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Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2021 — Best Overall + Best Value

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Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2021 — Best Overall + Best Value

Direct Answer

For the 2021 model year, the Kia Telluride is our Best Overall mid-size SUV, starting at $31,990. It pairs a 291-hp V6, three rows of genuinely usable space, an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating, and Kia's class-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty into a package that undercuts nearly every rival on price.

Our Best Value pick is the redesigned 2021 Kia Sorento, starting at $29,390, which delivers three-row flexibility, a peppy available turbo, and the same long warranty for thousands less than the bigger three-row crowd. Both Kias dominate this list, but nine other excellent family haulers earn a spot below.

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted every contender against the criteria that matter most to real family buyers, drawing on published data and expert testing from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book (KBB), U.S. News, the IIHS, and the EPA. Our weighting:

Reliability & ownership cost — 25%: long-term dependability, warranty coverage, and projected resale.
Safety — 20%: IIHS Top Safety Pick / Top Safety Pick+ status and NHTSA star ratings.
Interior space & comfort — 15%: passenger room, third-row usability, and cargo volume.
Powertrain & efficiency — 15%: horsepower, drivability, and EPA fuel-economy figures.
Tech & value — 15%: standard driver-assist features, infotainment, and content per dollar.
Price-to-performance — 10%: how much capable, well-built SUV you get for the MSRP.

All prices below are 2021 model-year starting MSRPs (excluding destination unless noted) and reflect figures published when these vehicles were new.

1. Kia Telluride 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Starting MSRP: $31,990 | Best for: Families who want near-luxury space and features without a luxury price.

The Telluride runs a 291-hp 3.8-liter V6 through an 8-speed automatic, with front-wheel drive standard and AWD optional. EPA ratings land at 20/26 mpg city/highway (FWD), it seats seven or eight across three rows, swallows up to 87 cubic feet of cargo, and tows up to 5,000 pounds.

It earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick (SX and EX with LED headlights) and carries Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Standard tech includes a generous touchscreen and a deep driver-assist suite.

Pros:

Upscale cabin that looks and feels far more expensive than the price.
Genuinely usable third row with adult-friendly room.
Industry-best warranty for long-term peace of mind.
Strong V6 with smooth, confident power delivery.

Cons:

Popular trims were hard to find at MSRP near launch.
Fuel economy is average for the class, with no hybrid option.

Verdict: The Telluride does everything well and nothing poorly, making it the clear 2021 segment champion.

2. Hyundai Palisade

Starting MSRP: $32,025 | Best for: Buyers who want Telluride substance with a softer, more rounded design.

The Palisade shares its 291-hp 3.8-liter V6 and mechanicals with the Telluride, returning 19/26 mpg (FWD), seating up to eight, and offering 86.4 cubic feet of maximum cargo and a 5,000-pound tow rating. It went one better on safety, earning an IIHS Top Safety Pick+.

Hyundai's matching 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and richly trimmed Calligraphy flagship make it feel like a bargain luxury SUV.

Pros:

Top Safety Pick+ — the highest IIHS honor.
Plush, quiet cabin with high-end material options.
Same long Hyundai warranty and strong value.

Cons:

Styling is polarizing for some buyers.
AWD trims dip slightly in highway mpg.

Verdict: A virtual tie with its Kia sibling; pick the Palisade if its design and Top Safety Pick+ rating speak to you.

3. Toyota Highlander (Hybrid)

Starting MSRP: $35,085 | Best for: High-mileage commuters who want bulletproof reliability and big fuel savings.

The Highlander Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with electric motors for 243 combined hp and an outstanding 36/35 mpg city/highway — exceptional for a three-row SUV seating seven or eight. It holds up to 84 cubic feet of cargo and tows 3,500 pounds.

The IIHS gave it top Good crash scores and a Superior front-crash-prevention rating. Toyota's reputation for long-term durability and strong resale anchors its high ownership-cost score.

Pros:

Class-leading hybrid fuel economy with no charging needed.
Legendary Toyota reliability and resale value.
Standard Toyota Safety Sense driver-assist suite.

Cons:

Third row is tighter than the Kia/Hyundai twins.
Modest 3,500-pound towing limit.

Verdict: The smart long-haul buy — the Highlander Hybrid pays you back at every fill-up.

4. Honda Pilot

Starting MSRP: $32,550 | Best for: Families who value an eight-seat layout and proven V6 dependability.

