Shopping for a midsize SUV can be an intimidating and unpleasant experience due to pushy salespeople, multiple dealerships, and undisclosed expenses. To add to the frustration, finding the ideal SUV can feel like finding a needle in a haystack with a plethora of models to choose from. Nonetheless, CNET has taken a proactive approach in our quest for the finest midsize SUV of 2022.
Our editors have invested an extensive amount of time testing new midsize SUVs, and thus we have compiled a list of our top picks to aid you in narrowing down your options. “Best” is a matter of personal perspective, and your financial constraints and individual requirements will have an impact on your decision, but the list provided below has been thoughtfully chosen as the most exceptional midsize SUVs within the market segment. Let us delve into the details.
2022 Kia Telluride
The supreme midsize SUV
The Kia Telluride has always been one of CNET’s cherished SUVs. Its remarkable three-row design makes it a standout choice among midsize SUVs and allows you to take your entire family on a joy ride.
Apart from its roomy cabin, the Telluride offers luxurious features that can rival high-end cars without being too costly, such as leather, wood, and metallic accents that deck out its interior. Even with this level of opulence, the SUV still offers excellent value for buyers who prefer a more practical ride, as they can opt out of additional frills that don’t add much and still end up with an impressive vehicle that’s priced well below the average new-car transaction cost for 2022. The lone drawback we can point out is its fuel economy, which registers at under 25 mpg on the highway with all-wheel drive. Nevertheless, it’s hard not to recommend the Telluride considering its otherwise outstanding features.
Check out the 2022 Kia Telluride on TrueCar. It appears almost identical to its previous version.
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Honda
The 2022 Honda Passport
Ranked as the second-best midsize SUV
Honda recognized that not every driver requires a three-row midsize SUV, and that’s precisely why the Passport was developed- as a mid-point between the compact CR-V and larger Pilot. Similar to both of its Honda SUV predecessors, the Passport is another top-quality vehicle produced by Honda.
Certainly, while the styling may tend towards the conventional side, the 2022 Honda Passport now offers a TrailSport trim for those seeking a bolder appearance, complete with rugged exterior details. Powering the vehicle is a reliable 3.5-liter V6 engine, capable of producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, which is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Its handling on paved roads is superb, offering an abundance of practical interior room, a plethora of luxurious amenities, and technological features.
Check out the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport for a more rugged look, now available on TrueCar.
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By Andrew Krok/CNET
The 2022 Genesis GV80 is the ultimate midsize luxury SUV that truly captures the essence of staying power, making it a top pick on this list.
The GV80 will remain unchanged for 2022, and that’s perfectly fine. Hyundai’s upscale affiliate has equipped its inaugural SUV with the same plush features that we’ve grown accustomed to. The vehicle’s aesthetics are pleasing both internally and externally, and there’s an abundance of storage capacity found at the back of the second row. Additionally, families in need of extra seating will appreciate the available third row.
There is no issue in transportation as the GV80 offers an optional 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Although it may not be a sports car, the GV80 excels in maintaining a smooth and comfortable ride on the highway, even on rough terrain. Furthermore, the vehicle provides a plethora of technology features, including one of the highest quality infotainment systems available on the market.
Visit TrueCar
Steven Ewing/CNET
2022 Acura MDX
The runner-up for the best midsize luxury SUV
Acura is undergoing a transition. The luxury vehicle division of Honda is introducing some stunning cars, and it’s no surprise that it has now focused on its best-selling SUV, the MDX.
The Acura MDX of 2022 is an extraordinary vehicle. Its V6 engine produces 290 horsepower, which provides just the right amount of power to keep things exciting. Additionally, the forthcoming Type S variant will further enhance the excitement. Due to its all-wheel drive system, it is entertaining to drive through corners; however, as a luxury vehicle, buyers will derive more satisfaction from how comfortable and quiet it feels during daily use. The interior has an appealing design and, like most models in 2022, it comes with plenty of technology. With all-wheel drive, it can also tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Check out our review for the 2022 Acura MDX, which is now sharper and smarter. You can find it over at TrueCar.
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The 2022 Porsche Cayenne is the ultimate midsize performance SUV that is unbeatable no matter which trim you choose. Whether you opt for the high-end or the base model, you won’t regret investing in this remarkable vehicle. Andrew Krok from CNET agrees that the Cayenne is a ride worth taking if you can afford the ticket.
