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Best Midsize SUVs in 2024

2024 Kia Telluride
Kia Telluride / Credit: Kia

Midsize SUVs are the sweet spot for many shoppers, especially those with families. Midsize SUVs offer more interior space, higher towing capacities, and stronger powertrains than small SUVs — usually with over 200 horsepower. Most midsize SUVs are also available with three rows of seats, though the list below includes two-row midsize SUVs. (Read our Best Three-Row SUVs rankings to see only three-row SUVs.) Looking for a luxury midsize SUV? We rank them separately.

Some vehicles on this list may be from a previous model year, but they are still available as new models. Sometimes automakers are slow to update specs and pricing. Other times they may be redesigning a model or have excess inventory.

How We Ranked These Midsize SUVs


1. 2024 Kia Telluride

2023 Kia Telluride
2024 Kia Telluride / Credit: Kia
  • Price: $35,990
  • Third Row: Standard
  • Fuel Economy: 21-23 mpg*
  • What We Like: Upscale, large interior, strong engine, good price
  • What We Don’t: Fuel economy could be better

The Telluride is a midsize SUV with three rows of spacious seating, a powerful V6 engine, and a list of standard comfort and safety features that shames many rivals. Kia made the Telluride more appealing for 2023 with a modest exterior makeover, additional tech features, and two new off-road-oriented trims: X-Line and X-Pro. The Telluride remains unchanged for 2024.

The Telluride shares its platform and engine with the Hyundai Palisade, which was also refreshed for the 2023 model year. In addition to the new off-road trims, all Tellurides have redesigned headlights, a new grille, a new front bumper, and some new wheel designs. 

Additional changes include a new 12.3-inch infotainment screen with navigation, an optional digital key, and a larger 10-inch head-up instrument display. An available dual-screen display adds a 12.3-inch gauge display positioned flush with that 12.3-inch touchscreen. 

Shopping for a Used Telluride?

On sale for three years before its mid-cycle freshening, the Telluride has been a sales hit for Kia. Finding one on the used market could take patience; this SUV — both new and used — remains one of the hottest commodities among midsize three-row SUVs. Because it’s mechanically identical to the Telluride, your used SUV shopping list should include the Hyundai Palisade.


2. 2024 Hyundai Palisade

2023 Hyundai Palisade
2024 Hyundai Palisade / Credit: Hyundai
  • Price: $36,400
  • Third Row: Standard
  • Fuel Economy: 21-22 mpg*
  • What We Like: Premium cabin, good price
  • What We Don’t: So-so fuel economy

The Palisade is a midsize SUV for drivers seeking spacious, relatively affordable transportation. It has three rows and seats eight people with the standard second-row bench, or seven with optional second-row captain’s chairs. Hyundai has added a new Calligraphy Night Edition with standard all-wheel drive to its 2024 lineup.

All Palisade SUVs have a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available if you need improved traction in rain, ice, and snow. 

Some midsize SUVs have cramped third rows, but that’s not the case with the Palisade. This SUV features spacious accommodations, with enough room in the rear row to comfortably seat adults on longer trips. This SUV also has an upscale cabin that belies its modest price; it’s easily one of the most premium interiors in the class, making the Palisade a good choice if you want an upmarket space for your passengers. This Hyundai also boasts many standard features, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen, blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and a drowsy-driver monitor. 

Shopping for a Used Palisade?

The Palisade is still in its first generation, introduced with the 2020 model. Any older first-generation model will be broadly similar to the Palisade pictured above, and you can save money by purchasing one of these used SUVs. 


3. 2024 Honda Pilot

2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport
2024 Honda Pilot / Credit: Honda
  • Price: $37,090
  • Third Row: Standard
  • Fuel Economy: 20-22 mpg*
  • What We Like: Spacious, great Carfax user reviews, good reliability history
  • What We Don’t: Unimpressive mpg, pricey

Honda introduced significant redos and complete redesigns of its most popular SUVs for 2023 that remain unchanged for 2024. That includes the three-row Pilot, a midsize SUV known for its plush ride and user-friendly cabin. The Pilot has a tougher look thanks to a boxier shape and blunter front end.

