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

1. Kia Telluride

The 2022 Telluride ranks first because it delivers the most complete package in the class, combining a premium interior, standard 291-hp V6, and a genuinely usable third row at a starting MSRP of $33,090. It earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick and offers up to 87 cubic feet of cargo space, with EPA ratings of 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. The 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty adds long-term security that rivals cannot match.

This SUV is for families who want near-luxury comfort and space without paying a luxury badge premium. It trades away the slightly higher safety rating of its cousin, the Hyundai Palisade, which earned a Top Safety Pick+, but the Telluride's more conventional styling and lower starting price give it the edge. High demand in 2022 often meant dealer markups, so buyers may pay more than MSRP.

2. Hyundai Palisade

The Palisade ranks second because it is essentially a Telluride with different styling, sharing the same 3.8-liter 291-hp V6 and eight-speed automatic, but it earns the higher IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award for 2022. It starts at $33,150, seats up to eight, and offers 86.4 cubic feet of cargo space, with EPA ratings of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. The cabin is exceptionally quiet and upscale, with available Nappa leather in top Calligraphy trims.

This is for buyers who prioritize the highest safety rating and a slightly more distinctive, polarizing design. It trades away the Telluride's more mainstream appeal and slightly better fuel economy, but the difference is minimal. Loaded trims can approach $50,000, which undercuts its value proposition. Choose this over the Telluride if you prefer its styling or want the extra safety accolade, as the mechanical package is otherwise identical.

3. Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The Highlander Hybrid ranks third because it offers class-leading fuel economy of 35 mpg combined, a huge advantage for a three-row SUV, while maintaining Toyota's legendary reliability. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid system produces 243 combined horsepower, and it starts at $38,860, which is a significant premium over the Kia and Hyundai. It seats seven or eight, tows up to 3,500 pounds, and earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2022.

This SUV is for buyers who value efficiency and long-term dependability above all else, and who plan to keep the vehicle for many years. It trades away the more spacious third row and higher towing capacity of the Telluride and Palisade, as its rear seat is tighter for adults. The higher starting price is offset by lower fuel costs and strong resale value.

4. Kia Sorento Hybrid

The Sorento Hybrid ranks fourth as the Best Value pick because it delivers an EPA-estimated 37 mpg combined, the best fuel economy in this ranking, at a starting MSRP of $35,165. It pairs a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor for 227 horsepower, and it offers three rows of seating for six passengers. This makes it the most affordable way to get hybrid efficiency with a third row in 2022.

This SUV is for small families or empty-nesters who want a compact, efficient three-row that is easy to park and cheap to run. It trades away significant interior space, with a third row best for children, and its towing capacity is a low 1,650 pounds. Compared to the Toyota Highlander Hybrid above it, the Sorento is less spacious and less powerful, but it is thousands of dollars cheaper and more efficient.

5. Honda Pilot

The Pilot ranks fifth because it is a dependable, spacious family hauler with a proven 3.5-liter V6 making 280 horsepower and a standard nine-speed automatic, starting at $37,580. It seats up to eight, tows 5,000 pounds with AWD, and offers a flat, practical cargo area that maximizes usability. EPA ratings are 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway in FWD form, which is respectable for the class.

This SUV is for buyers who want a no-drama, roomy vehicle with a strong reliability record and are not concerned about having the latest design. It trades away the modern interior and standard V6 power of the Kia Telluride, as its cabin felt dated by 2022. It also lacks a hybrid option, which hurts its efficiency compared to the Sorento Hybrid. However, its proven mechanics and spacious, cleverly designed interior make it a solid, sensible choice for growing families.

6. Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The Grand Cherokee L ranks sixth because it is new for 2022 and offers the highest towing capacity in this ranking, with the available 5.7-liter V8 rated at 7,200 pounds. The standard 3.6-liter V6 produces 293 horsepower and tows 6,200 pounds, far exceeding most car-based rivals. It starts at $38,690, seats up to seven, and offers genuine off-road capability with available Quadra-Lift air suspension.

This SUV is for buyers who need serious towing or off-road ability and want a premium-feeling interior. It trades away fuel economy, as the V8 is thirsty, and its reliability history lags the Japanese and Korean leaders. Compared to the Honda Pilot above it, the Grand Cherokee L is more capable and upscale but costs more to operate and own. It is the right choice for those who prioritize capability over efficiency and everyday practicality.

7. Subaru Ascent

The Ascent ranks seventh because it is the only vehicle here with standard all-wheel drive on every trim, making it a top choice for all-weather traction. Its turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder produces 260 horsepower, and it starts at a competitive $33,420. It seats up to eight, tows 5,000 pounds, and offers 86.5 cubic feet of cargo space. EPA ratings are 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, and standard EyeSight safety tech is a strong value feature.

