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Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value

Curated byKory White · Fractional CRO · Maryland

Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value

📖 2,911 words🗓️ Published Aug 21, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best mid-size suvs 2023 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. Kia Telluride

Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 1

The Kia Telluride ranks first because it delivers the most complete family package in the class, combining a 291-hp V6, an upscale cabin, and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating. Its 3.8-liter engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic, achieving 20/26 mpg FWD and towing up to 5,500 pounds. With 21 cubic feet behind the third row and 87 cubic feet maximum, it offers genuine three-row space. Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is unmatched here.

This is for families who want near-luxury refinement without the luxury price, starting at $35,690. It trades away any hybrid option and popular trims were hard to find at MSRP in 2023. Compared to the Hyundai Palisade below, the Telluride holds resale value slightly better and rides with a bit more polish. It is the SUV we would buy with our own money.

2. Hyundai Palisade

Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 2

The Palisade ranks second because it shares the Telluride's excellent 291-hp V6 and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty while offering a plusher, more distinctive cabin design. It achieves about 22 mpg combined FWD and 19/25 mpg AWD, with 18 cubic feet behind the third row. The Calligraphy trim feels genuinely luxurious, with premium materials and a quiet ride. It tows 5,000 pounds, slightly less than its Kia cousin.

This is for buyers who prefer Hyundai's styling and interior flair over the Telluride's more conventional approach. It trades away a bit of resale value and ride polish compared to the top pick. The gap between the two is small, but the Telluride edges ahead on overall refinement and brand perception. Choose this if you want the same substance with a more expressive personality.

3. Toyota Highlander

Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 3

The Highlander ranks third because it leads the class in predicted reliability and resale value, making it the smart long-term ownership choice. Its turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder makes 265 horsepower and 309 lb-ft, returning about 22 mpg combined. The Highlander Hybrid is the efficiency star, delivering an outstanding 35 mpg combined from its 243-hp system. It seats seven or eight and tows up to 5,000 pounds.

This is for buyers who plan to keep an SUV for a decade and prioritize peace of mind above all else. It trades away third-row space, which is tighter than the Telluride or Traverse, and the turbo four sounds coarse under hard acceleration. Compared to the Honda Pilot below, it offers better fuel economy and reliability but less cargo room. Standard Toyota Safety Sense adds to its family-friendly appeal.

4. Honda Pilot

Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 4

The Honda Pilot ranks fourth because its full redesign for 2023 delivered the roomiest interior in the class, with 22.4 cubic feet behind the third row and a cavernous 114.3 cubic feet maximum. Its 3.5-liter V6 makes 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft through a new 10-speed automatic, achieving about 22 mpg combined FWD. It seats up to eight and tows 5,000 pounds with AWD. The rugged TrailSport trim adds ground clearance and all-terrain tires.

This is for active families who need maximum space and a proven, durable powertrain. It trades away a lower entry price, starting at $39,150, which is higher than its Korean rivals. Compared to the Toyota Highlander above, it offers significantly more cargo room and a smoother V6 but worse fuel economy. The TrailSport variant drops to about 20 mpg combined but adds genuine off-road capability.

5. Chevrolet Traverse

Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 5

The Chevrolet Traverse ranks fifth but earns our Best Value nod because it offers the most space and seating for the lowest starting MSRP of $34,520. Its 3.6-liter V6 produces a robust 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft through a nine-speed automatic, rated at 18/27 mpg FWD. It seats a full eight passengers and swallows 23 cubic feet behind the third row and 98.2 cubic feet maximum—the most in this group. Towing tops out at 5,000 pounds.

This is for budget-conscious families who want maximum practicality for the fewest dollars. It trades away interior material quality and on-road refinement, as the aging platform feels less polished than the Honda Pilot above. Compared to the Pilot, it offers more cargo space and a stronger base engine but a less upscale cabin. For sheer SUV per dollar, nothing here beats it.

