Car and Driver
Think of these crossovers and SUVs as the just-right ones. They fall right in the middle of the size and price spectrum that sees subcompacts on one side and full-size rigs on the other. Once made up almost entirely of truck-based entries with rugged frames, four-wheel-drive systems, and meaty tires, this segment is now practically overflowing with crossovers, vehicles based on car platforms using relatively efficient engines. Beefy styling and body cladding intended to evoke 4x4s of yore make up the personality gap, though a few truly hardcore off-roaders are still offered. Click on for a peek at how the crowded mid-size SUV class—including two- and three-row offerings—shakes out, with entrants ranked from worst to best.
More New SUVs Ranked from Worst to Best:
Compact | Sub-Compact | Full-Size | 3-Row
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In a world rapidly being overrun by car-based crossovers, Toyota’s 4Runner is one of the few remaining mid-size SUVs to share DNA with a pickup truck. Although it’s offered in two-wheel-drive base form, it’s a proper 4×4 that offers up to 5000 pounds of towing capacity. Those accustomed to the smooth ride and swanky interiors of modern crossovers may find that the rugged 4Runner falls short in those metrics. Available with just one powertrain—a 4.0-liter V-6 with 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque mated to a five-speed automatic transmission—this beast is outdated and somewhat sluggish, but still a popular choice among folks who plan to hit the trails. Our recent 75-mph highway test of a 2022 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro returned a dismal 17 mpg.
- Base price: $38,320
- Powertrain: 270-hp 4.0L V-6, five-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 47 cubic feet
MORE 4RUNNER SPECS
Not much has changed over the years for Nissan Murano. It still has the same sharp looks and the same smooth ride since its debut in 2014. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available on every trim. Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 is also standard and includes automated emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert with emergency braking, and high-beam assist. A 260-hp 3.5-liter V-6 with a CVT is the only powertrain. The interior is nicely appointed with handsome optional leather upholstery, and the ride is quiet and composed. In all-wheel-drive form, the Murano achieved 27 mpg during our highway fuel-economy test. The Murano isn’t the best choice for towing, though, with a max capacity of just 1500 pounds.
- Base price: $34,085
- Powertrain: 260-hp 3.5L V-6, continuously variable automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 31–32 cubic feet
MORE MURANO SPECS
The three-row GMC Acadia provides adequate storage and room for up to seven, despite being smaller (and much lighter) overall than its predecessor. The EPA gives the base 228-hp turbocharged engine a highway rating of 29 mpg, which translates to 475 miles of range. All-wheel-drive models get a larger fuel tank that allows for 521 miles of highway cruising at an estimated 27 mpg. Interior tech includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and 4G LTE Wi-Fi capability on all trims.
- Base price: $37,645
- Powertrain: 228-hp turbocharged 2.0L inline-four; 310-hp 3.6L V-6, nine-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 41 cubic feet (third row folded)
MORE ACADIA SPECS
The Chevy Traverse is no minivan, but its interior is nearly as spacious as one. Folding the third row opens up 57 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row. With both second and third rows folded the Traverse has 98 cubic feet of space, which is just 3 short of the Toyota Sienna minivan. The 310-hp 3.6-liter V-6 under the hood drives the front or all four wheels through a slick-shifting nine-speed automatic. A 7.0-inch infotainment display is standard, and an 8.0-inch unit is optional; both come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Automated emergency braking is an available feature, as are conveniences such as adaptive cruise control and automatic high-beam headlamps. Max towing matches the Toyota 4Runner at 5000 pounds.
- Base price: $34,895
- Powertrain: 310-hp 3.6L V-6, nine-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 57 cubic feet (third row folded)
MORE TRAVERSE SPECS
Subaru’s Ascent is a newer entry into the three-row, mid-size segment, and it comes standard with all-wheel drive, befitting Subaru’s traditional image of all-weather readiness. Its roomy, storage-bin-laden cabin offers room for up to eight passengers. Flexible seating and excellent packaging provide ample passenger space and easy access to the third-row seat. The 260-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine can tow up to 5000 pounds and is complemented by competent handling. Automated emergency braking and lane-keep assist are also on hand to help. Read about our experience living with an Ascent for 40,000 miles during a long-term test.