The Pilot uses a 280-hp 3.5-liter V6 with a 9-speed automatic, returning 20/27 mpg (FWD) or 19/26 mpg with AWD. It seats up to eight, offers up to 109 cubic feet of total cargo room, and tows 5,000 pounds with AWD. The IIHS and NHTSA both award strong scores, and Honda Sensing driver aids are standard.

Roomy, practical, and easy to live with, it remains a family-hauler benchmark.

Pros:

Cavernous, flexible interior with one of the biggest cargo holds here.
Standard eight-passenger seating on most trims.
Reliable V6 and 5,000-lb tow rating (AWD).

Cons:

Nine-speed automatic can feel hesitant.
Interior design is more functional than fancy.

Verdict: A no-drama, do-everything choice for big families who haul people and gear.

5. Kia Sorento 💎 BEST VALUE

Starting MSRP: $29,390 | Best for: Value shoppers who want three rows in a smaller, efficient footprint.

Fully redesigned for 2021, the Sorento offers a base 191-hp 2.5-liter four or an available 281-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter, plus a 37-mpg-combined hybrid. It seats six or seven in a tidy body sized closer to a compact, holds up to 75-plus cubic feet of cargo, and tows up to 3,500 pounds with the turbo.

The same 10-year/100,000-mile Kia warranty applies, and standard safety tech is generous for the price.

Pros:

Lowest entry price of any three-row here.
Strong available turbo and a thrifty hybrid option.
Long Kia warranty plus a fresh, modern cabin.

Cons:

Third row is best for kids and short trips.
Cargo behind row three is modest versus larger rivals.

Verdict: The most SUV per dollar in 2021 — our Best Value pick by a wide margin.

6. Subaru Ascent

Starting MSRP: $32,295 | Best for: Snow-belt and outdoorsy families who want standard all-wheel drive.

The Ascent is powered by a 260-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer four-cylinder with a CVT, and Symmetrical AWD is standard on every trim. It returns roughly 21/27 mpg, seats seven or eight, and tows a stout 5,000 pounds. Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist suite helped earn it an IIHS Top Safety Pick+.

For buyers who never want to think about traction, it is the easy call.

Pros:

Standard AWD across the lineup.
Top Safety Pick+ and standard EyeSight safety tech.
5,000-lb towing — strong for the segment.

Cons:

CVT drone under hard acceleration.
Interior materials trail the Kia/Hyundai pair.

Verdict: The all-weather specialist — buy the Ascent if AWD security tops your list.

7. Mazda CX-9

Starting MSRP: $34,160 | Best for: Drivers who want a near-luxury cabin and the sportiest handling here.

The CX-9 runs a turbocharged 2.5-liter four making 227 hp (250 hp on premium fuel) and a torquey 310 lb-ft, with EPA marks of 22/28 mpg (FWD). It seats six or seven, offers a more modest 71 cubic feet of max cargo, and tows 3,500 pounds. Reviewers routinely praise its cabin as the most upscale in the class, rivaling entry-luxury brands, and its road manners are the most engaging.

Pros:

Premium, beautifully finished interior.
Best-in-class driving dynamics and steering feel.
Standard turbo torque for confident passing.

Cons:

Tightest third row and smallest cargo hold of the group.
Infotainment interface lags rivals.

Verdict: The enthusiast's and design lover's pick, if you can live with less space.

8. Honda Passport

Starting MSRP: $32,790 | Best for: Couples and small families who want two-row space and light off-road ability.

The two-row Passport packs the Pilot's 280-hp 3.5-liter V6 into a shorter body, seating five with a large 78-cubic-foot maximum cargo hold. It returns 19/24 mpg and tows up to 5,000 pounds with AWD. Standard Honda Sensing and respectable ground clearance make it a rugged, roomy alternative for buyers who do not need a third row.

Pros:

Huge cargo and passenger room for five.
Strong V6 and 5,000-lb tow rating (AWD).
Capable AWD with light-trail composure.

Cons:

No third-row option for larger families.
Fuel economy trails four-cylinder rivals.

Verdict: The best choice when you want SUV space and capability without the extra row.

9. Jeep Grand Cherokee L

Starting MSRP: $36,995 | Best for: Buyers who want true towing muscle and available V8 power.

All-new for 2021, the Grand Cherokee L adds a third row to Jeep's icon. The standard 3.6-liter V6 makes 290 hp and tows up to 6,200 pounds, while the available 5.7-liter HEMI V8 delivers 357 hp and a class-topping 7,200-pound tow rating. It seats six or seven and brings genuine off-road hardware on 4x4 trims.

