The midsize SUV segment is enormously popular — and consequently, there are many models from which to choose. However, a few SUVs stand out the most. The three best new midsize SUVs in 2023, according to U.S. News & World Report, are the 2023 Hyundai Palisade, the 2023 Kia Telluride, and the 2023 Chevy Traverse.

2023 Hyundai Palisade ties for the title of the best new midsize SUV in 2023, says US News

According to analysis from U.S. News, there’s a tie for the title of the best new midsize SUV in 2023. The mechanically similar 2023 Hyundai Palisade and 2023 Kia Telluride tie for the top spot. 

First, we’ll discuss the Palisade. The Palisade was already a successful model — and it raises the bar higher in 2023 with a refreshed design. It has a bolder new exterior and a more modern and refined cabin. There are also feature upgrades and a rugged new XRT off-road model. 

In its evaluation, U.S. News states that the Palisade “shines in nearly every category.” However, the media site especially likes the midsize SUV’s potent V-6 engine, generous amount of space for both people and cargo, and “balanced ride and handling.” Also, it has many standard features. All of these positive attributes, along with the affordable price, helped the Palisade earn a spot on the U.S. News “Best Cars for the Money” list.

2023 Kia Telluride is the other model that takes the top spot

Like the Palisade, the 2023 Kia Telluride has a refreshed design and feature upgrades for the 2023 model year. It also has new off-road models with the X-Line and X-Pro trims. 

In giving the top spot honor to the Telluride, U.S. News states that the “midcycle refresh made it even better.” In particular, the media site highlighted the roomy and luxurious interior. It also gave high praise to the Telluride for its user-friendly infotainment system, plenty of standard features, and refined driving dynamics. Along with the best new 2023 midsize SUV honor, the Telluride earned a U.S. News “Best Car for Families” award.

2023 Chevy Traverse is the third-best choice

The third-best new 2023 midsize SUV on the U.S. News list is the 2023 Chevy Traverse. Given that it doesn’t sell as well as some other midsize SUVs, such as the Toyota Highlander, the high rating for the Traverse is somewhat surprising.

However, there are various things that U.S. News likes about the Traverse, including how it has a good blend of value and performance. The media site showcases the beefy V-6 engine, as well as high-level comfort in the roomy cabin, with the ability to seat up to eight passengers. There’s also a great deal of cargo space, good handling, a smooth ride, and a user-friendly infotainment system. 

What about the Toyota Highlander, the top-selling midsize SUV?

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade, 2023 Kia Telluride, and 2023 Chevy Traverse take the top three spots on the U.S. News best midsize SUVs of 2023 list. However, a noteworthy omission is the 2023 Toyota Highlander, which is the best-selling midsize SUV. In fact, it ranked in the bottom half, placing 14th out of 22 midsize SUVs.

While U.S. News likes the Highlander’s ride quality, many standard features, and spacious first-row seating, it downgraded it for a couple of reasons. The first reason is the new engine can be noisy, and the second is the cramped third row. Because of these negative points, U.S. News recommends getting the Palisade, Telluride, or Traverse instead.