- Base price: $33,420
- Powertrain: 260-hp turbocharged 2.4L flat-four, continuously variable automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 47 cubic feet (third row folded)
MORE ASCENT SPECS
The Toyota Venza is a 219-hp all-wheel-drive hybrid. It uses the same powertrain as the more affordable Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, but the RAV4 has a better EPA-estimated highway fuel economy at 40 MPG, can drive further on a tank of gas, and despite being a compact crossover, also has more cargo area than the Venza. It’s not all bad news though, as the Venza is a handsome-looking alternative, and it’s the first Toyota with an optional electrochromic panoramic sunroof. It can turn from transparent to opaque with the flip of a switch. The Venza has a bunch of standard driver-assistance features, such as automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Toyota’s powertrain warranty includes eight-year or 100,000 hybrid component coverage.
- Base price: $33,645
- Powertrain: 219-hp 2.5L inline-four electric-hybrid, continuously variable automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 28 cubic feet
MORE VENZA SPECS
The two-row Ford Edge sits between the smaller Escape and larger three-row Explorer in size, and it’s a fairly popular seller in the mid-size segment. Its boxy shape maximizes cargo space, with 39 cubic feet behind the second row and an impressive 73 cubic feet with the second row folded. A 245-hp turbo inline-four or a 280-hp V-6 mate to a six-speed automatic and front- or all-wheel drive. The sporty ST trim is powered by a 335-hp twin-turbo V-6 with all-wheel drive and a heated steering wheel standard.
- Base price: $36,690
- Powertrain: 250-hp turbo 2.0L inline-four, eight-speed automatic transmission; 335-hp twin-turbo 2.7L V-6, seven-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 39 cubic feet
MORE EDGE SPECS
The Blazer name is back in Chevrolet showrooms, but unlike before, it’s attached to a car-based crossover instead of a rugged 4×4 SUV. Feelings on the name are mixed, but there’s no denying the Chevy Blazer is a cool-looking piece, one that successfully mixes Camaro styling cues with an aggressive, lifted-hatchback shape. Two engines are available, a turbocharged four-cylinder and a V-6—and all-wheel drive is optional.
- Base price: $34,595
- Powertrain: 228-hp turbo 2.0L inline-four, 308-hp 3.6L V-6; nine-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 31 cubic feet
MORE BLAZER SPECS
The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is simply the two-row version of the seven-passenger Atlas. The Cross Sport’s lower roofline gives it a slightly sportier guise. Both SUVs share the same powertrains, including a 235-hp turbo four-cylinder and a 276-hp V-6, and use an eight-speed automatic transmission. This five-passenger version has an extra three inches of legroom over the three-row, making it a comfortable and spacious experience for anyone in the second row. In our highway fuel-economy test, the V-6–powered Atlas Cross Sport achieved 25 mpg, slightly better than the Ford Edge ST and Honda Passport. V-6 models have a max towing capacity of 5000 pounds.
- Base price: $34,395
- Powertrain: 235-hp turbocharged 2.0L inline-four, 276-hp 3.6L V-6; eight-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 31 cubic feet
MORE ATLAS CROSS SPORT SPECS
Like its namesake, the Volkswagen Atlas can carry the world on its shoulders—at least figuratively speaking. Unlike many three-row crossovers’ third-row seats, the Volkswagen’s can hold two adults comfortably. There is even room for luggage behind them. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and a 12-speaker Fender audio system is optional. The base model comes with a 235-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive, and an eight-speed automatic. All-wheel drive is available, and so is a 276-hp V-6. Optional safety tech includes automated emergency braking and lane-keep assist.
