Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2025 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride ranks first because it delivers the most complete three-row family package for the money. Its 3.8-liter V6 produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, returning an EPA-estimated 20 city/26 highway mpg in front-drive form. It seats up to eight, tows 5,000 pounds, and earns an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating. Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is the industry's best.

The Telluride is for families who want a single vehicle that does nearly everything well without compromise. It trades away hybrid efficiency and the sharpest driving dynamics for a genuinely upscale cabin and proven reliability. Compared to the Hyundai Palisade below it, the Telluride commands a slightly higher price but offers a more distinct, rugged design and stronger resale demand, making it the default choice for most buyers.

2. Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid

The Grand Highlander Hybrid ranks second because it solves the third-row space problem while delivering class-leading efficiency. Its standard hybrid system makes 245 combined horsepower and returns up to 36 mpg combined, with an available Hybrid MAX variant producing 362 horsepower. Cargo space is generous at 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 97.5 cubic feet with seats folded, and it seats up to eight. Toyota's reliability and resale value are benchmarks.

This SUV is for large families who need adult-friendly third-row seating and refuse to sacrifice fuel economy. It trades away the Telluride's lower starting price and standard V6 punch for hybrid efficiency and a roomier cabin. Compared to the Kia, the Grand Highlander costs more, especially in hybrid form, but it offers superior space and fuel savings for high-mileage drivers, making it the smarter long-term investment for many.

3. Hyundai Palisade

The Hyundai Palisade ranks third as the best value in the segment, offering maximum content per dollar. Sharing the Telluride's 291-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, it starts at $38,695. It provides a plush, quiet cabin with a generous standard-feature list, 86.4 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, and seating for up to eight. EPA figures land around 19 city/26 highway mpg, and it tows 5,000 pounds.

The Palisade is for value-focused buyers who want near-luxury content without the luxury price. It trades away the Telluride's more rugged styling and slightly higher resale value for a richer standard equipment list and a lower starting MSRP. Compared to the Grand Highlander Hybrid above it, the Palisade offers a more powerful V6 and lower upfront cost but lacks hybrid efficiency, making it the pick for those who prioritize features over fuel savings.

4. Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot ranks fourth because it is the practicality champion, offering unmatched cargo flexibility and proven durability. Its 3.5-liter V6 makes 285 horsepower through a 10-speed automatic, achieving up to 22 mpg combined and towing 5,000 pounds. Cargo space is class-leading at up to 113.7 cubic feet with both rows folded, and the removable second-row middle seat adds unique versatility.

The Pilot is for families who prioritize maximum cargo room and long-term reliability over flashy tech or luxury. It trades away the Palisade's richer feature content and the Grand Highlander's hybrid efficiency for a more functional, durable package. Compared to the Palisade above it, the Pilot offers more cargo space and a removable seat but a less premium cabin and no hybrid option, making it the sensible choice for hauling gear and people.

5. Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid ranks fifth because it remains the efficiency benchmark for a three-row SUV. Its 2.5-liter hybrid system produces 243 horsepower and achieves an EPA-rated 36 mpg city/35 mpg highway, figures no V6 rival can match. Cargo space reaches 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded, and it seats up to eight, though the third row is tight for adults.

The Highlander Hybrid is for smaller families who value fuel economy and long-term value over interior space. It trades away the Grand Highlander's roomier third row and the Pilot's cargo capacity for superior efficiency and a lower price point. Compared to the Honda Pilot above it, the Highlander offers significantly better mpg and resale but a more cramped third row and less cargo volume, making it ideal for urban and suburban commuters.

6. Mazda CX-90

The Mazda CX-90 ranks sixth because it offers the most engaging driving dynamics and a luxury-grade interior in the segment. Its 3.3-liter inline-six turbo makes up to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft on premium fuel, returning about 25 mpg combined, with a plug-in hybrid option offering 27 miles of electric range. It tows up to 5,000 pounds (3,500 for PHEV) and earns an IIHS Top Safety Pick+.

The CX-90 is for drivers who prioritize premium feel and driving enjoyment over maximum passenger space. It trades away the Highlander Hybrid's efficiency and third-row room for a more rewarding drive and higher-quality cabin materials. Compared to the Toyota above it, the CX-90 offers more power and a more luxurious interior but costs more to fuel and has less cargo space, making it a niche pick for enthusiasts who don't need a cavernous SUV.