The Porsche Cayenne is a nimble, stylish SUV that comes in a stripped-down V6 model or a high-performance GTS trim with a V8 engine that makes it arguably one of the best-driving SUVs on the market today. For those seeking better fuel efficiency, the plug-in hybrid version provides excellent on-road handling and decent all-electric range. And if you want the ultimate in power and fuel economy, there’s a PHEV version that cranks out nearly 700 horsepower.
Check out TrueCar.
Runner-up in the midsize performance SUV category is the 2022 Dodge Durango SRT, according to Craig Cole from CNET. This American-made SUV offers an exhilarating experience for its three rows of passengers, proving that high-dollar options straight out of Germany are not the only contenders in the market.
The Dodge Durango SRT for 2022 comes equipped with a standard 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine that generates 475 hp and utilizes all-wheel drive to accelerate the SUV from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds. Although it falls slightly short of the Lamborghini Urus, its affordable price tag of approximately $72,000 makes it a more realistic option for most consumers. If some horsepower can be sacrificed, the Durango R/T features a 360-hp V8 engine starting at just over $53,000, providing an exceptionally competitive ratio of speed to cost.
Although the Durango is becoming somewhat outdated, it is nonetheless an excellent option for a three-row SUV. It provides generous room for both passengers and storage, has an impressive towing capacity (which we’ll discuss in more detail later), and boasts a Uconnect entertainment system that continues to be one of our top picks.
Check out TrueCar.
By Tim Stevens/CNET
2022 Toyota Venza
The finest midsize hybrid SUV
Once considered a dull crossover that blurred the boundaries between SUV and minivan, the Toyota Venza has now been transformed into a bona fide utility vehicle that excels in both comfort and efficiency.
The Venza employs a 2.5-liter, Atkinson-cycle I4 powerplant fused with three electric motors to achieve a net output of 219 hp. Although this figure may appear modest, it suffices for the Venza’s requirements. The focus lies in efficiency, as the Venza is estimated to achieve an EPA-rated 40 mpg on the highway, 37 mpg in the city, and 39 mpg combined.
The 2022 Venza boasts impressive technological features. For instance, the electrochromic sunroof can be adjusted to provide either transparency or opacity as needed with a simple touch of a button, allowing the perfect amount of sunlight to enter the vehicle. Toyota’s newest infotainment system is accessible via an optional 12.3-inch touchscreen, providing drivers with the necessary information to stay informed while minimizing distractions. Additionally, the ride quality is incredibly smooth and refined, with a level of comfort that’s comparable to even the most luxurious Lexus vehicles.
Visit TrueCar
Hyundai
The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
Ranked as the second-best midsize hybrid SUV
It’s not only Toyota that is making impressive hybrid vehicles nowadays. Hyundai is also in the game, and its 2022 Santa Fe Hybrid is a great option for those looking for a midsize hybrid SUV.
Similar to other Hyundai vehicles, the 2022 Santa Fe Hybrid comes with a plethora of standard features, and its superior construction quality may make you believe that you snagged an exceptional bargain, as it feels incredibly luxurious for just above $40,000. It is also quite comfortable on the road. While it may not be as fuel-efficient as the Venza, with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 33 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, it is still highly deserving of your consideration.
Check out the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid on TrueCar – a perfect combination of elegance and fuel economy.
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2011 BMW X5 xDrive45e is undeniably the best plug-in hybrid SUV in the midsize category. As an entry-level electrified vehicle, it offers luxury with the basic functions of a PHEV.
Revised for 2021, the X5 xDrive45e utilizes a 24-kilowatt-hour battery which is capable of providing a maximum of 30 miles electric range on a complete charge. Furthermore, its electric motor operates in tandem with a 2.0-liter turbocharged I4, generating a remarkable 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. With various drive modes available, you can customize your power preference to meet your needs. Besides, its air suspension is adjustable to suit your driving mood, ensuring a remarkable driving experience.
Check out TrueCar.
Antuan Goodwin/CNET
2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5
The most outstanding electric SUV in the midsize segment
2022
The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 is so exceptional that we can’t help but continue praising its virtues. Even among CNET Cars editors, it’s difficult to find anyone who has tested this vehicle and not been thoroughly impressed.