- Base price: $35,095
- Powertrain: 235-hp turbo 2.0L inline-four, 276-hp 3.6L V-6; eight-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 55 cubic feet (third row folded)
MORE ATLAS SPECS
The Dodge Durango remains brawny and muscular in an era of soft, curvy crossovers—yet it’s also not as trucklike as other large SUVs. Its handling is quite good given its size (even in regular-grade, non-SRT form), and its ride is comfortable. There’s a 295-hp V-6 and a few V-8 options to choose from; buyers also choose rear- or all-wheel drive. The V-6 can tow 6200 pounds, the V-8 up to 8700. The optional third row makes room for seven. An 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen is standard, while a 10.1-inch screen is optional for the all-wheel-drive GT trim and standard on the Citadel and R/T. The Dodge Durango is the only SUV on this list to offer three rows of seats and 710 horsepower, found in the Durango SRT Hellcat (listed separately).
- Base price: $37,070
- Powertrain: 293–295-hp 3.6L V-6. 360-hp 5.7L V-8, 475-hp 6.4L V-8, eight-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 43 cubic feet
MORE DURANGO SPECS
If a stylish, useful, and trouble-free ride is what you’re after, the Honda Pilot stands ready to serve. Every Honda Pilot uses a 280-hp 3.5-liter V-6 to power the front or all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission. The all-wheel-drive system offers torque vectoring for improved traction and settings for snow, sand, and mud. The Pilot’s three rows provide plenty of room for all, and a host of driver-assistance tech is available to help keep everyone safe. Should you dig the Pilot’s vibe but only want two rows of seating and tidier exterior dimensions, Honda offers the related Passport. That SUV looks nearly the same, if slightly stubbier in length.
- Base price: $38,805
- Powertrain: 280-hp 3.5L V-6, nine-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 46 cubic feet (third row folded)
MORE PILOT SPECS
The latest Ford Explorer looks to build on the success of its predecessors, which have been among the most popular SUVs ever. Today’s version includes an optional hybrid drivetrain, an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a new mechanism that allows passengers easier access into the third row. It didn’t win our most recent comparison test among other new three-row SUVs, but it did have the best braking distance among its competition. A 300-hp turbocharged four-cylinder is standard—move up to the ST trim to unlock a 400-hp twin-turbo V-6. The Explorer can tow a maximum of 5600 pounds in top Platinum and ST form.
- Base price: $34,540
- Powertrain: 300-hp turbocharged 2.3L inline-4, 365-hp twin-turbo 3.0L V-6, 400-hp twin-turbo 3.0L V-6, 318-hp electric-hybrid 3.3L V-6; 10-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 47 cubic feet (third row folded)
MORE EXPLORER SPECS
Uh, what’s a Jeep Wrangler doing here? It’s true, the legendary Wrangler is unlike most vehicles it shares the segment with. The doors are easily removable, the windshield folds down, and let’s just say you won’t see people in Ford Explorers waving to each other in traffic (at least not with two fingers, that’s a Jeep thing). It’s available in two- or four-door configurations and four different powertrains. A 285-hp 3.6-liter V-6 is standard, but there’s also a 270-hp turbocharged four-cylinder, a 260-hp turbo-diesel V-6, and a newly added 270-hp turbocharged four-cylinder plug-in hybrid. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the 3.6-liter, but the optional eight-speed automatic is the sole choice elsewhere. There’s also a V-8–powered Wrangler 392, but that’s reviewed separately. The Wrangler has 12 different trims to choose from, including a right-hand-drive four-door model, for folks who take their mailman cosplay seriously.
- Base price: $31,320
- Powertrain: 285-hp 3.6L V-6, 270-hp turbo 2.0L inline-four, 375-hp hybrid-electric turbocharged 2.0L inline-four; six-speed manual transmission, eight-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 13–32 cubic feet
MORE WRANGLER SPECS
The Toyota Highlander is better than ever, offering more space and a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain. The standard Highlander comes with a 295-hp V-6 and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available. A 243-hp Highlander hybrid can be had with either front- or all-wheel drive as well. The front-drive hybrid model gets the best fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 35 mpg on the highway. If you can match the EPA estimates, you could drive the Highlander almost 600 miles before refueling. The standard Highlander completed our highway fuel-economy test with a result of 28 mpg. Base and mid-range trims can seat up to eight passengers, but with available second-row captain’s chairs on higher trims, the Highlander seats seven instead. An 8.0-inch touchscreen for infotainment is standard, while a 12.3-inch screen is equipped on top Limited and Platinum trims. All models get SiriusXM satellite radio, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, as well as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa connectivity.
