Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2024 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Kia Telluride 2024

The 2024 Kia Telluride ranks first because it delivers the most complete package in the mid-size SUV segment, combining a 291-hp V6 with a genuinely usable third row and an upscale cabin at a $35,990 starting price. It earns an IIHS Top Safety Pick, offers a 5,000-lb tow rating, and provides up to 87 cu ft of cargo space with the rear rows folded. This combination of performance, safety, and value is unmatched here.

This is the default recommendation for most families who want one SUV that does everything well without compromise. It trades away hybrid efficiency, as its 21 mpg trails the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid's 36 mpg, and its popularity means dealer discounts are thin. Compared to the Grand Highlander below, the Telluride offers a slightly smaller cargo hold but a more premium-feeling interior and a significantly longer warranty.

2. Toyota Grand Highlander 2024

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander ranks second for its class-leading interior space and the availability of a true hybrid powertrain, with up to 36 mpg combined from the standard hybrid. It offers three powertrains, including a 362-hp Hybrid MAX, and seating for up to eight across three rows. Cargo space is the largest in this group at 97.5 cu ft, and it earns an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating.

This is the pick for big families who need the roomiest third row and maximum cargo capacity, plus a hybrid option for efficiency. It trades away the Kia Telluride's longer warranty, as Toyota's 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage is half the length. The standard hybrid's tow rating drops to 3,500 lb compared to the gas model's 5,000 lb. If you need to tow more or want a more luxurious cabin, the Telluride is the better choice.

3. Hyundai Palisade 2024

The 2024 Hyundai Palisade takes third because it offers the same excellent 291-hp V6 and 10-year/100,000-mile warranty as the Kia Telluride but with a noticeably quieter and plusher ride. It starts at $36,650, gets 22 mpg combined, and offers up to 86.4 cu ft of cargo space. The Calligraphy trim rivals entry-luxury SUVs with its premium materials and features for a fraction of the price. This focus on comfort sets it apart from its corporate sibling.

This is for buyers who want the Telluride's strengths but prefer a softer, more comfortable daily driving experience over rugged styling. It trades away the Telluride's slightly more adventurous look and a small amount of cargo space. Compared to the Toyota Grand Highlander above, the Palisade provides a shorter warranty than Toyota's reputation but a more luxurious feel. If you find the Palisade's styling polarizing, the Telluride is the safer visual choice.

4. Toyota Highlander 2024

The 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid secures fourth place for its outstanding fuel economy, achieving up to 36 mpg combined, which is the best in this group. It offers a 265-hp turbo four or a 243-hp hybrid, with seating for up to eight, and it starts at $39,520. The hybrid model tows 3,500 lb, while the gas version handles 5,000 lb. It carries an IIHS Top Safety Pick and benefits from Toyota's renowned reliability and strong resale value.

This is for efficiency-minded families who want a proven, dependable three-row SUV that is easier to maneuver than the larger Toyota Grand Highlander. It trades away third-row space, which is best for kids only, and cargo room is less than the Honda Pilot or Grand Highlander. Compared to the Hyundai Palisade above, the Highlander offers better fuel economy but a less premium cabin and a shorter warranty.

5. Honda Pilot 2024

The 2024 Honda Pilot ranks fifth for its class-leading total cargo volume of up to 111.8 cu ft and clever removable middle second-row seat. Its 285-hp V6 and 10-speed automatic provide smooth, dependable power, with 22 mpg combined for FWD models. It starts at $37,090, tows up to 5,000 lb with AWD, and offers a rugged TrailSport trim for light off-roading.

This is the practicality champion for families who haul gear as often as people, offering the most flexible interior in the class. It trades away a hybrid option, which the Toyota Highlander above provides, and its 5-year/60,000-mile warranty trails the Korean rivals. Compared to the Highlander, the Pilot offers more space and a better off-road trim but worse fuel economy. If you prioritize fuel savings, the Highlander Hybrid is the better pick.

6. Mazda CX-90 2024

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 earns sixth place for its premium interior and engaging driving dynamics, powered by a smooth 3.3L inline-six turbo making up to 340 horsepower. It comes standard with AWD, starts at $39,595, and achieves 25 mpg combined with the turbo engine. The PHEV option offers 56 MPGe and about 26 miles of electric range. It also earns an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and has a 5,000-lb tow rating, blending performance with efficiency.

This is for drivers who want a near-luxury feel and sporty handling in a three-row SUV, making it the enthusiast's choice. It trades away third-row space, which is snug, and cargo volume is lower at 75 cu ft compared to the Honda Pilot above. The ride is firmer than the Hyundai Palisade or Kia Telluride, which may not suit all families. If you value comfort over driving excitement, the Palisade is the better option.

7. Subaru Ascent 2024

The 2024 Subaru Ascent ranks seventh but is the best value pick, starting at $34,395, the lowest price in this group for a three-row SUV. It comes standard with symmetrical all-wheel drive, a 2.4L turbo flat-four making 260 horsepower, and a 5,000-lb tow rating. EPA economy is 23 mpg combined, and it earns an IIHS Top Safety Pick with standard EyeSight driver assist.

