Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2022 — Best Overall + Best Value

Direct Answer

For the 2022 model year, the Kia Telluride is our Best Overall mid-size SUV, with a Starting MSRP of $33,090. It pairs a standard 291-hp V6, three genuine rows of seating, an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating, and Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty into a package that undercuts pricier rivals while feeling more upscale than its sticker suggests.

Our Best Value pick is the Kia Sorento Hybrid, with a Starting MSRP of $35,165, which delivers a real-world 37 mpg combined alongside three-row flexibility — a rare combination at its price. Below are all ten ranked picks, each with a spec rundown, pros, cons, and a verdict, plus a buyer decision tree.

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted every contender across six categories, scored on the 2022 model year. Our methodology draws on data and testing from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, U.S. News & World Report, the IIHS, and the EPA. The weighting:

• Reliability & ownership cost — 25%. Long-term dependability, warranty coverage, and projected maintenance and depreciation carry the most weight.
• Safety — 20%. IIHS crash and headlight results, Top Safety Pick / Top Safety Pick+ status, NHTSA stars, and standard driver-assist content.
• Interior space & comfort — 15%. Usable third-row room, cargo volume, material quality, and ride refinement.
• Powertrain & efficiency — 15%. Horsepower, drivability, hybrid availability, and EPA fuel economy.
• Tech & value — 15%. Infotainment, standard features, and equipment per dollar.
• Price-to-performance — 10%. What the package returns relative to its starting MSRP.

All prices are 2022 starting MSRPs and may exclude destination; figures reflect the 2022 model year only.

1. Kia Telluride 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Starting MSRP: $33,090 | Best for: Buyers who want a premium-feeling three-row without a premium badge.

The 2022 Telluride runs a 3.8-liter V6 making 291 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic, with front- or all-wheel drive. EPA ratings land at 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway in FWD form, towing reaches 5,000 pounds, and the cabin seats up to eight across three rows with as much as 87 cubic feet of cargo.

It earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2022 and backs everything with Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The interior punches well over its price, with available quilted leather and one of the most usable third rows in the class.

Pros:

• Class-leading interior quality that shames vehicles costing thousands more
• Standard 291-hp V6 with no engine upgrade needed
• Industry-best warranty and strong resale value
• Genuinely adult-friendly third row

Cons:

• High demand in 2022 meant frequent dealer markups over MSRP
• Fuel economy is merely average for the class

Verdict: The most complete mid-size SUV of 2022 — space, safety, value, and polish in one package.

2. Hyundai Palisade

Starting MSRP: $33,150 | Best for: Families wanting near-luxury comfort on a mainstream budget.

The Telluride's corporate cousin shares its 3.8-liter, 291-hp V6 and eight-speed automatic, returning 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway in FWD trim and towing 5,000 pounds. It seats eight (seven with captain's chairs) and offers up to 86.4 cubic feet of cargo. The 2022 Palisade earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, the institute's highest honor, and carries the same 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Top Calligraphy trims add Nappa leather rivaling luxury marques.

Pros:

• IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating for 2022
• Plush, quiet cabin with available top-tier materials
• Standard V6 power and 5,000-lb towing
• Long warranty and high feature content

Cons:

• Styling is polarizing for some buyers
• Loaded trims approach $50,000

Verdict: Essentially a Telluride with different styling — pick whichever design you prefer.

3. Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Starting MSRP: $38,860 | Best for: Buyers who prioritize fuel economy and Toyota dependability.

The Highlander Hybrid mates a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with electric motors for 243 combined horsepower and an EPA-estimated 35 mpg combined — outstanding for a three-row. It seats seven or eight, tows up to 3,500 pounds, and offers available all-wheel drive. The 2022 Highlander earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick and comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+.

Toyota's long-term reliability is the headline draw, and the hybrid adds little price premium for big fuel savings.

Pros:

• 35 mpg combined with no range anxiety
• Toyota reliability reputation and strong resale
• Standard advanced driver aids
• Available AWD on the efficient hybrid

Cons:

• Third row is tighter than class leaders
• Modest 3,500-lb towing limit

Verdict: The efficiency-and-dependability champion if you can stretch the budget.

4. Kia Sorento Hybrid 💎 BEST VALUE

Starting MSRP: $35,165 | Best for: Small families wanting hybrid economy plus three rows on a budget.

The Sorento Hybrid uses a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder plus an electric motor for 227 horsepower and a six-speed automatic, delivering an EPA-estimated 37 mpg combined (35 mpg with AWD). It is a compact three-row seating six via captain's chairs, with up to 75.5 cubic feet of cargo, though towing is limited to roughly 1,650 pounds.