A 285-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine and 10-speed automatic are available with FWD or AWD. There’s room for up to eight people with the standard second-row bench seat, and the lineup of standard advanced driver-assist systems (ADAS) includes blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The outdoorsy crowd could be won over by the Pilot’s TrailSport trim, which includes 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, plus a revised AWD system for enhanced go-anywhere capability. 

Shopping for a Used Pilot?

The 2023 Pilot was all-new and it’s unchanged for 2024. The model’s last generation, its third, ran from 2016-2022 and had a less tough exterior but similar power. The Pilot launched for 2003, so plenty of used models are available.


4. 2024 Toyota Highlander

2022 Toyota Highlander
2024 Toyota Highlander / Credit: Toyota
  • Price: $39,120
  • Third Row: Standard
  • Fuel Economy: 24-36 mpg*
  • What We Like: Great safety scores, excellent reputation for reliability, good mpg, available hybrid version
  • What We Don’t: Not much

The Highlander has a luxurious interior – so much so that it would almost feel at home wearing a Lexus badge. It boasts a quiet ride, a reputation for outstanding reliability, and impressive fuel economy, especially if you opt for the available hybrid powertrain. The Highlander also has roomy seating in the first two rows, but its third row isn’t as spacious as its rivals.

This midsize Toyota SUV’s 265-horsepower 4-cylinder engine delivers ample power for all driving situations. The Highlander also comes standard with straightforward tech features and a host of ADAS.

Shopping for a Used Highlander?

The Highlander has been on the market for many years, but the current generation only dates back to the 2020 model year. The previous generation (2014-2019) also offered a comfortable ride, a high-end cabin, and a strong lineup of driver-assist systems.


5. 2024 Mazda CX-90

2024 Mazda CX-90
2024 Mazda CX-90 / Credit: Mazda
  • Price: $39,595
  • Third Row: Standard
  • Fuel Economy: 25 mpg*
  • What We Like: Enjoyable handling, standard AWD, upmarket cabin
  • What We Don’t: Less cargo room than rivals, small third row

The three-row CX-90 impresses with its upmarket cabin. The interior is stylish, with high-quality materials and a handsome design. This SUV also treats drivers to engaging handling, with an ideal balance of comfort and sportiness. It’s an excellent partner in many driving situations.

Mazda sells this SUV with a choice of three powertrains: a 280-horsepower turbocharged inline-6-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, a 340-horsepower inline-6 with a mild-hybrid system, and a 4-cylinder plug-in hybrid that makes 323 horsepower. All models have an 8-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels.

There are some deficits to consider: Cargo space is below average for the class, and the CX-90 has a tight third row that isn’t comfortable for taller passengers.

Shopping for a Used CX-90?

The CX-90 is new for 2024, so few older versions of this SUV are available. It replaced the CX-9. Used CX-9 models are easier to find on the used market.


6. 2023 Chevrolet Traverse

2023 Chevrolet Traverse / Credit: Chevrolet
  • Price: $34,520
  • Third Row: Standard
  • Fuel Economy: 20-21 mpg*
  • What We Like: Huge cargo area, simple design, below-average price
  • What We Don’t: So-so mpg, lacks tech of top midsize SUVs

The Traverse offers a simple, expansive interior, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a host of tech features, including wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Its cabin design and materials aren’t as fancy as other midsize SUVs’, but there’s plenty of room for passengers and cargo.

The Traverse features a strong 310-horsepower V6 engine that provides brisk acceleration, though its fuel economy could be better. This Chevy’s suspension does a great job of delivering a smooth ride, even on rough road surfaces.

Shopping for a Used Traverse?

The current iteration of the Traverse arrived for the 2018 model year. A turbo-4 was dropped from the engine lineup for 2020, but the 310-horsepower V6 returns nearly identical fuel economy. The 2022 model year brought refreshed exterior styling, updated technology features, and more standard driver-assist features.