6. Jeep Grand Cherokee

Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 6

The Jeep Grand Cherokee ranks sixth because it offers the best towing capacity in the group at 6,200 pounds, making it the pick for serious hauling. Its 3.6-liter V6 makes 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft through an eight-speed automatic, returning 19/26 mpg. Available 4x4 hardware and an air suspension give it genuine off-road capability unmatched by rivals.

This is for buyers who tow boats or campers and want real trail capability. It trades away predicted reliability, which lags the Toyota and Korean picks, and loaded trims get expensive fast. Compared to the Chevrolet Traverse above, it offers far more towing and off-road ability but less cargo space and a higher starting price of $38,690. The upscale cabin in higher trims is a bonus.

7. Mazda CX-9

Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 7

The Mazda CX-9 ranks seventh because it delivers the best driving dynamics and richest cabin in the class, appealing to enthusiasts. Its turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder makes 227 horsepower on regular fuel and 250 hp on premium, with 320 lb-ft of torque. It achieves 20/26 mpg through a six-speed automatic, and the interior feels close to luxury-grade. However, cargo is modest at 14.4 cubic feet behind the third row and 71.2 cubic feet maximum.

This is for drivers who prioritize handling and interior quality over outright space. It trades away third-row usability and towing, which is limited to 3,500 pounds. Compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee above, it offers a more engaging drive but far less capability. Note that the all-new CX-90 arrived as a 2024 model, so the CX-9 is the genuine 2023 Mazda three-row. It is the enthusiast's choice here.

8. Subaru Ascent

Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 8

The Subaru Ascent ranks eighth because it offers standard symmetrical all-wheel drive on every trim, a unique advantage for snow-belt families. Its turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four makes 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft through a CVT, returning about 22 mpg combined. It seats seven or eight, offers 17.8 cubic feet behind the third row, and tows 5,000 pounds on all but the base trim. Standard EyeSight driver-assist tech and strong safety scores round it out.

This is for buyers who need AWD traction without paying extra, as it has the lowest starting MSRP in the group at $33,895. It trades away power and refinement, with the CVT droning under hard acceleration compared to the V6 rivals. Compared to the Mazda CX-9 above, it offers more space and standard AWD but a less premium cabin. It is the smart buy for those facing regular snow.

9. Ford Explorer

Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 9

The Ford Explorer ranks ninth because it offers a broad engine menu and rear-drive-based dynamics for a sportier feel. The base turbocharged 2.3-liter four makes 300 horsepower, achieving 20/29 mpg RWD, with an available 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 at 365 or 400 hp. A 318-hp hybrid returns up to 27 mpg, and all use a 10-speed automatic. It seats six or seven, holds 87.8 cubic feet maximum, and tows up to 5,600 pounds.

This is for buyers who want strong engines and engaging handling in a family SUV. It trades away interior quality, with cheap materials in lower trims, and predicted reliability trails the leaders. Compared to the Subaru Ascent above, it offers more power and towing but lacks standard AWD. The ST performance variant adds serious speed for enthusiasts. It is a dynamic pick if you can live with the cabin.

10. Volkswagen Atlas

Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 10

The Volkswagen Atlas ranks tenth because it provides a spacious, upright three-row cabin with a usable third row and generous cargo space. It seats seven, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 96.8 cubic feet maximum. The standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four makes 235 horsepower, while a 3.6-liter V6 offers 276 hp, both through an eight-speed automatic. Fuel economy lands around 21/25 mpg for the four-cylinder, and the V6 tows 5,000 pounds.

This is for buyers who want a roomy, practical family hauler with a long free-maintenance perk of two years/20,000 miles. It trades away warranty length, with a four-year/50,000-mile plan that is shorter than the Korean rivals. Compared to the Ford Explorer above, it offers more third-row space but a less powerful base engine. The base four-cylinder feels merely adequate, so the V6 is worth the upgrade. It is a solid, practical choice.