It is the most capable tower and trail-runner on this list.

Pros:

Best-in-class towing up to 7,200 pounds.
Available V8 and serious off-road capability.
Upscale, tech-rich cabin on higher trims.

Cons:

Lower fuel economy, especially with the V8.
As a brand-new model, it had no long-term reliability track record.

Verdict: The pick for buyers who tow heavy or venture off pavement.

10. Chevrolet Traverse

Starting MSRP: $30,995 | Best for: Families who prioritize maximum cargo and passenger volume.

The Traverse offers one of the roomiest interiors here, with up to 98.2 cubic feet of cargo space and seating for eight. A standard 310-hp 3.6-liter V6 with a 9-speed automatic returns up to 18/27 mpg and tows up to 5,000 pounds. AWD is optional.

It is the space champion of the group and an affordable way into a genuinely large three-row SUV.

Pros:

Largest cargo capacity in this comparison.
Powerful standard V6 and easy 5,000-lb towing.
Affordable entry price for its size.

Cons:

Interior materials feel plain versus rivals.
City fuel economy is the lowest of the group.

Verdict: Buy the Traverse when interior volume is your single biggest priority.

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

flowchart TD A[Start: choosing a 2021 mid-size SUV] --> B{Need a 3rd row?} B -->|No, 2 rows fine| C[Honda Passport or Mazda CX-9] B -->|Yes, 3 rows| D{Top priority?} D -->|Reliability and resale| E[Toyota Highlander Hybrid] D -->|Lowest price and value| F[Kia Sorento 💎] D -->|Best all-around| G{Budget?} G -->|Under 40k| H[Kia Telluride 🏆 or Hyundai Palisade] G -->|Over 40k loaded| I[Telluride SX, Palisade Calligraphy or Grand Cherokee L] D -->|Hybrid vs towing| J{Save fuel or tow heavy?} J -->|Save fuel| E J -->|Tow heavy| K[Jeep Grand Cherokee L up to 7200 lb] D -->|Standard AWD| L[Subaru Ascent] D -->|Max cargo space| M[Chevrolet Traverse]

What to Look For When Buying a Mid-Size SUV

Third-row usability: measure real legroom — many "three-row" SUVs only fit kids in back. The Telluride, Palisade, and Pilot lead here.
Warranty and ownership cost: Kia and Hyundai's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage is a major long-run advantage.
Drivetrain: decide if you truly need AWD; if so, the Subaru Ascent makes it standard, while most rivals charge extra.
Towing: match the rating to your trailer — the Grand Cherokee L (up to 7,200 lb) far outpaces hybrids capped near 3,500 lb.
Safety ratings: prioritize an IIHS Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ and check NHTSA stars.
Fuel economy: a hybrid like the Highlander can save real money over years of commuting.
Horsepower matters less than marketing implies — most of these SUVs have ample power for daily family use, so cabin quality, space, and reliability deserve more of your attention than peak hp figures.

FAQ

What is the best mid-size SUV for 2021? The Kia Telluride is our overall winner for 2021, thanks to its spacious near-luxury cabin, strong V6, Top Safety Pick rating, long warranty, and competitive $31,990 starting price.

Which 2021 mid-size SUV is the best value? The redesigned Kia Sorento, starting at $29,390, offers three rows, an available turbo, a thrifty hybrid, and Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile warranty for the lowest entry price in the group.

What is the most fuel-efficient 2021 mid-size SUV? The Toyota Highlander Hybrid leads with up to 36 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, far ahead of the V6-powered competition.

Which 2021 mid-size SUV can tow the most? The new Jeep Grand Cherokee L with the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 tows up to 7,200 pounds, the highest figure on this list.

Which 2021 mid-size SUVs earned the top IIHS safety award? The Hyundai Palisade, Subaru Ascent, and Ford Explorer all earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+, the institute's highest honor, while the Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick.

Do I need a three-row mid-size SUV? If you regularly carry more than five people, yes — but if not, a two-row model like the Honda Passport gives you more cargo room and a roomier ride for the same money.