7. 2024 Ford Explorer

2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch
2024 Ford Explorer / Credit: Ford
  • Price: $36,760
  • Third Row: Standard
  • Fuel Economy: 20-24 mpg*
  • What We Like: Good mpg, great safety scores, 300-hp base engine, available 400-hp twin-turbo V6, 5,600-lb. towing capacity, large cargo area
  • What We Don’t: Below-average Carfax user reviews

The Explorer offers three rows of seats and good cargo space. Its smooth ride and agile handling give the latest Explorer a significant edge over the model it replaced. When properly equipped, the Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds, much more than many rivals.

Inside, the Explorer’s quality lags behind its competitors. However, this SUV gets high marks for safety and comes equipped with a nice array of tech features.

Shopping for a Used Explorer?

The Explorer was completely redesigned for 2020. While the previous generation represents good value, you’ll have to jump to the highest trim levels to get many of the features found in the base and mid-range trims of the latest Explorer. The hybrid option was discontinued for 2024.


8. 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee / Credit: Stellantis
  • Price: $36,495
  • Third Row: Available in Grand Cherokee L
  • Fuel Economy: 17-21 mpg*
  • What We Like: Comfortable on- and off-road, nice interior, 7,200-lb. towing capacity, 293-hp base engine, available 357-hp V8, plug-in hybrid option
  • What We Don’t: High price, poor gas mileage

An off-road champ that’s also a comfortable family hauler, the Grand Cherokee is a unique entry in the midsize SUV segment. It’s also expensive and doesn’t exactly sip fuel — though Jeep added a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) to the lineup as part of this SUV’s 2022 redesign.

Sticking with the Grand Cherokee’s standard 293-horsepower V6 engine will save you money, but you can opt for a throaty, potent 357-horsepower V8. With this engine, the Grand Cherokee can tow up to 7,200 pounds. While this SUV isn’t as cargo-friendly as competing models, it offers a nice interior, a first-rate infotainment system, and comfortable seats. For three rows of seating, look for a Grand Cherokee L.

Shopping for a Used Grand Cherokee?

Jeep fully redesigned the Grand Cherokee for the 2022 model year, so used models from the current generation are scarce. If you like the 2021 model, consider a used version starting with the 2017 model year. The three-row Grand Cherokee L was brand-new for 2021.


9. 2024 Subaru Outback

2023 Subaru Outback
2024 Subaru Outback / Credit: Subaru
  • Price: $28,895
  • Third Row: Not available
  • Fuel Economy: 23-28 mpg*
  • What We Like: Low base price, great cargo space, high safety scores, standard AWD, great mpg, comfortable on- and off-road, nice interior
  • What We Don’t: Base engine only has 182 hp

The same, but different. That’s the best way to summarize the updated Outback, a roomy wagon with standard AWD and a raised suspension. Starting at around $28,000, this updated Outback features new front and rear styling, a reshuffling of options, updated driver-assist features, and wireless smartphone connectivity with an optional 11.6-inch infotainment screen.

By and large, however, the Outback’s basic formula remains the same. This includes standard AWD and an entry-level 182-horsepower 4-cylinder engine paired with a CVT. Higher trims get a 260-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder. A large cargo area measuring over 32 cubic feet makes this Subaru a great road trip companion.

Shopping for a Used Outback?

The Outback is in its sixth generation, introduced with the 2020 model. Any older sixth-generation model (2020-2022) will be broadly similar to the 2024 Outback, although Subaru did give the Outback a styling update for 2023, along with the feature changes noted above.


10. 2024 Jeep Wrangler

2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon X 4xe
2024 Jeep Wrangler / Credit: Jeep
  • Price: $32,095
  • Third Row: Not available
  • Fuel Economy: 14-21 mpg*
  • What We Like: Iconic off-roader, convertible top, five engine options, plug-in hybrid option, endless opportunities for customization, good starting price, fun, reliable
  • What We Don’t: Impractical, poor mpg, so-so crash-test scores, not as comfortable as rivals

The Wrangler is an icon thanks to its incredible off-road prowess, convertible top, and seemingly limitless customization options. It has a relatively low starting price, and it’s a blast to drive and ride in. The 4-door Wrangler Unlimited is the way to go if you regularly carry more than one passenger. The Unlimited has plenty of legroom and good cargo capacity. The Wrangler offers several powertrain options, with horsepower ranging from 270 to 470. If you prioritize fuel economy, the Wrangler 4xe PHEV is worth considering.