How we ranked these

We weighted six categories to reflect what actually matters over years of family ownership, not just a glossy test-drive impression. Our scoring draws on published specs and reviews from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, U.S. News, IIHS crash testing, and EPA fuel-economy data. Reliability and ownership cost got 25%, safety 20%, interior space and comfort 15%, powertrain and efficiency 15%, tech and value 15%, and price-to-performance 10%.

A vehicle had to be a real 2023 model-year, three-row (or large two-row) mid-size SUV to qualify. Pricing reflects 2023 starting MSRP before destination charges.

We deliberately ignored subjective styling preferences, brand loyalty, and marketing hype. We also excluded dealer markups and regional pricing variations, which can distort true value. We did not penalize vehicles for lacking the latest tech gimmicks if they delivered on core family needs. Our focus stayed on long-term ownership metrics—reliability, safety, space, efficiency, and warranty—rather than short-term test-drive impressions.

This approach ensures the rankings favor practical, dependable choices that serve families well beyond the first year of ownership.

What to look for

When choosing between these, prioritize third-row usability, warranty length, and real-world fuel economy over horsepower. The Telluride, Palisade, Pilot, and Traverse have genuinely usable third rows; the CX-9 and Explorer are tighter. Kia and Hyundai's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is a massive ownership-cost advantage. If you tow, the Grand Cherokee's 6,200-lb rating beats all others. For snow, the Ascent's standard AWD is a built-in win.

Always check IIHS Top Safety Pick status and NHTSA stars before signing.

The biggest mistake buyers make is fixating on horsepower or a single standout feature while ignoring the total ownership picture. A 310-hp Traverse won't feel meaningfully faster than a 265-hp Highlander in daily driving. Instead, buyers should compare cabin quality, third-row comfort, warranty coverage, and predicted reliability. Also, don't let a low starting MSRP fool you—options and trim packages can balloon the price.

Focus on the trim that includes the safety and convenience features you actually need, not the base model that's stripped down.

FAQ

What is the best mid-size SUV for 2023?

The Kia Telluride is our Best Overall for 2023, combining a 291-hp V6, an upscale cabin, an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty at a $35,690 starting MSRP.

Which 2023 mid-size SUV is the best value?

Which 2023 mid-size SUV gets the best gas mileage?

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid leads at roughly 35 mpg combined, far ahead of the V6-powered competition that mostly lands near 22 mpg combined.

Which 2023 mid-size SUV can tow the most?

The Jeep Grand Cherokee tops the group at 6,200 pounds, followed by the Ford Explorer at 5,600 pounds and the Kia Telluride at 5,500 pounds with the tow package.

Do any of these 2023 SUVs come with all-wheel drive standard?

Yes. The Subaru Ascent includes symmetrical all-wheel drive on every trim. The others offer AWD or 4WD as an option above the standard front-wheel or rear-wheel drive.

Is the Mazda CX-90 a 2023 model?

No. The all-new CX-90 launched as a 2024 model. For the 2023 model year, the Mazda CX-9 is the brand's three-row mid-size SUV.

What is the most reliable 2023 mid-size SUV?

Which 2023 mid-size SUV has the most cargo space?

What is the safest 2023 mid-size SUV?

The Kia Telluride earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2023, the highest award. The Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, and Subaru Ascent also received Top Safety Pick+ ratings, making them excellent choices for safety-conscious families.

Which 2023 mid-size SUV has the best warranty?

The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade both offer a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, the longest in the class. This coverage is a significant ownership-cost advantage over rivals like the Ford Explorer and Volkswagen Atlas, which offer only four to five years of coverage.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overa"] S --> N0["1. Kia Telluride"] N0 --> N1["2. Hyundai Palisade"] N1 --> N2["3. Toyota Highlander"] N2 --> N3["4. Honda Pilot"]

flowchart LR C["Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overa"] C --> H0["9. Ford Explorer"] C --> H1["10. Volkswagen Atlas"] C --> H2["How we ranked these"] C --> H3["What to look for"]

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## Direct Answer

The 10 best mid-size suvs 2023 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