Bottom Line

The 2021 mid-size SUV class is deep, but two Korean siblings rise to the top: the Kia Telluride is the Best Overall for its blend of space, refinement, safety, and value at $31,990, while the redesigned Kia Sorento is the Best Value at $29,390. From there, choose by need — the Highlander Hybrid for efficiency, the Grand Cherokee L for towing, the Ascent for standard AWD, the Traverse for space, and the CX-9 or Passport for premium feel or two-row practicality.

The Kias deliver the most all-around SUV for the money in 2021.

Sources

*Mid-size SUV review — mid-size SUV reviews, rating, best mid-size SUV 2021, and a review of the top family SUV picks for buyers.*

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# Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2021 — Best Overall + Best Value

## Direct Answer

For the 2021 model year, the **Kia Telluride** is our **Best Overall** mid-size SUV, starting at **$31,990**. It pairs a 291-hp V6, three rows of genuinely usable space, an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating, and Kia's class-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty into a package that undercuts nearly every rival on price. Our **Best Value** pick is the redesigned **2021 Kia Sorento**, starting at **$29,390**, which delivers three-row flexibility, a peppy available turbo, and the same long warranty for thousands less than the bigger three-row crowd. Both Kias dominate this list, but nine other excellent family haulers earn a spot below.

## How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted every contender against the criteria that matter most to real family buyers, drawing on published data and expert testing from **Car and Driver**, **MotorTrend**, **Edmunds**, **Kelley Blue Book (KBB)**, **U.S. News**, **the IIHS**, and **the EPA**. Our weighting:

- **Reliability & ownership cost — 25%:** long-term dependability, warranty coverage, and projected resale.
- **Safety — 20%:** IIHS Top Safety Pick / Top Safety Pick+ status and NHTSA star ratings.
- **Interior space & comfort — 15%:** passenger room, third-row usability, and cargo volume.
- **Powertrain & efficiency — 15%:** horsepower, drivability, and EPA fuel-economy figures.
- **Tech & value — 15%:** standard driver-assist features, infotainment, and content per dollar.
- **Price-to-performance — 10%:** how much capable, well-built SUV you get for the **MSRP**.

All prices below are **2021 model-year starting MSRPs** (excluding destination unless noted) and reflect figures published when these vehicles were new.

## 1. Kia Telluride 🏆 BEST OVERALL

**Starting MSRP:** **$31,990**  |  **Best for:** Families who want near-luxury space and features without a luxury price.

The **Telluride** runs a **291-hp 3.8-liter V6** through an 8-speed automatic, with front-wheel drive standard and **AWD** optional. EPA ratings land at **20/26 mpg** city/highway (FWD), it seats **seven or eight** across **three rows**, swallows up to **87 cubic feet** of cargo, and tows up to **5,000 pounds**. It earned an **IIHS Top Safety Pick** (SX and EX with LED headlights) and carries Kia's **10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty**. Standard tech includes a generous touchscreen and a deep driver-assist suite.

Pros:
- **Upscale cabin** that looks and feels far more expensive than the price.
- **Genuinely usable third row** with adult-friendly room.
- **Industry-best warranty** for long-term peace of mind.
- **Strong V6** with smooth, confident power delivery.

Cons:
- Popular trims were hard to find at MSRP near launch.
- Fuel economy is average for the class, with no hybrid option.

**Verdict:** The **Telluride** does everything well and nothing poorly, making it the clear 2021 segment champion.

## 2. Hyundai Palisade

**Starting MSRP:** **$32,025**  |  **Best for:** Buyers who want Telluride substance with a softer, more rounded design.

The **Palisade** shares its **291-hp 3.8-liter V6** and mechanicals with the Telluride, returning **19/26 mpg** (FWD), seating up to **eight**, and offering **86.4 cubic feet** of maximum cargo and a **5,000-pound** tow rating. It went one better on safety, earning an **IIHS Top Safety Pick+**. Hyundai's matching **10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty** and richly trimmed Calligraphy flagship make it feel like a bargain luxury SUV.

Pros:
- **Top Safety Pick+** — the highest IIHS honor.
- **Plush, quiet cabin** with high-end material options.
- **Same long Hyundai warranty** and strong value.

Cons:
- Styling is polarizing for some buyers.
- AWD trims dip slightly in highway mpg.

**Verdict:** A virtual tie with its Kia sibling; pick the **Palisade** if its design and Top Safety Pick+ rating speak to you.

## 3. Toyota Highlander (Hybrid)

**Starting MSRP:** **$35,085**  |  **Best for:** High-mileage commuters who want bulletproof reliability and big fuel savings.