If you’re looking for something comfortable and refined, it’s not for you. The Wrangler isn’t as practical as other midsize two-row SUVs; it returns poor gas mileage, its ride is rough, and its crash-test ratings are mediocre.

Shopping for a Used Wrangler?

While the Wrangler’s styling has remained relatively consistent for decades, the current generation dates back to 2018. Since then, the Wrangler has gained more safety features and an available turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Jeep added the 4xe PHEV to the lineup partway through the 2021 model year. For 2024, Jeep updated the Wrangler’s grille and infotainment system.


11. 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy
2024 Hyundai Santa Fe / Credit: Hyundai
  • Price: $33,950
  • Third Row: Standard
  • Fuel Economy: 22-24 mpg*
  • What We Like: Less expensive than many 3-row competitors
  • What We Don’t: Not as spacious as many 3-row competitors, not as rugged as it looks

The Hyundai Santa Fe’s bold styling is the first thing many buyers will notice. Its blocky exterior and interior bring to mind the Land Rover Defender, at about half the cost. In fact, it costs less than most other 3-row midsize SUVs. Don’t let its rugged looks fool you, though – it’s no trail runner. Underneath its squared-jawed mug are the bones of a midsize sedan. The boxiness doesn’t yield much extra interior space, either; the Santa Fe is not as roomy as the Kia Telluride or Hyundai Palisade.

The interior is anchored by dual 12.3-inch screens, yet Hyundai has graciously kept physical buttons and knobs for things like the temperature and volume controls. Trims include the base SE, midtier SEL, adventurous XRT and upscale Limited and Calligraphy.

Shopping for a Used Santa Fe?

The Santa Fe varies widely depending on which model year you choose. The newest version, which debuted in 2024, is a boxy, adventure-oriented 3-row SUV. The previous version, made from 2019 to 2023, was a sleek 2-row crossover. The version before that, made from 2013 to 2020, was available in 2- and 3-row versions called the Santa Fe Sport and Santa Fe XL, respectively.


12. 2024 Subaru Ascent

2023 Subaru Ascent
2024 Subaru Ascent / Credit: Subaru
  • Price: $34,195
  • Third Row: Standard
  • Fuel Economy: 21-22 mpg*
  • What We Like: Great safety scores, good price with AWD, large cargo area
  • What We Don’t: Less power than some competitors

All Ascent SUVs are powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower. Subaru matches this engine with a continuously variable automatic transmission. Standard all-wheel drive (AWD) provides improved traction on slippery roads, making the Ascent a great choice if you frequently drive in rain or snow. This Subie’s roomy cabin is impressive, with lots of space in the first two rows and a third row that’s comfortable for adults on short trips.

The Ascent also impresses with lots of appealing standard equipment, including satellite radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Ascent can pull up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Still, this SUV doesn’t impress in all areas. Handling is bland, and a fair amount of engine and tire noise reaches the cabin. Other SUVs in this class deliver a more serene driving experience.

Shopping for a Used Ascent?

The Ascent introduced a refreshed design for 2023 that remains unchanged for 2024. It hasn’t had a full redesign since it debuted for 2019.


13. 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander

2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander / Credit: Toyota
  • Price: $43,070
  • Third Row: Standard
  • Fuel Economy: 22-36 mpg*
  • What We Like: Everything we like about the Highlander, plus more space and power
  • What We Don’t: Pricey for a midsize SUV

The Grand Highlander is a new, larger version of the long-running Toyota Highlander. Both SUVs offer three rows of seats, but the larger Grand Highlander offers more space, especially in the third row and cargo area. Compared to the regular Highlander, the Grand Highlander is a pretty good deal. However, compared with the midsize SUV class as a whole, it is pricey.