This is for snow-belt families who want standard AWD and top safety scores for the least money. It trades away interior material quality, which trails the segment's best, and the CVT can drone under hard acceleration. Compared to the Mazda CX-90 above, the Ascent offers more space and a lower price but a less premium feel. If you need AWD and value above all else, this is the clear choice.

8. Chevrolet Traverse 2024

The redesigned 2024 Chevrolet Traverse takes eighth for its powerful 2.5L turbo four making 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque, one of the strongest in the class. It starts at $37,600, gets 23 mpg combined, and offers a huge cabin and cargo area. Towing reaches 5,000 lb with the trailering package, and a rugged Z71 trim adds off-road hardware. It also features a large standard infotainment screen, enhancing its appeal.

This is for space-hungry families who want maximum room and a torquey engine at a competitive price. It trades away proven long-term reliability, as this is a first-year redesign with thin data, and GM's warranty trails the Korean brands. Compared to the Subaru Ascent above, the Traverse offers more power and space but lacks standard AWD. If you want a more established track record, the Honda Pilot is a safer bet.

9. Ford Explorer 2024

The 2024 Ford Explorer ranks ninth for its strong towing capability, reaching 5,300 lb with the 300-hp 2.3L turbo four and 5,600 lb with the 400-hp 3.0L V6. It starts at $36,860, features a rear-wheel-drive-based platform for better handling, and seats up to seven. EPA economy is 24 mpg combined with the four-cylinder, and cargo space tops out at 87.8 cu ft.

This is for buyers who want a sportier driving feel and class-leading tow ratings from a mid-size SUV. It trades away a premium interior, as base materials feel plain, and it has a mixed long-term reliability history. Compared to the Chevrolet Traverse above, the Explorer offers more towing capacity but less standard equipment. If you need maximum towing, the Jeep Grand Cherokee below is the only one that beats it.

10. Jeep Grand Cherokee 2024

The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee rounds out the list for its best-in-class 6,200-lb towing capacity and genuine off-road capability with available Quadra-Drive hardware. It starts at $38,290, offers a 293-hp V6 or a 375-hp 4xe plug-in hybrid with about 26 miles of electric range. The V6 gets 22 mpg combined, and the 4xe earns 23 mpg plus electric-only driving.

This is for buyers who prioritize towing, trail ability, or a plug-in hybrid over a roomy third row, as the standard model seats five. It trades away three-row seating, which most rivals here offer, and the 4xe's price climbs near $60,000. Compared to the Ford Explorer above, the Grand Cherokee offers more towing and off-road ability but less passenger space. If you need a true family hauler, the Kia Telluride is the better choice.

How we ranked these

We ranked the 2024 mid-size SUVs by weighting six factors drawn from published data: reliability and ownership cost (25%), safety (20%), interior space and comfort (15%), powertrain and efficiency (15%), tech and value (15%), and price-to-performance (10%). We used specs from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, KBB, U.S. News, Cars.com, IIHS, and the EPA.

We deliberately ignored subjective styling preferences, brand loyalty, and dealer-specific incentives, as these vary by region and personal taste. We also excluded long-term depreciation projections beyond five years, since most family buyers keep SUVs for that period. Our goal was to isolate objective, verifiable metrics that directly affect daily ownership, not marketing hype or fringe opinions.

What to look for

When choosing between these, prioritize the factors that match your actual lifestyle: if you tow regularly, the Grand Cherokee's 6,200-lb rating beats all rivals; if fuel economy is critical, the Highlander Hybrid's 36 mpg saves thousands over five years; if you need maximum cargo, the Pilot's 111.8 cu ft leads. Also weigh warranty length—Kia and Hyundai offer 10-year/100,000-mile coverage, double Toyota and Honda's 5-year/60,000-mile plans.

Test the third row and cargo space with your family's gear, not just on paper.

The mistake most buyers make is fixating on a single spec—like horsepower or starting price—without considering real-world trade-offs. For example, the Telluride's 291-hp V6 is strong, but its 21 mpg costs more at the pump than the Grand Highlander Hybrid. Similarly, the Ascent's low $34,395 price hides a less premium cabin and a droning CVT. Always calculate total cost of ownership, including fuel, insurance, and depreciation, over your expected ownership period, not just the sticker price.

Related questions

What is the best 2024 mid-size SUV for families?

The Kia Telluride is the best overall for families due to its roomy three-row cabin, 291-hp V6, 5,000-lb tow rating, and class-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. It also earns an IIHS Top Safety Pick and offers up to 87 cu ft of cargo space, making it a versatile and dependable choice.

Which 2024 mid-size SUV has the lowest starting price?

The Subaru Ascent starts at $34,395, making it the cheapest three-row SUV in this group. It includes standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, a 260-hp turbo engine, and a 5,000-lb tow rating, offering exceptional value for snow-belt buyers who want AWD without paying extra.

What is the most fuel-efficient 2024 mid-size SUV?

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Grand Highlander Hybrid lead with up to 36 mpg combined. The Mazda CX-90 PHEV offers 56 MPGe and about 26 miles of electric range, but for traditional hybrids, Toyota's models are the most efficient in the segment.