It carries Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and standard safety tech. For the money, nothing else in 2022 mixes hybrid efficiency, three rows, and this warranty.

Pros:

• 37 mpg combined at a sub-$36,000 starting price
• Three rows plus hybrid economy — a rare pairing
• 10-year/100,000-mile warranty
• Upscale cabin for the class

Cons:

• Third row is best for children or short trips
• Low towing capacity

Verdict: The smartest dollar-for-dollar buy of 2022 if you want a hybrid with a back row.

5. Honda Pilot

Starting MSRP: $37,580 | Best for: Buyers who want a roomy, do-everything family hauler with proven mechanics.

The 2022 Pilot runs a 3.5-liter V6 making 280 horsepower through a nine-speed automatic, rated at 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway in FWD form. It seats eight (seven with captain's chairs), tows up to 5,000 pounds with AWD, and offers a flat, practical cargo area. The Pilot includes Honda Sensing as standard, and Honda's reliability makes it a low-drama choice.

Pros:

• Spacious, family-friendly cabin with clever storage
• Standard Honda Sensing driver aids
• 5,000-lb towing with AWD
• Reputation for durability

Cons:

• Aging design felt dated by 2022
• No hybrid option this year

Verdict: A dependable, practical pick, though rivals feel fresher inside.

6. Jeep Grand Cherokee L

Starting MSRP: $38,690 | Best for: Buyers who want three rows plus real towing and off-road capability.

New for 2022, the Grand Cherokee L adds a third row to Jeep's icon. The base 3.6-liter V6 makes 293 horsepower (towing 6,200 pounds), while an available 5.7-liter V8 produces 357 horsepower and tows 7,200 pounds. It seats up to seven and offers available Quadra-Lift air suspension and serious off-pavement hardware.

The cabin, especially in upper trims, is genuinely upscale.

Pros:

• Best-in-test towing with the available V8
• Real off-road capability via available 4x4 systems
• Upscale, well-built interior
• Available V8 muscle

Cons:

• Fuel economy trails car-based rivals
• Jeep's reliability history lags the leaders

Verdict: The capability champion — choose it if you tow or go off-road.

7. Subaru Ascent

Starting MSRP: $33,420 | Best for: All-weather buyers who want standard AWD and standard safety tech.

The Ascent comes with standard all-wheel drive and a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder making 260 horsepower paired to a CVT, rated around 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. It seats up to eight (seven with captain's chairs), tows 5,000 pounds, and offers up to 86.5 cubic feet of cargo.

Subaru's EyeSight suite is standard, making it a snow-belt favorite.

Pros:

• Standard AWD on every trim
• Standard EyeSight safety tech
• 5,000-lb towing and big cargo room
• Strong foul-weather traction

Cons:

• CVT drone under hard acceleration
• Less premium cabin than the Kia/Hyundai twins

Verdict: The all-weather value pick if standard AWD is a must.

8. Nissan Pathfinder

Starting MSRP: $33,410 | Best for: Buyers wanting a freshly redesigned three-row with strong towing.

Fully redesigned for 2022, the Pathfinder swaps its old CVT for a nine-speed automatic and runs a 3.5-liter V6 making 284 horsepower. EPA ratings sit near 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway in AWD form, towing reaches 6,000 pounds, and it seats seven or eight with up to 80.5 cubic feet of cargo.

The redesign brought rugged styling, a modern interior, and available Safety Shield 360 driver aids.

Pros:

• 6,000-lb towing leads most car-based rivals
• New nine-speed automatic replaces the old CVT
• Rugged, modern redesign
• Strong standard V6

Cons:

• Fuel economy is unremarkable
• Some interior plastics feel low-rent

Verdict: A much-improved redesign that earns a spot on towing strength.

9. Chevrolet Traverse

Starting MSRP: $33,700 | Best for: Buyers who want maximum interior and cargo space for the money.

The Traverse is one of the roomiest mid-size SUVs, with a 3.6-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower — the most of any naturally aspirated entry here — and a nine-speed automatic. EPA ratings are 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway in FWD form, towing reaches 5,000 pounds, and it seats eight with a cargo hold near 98 cubic feet.

Pros:

• Class-leading 310 hp and cargo volume
• Genuinely roomy third row
• 5,000-lb towing
• Strong space-per-dollar

Cons:

• Interior materials trail the segment's best
• City fuel economy is thirsty

Verdict: The space king — pick it if interior volume matters most.

