There is a strong case for the Kia Telluride SUV, especially regarding its value. As one of the newest midsize SUVs on the market, Kia put plenty of thought into the design of the Telluride. However, there is a lot to be said about the oldest midsize SUV available this year. The 2023 Kia Telluride has emerged as an exceptional choice for SUV fans, offering many reasons to consider it a top contender. On the other hand, while the 2023 Toyota 4Runner may be regarded as an older option, it still holds its own and remains a compelling choice for specific buyers.

Is the Kia Telluride the best midsize SUV?

If you want the newest midsize SUV that still carries a reasonable price, the 2023 Kia Telluride checks virtually every box. Car and Driver is a big fan of the Kia Telluride across the board. It earned a perfect rating from C&D experts, landing on the 10 Best list and taking home the Editor’s Choice award.

Drivers like the newest midsize SUV because it has many ways to customize it without exceeding the budget. Kia included plenty of standard safety features, technology, and tons of space in the cabin. It makes a great family SUV and starts at only $37,255.

It can tow 5,000 pounds, has room for up to eight passengers, and looks pretty good. A fully-loaded 2023 Telluride costs $54,350, but it comes with virtually everything you might want to add. It is hard to say the Kia Telluride isn’t the best midsize SUV, whether new or not. So what does the oldest midsize SUV have to offer?

What is the oldest midsize SUV on the market?

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner is still chugging along as one of the oldest midsize SUVs on the market without a redesign. But you know what? It still delivers on many of Toyota’s promises and has retained its spotless reputation for reliability. One of the biggest things holding the 4Runner back is that it hasn’t been redesigned since 2009.

Without a redesign, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner offered the 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition instead. It comes with some cool retro stripes and some retro hardware in the interior. Just kidding, but it still has an eight-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.

You can’t keep the Toyota 4Runner down, though. It still has a cult following and plenty of sales to prove that people love it 14 years after its debut. A base model costs $40,990, and a fully loaded 4Runner costs $55,955. Compared to the 2023 Kia Telluride, the Toyota starts higher and offers less. However, not many brands can match the history of reliability both Toyota and the 4Runner have.

How expensive is the newest midsize SUV?

Potential buyers of the 2023 Kia Telluride may not be looking at the 2023 Toyota 4Runner, and vice versa. The Telluride is a bit cheaper and has more family-friendly features for that sort of shopper. However, the customer looking at the 4Runner probably wants a midsize SUV that is more adventure-friendly and rugged.

There are more options to choose from with the Telluride, which appeals to more shoppers. It blends comfort, style, and affordability into one attractive family-friendly package. The 4Runner continues to deliver on ruggedness and off-road skills, appealing to adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. Toyota’s body-on-frame construction, high ground clearance, and advanced four-wheel-drive system make it exceptionally capable.

The Kia Telluride is just starting its midsize SUV journey, but the Toyota 4Runner could be a totally new SUV sometime soon. Getting behind the wheel is always advisable if you are on the fence about either. These vehicles seem pretty different from the driver’s seat, which might help settle the decision once and for all.