Which 2024 mid-size SUV can tow the most?

The Jeep Grand Cherokee tops the class with a 6,200-lb towing capacity, followed by the Ford Explorer at up to 5,600 lb. Most other three-row rivals, including the Telluride, Ascent, and Pilot, are rated at 5,000 lb, so the Grand Cherokee is the clear choice for heavy towing.

Is the Honda Pilot bigger than the Toyota Grand Highlander?

The Honda Pilot offers more total cargo space at 111.8 cu ft versus 97.5 cu ft in the Grand Highlander. However, the Grand Highlander has a more spacious third row and offers hybrid powertrains, while the Pilot provides a removable middle seat and rugged TrailSport trim.

What are the main differences between the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade?

Both share the same 291-hp V6, 8-speed automatic, and 10-year/100,000-mile warranty. The Palisade has a softer, quieter ride and more luxurious Calligraphy trim, while the Telluride offers a slightly more rugged design and higher towing capacity on the X-Pro (5,500 lb).

Which 2024 mid-size SUV is best for off-roading?

The Jeep Grand Cherokee with Quadra-Drive and air suspension is the most capable off-road, offering 6,200-lb towing and genuine trail ability. The Honda Pilot TrailSport and Chevrolet Traverse Z71 also add rugged features, but the Grand Cherokee leads in capability.

Is the Ford Explorer a good family SUV?

Yes, the Explorer offers strong towing (up to 5,600 lb), a rear-drive-based platform for engaging handling, and up to 87.8 cu ft of cargo space. However, its base interior is less premium than rivals, and reliability history is mixed, so consider higher trims or alternatives.

FAQ

Which 2024 mid-size SUV is the most reliable?

Toyota (Highlander and Grand Highlander) and Kia (Telluride) consistently earn top dependability marks. The Korean pair backs that with 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranties, while Toyota's reputation for longevity and strong resale value makes it a safe bet.

What is the best value 2024 mid-size SUV?

The Subaru Ascent, at a starting MSRP of $34,395, delivers standard all-wheel drive, three rows, a 5,000-lb tow rating, and Top Safety Pick credentials for the least money. It's the clear value leader for families needing AWD without extra cost.

Which 2024 mid-size SUV gets the best gas mileage?

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Grand Highlander Hybrid lead at up to 36 mpg combined. The Mazda CX-90 PHEV adds plug-in electric range (56 MPGe, 26 miles EV), but for non-plug-in hybrids, Toyota's models are the most efficient.

Which 2024 mid-size SUV tows the most?

The Jeep Grand Cherokee leads at 6,200 lb, followed by the Ford Explorer at up to 5,600 lb. Most three-row rivals here are rated at 5,000 lb, so the Grand Cherokee is the top choice for heavy towing needs.

Do I really need all-wheel drive?

Only if you regularly face snow, ice, or loose surfaces. AWD adds cost and reduces MPG, so FWD is fine for most temperate-climate buyers. The Subaru Ascent includes AWD at no premium, making it an exception for snow-belt shoppers.

Which 2024 mid-size SUV has the most cargo space?

The Honda Pilot (up to 111.8 cu ft total) and Toyota Grand Highlander (97.5 cu ft) lead the class for maximum cargo volume. For space behind the third row, the Pilot offers 21.8 cu ft, while the Grand Highlander provides a roomier third row.

Is the Mazda CX-90 worth the premium price?

If you value premium interior materials, engaging driving dynamics, and a powerful inline-six turbo (up to 340 hp), the CX-90 is worth it. However, its third row is snug and cargo space is lower, so families needing maximum space may prefer rivals.

What is the best 2024 mid-size SUV for towing?

The Jeep Grand Cherokee (6,200 lb) and Ford Explorer (up to 5,600 lb) are the top towers. For three-row family hauling, the Kia Telluride and Subaru Ascent both offer 5,000 lb, which is sufficient for most trailers and boats.

How does the Chevrolet Traverse compare to the Honda Pilot?

The Traverse offers a more powerful turbo four (328 hp) and similar cargo space, plus a Z71 off-road trim. The Pilot has a proven V6, removable middle seat, and a longer reliability record. The Traverse is a first-year redesign, so long-term data is thin.

Which 2024 mid-size SUV has the best warranty?

Kia and Hyundai offer the best warranty: 10 years/100,000 miles on the powertrain, plus 5 years/60,000 miles bumper-to-bumper. Toyota, Honda, Ford, and Chevrolet provide 5 years/60,000 miles on the powertrain, which is significantly shorter.

Sources

• https://www.caranddriver.com/kia/telluride
• https://www.motortrend.com/cars/kia/telluride/
• https://www.edmunds.com/kia/telluride/
• https://www.kbb.com/kia/telluride/
• https://www.usnews.com/cars-trucks/kia-telluride/
• https://www.cars.com/research/kia-telluride/
• https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/kia-telluride-4-door-suv
• https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/PowerSearch.do?action=noargs&year=2024&make=Kia&model=Telluride
• https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2024/KIA/TELLURIDE/4-DR%20AWD

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