This SUV is for buyers in snowy climates or those who want the security of AWD without paying extra. It trades away a premium cabin, as its interior materials are not as nice as the Kia or Hyundai twins, and the CVT can drone under hard acceleration. Compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee L above it, the Ascent is less capable off-road and for towing, but it is more affordable and efficient.

8. Nissan Pathfinder

The Pathfinder ranks eighth because its full redesign for 2022 replaced the old CVT with a nine-speed automatic and a 3.5-liter V6 making 284 horsepower, a major improvement. It starts at $33,410, seats seven or eight, and offers a strong 6,000-pound towing capacity. EPA ratings are approximately 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway in AWD form, and it offers up to 80.5 cubic feet of cargo space.

This SUV is for buyers who want a freshly redesigned three-row with strong towing without paying a premium. It trades away the polished interior quality of the Subaru Ascent, as some plastics feel low-rent, and its fuel economy is unremarkable. Compared to the Ascent, the Pathfinder offers more towing but lacks standard AWD. It is a much-improved vehicle that earns its place on towing strength and value, but it does not lead the class in refinement.

9. Chevrolet Traverse

The Traverse ranks ninth because it offers the most interior space in this class, with a cargo hold near 98 cubic feet and a genuinely roomy third row for adults. Its 3.6-liter V6 produces 310 horsepower, the most of any naturally aspirated engine here, and it starts at $33,700. It seats up to eight, tows 5,000 pounds, and uses a nine-speed automatic. EPA ratings are 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, which is acceptable for its size.

This SUV is for buyers who prioritize maximum passenger and cargo space per dollar above all else. It trades away interior material quality, which trails the segment's best, and its city fuel economy is thirsty. Compared to the Nissan Pathfinder above it, the Traverse has more space and power but a less refined driving experience. It is the space king of the segment, making it a practical choice for large families who need to haul everything.

10. Mazda CX-9

The CX-9 ranks tenth because it is the driver's choice in the class, offering the sharpest handling and steering feel, with standard i-Activ all-wheel drive. Its turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder makes up to 250 horsepower, and it starts at $35,280. EPA ratings are about 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, and it seats seven. The interior design is near-luxury, with premium materials that rival more expensive brands.

This SUV is for driving enthusiasts who value style and engagement over third-row space and utility. It trades away a cramped third row and limited cargo space, as well as a low 3,500-pound towing capacity. Compared to the Chevrolet Traverse above it, the CX-9 is far more enjoyable to drive and looks more upscale, but it is significantly less practical.

How we ranked these

We scored every 2022 mid-size SUV across six weighted categories: 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%). Data came from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, U.S. News, IIHS, and EPA ratings, using starting MSRPs for the 2022 model year only.

We deliberately ignored subjective brand prestige, dealer markups, and long-term depreciation projections beyond the 2022 model year. We also excluded off-road capability unless it was a standard feature, and we did not factor in incentives or regional pricing variations. This kept the ranking focused on objective, verifiable data that buyers can compare directly across the ten contenders.

Related questions

What is the best mid-size SUV for 2022?

The Kia Telluride is the best overall mid-size SUV for 2022, with a starting MSRP of $33,090. It offers a standard 291-hp V6, a genuinely usable third row, an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating, and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, all in a premium-feeling package that undercuts many rivals.

What is the best value mid-size SUV for 2022?

The Kia Sorento Hybrid is the best value pick for 2022, starting at $35,165. It delivers an EPA-estimated 37 mpg combined, three-row seating for six, and Kia's industry-best warranty. No other hybrid three-row SUV offers this combination of efficiency, practicality, and price in the 2022 model year.

Which 2022 mid-size SUV has the most cargo space?

The Chevrolet Traverse offers the most cargo space in the 2022 mid-size SUV class, with up to 98 cubic feet behind the first row. It also has the most powerful standard engine at 310 horsepower, making it the space-and-power king, though its interior materials and city fuel economy trail the segment leaders.

Which 2022 mid-size SUV is the most reliable?

Toyota and Honda have the strongest reliability reputations for 2022. The Highlander Hybrid and Pilot are known for long-term dependability and strong resale values. Kia and Hyundai offset their shorter track records with the longest powertrain warranties in the industry, covering 10 years or 100,000 miles.

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, the highest in this class. The base V6 model still manages 6,200 pounds. For comparison, most rivals like the Telluride and Pilot are rated at 5,000 pounds, while the Sorento Hybrid is limited to about 1,650 pounds.

Which 2022 mid-size SUV has the best fuel economy?