7. Subaru Ascent

The Subaru Ascent ranks seventh because it comes standard with all-wheel drive on every trim, making it a top choice for snow-belt buyers. Its 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft, returning about 20 city/26 highway mpg and towing up to 5,000 pounds. It offers flexible seven- or eight-passenger seating, 72.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, and standard EyeSight driver assistance.

The Ascent is for outdoorsy families and those in harsh climates who need standard AWD capability. It trades away the CX-90's premium interior and driving refinement for all-weather grip and a more utilitarian cabin. Compared to the Mazda above it, the Ascent offers standard AWD and more passenger space but a less powerful and less efficient engine, making it the practical choice for those who prioritize traction over style.

8. Chevrolet Traverse

The Chevrolet Traverse ranks eighth because it offers near-full-size interior space at a mid-size price. Its 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder makes 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft, paired with an eight-speed automatic and returning up to 23 mpg combined. Cargo space is vast at 97.6 cubic feet with both rows folded, and it tows 5,000 pounds.

The Traverse is for families who want the biggest cabin possible without stepping up to a full-size SUV. It trades away the Ascent's standard AWD and Subaru's safety reputation for superior cargo volume and a more powerful engine. Compared to the Subaru above it, the Traverse offers more passenger and cargo room and a punchier turbo, but its fuel economy and reliability trail the Japanese leaders, making it a space-first choice for road-trippers.

9. Volkswagen Atlas

The Volkswagen Atlas ranks ninth because it provides one of the most adult-friendly third rows in the segment, wrapped in a clean European design. Its single 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder makes 269 horsepower, returning roughly 20 city/26 highway mpg and towing up to 5,000 pounds. Cargo space is generous at 96.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, and it seats six or seven depending on the second row.

The Atlas is for buyers who prioritize third-row legroom and a refined, Euro-flavored driving experience over performance. It trades away the Traverse's more powerful engine and larger cargo hold for a more spacious third row and a more polished cabin. Compared to the Chevrolet above it, the Atlas offers a more comfortable back seat and better standard warranty coverage, but its turbo-four feels less energetic, making it a comfort-first pick for families who regularly carry adults.

10. Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Jeep Grand Cherokee ranks tenth because it brings genuine off-road capability and the strongest tow rating in the group. Its standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 makes 293 horsepower, returning about 22 mpg combined, while the 4xe plug-in hybrid delivers 375 horsepower and a 26-mile electric range. With the trailering kit, it tows up to 6,000 pounds, the most here.

The Grand Cherokee is for buyers who actually tow heavy loads and venture off pavement, offering real 4x4 hardware and an available air suspension. It trades away the Atlas's third-row seating and passenger space for superior capability and towing muscle. Compared to the Volkswagen above it, the Grand Cherokee offers more towing capacity and off-road prowess but less interior room and lower fuel economy, making it a specialized choice for adventurers rather than large families.

How we ranked these

We ranked the top 10 mid-size SUVs for 2025 by weighting factors that matter most to family buyers over a 5-to-7-year ownership window. We scored each vehicle on reliability and ownership cost (25%), safety ratings (20%), interior space and comfort (15%), powertrain and efficiency (15%), tech and value (15%), and price-to-performance (10%).

Data came from published 2025 MSRPs, EPA fuel-economy figures, IIHS and NHTSA crash results, and long-term reliability and resale data from sources like Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, and Kelley Blue Book.

We deliberately ignored marketing hype, subjective styling preferences, and brand prestige. We did not weigh horsepower figures or touchscreen sizes heavily, as these rarely affect daily satisfaction. We also excluded luxury badges and focused on mainstream models that offer the best combination of practicality, safety, and value. Our goal was to highlight vehicles that deliver real-world utility and low long-term ownership costs, not just impressive spec sheets.

Related questions

What is the best mid-size SUV for families in 2025?

The Kia Telluride is the best overall for families, offering a roomy three-row cabin, a strong V6, an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. It starts at $36,190 and provides a complete package that balances space, safety, and value.

Which mid-size SUV has the best fuel economy?

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid leads with an EPA-rated 36 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. The Grand Highlander Hybrid is close behind at up to 36 mpg combined. These hybrids are ideal for buyers who prioritize efficiency without sacrificing three-row space.

