsepower
26
Combined MPG
🦺 Safety winner: IIHS Top Safety Pick.
Our verdict: The Kia Sorento has one of the lowest starting MSRPs in its category and above average fuel efficiency. It’s also covered by Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile drivetrain warranty. For families, it has third-row seating, but its cargo area is slightly smaller than other midsize SUVs.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$59,081. This is middle of the range.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Great. (88/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
#5 for midsize SUVs
4.0
NerdWallet rating
on TrueCar's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
277 @ 5800 hp
Horsepower
24
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
14.6 cu ft
Cargo Capacity
7 passengers
Seating Capacity
5 / 60,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
277 @ 5800 hp
Horsepower
24
Combined MPG
🦺 Safety winner: IIHS Top Safety Pick.
Our verdict: The Hyundai Santa FE has standard third-row seating that accommodates up to seven people. It also provides more head and leg room than similar SUVs. It comes with many advanced safety features, has a 10-year/100,000-mile drivetrain warranty and a strong resale value.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$59,850. This is middle of the range.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Best. (91/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
Other top midsize SUVs
Although these midsize SUVs didn’t make our "best" list, they are strong contenders. An SUV may have scored lower in one of our key areas of emphasis — cost, value, fuel efficiency and safety — but still be a good choice for your needs. (For example, if you don’t intend to sell a vehicle right away, resale value may not be an important factor for you.)
#6 for midsize SUVs
3.5
NerdWallet rating
on TrueCar's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
265 @ 6000 hp
Horsepower
25
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
16 cu ft
Cargo Capacity
8 passengers
Seating Capacity
3 / 36,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
265 @ 6000 hp
Horsepower
25
Combined MPG
🦺 Safety winner: IIHS Top Safety Pick.
Our verdict: The Toyota Highlander gets above average fuel economy and comes with Toyota’s standard Safety Sense features, such as driver monitoring, front collision mitigation and cross-traffic alert. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds, and three rows is standard for all trims, although third-row space is tight.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$61,766. This is middle of the range.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Best. (91/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
#7 for midsize SUVs
3.5
NerdWallet rating
on TrueCar's website
Gasoline/Mild Electric Hybrid
Engine Type
280 @ 5000 hp
Horsepower
25
Combined MPG
All Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
8 passengers
Seating Capacity
14.9 cu ft
Cargo Capacity
3 / 36,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline/Mild Electric Hybrid
Engine Type
280 @ 5000 hp
Horsepower
25
Combined MPG
🦺 Safety winner: IIHS Top Safety Pick+.
Our verdict: Among mid-size SUVs, the three-row Mazda CX-90 comes out on top for acceleration and handling. It’s a top choice for safety and comes with numerous advanced features, such as cross-traffic alert, blind spot monitor and adaptive cruise control. It also has above average fuel economy.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$62,649. This is on the high end.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Great. (83/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
#8 for midsize SUVs
3.5
NerdWallet rating
on TrueCar's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
284 @ 6400 hp
Horsepower
23
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
16.6 cu ft
Cargo Capacity
8 passengers
Seating Capacity
3 / 36,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
284 @ 6400 hp
Horsepower
23
Combined MPG
🦺 Safety winner: IIHS Top Safety Pick+.
Our verdict: This Nissan Pathfinder is a top pick for safety, with advanced safety features that include front and rear collision mitigation, driver monitoring and cross-traffic alert. Compared to our best SUV selections, the Pathfinder falls a little short for fuel economy and resale value.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$60,045. This is middle of the range.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Average. (79/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
#9 for midsize SUVs
3.5
NerdWallet rating
on TrueCar's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
265 @ 6000 hp
Horsepower
24
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
20.6 cu ft
Cargo Capacity
7 passengers
Seating Capacity
3 / 36,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
265 @ 6000 hp
Horsepower
24
Combined MPG
Our verdict: As the name implies, the Toyota Grand Highlander is a larger version of the Toyota Highlander. Both have three-row seating, but the Grand Highlander has more passenger and cargo space. The Grand Highlander also comes with a higher MSRP and cost of ownership. It does have above average fuel economy and scores well for safety.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$65,345. This is on the high end.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Average. (80/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
What to consider when buying a midsize SUV
When you’re shopping for a midsize SUV, here are some aspects to compare.
Passenger and cargo space. Midsize SUVs have to balance seating capacity (usually five to seven seats) with cargo room. One may have more area for hauling, while another offers greater passenger comfort. Look at flexibility — foldable seats, different seating configurations and extra storage, such as underfloor compartments.
Performance and fuel efficiency. Engine options range from fuel-efficient four-cylinders to more powerful V6 engines. You’ll also find turbocharged options that increase power without sacrificing fuel-efficiency. Compare fuel economy ratings, and if you plan to haul look at towing capacity, which can range from 1,500 to more than 6,000 pounds.