10. Mazda CX-9

Starting MSRP: $35,280 | Best for: Driving enthusiasts who value style and standard AWD over third-row size.

The CX-9 is the driver's choice, with standard i-Activ all-wheel drive and a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder making up to 250 horsepower (227 on regular fuel) through a six-speed automatic. EPA ratings are about 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, towing is 3,500 pounds, and it seats seven.

Its design feels near-luxury and its handling is the sharpest in the class, though the third row is tight.

Pros:

• Best-in-class handling and steering feel
• Upscale, near-luxury cabin design
• Standard AWD
• Premium look at a mainstream price

Cons:

• Cramped third row and limited cargo space
• Lower 3,500-lb towing capacity

Verdict: The enthusiast's mid-size SUV — buy it for style and driving feel, not space.

Buyer Decision Tree — Which One's Right for You?

What to Look For When Buying a Mid-Size SUV

When shopping the 2022 class, focus on the factors that shape ownership:

• Real third-row usability. Measure legroom yourself; some "three-row" SUVs only fit kids back there.
• Total cost of ownership. Weigh warranty, reliability, fuel economy, and resale value, not just sticker price.
• Towing needs. Confirm the rating with the trailer package; numbers range from 1,650 to 7,200 pounds here.
• Safety content. Look for Top Safety Pick / Top Safety Pick+ status and standard driver aids over optional add-ons.
• Standard versus optional AWD. Subaru and Mazda include it; most others charge extra.

One honest note: horsepower matters less than marketing implies. Most families never exploit a 291-hp or 310-hp rating, so prioritize ride comfort, cabin quality, safety, and ownership cost over peak power figures.

FAQ

Which 2022 mid-size SUV is the most reliable? Toyota (Highlander) and Honda (Pilot) carry the strongest reliability reputations, while Kia and Hyundai offset their records with the longest powertrain warranties in the class.

What is the best value mid-size SUV for 2022? The Kia Sorento Hybrid blends roughly 37 mpg combined, three-row seating, and a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty at a starting MSRP near $35,000.

Which 2022 mid-size SUV tows the most? The Jeep Grand Cherokee L with the available 5.7-liter V8 tows up to 7,200 pounds, well ahead of the typical 3,500-to-5,000-pound ratings.

Are there hybrid mid-size SUVs for 2022? Yes. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid (about 35 mpg combined) and Kia Sorento Hybrid (about 37 mpg combined) are the standout efficient three-row options for 2022.

Which 2022 mid-size SUVs earned top safety ratings? The Hyundai Palisade earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, the highest honor, while the Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander earned Top Safety Pick status for 2022.

Do I need all-wheel drive in a mid-size SUV? Only if you face regular snow or light off-road use; otherwise FWD saves money and improves fuel economy. The Subaru Ascent and Mazda CX-9 include AWD as standard.

Bottom Line

The 2022 mid-size SUV class is deep, but the Kia Telluride earns Best Overall by combining a premium cabin, strong safety, standard V6 power, and the industry's best warranty at a starting price near $33,090. For efficiency, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Kia Sorento Hybrid lead; for towing, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L is the pick; and for space, the Chevrolet Traverse wins.

The Sorento Hybrid takes Best Value for pairing hybrid economy and three rows under $36,000. Match the decision tree to your priorities and any of these ten will serve a family well.

Sources

• Car and Driver — 2022 mid-size SUV reviews and instrumented testing (caranddriver.com)
• MotorTrend — 2022 SUV rankings and road tests (motortrend.com)
• Edmunds — 2022 Telluride, Palisade, Pilot, Sorento Hybrid, and CX-9 MSRP and specs (edmunds.com)
• Kelley Blue Book — 2022 pricing, specs, and reviews (kbb.com)
• U.S. News & World Report — 2022 mid-size SUV interior, cargo, and ranking data (cars.usnews.com)
• IIHS — 2022 Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ awards (iihs.org)
• EPA / fueleconomy.gov — 2022 EPA fuel-economy ratings (fueleconomy.gov)
• Cars.com — 2022 model specs, MPG, and pricing (cars.com)
• Hyundai, Kia, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and Jeep official press kits and newsrooms (manufacturer media sites)
• CarPro — 2022 Highlander Hybrid and Sorento Hybrid driving reviews (carpro.com)

*Mid-size SUV review — mid-size SUV reviews, rating, best mid-size SUV 2022, and a review of the top family SUV picks for buyers.*