5 of the Best Midsized SUVs for 2023
The midsize SUV market is one of the most competitive. In the midsize SUV space, several SUVs offer similar performance, similar space, and similar pace. But they’re not all created equal. Which do the reviewers at Edmunds say are the best midsized SUVs for 2023?
What qualifies as the best midsize SUV for 2023?
Midsize SUVs are what most of us think of when we see an SUV. This class offers a lot of interior space and, usually, all of the creature comforts you’d expect. This list has starting prices between $32,000 and $42,000, making them relative bargains. Some have three rows of seats, some are off-road monsters, yet others are well-priced luxury SUVs. Edmunds is a site that rates and reviews new and used cars.
No. 1: The Honda Passport leads the pack as one of the best midsize SUVs in 2023
The Honda Passport was all-new for 2019, but in 2022 the Passport received a mild update that added several new trim levels. The new 2023 Honda Passport is a utility player that ranks highly in many categories and proves that the best SUV is the one that does it all very well.
While other SUVs may drive better or have more room, few can do both of those things better than the Passport. The 2023 Honda Passport starts at $41,400 (if you can still find a new 2022, they start at less than $40,000) with a 280-hp V6.
No. 2: Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a bit of a surprise for this list, if only because this version of the Atlas is the smallest Atlas. The Atlas is VW’s large, three-row SUV, but in Cross Sport trim, VW removed the practical large cargo area and instead added a sporty sloping rear. The Cross Sport version only seats five, and you pay a cargo space penalty for its better looks. Its turbocharged four-cylinder or the larger V6 feel a bit overwhelming in this large SUV, however.
The 2023 Atlas Cross Sport starts at $34,460; however, the more practical seven-seat Atlas starts at $35,150.
No. 3: The updated Jeep Grand Cherokee
To no one’s surprise, the borderline luxurious 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee made the list. Jeep updated the Jeep Grand Cherokee for 2022, and unlike most on the list, it has a real four-wheel drive option and real off-road capability. The update gave this SUV a modern interior and a ride to match. The TrailHawk is now only 4xe, or a plug-in-hybrid, while the stonking Hemi V8 and powerful V6 are both options.
For 2023, it gets just a couple of minor updates, and its pricing starts at $41,530. The Jeep Grand Cherokee also comes in an extra-long three-row version if you need that much space.
No. 4: The new old Ford Bronco
It seems like the Ford Bronco is finally becoming more common after a couple of years when they were rare SUVs, thanks to Ford’s chip shortage and early buyers hoarding these cool SUVs. Like the Broncos of the past, you can order one with two or four doors that come off, a convertible top, and four-wheel drive. Not many vehicles can also tackle the great outdoors, yet unlike its chief rival, the Jeep Wrangler, the new Bronco is a fun commuter and family hauler.
The 2023 Bronco starts at $32,295, but options can quickly push that price to more than $50,000. The top-dog Raptor version is an elite off-roader, with an elite price of $74,000.
No. 5: The upscale Toyota Venza
The Toyota Venza often gets overlooked for the uber-popular RAV4 on Toyota dealer lots. It shouldn’t get overlooked because it’s the same SUV with a sportier design and upgraded interior. The Toyota Venza, despite not selling well, gets the RAV4’s hybrid system, which means it also gets all-wheel drive as standard. For those who want to stand out, the Venza is a great RAV4 alternative. The 2023 Venza starts at $34,120, which may be $2,000 more than a RAV4, but designer suits always cost more than off-the-rack versions.