The **Highlander Hybrid** combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with electric motors for **243 combined hp** and an outstanding **36/35 mpg** city/highway — exceptional for a **three-row** SUV seating **seven or eight**. It holds up to **84 cubic feet** of cargo and tows **3,500 pounds**. The IIHS gave it top **Good** crash scores and a **Superior** front-crash-prevention rating. Toyota's reputation for long-term durability and strong resale anchors its high ownership-cost score.

Pros:
- **Class-leading hybrid fuel economy** with no charging needed.
- **Legendary Toyota reliability** and resale value.
- **Standard Toyota Safety Sense** driver-assist suite.

Cons:
- Third row is tighter than the Kia/Hyundai twins.
- Modest **3,500-pound** towing limit.

**Verdict:** The smart long-haul buy — the **Highlander Hybrid** pays you back at every fill-up.

## 4. Honda Pilot

**Starting MSRP:** **$32,550**  |  **Best for:** Families who value an eight-seat layout and proven V6 dependability.

The **Pilot** uses a **280-hp 3.5-liter V6** with a 9-speed automatic, returning **20/27 mpg** (FWD) or **19/26 mpg** with **AWD**. It seats up to **eight**, offers up to **109 cubic feet** of total cargo room, and tows **5,000 pounds** with AWD. The IIHS and NHTSA both award strong scores, and **Honda Sensing** driver aids are standard. Roomy, practical, and easy to live with, it remains a family-hauler benchmark.

Pros:
- **Cavernous, flexible interior** with one of the biggest cargo holds here.
- **Standard eight-passenger seating** on most trims.
- **Reliable V6 and 5,000-lb tow rating** (AWD).

Cons:
- Nine-speed automatic can feel hesitant.
- Interior design is more functional than fancy.

**Verdict:** A no-drama, do-everything choice for big families who haul people and gear.

## 5. Kia Sorento 💎 BEST VALUE

**Starting MSRP:** **$29,390**  |  **Best for:** Value shoppers who want three rows in a smaller, efficient footprint.

Fully redesigned for 2021, the **Sorento** offers a base **191-hp 2.5-liter** four or an available **281-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter**, plus a **37-mpg-combined hybrid**. It seats **six or seven** in a tidy body sized closer to a compact, holds up to **75-plus cubic feet** of cargo, and tows up to **3,500 pounds** with the turbo. The same **10-year/100,000-mile** Kia warranty applies, and standard safety tech is generous for the price.

Pros:
- **Lowest entry price** of any three-row here.
- **Strong available turbo** and a thrifty hybrid option.
- **Long Kia warranty** plus a fresh, modern cabin.

Cons:
- Third row is best for kids and short trips.
- Cargo behind row three is modest versus larger rivals.

**Verdict:** The most SUV per dollar in 2021 — our **Best Value** pick by a wide margin.

## 6. Subaru Ascent

**Starting MSRP:** **$32,295**  |  **Best for:** Snow-belt and outdoorsy families who want standard all-wheel drive.

The **Ascent** is powered by a **260-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer** four-cylinder with a CVT, and **Symmetrical AWD is standard** on every trim. It returns roughly **21/27 mpg**, seats **seven or eight**, and tows a stout **5,000 pounds**. Subaru's **EyeSight** driver-assist suite helped earn it an **IIHS Top Safety Pick+**. For buyers who never want to think about traction, it is the easy call.

Pros:
- **Standard AWD** across the lineup.
- **Top Safety Pick+** and standard EyeSight safety tech.
- **5,000-lb towing** — strong for the segment.

Cons:
- CVT drone under hard acceleration.
- Interior materials trail the Kia/Hyundai pair.

**Verdict:** The all-weather specialist — buy the **Ascent** if AWD security tops your list.

## 7. Mazda CX-9

**Starting MSRP:** **$34,160**  |  **Best for:** Drivers who want a near-luxury cabin and the sportiest handling here.

The **CX-9** runs a **turbocharged 2.5-liter** four making **227 hp** (250 hp on premium fuel) and a torquey **310 lb-ft**, with EPA marks of **22/28 mpg** (FWD). It seats **six or seven**, offers a more modest **71 cubic feet** of max cargo, and tows **3,500 pounds**. Reviewers routinely praise its cabin as the most upscale in the class, rivaling entry-luxury brands, and its road manners are the most engaging.

Pros:
- **Premium, beautifully finished interior**.
- **Best-in-class driving dynamics** and steering feel.
- **Standard turbo torque** for confident passing.