## 1. Kia Telluride

![Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 1](/assets/qa/ca0100-b1.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overa"]
  S --> N0["1. Kia Telluride"]
  N0 --> N1["2. Hyundai Palisade"]
  N1 --> N2["3. Toyota Highlander"]
  N2 --> N3["4. Honda Pilot"]
```



The Kia Telluride ranks first because it delivers the most complete family package in the class, combining a 291-hp V6, an upscale cabin, and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating. Its 3.8-liter engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic, achieving 20/26 mpg FWD and towing up to 5,500 pounds. With 21 cubic feet behind the third row and 87 cubic feet maximum, it offers genuine three-row space. Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is unmatched here.

This is for families who want near-luxury refinement without the luxury price, starting at $35,690. It trades away any hybrid option and popular trims were hard to find at MSRP in 2023. Compared to the Hyundai Palisade below, the Telluride holds resale value slightly better and rides with a bit more polish. It is the SUV we would buy with our own money.

## 2. Hyundai Palisade

![Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 2](/assets/qa/ca0100-b2.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart LR
  C["Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overa"]
  C --> H0["9. Ford Explorer"]
  C --> H1["10. Volkswagen Atlas"]
  C --> H2["How we ranked these"]
  C --> H3["What to look for"]
```



The Palisade ranks second because it shares the Telluride's excellent 291-hp V6 and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty while offering a plusher, more distinctive cabin design. It achieves about 22 mpg combined FWD and 19/25 mpg AWD, with 18 cubic feet behind the third row. The Calligraphy trim feels genuinely luxurious, with premium materials and a quiet ride. It tows 5,000 pounds, slightly less than its Kia cousin.

This is for buyers who prefer Hyundai's styling and interior flair over the Telluride's more conventional approach. It trades away a bit of resale value and ride polish compared to the top pick. The gap between the two is small, but the Telluride edges ahead on overall refinement and brand perception. Choose this if you want the same substance with a more expressive personality.

## 3. Toyota Highlander

![Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 3](/assets/qa/ca0100-b3.jpg)



The Highlander ranks third because it leads the class in predicted reliability and resale value, making it the smart long-term ownership choice. Its turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder makes 265 horsepower and 309 lb-ft, returning about 22 mpg combined. The Highlander Hybrid is the efficiency star, delivering an outstanding 35 mpg combined from its 243-hp system. It seats seven or eight and tows up to 5,000 pounds.

This is for buyers who plan to keep an SUV for a decade and prioritize peace of mind above all else. It trades away third-row space, which is tighter than the Telluride or Traverse, and the turbo four sounds coarse under hard acceleration. Compared to the Honda Pilot below, it offers better fuel economy and reliability but less cargo room. Standard Toyota Safety Sense adds to its family-friendly appeal.

## 4. Honda Pilot

![Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 4](/assets/qa/ca0100-b4.jpg)



The Honda Pilot ranks fourth because its full redesign for 2023 delivered the roomiest interior in the class, with 22.4 cubic feet behind the third row and a cavernous 114.3 cubic feet maximum. Its 3.5-liter V6 makes 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft through a new 10-speed automatic, achieving about 22 mpg combined FWD. It seats up to eight and tows 5,000 pounds with AWD. The rugged TrailSport trim adds ground clearance and all-terrain tires.

This is for active families who need maximum space and a proven, durable powertrain. It trades away a lower entry price, starting at $39,150, which is higher than its Korean rivals. Compared to the Toyota Highlander above, it offers significantly more cargo room and a smoother V6 but worse fuel economy. The TrailSport variant drops to about 20 mpg combined but adds genuine off-road capability.

## 5. Chevrolet Traverse

![Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 5](/assets/qa/ca0100-b5.jpg)



The Chevrolet Traverse ranks fifth but earns our Best Value nod because it offers the most space and seating for the lowest starting MSRP of $34,520. Its 3.6-liter V6 produces a robust 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft through a nine-speed automatic, rated at 18/27 mpg FWD. It seats a full eight passengers and swallows 23 cubic feet behind the third row and 98.2 cubic feet maximum—the most in this group. Towing tops out at 5,000 pounds.