- Base price: $36,420
- Powertrain: 295-hp 3.5L V-6, eight-speed automatic transmission; 306-hp 3.5L hybrid-electric V-6, continuously variable transmission
- Cargo space: 48 cubic feet (third row folded)
MORE HIGHLANDER SPECS
The new Nissan Pathfinder has fresh looks and big improvements for 2022. It’s wider, longer, and taller than before, giving it more room inside and better third-row legroom. Nissan replaced the Pathfinder’s CVT with a nine-speed automatic transmission, giving it better throttle response and acceleration. Fuel economy is also improved. An all-wheel-drive Pathfinder Platinum we tested returned 28 mpg on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test, beating its EPA estimate by 3 mpg and outperforming the previous model by 6 mpg.
- Base price: $34,560
- Powertrain: 284-hp 3.5L V-6, nine-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 45 cubic feet (third row folded)
MORE PATHFINDER SPECS
The two-row Hyundai Santa Fe was refreshed last year with new powertrains and an upgraded interior. For 2022, a plug-in hybrid model joins the lineup but is only sold in select states. Every engine offered in the Santa Fe is a four-cylinder, starting with the 191-hp base engine and ranging up to the 277-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter with a dual-clutch automatic transmission. The new plug-in hybrid has a combined output of 261 horsepower and comes standard with all-wheel drive. The dash is fitted with an 8.0-inch touchscreen standard, with a 10.3-inch screen optional. The buttons and controls are easy to use. Every Santa Fe comes standard with forward-collision warning and automated braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go tech, and lane departure warning with lane-keep assist.
- Base price: $28,445
- Powertrain: 191-hp 2.5L inline-four, eight-speed automatic; 277-hp turbocharged 2.5L inline-four, eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission; 225-hp turbocharged 1.6L inline-four with electric motor, 261-hp turbocharged 1.6L inline-four with electric motor; six-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 36 cubic feet
MORE SANTA FE SPECS
Think of the Honda Passport as a Honda Pilot with part of its tail snipped off. The Passport is a plucky two-row, with predictable handling that makes it easy to drive anywhere. It comes with a 280-hp V-6 and nine-speed automatic transmission only. All-wheel drive is available, but front-wheel drive is standard. The front-drive Passport is the most fuel-efficient version, getting an EPA-estimated 25 mpg on the highway, while all-wheel-drive models are 1 mpg lower. The Passport can transport up to five people, with 50 cubic feet of luggage space behind the second row. We lived with one for 40,000 miles and appreciated its sold reliability and versatility.
- Base price: $39,095
- Powertrain: 280-hp 3.5L V-6, nine-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 50 cubic feet
MORE PASSPORT SPECS
Kia’s Sorento is a good-looking, value-oriented crossover for those seeking to avoid the minivan stigma. The Sorento can be had in either front- or all-wheel drive, with various four-cylinder engines including a hybrid and a new-for-2022 261-hp plug-in hybrid. The PHEV has an EPA-estimated 79 MPGe combined, while the hybrid has an impressive 39-mpg city estimate. Inside is an easy-to-use 8.0-inch touchscreen or optional 10.3-inch screen on higher trims. A wireless phone charging pad is optional. The Sorento also comes with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, one of the best in the business.
- Base price: $30,805
- Powertrain: 191-hp 2.5L inline-four, eight-speed automatic; 281-hp turbocharged 2.5L inline-four, eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission; 227-hp turbocharged 1.6L inline-four with electric motor, 261-hp turbocharged 1.6L inline-four with electric motor; six-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 45 cubic feet (third row folded)
MORE SORENTO SPECS
“SUV” and “crossover” are often used as antonyms for spirit and enthusiasm, but the Mazda CX-9 drives like it’s something greater. It’s earned several 10Best awards throughout the years, but this far into its lifecycle it could definitely use some updates. The materials feel good, and for 2021 its once tiny infotainment screen is replaced with a large 10.3-inch display. All-wheel drive is standard on 2022 models, and a 250-hp turbocharged inline-four with a six-speed automatic is the only powertrain. Cargo room and third-row space aren’t generous—certainly not compared to behemoths such as the Chevrolet Traverse or Volkswagen Atlas—but neither of those SUVs feels a class above with materials and features like the Mazda.