The Grand Highlander has three powertrain options: a 265-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, a 245-horsepower hybrid powertrain, and a 362-horsepower hybrid powertrain in a version called the Hybrid Max.

The Grand Highlander has a simple, straightforward cabin design. The interior looks more rugged and squared-off than the interior of the small Highlander. Like other Toyotas, the Grand Highlander benefits from big, clearly labeled buttons and a long list of standard equipment. Most major controls, including audio and climate, get their own buttons – no navigating through touchscreen menus or tapping your finger on a smooth plastic surface to get the system to register your input.

Shopping for a Used Grand Highlander?

The Grand Highlander is new for 2024, so few older versions of this SUV are available. However, the smaller Highlander has been around for years, and used models are easy to find.


14. 2024 Nissan Murano

2024 Nissan Murano / Credit: Nissan
  • Price: $37,920
  • Third Row: Not available
  • Fuel Economy: 23 mpg*
  • What We Like: Great crash-test scores, solid all-around performance, excellent Carfax user ratings, reliable
  • What We Don’t: Small cargo area, weak towing capacity, aging design has been around since 2015

The Murano is among the most comfortable two-row midsize SUVs, thanks to its coddling ride and expansive, ultra-supportive seats. It also earns excellent crash-test ratings and delivers solid overall performance, though we wouldn’t call it sporty.

The Murano is short on cargo space, and its cabin looks a little dated, but it’s made with high-quality materials. The infotainment system is user-friendly, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard. Despite the Murano’s strong 260-horsepower V6, its 1,500-pound towing capacity is disappointing for a midsize SUV.

Shopping for a Used Murano?

Other than a light exterior refresh for 2019 and the addition of some comfort and safety features, the Murano is the same SUV that arrived for the 2015 model year when it was last redesigned.


15. 2023 GMC Acadia

2020 GMC Acadia Denali / Photo Credit: GMC
2023 GMC Acadia / Credit: GMC
  • Price: $36,800
  • Third Row: Standard
  • Fuel Economy: 21-25 mpg*
  • What We Like: Good mpg, simple design
  • What We Don’t: Only 228 hp with base engine, 4,000-lb. maximum tow rating, similar to Chevy Traverse but pricier, below-average Carfax user ratings

The Acadia offers a fantastic infotainment system, good fuel economy, and a silky ride. Its interior, however, isn’t as upmarket as its price suggests, its third row is cramped, and it doesn’t have much cargo space behind the rearmost seats. For less money, you can get into a similar Chevy Traverse, which is both roomier and has a stronger standard engine.

A fuel-efficient 228-horsepower turbo-4 comes standard in the Acadia. While it should suffice for most daily driving, an available 310-horsepower V6 engine is smoother, more responsive — and necessary to achieve the Acadia’s 4,000-pound maximum tow rating, which is still less than many rivals offer.

Shopping for a Used Acadia?

The Acadia received its last redesign for 2017. For the 2020 model year, the turbo-4 engine and new safety and technology features became available. The 2022 model got many new standard features, and the base SE trim and previously standard non-turbo 4-cylinder engine were discontinued.


16. 2024 Dodge Durango

2020 Dodge Durango / Photo Credit: FCA
2024 Dodge Durango / Credit: Dodge
  • Price: $41,670
  • Third Row: Optional
  • Fuel Economy: 13-21 mpg*
  • What We Like: Muscle-car performance, class-leading 710 available hp, class-leading 8,700-lb. tow rating
  • What We Don’t: Pricey, poor mpg, underperforms in crash tests

The Durango offers muscle-car performance not found in rivals. It can tow a whopping 8,700 pounds when properly equipped, and it’s available with the most robust engine in its class: a 710-horsepower supercharged V8.

The Durango is expensive, it returns subpar fuel economy, and its crash-test ratings are unimpressive compared with other three-row SUVs. Moreover, while this crossover is roomy, comfortable, and upscale, it doesn’t have as many standard convenience and safety features as its rivals.

Shopping for a Used Durango?