Ride comfort and handling. Suspension quality impacts ride smoothness — some models prioritize a comfortable ride, while others focus on sportier handling or off-roading. Take a test drive, and while you’re at it take note of noise level. Because of the way they’re built, some SUVs are quieter than others. Also, interior materials can range from cloth to premium leather, and some trims may offer heated or ventilated seats.
Safety and driver assistance features. SUVs commonly come with many standard safety features, so determine which safety features matter to you. Then ensure the vehicle you buy has them, either standard or optional. Also check safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Technology and entertainment. SUV drivers tend to use their vehicles for more than a quick trip to the store, so tech features — like infotainment systems, navigation, mobile connectivity, wireless charging and audio systems — can be important. Compare what is standard, what is optional (for a price) and whether you’ll have to pay for any type of an ongoing subscription.
Drivetrain and use. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard on most midsize SUVs, offering good traction for everyday driving. All-wheel drive (AWD) is beneficial for handling snow, rain and mild off-road conditions. If you plan to take your SUV on more rugged terrain, consider ground clearance and off-road capabilities.
Brand reputation. Some brands are known for better reliability and resale value, so check consumer reviews and dependability ratings. Also, compare warranty coverages.
Midsize SUV costs to consider
Before buying any SUV, take into account these ongoing costs and some ways to reduce them.
Beyond the MSRP or sticker price, think about long-term costs such as fuel, insurance and maintenance. Our SUV cost of ownership calculator can help.
If you’ll be financing, shop lenders and compare interest rates to find the best. An auto loan calculator can help you compare different loan offers to see your estimated monthly payment and total loan cost. If monthly payment is a concern, consider whether auto leasing might make sense for you.
Take time to get a preapproved auto loan, so you have an idea of the rate and maximum loan amount you can qualify for. Knowing your maximum loan amount gives you an SUV price range to target. Also, if you're buying from a car dealership, presenting a preapproved loan can give the dealer an interest rate to beat, possibly reducing your financing cost.
Look into auto deals and incentives from SUV manufacturers to reduce the amount you have to finance.
You can also use our SUV buying guide to right what's right for what you need.
How we rate and rank vehicles
Our car rankings are based on a thorough review of more than 3,400 makes and models, with upward of 500 data points for each, as well as inputs from respected third-party automotive resources. Within specific vehicle segments, we select 60 or more data points that matter most to buyers and owners of those vehicles. We then score the vehicle with the heaviest emphasis on helping you make a smart financial decision.
Review and rating process
NerdWallet’s overall car ratings are weighted averages in seven categories.
Cost and value includes metrics like starting MSRP, warranties, five-year cost of ownership and resale value.
Safety includes safety features and industry safety awards.
Fuel efficiency includes combined, city and highway mpg for gas vehicles and MPGe for electric vehicles.
Driving features and functionality combines data points such as horsepower and drivetrain options, along with cargo and towing capacity. Cars can also lose points in this category for the number of recalls.
Comfort and interior covers metrics related to head and leg room, seating and temperature control.
Tech and convenience includes things like smartphone integration, wireless phone charging and infotainment. We get that these are must-haves for some people, but our methodology focuses most on cost and value factors.
Awards includes industry awards from Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, Consumer Reports and Vincentric.
Subcategories within each of these categories vary slightly based on vehicle segments and what’s important to drivers in that group.
About outside-award winners
Consumer Reports and Kelley Blue Book each have a history of evaluating vehicles and delivering useful information to consumers. Their awards reflect well-rounded assessments and, we think, are worth noting.
About safety winners
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) is a nonprofit group with decades of experience performing crash tests and other safety evaluations on vehicles. Top performers are issued one or both of two designations: Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+. To earn a TSP+ rating, vehicles must meet additional criteria for a higher level of safety performance related to front and side crash tests, headlight performance and pedestrian front crash prevention.
About the five-year cost of ownership
Our five-year cost of ownership estimate is based on information from AAA and Vincentric and includes the categories of financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation. For comparison purposes, our cost of ownership estimate is based on the national average for a new, base-model vehicle driven 15,000 miles annually, with equal amounts of city and highway driving, and a gas price of 3.097 cents per gallon.
About resale value
We base resale value on J.D. Power's forecast of a vehicle’s depreciation over the next three years. J.D. Power uses their industry-leading valuations data for this assessment and ranks each vehicle on a 100-point scale: Best (91-100), Great (81-90), Average (70-80) and Fair (0-69).
Who we are
Our autos team is made up of writers and editors who cover a wide range of auto industry and financial topics. We have more than 30 years of combined experience in finance and autos. Each team member adheres to NerdWallet’s strict guidelines for editorial integrity.
Our writers’ bylines have appeared in Nasdaq, MSN, MarketWatch, Yahoo! Finance and other national and regional media outlets.