What is the most reliable mid-size SUV?

Toyota and Honda models, like the Highlander and Pilot, are known for long-term reliability and strong resale value. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade also offer excellent dependability backed by industry-leading warranties, making them smart choices for long-term ownership.

Which mid-size SUV has the most cargo space?

The Honda Pilot offers class-leading cargo volume at up to 113.7 cubic feet with both rows folded. The Chevrolet Traverse is also spacious at 97.6 cubic feet, making both excellent choices for families needing maximum hauling capacity.

What is the best mid-size SUV for towing?

The Jeep Grand Cherokee leads the group with a 6,000-pound towing capacity when equipped with the trailering package. Most rivals, including the Telluride, Palisade, and Pilot, are rated at 5,000 pounds, which is sufficient for many trailers and boats.

Which mid-size SUV has the best safety ratings?

The Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, and Mazda CX-90 all earn the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, the highest honor. The Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander also achieve Top Safety Pick ratings, ensuring excellent crash protection and advanced safety features.

What is the best value mid-size SUV in 2025?

The Hyundai Palisade is the best value, starting at $38,695. It shares its platform with the Telluride but offers a richer standard-feature list, the same 291-horsepower V6, and the same 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, providing more content per dollar than rivals.

Which mid-size SUV has the most adult-friendly third row?

The Toyota Grand Highlander and Volkswagen Atlas have the most adult-friendly third rows, offering generous legroom and headroom. Many competitors, like the Highlander Hybrid and CX-90, have tighter third rows better suited for children.

FAQ

What is the best mid-size SUV for 2025?

The Kia Telluride is our Best Overall pick for its balance of space, safety, a 291-horsepower V6, a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a Top Safety Pick+ rating, all starting at $36,190.

Which 2025 mid-size SUV is the best value?

The Hyundai Palisade at $38,695 offers the most standard content and the same long warranty as the Telluride, making it the strongest dollar-for-dollar buy in the class.

Which mid-size SUV gets the best fuel economy?

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid leads at an EPA-rated 36 mpg city, with the Grand Highlander Hybrid close behind at up to 36 mpg combined.

Which 2025 mid-size SUV tows the most?

The Jeep Grand Cherokee tows up to 6,000 pounds with the trailering package, edging out the 5,000-pound rating shared by most rivals.

Are three-row mid-size SUVs good for adults in the back?

The Toyota Grand Highlander and Volkswagen Atlas have the most adult-friendly third rows; many rivals, including the Highlander Hybrid and CX-90, are best reserved for children back there.

Should I buy a hybrid mid-size SUV?

A hybrid like the Grand Highlander or Highlander can return 35-plus mpg, but the price premium takes years of fuel savings to recover unless you drive a lot. If you cover high annual mileage, a hybrid is a smart choice.

What is the total cost of ownership for a mid-size SUV?

Factor warranty, insurance, fuel, and projected resale together, not just the sticker price. A longer warranty and stronger resale can outweigh a slightly higher MSRP, making models like the Telluride and Palisade cost-effective over time.

Which mid-size SUV has the best interior?

The Mazda CX-90 offers a luxury-grade cabin with premium materials that rival high-end brands. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade also provide upscale interiors at a mainstream price, making them top contenders for cabin quality.

What is the most spacious mid-size SUV?

The Chevrolet Traverse has a near-full-size interior with 97.6 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Honda Pilot offers up to 113.7 cubic feet. Both are excellent for families needing maximum room.

Which mid-size SUV is best for off-roading?

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is the off-road leader with available air suspension, 4x4 systems, and a 6,000-pound tow rating. The Subaru Ascent also offers standard all-wheel drive, making it a solid choice for snow and light trails.

Sources

• https://www.caranddriver.com/toyota/grand-highlander-hybrid
• https://www.caranddriver.com/toyota/highlander-hybrid-2023
• https://www.caranddriver.com/mazda/cx-90
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kia_Telluride
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyundai_Palisade
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Traverse
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeep_Grand_Cherokee
• https://www.thecarconnection.com/overview/honda_pilot_2022
• https://www.thecarconnection.com/overview/subaru_ascent_2022
• https://www.thecarconnection.com/overview/volkswagen_atlas_2021

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