This is for budget-conscious families who want maximum practicality for the fewest dollars. It trades away interior material quality and on-road refinement, as the aging platform feels less polished than the Honda Pilot above. Compared to the Pilot, it offers more cargo space and a stronger base engine but a less upscale cabin. For sheer SUV per dollar, nothing here beats it.

## 6. Jeep Grand Cherokee

![Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 6](/assets/qa/ca0100-b6.jpg)



The Jeep Grand Cherokee ranks sixth because it offers the best towing capacity in the group at 6,200 pounds, making it the pick for serious hauling. Its 3.6-liter V6 makes 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft through an eight-speed automatic, returning 19/26 mpg. Available 4x4 hardware and an air suspension give it genuine off-road capability unmatched by rivals.

This is for buyers who tow boats or campers and want real trail capability. It trades away predicted reliability, which lags the Toyota and Korean picks, and loaded trims get expensive fast. Compared to the Chevrolet Traverse above, it offers far more towing and off-road ability but less cargo space and a higher starting price of $38,690. The upscale cabin in higher trims is a bonus.

## 7. Mazda CX-9

![Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 7](/assets/qa/ca0100-b7.jpg)



The Mazda CX-9 ranks seventh because it delivers the best driving dynamics and richest cabin in the class, appealing to enthusiasts. Its turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder makes 227 horsepower on regular fuel and 250 hp on premium, with 320 lb-ft of torque. It achieves 20/26 mpg through a six-speed automatic, and the interior feels close to luxury-grade. However, cargo is modest at 14.4 cubic feet behind the third row and 71.2 cubic feet maximum.

This is for drivers who prioritize handling and interior quality over outright space. It trades away third-row usability and towing, which is limited to 3,500 pounds. Compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee above, it offers a more engaging drive but far less capability. Note that the all-new CX-90 arrived as a 2024 model, so the CX-9 is the genuine 2023 Mazda three-row. It is the enthusiast's choice here.

## 8. Subaru Ascent

![Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 8](/assets/qa/ca0100-b8.jpg)



The Subaru Ascent ranks eighth because it offers standard symmetrical all-wheel drive on every trim, a unique advantage for snow-belt families. Its turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four makes 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft through a CVT, returning about 22 mpg combined. It seats seven or eight, offers 17.8 cubic feet behind the third row, and tows 5,000 pounds on all but the base trim. Standard EyeSight driver-assist tech and strong safety scores round it out.

This is for buyers who need AWD traction without paying extra, as it has the lowest starting MSRP in the group at $33,895. It trades away power and refinement, with the CVT droning under hard acceleration compared to the V6 rivals. Compared to the Mazda CX-9 above, it offers more space and standard AWD but a less premium cabin. It is the smart buy for those facing regular snow.

## 9. Ford Explorer

![Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 9](/assets/qa/ca0100-b9.jpg)



The Ford Explorer ranks ninth because it offers a broad engine menu and rear-drive-based dynamics for a sportier feel. The base turbocharged 2.3-liter four makes 300 horsepower, achieving 20/29 mpg RWD, with an available 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 at 365 or 400 hp. A 318-hp hybrid returns up to 27 mpg, and all use a 10-speed automatic. It seats six or seven, holds 87.8 cubic feet maximum, and tows up to 5,600 pounds.

This is for buyers who want strong engines and engaging handling in a family SUV. It trades away interior quality, with cheap materials in lower trims, and predicted reliability trails the leaders. Compared to the Subaru Ascent above, it offers more power and towing but lacks standard AWD. The ST performance variant adds serious speed for enthusiasts. It is a dynamic pick if you can live with the cabin.

