The mid-size SUV segment is a battleground for excellence, where automakers vie to create the best mix of practicality and prestige. These versatile vehicles offer the comfort of a spacious interior, the safety of advanced technology, and the power to handle daily commutes or weekend adventures with aplomb. To help maneuver this competitive industry, we’ve compiled a list of the best 15 mid-size SUVs and meticulously evaluated their ability to safeguard passengers, pamper occupants, and unleash exhilarating performance.

Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride has quickly become a gem, offering an impressive mix of safety, comfort, and power. It features an extensive list of standard safety components, including forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control. Inside, the Telluride has a spacious, upscale interior that can house up to eight people. The V6 engine provides strong, confident performance, making it ideal for family adventures.

2024 Buick Enclave

This luxurious mid-size SUV boasts a refined driving experience and advanced safety features. It comes standard with a suite called Buick Driver Confidence Plus, which includes automatic emergency braking and front pedestrian braking. The spacious interior features premium materials and comfortable seating for up to seven passengers. Under the hood, a 3.6-liter V6 engine puts out 310 horsepower for a powerful and smooth ride.

Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer offers a compelling mix of power and advanced safety features. With various engine options, including a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder base engine and a potent 400-horsepower V6, the Explorer caters to those who crave performance. Safety is not compromised, with a standard suite of driver-assistance technologies across all trims. The interior is both spacious and comfortable, ideal for long road trips. Its blend of rugged capability and modern amenities makes the Explorer versatile.

2023 Hyundai Palisade

Widely considered a strong contender in the mid-size SUV market, the Hyundai Palisade offers a refined driving experience, a luxurious interior, and an industry-leading warranty. The standard 3.8-liter V6 engine provides ample power, and the available all-wheel drive enhances its capability in various road conditions. Despite prioritizing comfort, the Palisade maintains balanced handling for a composed drive. Its well-appointed cabin includes a standard touchscreen infotainment system, with higher trims offering premium upgrades such as leather upholstery and a configurable digital gauge cluster, contributing to a luxurious atmosphere.

2023 GMC Acadia

The GMC Acadia is a reliable mid-size SUV that comes with a choice of a fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine or a powerful V6 engine. It offers front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, a 9-speed automatic transmission, and a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen. The Acadia also has a perfect five-star safety rating.

2023 Honda Passport

This utility vehicle emphasizes off-road capability and maneuverability. It features a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower, with all-wheel drive and an off-road-tuned suspension. The interior includes standard leather upholstery, spacious front seats, and a user-friendly 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless charging and smartphone integration.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

Apart from its reputation as one of the best off-road vehicles, the Grand Cherokee is also famous for its luxurious features. Safety is addressed with various advanced technologies, including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The interior is comfortable and upscale, with premium materials and cutting-edge tech. Multiple engine options, including a powerful V8, provide exceptional performance.

2024 Volkswagen Atlas

Volkswagen’s Atlas is a mid-size SUV that provides a comfortable and safe driving experience. It has a comprehensive list of safety features, including automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and the Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS). The interior is voluminous, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo alike. The Atlas’s 269-horsepower turbocharged engine delivers a balanced mix of power and efficiency. It’s a practical choice for those who value German engineering and design.

2023 Lincoln Nautilus

Prioritizing comfort and luxury, the Lincoln Nautilus offers a spacious interior, high-tech features, and a smooth ride. Its handling, while powerful, is designed with comfort in mind. Standard features include ample five-passenger seating and synthetic leather, with higher trims providing genuine leather and massaging seats. Notably, it boasts an impressive 88/100 reliability score. Lincoln equips it with a suite of driver-assistance features for enhanced safety, including Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Information with Cross-Traffic Alert, and a Lane-Keeping System.

2023 BMW X6

Anyone looking for an ideal SUV that combines exhilarating performance with a focus on safety will find the BMW X6 the go-to option. Its athletic handling and engine options deliver a thrilling drive while prioritizing occupant protection. The available adaptive cruise control system with stop-and-go technology further enhances highway comfort. Inside, the X6 has a luxurious cabin with a standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and touchscreen infotainment system, offering a feature-rich yet sophisticated environment.

2024 Chevrolet Blazer

The Blazer offers a choice of a turbocharged four-cylinder or a V6 engine with up to 308 horsepower paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It includes Chevy Safety Assist, a 10.2-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and two-zone automatic climate control.

2024 Toyota Highlander

When it comes to some of the most revered mid-size SUVs, the Toyota Highlander is a long-time family favorite thanks to its balance of safety, comfort, and reliability. Equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, the Highlander provides advanced safety features such as pre-collision warning and lane departure alert. Its interior is well-appointed, offering generous legroom and high-quality materials throughout. The optional V6 engine ensures a smooth and powerful drive, while the hybrid variant appeals to the eco-conscious driver.

2023 Nissan Murano

The Nissan Murano matches the Toyota 4Runner’s reliability, offering a mature choice in the mid-size SUV segment. Its 260-horsepower V6 delivers strong acceleration and a comfortable ride. While the interior feels premium, cargo space might be a concern. An 8-inch touchscreen simplifies infotainment. Safety features include Nissan Safety Shield® 360 with automated emergency braking and more. Explore Nissan’s website for the latest features by trim level.

2023 Lexus RX

Lexus did not hold anything back when making the 2023 Lexus RX, which sports a futuristic redesign boasting advanced tech and a luxurious interior. Its 275-horsepower engine delivers a comfortable ride with up to 29 mpg highway. While cargo space is slightly limited, the RX pampers passengers with premium materials and a standard 9.8-inch touchscreen (14-inch is available for higher trims). Lexus’ improved infotainment system offers wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and comes with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (including automatic emergency braking).

2023 Lexus GX

The Lexus GX combines luxury with off-road performance, featuring a 301-horsepower V8 engine and all-wheel drive for challenging terrain. Safety is prioritized with the Lexus Safety System+, including a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection. The spacious cabin seats up to seven, though the third row is more suitable for children or short trips. A user-friendly infotainment system with a 10.3-inch display and smartphone integration enhances the driving experience.