The Kia Sorento Hybrid leads with an EPA-estimated 37 mpg combined, followed closely by the Toyota Highlander Hybrid at 35 mpg combined. Both are three-row hybrids, but the Sorento Hybrid starts at a lower price ($35,165 vs. $38,860), making it the efficiency value champion for 2022.

Which 2022 mid-size SUV has the safest rating?

The Hyundai Palisade earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2022, the highest honor. The Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander earned Top Safety Pick status. All three come standard with a full suite of advanced driver-assist features, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist.

Which 2022 mid-size SUV is best for off-roading?

The Jeep Grand Cherokee L is the best off-road choice among 2022 mid-size SUVs, offering available Quadra-Lift air suspension, selectable terrain modes, and real 4x4 systems. The Subaru Ascent with standard all-wheel drive is a capable all-weather option, but it lacks the Jeep's ground clearance and off-road hardware.

FAQ

What is the starting price of the 2022 Kia Telluride?

The 2022 Kia Telluride has a starting MSRP of $33,090, making it one of the most affordable three-row mid-size SUVs with a standard V6. However, high demand in 2022 often led to dealer markups, so actual transaction prices could be significantly higher than the sticker price.

Does the 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid have three rows?

Yes, the 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid seats six passengers across three rows, but the third row is tight and best suited for children or short trips. It offers up to 75.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear rows folded, and it comes standard with captain's chairs in the second row.

What is the towing capacity of the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid?

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, which is lower than many rivals. For comparison, the Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot can tow 5,000 pounds, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee L with the V8 can tow up to 7,200 pounds. The Highlander prioritizes fuel economy over towing.

Is the 2022 Honda Pilot a good family SUV?

Yes, the 2022 Honda Pilot is a solid family SUV, offering a spacious cabin with seating for up to eight, a 5,000-pound towing capacity, and standard Honda Sensing safety features. Its main drawbacks are an aging design and lack of a hybrid option, but its reliability and practicality keep it competitive.

Which 2022 mid-size SUV has standard all-wheel drive?

The Subaru Ascent and Mazda CX-9 come standard with all-wheel drive for 2022. The Ascent includes Subaru's symmetrical AWD and EyeSight safety suite, while the CX-9 features Mazda's i-Activ AWD. Most other mid-size SUVs, like the Telluride and Pilot, offer AWD as an optional extra.

What is the fuel economy of the 2022 Hyundai Palisade?

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade with front-wheel drive achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, for a combined rating of 22 mpg. With all-wheel drive, those numbers drop slightly to 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. It uses a 291-hp 3.8-liter V6 engine.

How much cargo space does the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse have?

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offers up to 98 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded, which is the most in its class. Behind the third row, it provides 23 cubic feet. This makes it ideal for families needing maximum hauling capacity for gear, sports equipment, or luggage.

Is the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L reliable?

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L has a mixed reliability record. While it offers a premium interior and strong capability, Jeep's overall reliability ratings historically lag behind Japanese rivals like Toyota and Honda. However, it comes with a solid warranty and is a new, fully redesigned model for 2022.

What is the difference between the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade?

The 2022 Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade are mechanical twins, sharing the same 291-hp V6, platform, and warranty. The main differences are styling, with the Telluride looking more rugged and the Palisade more upscale, and safety ratings. The Palisade earned a Top Safety Pick+, while the Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick.

Which 2022 mid-size SUV is best for driving enthusiasts?

The Mazda CX-9 is the best choice for driving enthusiasts in 2022, offering sharp handling, precise steering, and a near-luxury interior. Its turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder produces up to 250 horsepower, and it comes standard with all-wheel drive. The trade-off is a cramped third row and limited cargo space.

Sources

• https://www.caranddriver.com/hyundai/palisade
• https://www.edmunds.com/toyota/highlander-hybrid/2026/
• https://www.edmunds.com/kia/sorento-hybrid/2025/mpg/
• https://www.honda.ca/en/pilot/trims?trim=trailsport_10852&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=13147356611&gbraid=0AAAAADxNOOhmXQtpezOVv-dP_FfJxAR9o
• https://www.jeep.com/content/dam/fca-brands/na/jeep/en_us/2025/grand-cherokee/vlp/desktop/my25-jeep-grand-cherokee-vlp-tabbed-container-three-row-slider-1-interior-desktop.jpg
• https://carbuzz.com/2024-subaru-ascent-interior-and-exterior-photo-gallery/
• https://www.topspeed.com/cars/nissan/2009-nissan-pathfinder-ar62027.html
• https://www.caranddriver.com/chevrolet/traverse-2026
• https://www.pcauto.com/my/cars/mazda/cx-9
• https://www.kbb.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/2022-kia-telluride-front-left-3qtr.jpg

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