## 10. Volkswagen Atlas

![Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 10](/assets/qa/ca0100-b10.jpg)



The Volkswagen Atlas ranks tenth because it provides a spacious, upright three-row cabin with a usable third row and generous cargo space. It seats seven, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 96.8 cubic feet maximum. The standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four makes 235 horsepower, while a 3.6-liter V6 offers 276 hp, both through an eight-speed automatic. Fuel economy lands around 21/25 mpg for the four-cylinder, and the V6 tows 5,000 pounds.

This is for buyers who want a roomy, practical family hauler with a long free-maintenance perk of two years/20,000 miles. It trades away warranty length, with a four-year/50,000-mile plan that is shorter than the Korean rivals. Compared to the Ford Explorer above, it offers more third-row space but a less powerful base engine. The base four-cylinder feels merely adequate, so the V6 is worth the upgrade. It is a solid, practical choice.

## How we ranked these

We weighted six categories to reflect what actually matters over years of family ownership, not just a glossy test-drive impression. Our scoring draws on published specs and reviews from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, U.S. News, IIHS crash testing, and EPA fuel-economy data. Reliability and ownership cost got 25%, safety 20%, interior space and comfort 15%, powertrain and efficiency 15%, tech and value 15%, and price-to-performance 10%.

A vehicle had to be a real 2023 model-year, three-row (or large two-row) mid-size SUV to qualify. Pricing reflects 2023 starting MSRP before destination charges.

We deliberately ignored subjective styling preferences, brand loyalty, and marketing hype. We also excluded dealer markups and regional pricing variations, which can distort true value. We did not penalize vehicles for lacking the latest tech gimmicks if they delivered on core family needs. Our focus stayed on long-term ownership metrics—reliability, safety, space, efficiency, and warranty—rather than short-term test-drive impressions.

This approach ensures the rankings favor practical, dependable choices that serve families well beyond the first year of ownership.

## What to look for

When choosing between these, prioritize third-row usability, warranty length, and real-world fuel economy over horsepower. The Telluride, Palisade, Pilot, and Traverse have genuinely usable third rows; the CX-9 and Explorer are tighter. Kia and Hyundai's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is a massive ownership-cost advantage. If you tow, the Grand Cherokee's 6,200-lb rating beats all others. For snow, the Ascent's standard AWD is a built-in win.

Always check IIHS Top Safety Pick status and NHTSA stars before signing.

The biggest mistake buyers make is fixating on horsepower or a single standout feature while ignoring the total ownership picture. A 310-hp Traverse won't feel meaningfully faster than a 265-hp Highlander in daily driving. Instead, buyers should compare cabin quality, third-row comfort, warranty coverage, and predicted reliability. Also, don't let a low starting MSRP fool you—options and trim packages can balloon the price.

Focus on the trim that includes the safety and convenience features you actually need, not the base model that's stripped down.

## Related questions

### What is the best mid-size SUV for 2023?

The Kia Telluride is our Best Overall for 2023, combining a 291-hp V6, an upscale cabin, an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty at a $35,690 starting MSRP.

### Which 2023 mid-size SUV is the best value?

The Chevrolet Traverse, at a $34,520 starting MSRP, delivers the most maximum cargo space (98.2 cu ft), standard eight-passenger seating, and the strongest base engine (310 hp) for the lowest price of entry.

### Which 2023 mid-size SUV gets the best gas mileage?

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid leads at roughly 35 mpg combined, far ahead of the V6-powered competition that mostly lands near 22 mpg combined.

### Which 2023 mid-size SUV can tow the most?

The Jeep Grand Cherokee tops the group at 6,200 pounds, followed by the Ford Explorer at 5,600 pounds and the Kia Telluride at 5,500 pounds with the tow package.

### Do any of these 2023 SUVs come with all-wheel drive standard?

Yes. The Subaru Ascent includes symmetrical all-wheel drive on every trim. The others offer AWD or 4WD as an option above the standard front-wheel or rear-wheel drive.

### Is the Mazda CX-90 a 2023 model?

No. The all-new CX-90 launched as a 2024 model. For the 2023 model year, the Mazda CX-9 is the brand's three-row mid-size SUV.