Cons:
- Tightest third row and smallest cargo hold of the group.
- Infotainment interface lags rivals.

**Verdict:** The enthusiast's and design lover's pick, if you can live with less space.

## 8. Honda Passport

**Starting MSRP:** **$32,790**  |  **Best for:** Couples and small families who want two-row space and light off-road ability.

The two-row **Passport** packs the Pilot's **280-hp 3.5-liter V6** into a shorter body, seating **five** with a large **78-cubic-foot** maximum cargo hold. It returns **19/24 mpg** and tows up to **5,000 pounds** with **AWD**. Standard **Honda Sensing** and respectable ground clearance make it a rugged, roomy alternative for buyers who do not need a third row.

Pros:
- **Huge cargo and passenger room** for five.
- **Strong V6 and 5,000-lb tow rating** (AWD).
- **Capable AWD** with light-trail composure.

Cons:
- No third-row option for larger families.
- Fuel economy trails four-cylinder rivals.

**Verdict:** The best choice when you want SUV space and capability without the extra row.

## 9. Jeep Grand Cherokee L

**Starting MSRP:** **$36,995**  |  **Best for:** Buyers who want true towing muscle and available V8 power.

All-new for 2021, the **Grand Cherokee L** adds a third row to Jeep's icon. The standard **3.6-liter V6** makes **290 hp** and tows up to **6,200 pounds**, while the available **5.7-liter HEMI V8** delivers **357 hp** and a class-topping **7,200-pound** tow rating. It seats **six or seven** and brings genuine off-road hardware on 4x4 trims. It is the most capable tower and trail-runner on this list.

Pros:
- **Best-in-class towing** up to **7,200 pounds**.
- **Available V8** and serious off-road capability.
- **Upscale, tech-rich cabin** on higher trims.

Cons:
- Lower fuel economy, especially with the V8.
- As a brand-new model, it had no long-term reliability track record.

**Verdict:** The pick for buyers who tow heavy or venture off pavement.

## 10. Chevrolet Traverse

**Starting MSRP:** **$30,995**  |  **Best for:** Families who prioritize maximum cargo and passenger volume.

The **Traverse** offers one of the roomiest interiors here, with up to **98.2 cubic feet** of cargo space and seating for **eight**. A standard **310-hp 3.6-liter V6** with a 9-speed automatic returns up to **18/27 mpg** and tows up to **5,000 pounds**. **AWD** is optional. It is the space champion of the group and an affordable way into a genuinely large three-row SUV.

Pros:
- **Largest cargo capacity** in this comparison.
- **Powerful standard V6** and easy **5,000-lb towing**.
- **Affordable entry price** for its size.

Cons:
- Interior materials feel plain versus rivals.
- City fuel economy is the lowest of the group.

**Verdict:** Buy the **Traverse** when interior volume is your single biggest priority.

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

```mermaid
flowchart TD
  A[Start: choosing a 2021 mid-size SUV] --> B{Need a 3rd row?}
  B -->|No, 2 rows fine| C[Honda Passport or Mazda CX-9]
  B -->|Yes, 3 rows| D{Top priority?}
  D -->|Reliability and resale| E[Toyota Highlander Hybrid]
  D -->|Lowest price and value| F[Kia Sorento 💎]
  D -->|Best all-around| G{Budget?}
  G -->|Under 40k| H[Kia Telluride 🏆 or Hyundai Palisade]
  G -->|Over 40k loaded| I[Telluride SX, Palisade Calligraphy or Grand Cherokee L]
  D -->|Hybrid vs towing| J{Save fuel or tow heavy?}
  J -->|Save fuel| E
  J -->|Tow heavy| K[Jeep Grand Cherokee L up to 7200 lb]
  D -->|Standard AWD| L[Subaru Ascent]
  D -->|Max cargo space| M[Chevrolet Traverse]
```

## What to Look For When Buying a Mid-Size SUV

- **Third-row usability:** measure real legroom — many "three-row" SUVs only fit kids in back. The Telluride, Palisade, and Pilot lead here.
- **Warranty and ownership cost:** Kia and Hyundai's **10-year/100,000-mile powertrain** coverage is a major long-run advantage.
- **Drivetrain:** decide if you truly need **AWD**; if so, the Subaru Ascent makes it standard, while most rivals charge extra.
- **Towing:** match the rating to your trailer — the Grand Cherokee L (up to **7,200 lb**) far outpaces hybrids capped near **3,500 lb**.
- **Safety ratings:** prioritize an **IIHS Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+** and check NHTSA stars.
- **Fuel economy:** a hybrid like the Highlander can save real money over years of commuting.
- **Horsepower matters less than marketing implies** — most of these SUVs have ample power for daily family use, so cabin quality, space, and reliability deserve more of your attention than peak hp figures.