- Base price: $36,505
- Powertrain: 250-hp turbocharged 2.5L inline-four, six-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 14 cubic feet
MORE CX-9 SPECS
The Jeep Grand Cherokee underwent a massive transformation entering this new generation. It’s improved in nearly every way, and a three-row version joins the lineup as the Grand Cherokee L. The new look is a nod to the larger Wagoneer. Although its torquey powertrain options and 6200-pound max towing capacity are a high point in this segment, it costs at the pump. The most fuel-efficient in the group is the plug-in hybrid Grand Cherokee 4xe with a claimed 57 MPGe combined, but the next best is the rear-drive V-6 GC with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg highway.
- Base price: $39,185
- Powertrain: 293-hp 3.6L V-6, 357-hp 5.7L V-8, 375-hp turbocharged 2.0L inline-four with electric motors; eight-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 37 cubic feet
MORE GRAND CHEROKEE L SPECS
A 10Best winner right out of the gate, the Ford Bronco is like a Jeep Wrangler, but better. All Broncos come with four-wheel drive with either a peppy 300-hp turbocharged four-cylinder or a 330-hp twin-turbo V-6. A seven-speed manual transmission is optional for the four-cylinder only. Available as a two- or four-door, the Bronco has obvious off-road capability, but with impressive paved-road refinement. Like the Wrangler, the top and doors can be removed quickly, but the Bronco’s mirrors stay attached to the chassis, unlike the Jeep. An 8.0-inch touchscreen is standard, but a 12.0-inch touchscreen is optional. On our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, a four-cylinder Bronco achieved just 22 mpg, while the V-6 wearing the optional 35-inch Goodyear tires earned 18 mpg.
- Base price: $30,795
- Powertrain: 300-hp turbocharged 2.3L inline-four, 10-speed automatic, seven-speed manual; 330-hp twin-turbo 2.7L V-6, 10-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 35/22 cubic feet (four-door/two-door)
MORE BRONCO SPECS
Much of what makes the Hyundai Palisade a top choice in this segment is the fact it looks and feels like it belongs with the mid-size luxury SUVs without charging for it. Plus, it’s big inside and has tight body control on the road. Power comes from a 291-hp V-6 mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. During a comparison test with the other top three-row SUVs, the Palisade tied the Mazda CX-9 with the best fuel economy on our 450-mile trip, at 22 mpg. There’s no shortage of available extras on the Palisade. Heated and ventilated second-row seats are standard on upper Limited and Calligraphy trims, a feature the $100,000-plus Cadillac Escalade doesn’t have. Hyundai’s warranty is one of the best in the industry, with 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage.
- Base price: $34,375
- Powertrain: 291-hp 3.8L V-6, eight-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 45 cubic feet (third row folded)
MORE PALISADE SPECS
Parked at the top of Mid-Size Mountain is the Kia Telluride. It carries all the class-leading features from its Hyundai Palisade sibling but is better-looking and more affordable. There’s plenty of passenger and cargo space, with over 31 inches of legroom in the third row. Infotainment controls are easy to use, and the 10.3-inch touchscreen standard on most trims is responsive. We lived with a 2020 Kia Telluride SX AWD for 40,000 trouble-free miles and couldn’t understand why anyone would buy more expensive mid-size SUVs with fewer features. We’ve also bestowed upon the Telluride our 10Best award every year since the model’s debut in 2019.
- Base price: $34,345
- Powertrain: 291-hp 3.8L V-6, eight-speed automatic transmission
- Cargo space: 46 cubic feet (third row folded)
MORE TELLURIDE SPECS
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