### What is the most reliable 2023 mid-size SUV?

The Toyota Highlander has the best predicted reliability and resale value in this group. Toyota's reputation for dependability, combined with the available hybrid powertrain, makes it the top choice for buyers who plan to keep their SUV for a decade or more.

### Which 2023 mid-size SUV has the most cargo space?

The Chevrolet Traverse leads with 23 cubic feet behind the third row and 98.2 cubic feet maximum. The Honda Pilot is close with 22.4 cubic feet behind the third row and 114.3 cubic feet maximum, making it the roomiest overall.

## FAQ

**What is the best mid-size SUV for 2023?**

The Kia Telluride is our Best Overall for 2023, combining a 291-hp V6, an upscale cabin, an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty at a $35,690 starting MSRP.

**Which 2023 mid-size SUV is the best value?**

The Chevrolet Traverse, at a $34,520 starting MSRP, delivers the most maximum cargo space (98.2 cu ft), standard eight-passenger seating, and the strongest base engine (310 hp) for the lowest price of entry.

**Which 2023 mid-size SUV gets the best gas mileage?**

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid leads at roughly 35 mpg combined, far ahead of the V6-powered competition that mostly lands near 22 mpg combined.

**Which 2023 mid-size SUV can tow the most?**

The Jeep Grand Cherokee tops the group at 6,200 pounds, followed by the Ford Explorer at 5,600 pounds and the Kia Telluride at 5,500 pounds with the tow package.

**Do any of these 2023 SUVs come with all-wheel drive standard?**

Yes. The Subaru Ascent includes symmetrical all-wheel drive on every trim. The others offer AWD or 4WD as an option above the standard front-wheel or rear-wheel drive.

**Is the Mazda CX-90 a 2023 model?**

No. The all-new CX-90 launched as a 2024 model. For the 2023 model year, the Mazda CX-9 is the brand's three-row mid-size SUV.

**What is the most reliable 2023 mid-size SUV?**

The Toyota Highlander has the best predicted reliability and resale value in this group. Toyota's reputation for dependability, combined with the available hybrid powertrain, makes it the top choice for buyers who plan to keep their SUV for a decade or more.

**Which 2023 mid-size SUV has the most cargo space?**

The Chevrolet Traverse leads with 23 cubic feet behind the third row and 98.2 cubic feet maximum. The Honda Pilot is close with 22.4 cubic feet behind the third row and 114.3 cubic feet maximum, making it the roomiest overall.

**What is the safest 2023 mid-size SUV?**

The Kia Telluride earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2023, the highest award. The Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, and Subaru Ascent also received Top Safety Pick+ ratings, making them excellent choices for safety-conscious families.

**Which 2023 mid-size SUV has the best warranty?**

The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade both offer a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, the longest in the class. This coverage is a significant ownership-cost advantage over rivals like the Ford Explorer and Volkswagen Atlas, which offer only four to five years of coverage.

## Sources

- https://www.caranddriver.com/hyundai/palisade
- https://www.caranddriver.com/chevrolet/traverse-2026
- https://www.jeep.ca/en/grandcherokee/features-design
- https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/l-Used-2025-Mazda-CX-90-Layton-c33639_L35739
- https://www.subaruhawaii.com/2025Ascent.html
- https://motorweek.org/road-tests/2024-volkswagen-atlas/
- https://carbuzz.com/2024-kia-telluride-interior-and-exterior-photo-gallery/
- https://www.slashgear.com/1666489/2025-toyota-highlander-new-changes-features-details/

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Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2023 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Kia Telluride

2. Hyundai Palisade

3. Toyota Highlander

4. Honda Pilot

5. Chevrolet Traverse

6. Jeep Grand Cherokee

7. Mazda CX-9

8. Subaru Ascent

9. Ford Explorer

10. Volkswagen Atlas

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Is the Mazda CX-90 a 2023 model?

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