The Durango’s current generation dates back to 2011. Since then, Dodge has added new engines, significantly upgraded the infotainment system, and added more convenience features. The Durango got an interior and exterior refresh for 2021 when the SRT Hellcat model debuted.


17. 2024 Honda Passport

2024 Honda Passport
2024 Honda Passport / Credit: Honda
  • Price: $41,900
  • Third Row: Not available
  • Fuel Economy: 21 mpg*
  • What We Like: Large cargo area
  • What We Don’t: High price, so-so safety ratings, poor fuel economy

The Passport is a Honda Pilot without the third row. It has a spacious, well-built cabin and more cargo space than almost any other two-row midsize SUV. However, it’s also one of the most expensive midsize SUVs. Honda has introduced a new Black Edition 5-Door AWD SUV for 2024 with a more aggressive design and more premium comfort features.

A 280-horsepower V6 is the lone engine option in the Passport. It’s plenty capable, but its fuel economy can’t match most rivals. This Honda SUV can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, but its safety scores aren’t that impressive. It does, however, come standard with a full suite of driver-assist features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning.

Shopping for a Used Passport?

The Passport arrived for the 2019 model year. Aside from an exterior refresh for 2022, not much has changed since its launch.


18. 2024 Ford Edge

2019 Ford Edge Titanium
2024 Ford Edge / Credit: Ford
  • Price: $38,365
  • Third Row: Not available
  • Fuel Economy: 21-23 mpg*
  • What We Like: Optional 335-hp twin-turbo V6
  • What We Don’t: High price, some low-quality interior materials

The Edge is among the priciest midsize SUVs, but you wouldn’t know it by its interior; it’s dated and features several low-rent materials. The Edge’s standard turbocharged 4-cylinder produces 250 horsepower, but if that’s not enough, you can opt for the sporty Edge ST, which features a 335-horsepower turbocharged V6.

This midsize Ford SUV has an abundance of space for adult passengers in both rows of seats and a good amount of cargo space. It’s also safe and comes packed with standard driver-assist features. A sharp 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system is standard, as well.

Shopping for a Used Edge?

The current-generation Ford Edge debuted for the 2015 model year. It was refreshed for 2019, and the 2022 Edge got standard AWD. Aside from that, its features have been mostly unchanged over the years.


19. 2024 Buick Enclave

2024 Buick Enclave / Credit: Buick
  • Price: $43,900
  • Third Row: Standard
  • Fuel Economy: 20-21 mpg*
  • What We Like: Cargo space is among the best in the class, 310-hp V6
  • What We Don’t: Priced like a luxury vehicle but isn’t, so-so mpg, below-average reliability

The Enclave carries a luxury price tag, but its interior doesn’t feature luxury-grade materials. Still, the Enclave features one of the largest cargo holds in the class and comfortable seating for seven people.

Under the hood is a 310-horsepower V6 that delivers eager acceleration, but average fuel economy. The Enclave also delivers a supple ride, which can tow up to 5,000 pounds. Standard equipment includes numerous driver-assist features, a responsive touchscreen, wireless device charging, a Wi-Fi hot spot, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Shopping for a Used Enclave?

The Enclave received a complete redesign for the 2018 model year. Not a lot has changed since then, though the 2022 Enclave arrived with updated exterior styling and a healthy assortment of newly standard ADAS. Considering the Enclave’s high starting price, a used model is worth considering.


20. 2024 Ford Bronco

2024 Ford Bronco SUV
2024 Ford Bronco SUV / Credit: Ford
  • Price: $39,870
  • Third Row: Not available
  • Fuel Economy: 15-20 mpg*
  • What We Like: Iconic off-roader, convertible top, engine choices ranging from 275-418 hp, endless customization options, high Carfax user ratings
  • What We Don’t: Not practical, poor mpg, not as comfortable as rivals, needs premium gas to get the best performance

The iconic Bronco is a fantastic off-roader with a convertible top, multiple strong engine options, user-friendly tech features, and a wealth of configurations. Most Bronco trims can tow up to 3,500 pounds, but the pricey Raptor model can pull 4,500. The Bronco has a starting price lower than many vehicles featured here, but the base model may be difficult to find at dealerships.