## FAQ

**What is the best mid-size SUV for 2021?**
The **Kia Telluride** is our overall winner for 2021, thanks to its spacious near-luxury cabin, strong V6, Top Safety Pick rating, long warranty, and competitive **$31,990** starting price.

**Which 2021 mid-size SUV is the best value?**
The redesigned **Kia Sorento**, starting at **$29,390**, offers three rows, an available turbo, a thrifty hybrid, and Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile warranty for the lowest entry price in the group.

**What is the most fuel-efficient 2021 mid-size SUV?**
The **Toyota Highlander Hybrid** leads with up to **36 mpg** city and **35 mpg** highway, far ahead of the V6-powered competition.

**Which 2021 mid-size SUV can tow the most?**
The new **Jeep Grand Cherokee L** with the **5.7-liter HEMI V8** tows up to **7,200 pounds**, the highest figure on this list.

**Which 2021 mid-size SUVs earned the top IIHS safety award?**
The **Hyundai Palisade**, **Subaru Ascent**, and **Ford Explorer** all earned the IIHS **Top Safety Pick+**, the institute's highest honor, while the **Telluride** earned a Top Safety Pick.

**Do I need a three-row mid-size SUV?**
If you regularly carry more than five people, yes — but if not, a two-row model like the **Honda Passport** gives you more cargo room and a roomier ride for the same money.

## Bottom Line

The 2021 mid-size SUV class is deep, but two Korean siblings rise to the top: the **Kia Telluride** is the **Best Overall** for its blend of space, refinement, safety, and value at **$31,990**, while the redesigned **Kia Sorento** is the **Best Value** at **$29,390**. From there, choose by need — the **Highlander Hybrid** for efficiency, the **Grand Cherokee L** for towing, the **Ascent** for standard AWD, the **Traverse** for space, and the **CX-9** or **Passport** for premium feel or two-row practicality. The Kias deliver the most all-around SUV for the money in 2021.

## Sources

- [U.S. News — 2021 Kia Telluride Review, Pricing & Specs](https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/kia/telluride/2021)
- [IIHS — 2021 Kia Telluride 4-door SUV ratings](https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/kia/telluride-4-door-suv/2021)
- [U.S. News — 2021 Hyundai Palisade Review & Pricing](https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/hyundai/palisade/2021)
- [U.S. News — 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Review & Pricing](https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/toyota/highlander-hybrid/2021)
- [U.S. News — 2021 Kia Sorento Review & Pricing](https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/kia/sorento/2021)
- [U.S. News — 2021 Subaru Ascent Review & Pricing](https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/subaru/ascent/2021)
- [U.S. News — 2021 Mazda CX-9 Review & Pricing](https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/mazda/cx-9/2021)
- [Kelley Blue Book — 2021 Honda Pilot pricing & specs](https://www.kbb.com/honda/pilot/2021/)
- [Kelley Blue Book — 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L pricing & specs](https://www.kbb.com/jeep/grand-cherokee-l/2021/)
- [Edmunds — 2021 Chevrolet Traverse Review & Ratings](https://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/traverse/2021/review/)
- [U.S. News — 2021 Ford Explorer Review & Pricing](https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/ford/explorer/2021)

*Mid-size SUV review — mid-size SUV reviews, rating, best mid-size SUV 2021, and a review of the top family SUV picks for buyers.*

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Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2021 — Best Overall + Best Value

Top 10 Mid-Size SUVs 2021 — Best Overall + Best Value

Direct Answer

How We Ranked the Top 10

1. Kia Telluride 🏆 BEST OVERALL

2. Hyundai Palisade

3. Toyota Highlander (Hybrid)

4. Honda Pilot

5. Kia Sorento 💎 BEST VALUE

6. Subaru Ascent

7. Mazda CX-9

8. Honda Passport

9. Jeep Grand Cherokee L

10. Chevrolet Traverse

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

What to Look For When Buying a Mid-Size SUV

FAQ

Bottom Line

Sources

What does the score mean?