The Bronco is not as practical, comfortable, or fuel-efficient as most two-row midsize SUVs, and it requires premium gas to deliver its best performance.

Shopping for a Used Bronco?

The Bronco was a brand-new model for 2021. The 2022 and ’23 model years welcomed new trims and features, but the Bronco is unchanged for 2024.


21. 2024 Chevrolet Blazer

2023 Chevrolet Blazer RS
2024 Chevrolet Blazer / Credit: Chevrolet
  • Price: $35,400
  • Third Row: Not available
  • Fuel Economy: 21-25 mpg*
  • What We Like: Sharp styling, good mpg, fun to drive, reliable
  • What We Don’t: Small cargo area

The Blazer is a midsize SUV with an attractive design and sporty appeal. It borrows some styling elements from the Chevrolet Camaro and handles more like a sports car than a bulky SUV. Inside, the Blazer has roomy front seats and an intuitive infotainment system. However, its backseat and cargo area aren’t as accommodating as its competitors’.

The Blazer’s standard engine is a fuel-efficient 228-horsepower turbo-4, which once was available as an upgrade. A 308-horsepower V6 is optional, but you have to buy above the base model to add it. Properly equipped, the Blazer can tow up to 4,500 pounds.

Shopping for a Used Blazer?

The Blazer returned to Chevrolet’s lineup for the 2019 model year. Its styling hasn’t changed much since, apart from a slight refresh for 2023. The turbo-4 engine was added for 2020, and the formerly standard 2.5-liter 4-cylinder was discontinued for 2022.


22. 2024 Nissan Pathfinder

2022 Nissan Pathfinder Front
2024 Nissan Pathfinder / Credit: Nissan
  • Price: $35,810
  • Third Row: Standard
  • Fuel Economy: 21-23 mpg*
  • What We Like: Rugged design, tows up to 6,000 lb.
  • What We Don’t: Below-average cargo space, reliability, and crash-test scores

The 2024 Pathfinder has an upscale cabin, high-quality materials, and intuitive tech. It’s a three-row midsize SUV with a rugged design and even bolder exterior styling than its predecessor. When properly equipped, the Pathfinder can tow up to 6,000 pounds.

The Pathfinder seats up to eight people, but while its first two rows are accommodating, the third row is best suited for kids and smaller adults. Cargo capacity is decent, but many three-row SUVs offer more.

Shopping for a Used Pathfinder?

Nissan completely redesigned the Pathfinder for the 2022 model year, and it heads into 2024 unchanged, apart from adding a rugged Rock Creek trim. The previous generation ran from 2013 to 2020 but received several notable updates for 2017, including a more powerful engine, higher towing capacity, a larger touchscreen, and a styling refresh inside and out. There was no Pathfinder for the 2021 model year.


23. 2024 Volkswagen Atlas

2024 Volkswagen Atlas/ Credit: Volkswagen
2024 Volkswagen Atlas / Credit: Volkswagen
  • Price: $36,985
  • Third Row: Available
  • Fuel Economy: 20-23 mpg*
  • What We Like: Great cargo space with two or three rows, simple design
  • What We Don’t: Rivals feel more premium, below-average reliability and Carfax user ratings

The Atlas is a viable option if you need ample passenger and cargo space, and its cabin has an attractive and straightforward design. Power comes from a 269-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission and FWD. All-wheel drive is optional. Like most midsize SUVs, the Atlas has a 5,000-pound towing capacity.

Standard features in the Atlas include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hot spot, blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection.

The two-row version of this SUV is called the Atlas Cross Sport; getting rid of that extra row opens up a large cargo area, and the two vehicles are similarly priced.

Shopping for a Used Atlas?

The 3-row Atlas arrived for the 2018 model year, with the 2-row Atlas Cross Sport appearing for 2020. For 2021, VW updated the styling of the three-row Atlas to match the Cross Sport. Volkswagen updated the Atlas again in 2024, giving it fresh styling and a new engine.


24. 2024 Kia Sorento

2024 Kia Sorento
2024 Kia Sorento / Credit: Kia
  • Price: $31,990
  • Third Row: Standard
  • Fuel Economy: 23-37 mpg*
  • What We Like: Low price, great mpg, available hybrid version
  • What We Don’t: Small cargo area, only 191 hp from base engine, four-star crash-test rating

The Sorento is another midsize SUV that feels like it should cost thousands more than it does, thanks in part to its handsome interior and high-quality materials. However, while space in the first two rows is generous, the third row is small, and cargo capacity is limited. The Sorento features an outstanding infotainment system and a wealth of driver-assist features, but its crash-test ratings aren’t as impressive as its rivals.

The 191-horsepower 4-cylinder base engine returns good fuel economy but is underpowered. A potent 281-horsepower turbo-4 comes standard in upper trims, though even with the upgrade, the Sorento can only tow up to 3,500 pounds. The Sorento is also available in hybrid and plug-in hybrid configurations.

Shopping for a Used Sorento?

Kia refreshed the Sorento for 2024, but it last fully redesigned the Sorento for the 2021 model year. For 2022, the X-Line AWD package became more widely available and Kia added heated second-row seats as an option. The 2023 model year introduced standard blind spot warning across the lineup.


25. 2024 Toyota Venza

2022 Toyota Venza
2024 Toyota Venza / Credit: Toyota
  • Price: $34,920
  • Third Row: Not available
  • Fuel Economy: 39 mpg*
  • What We Like: Great gas mileage, sleek styling
  • What We Don’t: Small interior, only 219 hp, below-average Carfax user ratings, above-average price

The Venza features eye-catching good looks, two spacious rows of seats, and a generous assortment of standard features. It also comes with standard AWD and returns good fuel economy.

This hybrid SUV from Toyota is expensive and isn’t the best choice if you need a vehicle for towing. It only makes 219 horsepower, yet its hybrid powertrain is quick off the line and capable enough for most daily driving. The Venza also delivers a comfortable ride and is luxurious inside.

Shopping for a Used Venza?

The Venza returned to the market as an all-new hybrid model for 2021, and it’s seen few changes since. The former Venza (2009-2015) shared a name with the current model but very little else.


26. 2024 Toyota 4Runner

2022 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
2024 Toyota 4Runner / Credit: Carter MacLeod
  • Price: $40,705
  • Third Row: Optional
  • Fuel Economy: 17 mpg*
  • What We Like: Iconic off-roader, muscular design, reliable, high Carfax user ratings
  • What We Don’t: Impractical, pricey, terrible fuel economy, below-average interior space, mediocre crash-test ratings, hasn’t changed much since 2014

Muscular, durable, and roomy, the 4Runner is one of the best midsize three-row SUVs for off-roading, but it’s outmatched in almost all other respects. The 4Runner is expensive, dated, and impractical. It’s slow to accelerate, delivers poor gas mileage, and earns middling crash-test ratings.

This Toyota comes standard with two rows of spacious seats, with a child-sized third row available. The 4Runner rides and handles more like a truck than today’s typical crossovers — great for off-road use but not for use as a daily driver. Despite this SUV’s dated design, it comes with several driver-assist features, a user-friendly touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa.

Shopping for a Used 4Runner?

The 4Runner has been around in its current generation since the 2010 model year. The 2020 model year brought several driver-assist features, plus standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For 2021, Toyota added standard LED headlights, and 2022 brought a new TRD Sport trim. A used 4Runner is an excellent choice as the SUV has remained relatively unchanged for many years, but older versions may not have the safety and convenience features you’re looking for.


How We Ranked These Midsize SUVs

At Carfax, data and value drive our vehicle rankings. We ranked these midsize SUVs based on the quality, performance, and comfort they offer for their price. Data points we consider include interior space, horsepower, crash-test scores, and Carfax user ratings. Our rankings are based on the latest models, but since many of these vehicles have remained unchanged from earlier years, our insights also apply to used models.

*We cite the EPA’s combined mpg range for each vehicle, which takes into account both city and highway driving.


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