Why is it such a great car? To begin with, it can provide a maximum range of 303 miles if you choose the bigger battery pack and rear-wheel drive, though you may lose some range if you go for the AWD option. The Ioniq 5 drives like a dream on a daily basis, absorbing rough roads with great ease. With its 800-volt structure, it can accommodate quick charges of up to 350 kW, so you won’t have to spend too much time waiting around for a charge. Plus, let’s talk about its appearance. The design team at Hyundai really knocked it out of the park.
Check out our review of the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5, a unique and stylish electric vehicle. Visit TrueCar for more information.
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2022 Dodge Durango: The Ultimate Midsize SUV for Towing
Without a doubt, the Durango deserves a spot on this list for a second time. And there’s a good reason why – it’s unrivaled when it comes to towing capacity.
The 2022 Dodge Durango offers three distinct versions that are capable of towing up to an impressive 8,700 pounds. This is essentially the maximum capacity for towing before you need to resort to a truck or a full-size body-on-frame SUV. The SRT 392 and SRT Hellcat versions have the ability to tow that much weight without requiring any additional equipment, while the 5.7-liter R/T model only needs a Tow ‘N’ Go package. Even the V6 versions have impressive towing capabilities, with the ability to pull up to 6,200 pounds, which means you don’t have to spend top dollar to get the job done.
Check out TrueCar.
Andrew Krok/CNET
2022 Ford Bronco
The top-performing midsize SUV for off-road adventures
There are some cars that leave a lasting impression after their debut. The 2022 Ford Bronco is among those vehicles, sweeping past established models in its class with a new take on an all-terrain SUV.
Off-roading is just one aspect that contributes to the excellence of the Bronco. The Sasquatch model boasts of all-terrain tires, which gives it a robust and tough look. Additionally, the car features an electronic 4×4 system that operates with eight different vehicle modes, enhancing its performance in mud, sand, dirt, or snow. In comparison to Wrangler, which has a solid front axle causing issues while driving on roads, Bronco’s independent front suspension makes it more suitable for daily-driving use. The car has a considerable amount of technology inside, including a large screen positioned right in the center of the dashboard. Furthermore, the ventilation is protected against weather conditions, allowing for an easy switch to an open-air ride with no worries.
Check out our review of the 2022 Ford Bronco.
View it on TrueCar.
The 2022 Ford Bronco Everglades is the perfect vehicle for exploring swamps.
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The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, as redesigned, has caught our attention and we believe it may catch yours too. It is the finest midsize SUV that offers three rows. Chris Paukert/CNET
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L is a highly versatile vehicle suitable for both on-road and off-road driving. Some of its features may even convince you that it’s a fully-fledged luxury car. It is available with a V6 or a Hemi V8 engine, both of which offer plenty of power to satisfy potential buyers. Although it may be expensive to fuel up and max out the specs at the dealership, compared to other three-row crossovers, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L appears to be a top contender in its segment for the foreseeable future.
Check out TrueCar.
Jeep
The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, an ideal midsize SUV for tech enthusiasts, has caught our attention. We are equally impressed with both the two-row version and the larger three-row Grand Cherokee L. Stellantis, formerly known as Fiat Chrysler, has always delivered an exceptional infotainment system, and the Grand Cherokee sets itself apart from the rest of the competition with more than just a single screen.
The 2022 Grand Cherokee boasts a large number of screens. It is possible to choose from a 10.3-inch gauge display, a digital rearview mirror, a 10-inch head-up display, a 10.1-inch central touchscreen, a 10.3-inch screen for the front passenger, and two more 10.1-inch screens for those sitting in the second row. In addition, the rear-seat entertainment includes Amazon Fire TV connectivity for streaming while on the go. The latest Uconnect version is excellent, and the McIntosh sound system is an impressive optional feature. For off-road enthusiasts, the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk provides an electronic limited-slip differential, a disconnecting front sway bar, air suspension, and a traction-management system with various modes.
Check out TrueCar for the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee with refined yet rugged aesthetics.
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Kia
The 2022 Kia Sorento
The redesigned Sorento is the best midsize SUV with an impressive and lengthy new-car warranty, consistent with Kia’s reputation for exceptional warranties.
Regardless of whether you choose the Sorento, Kia’s warranty remains unbeatable, providing a five-year or 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. The powertrain is covered for 10 years or 100,000 miles, while the body is shielded from corrosion for a duration of seven years and an unlimited number of miles. While Lincoln offers unlimited coverage in roadside assistance, Kia’s five years and unlimited miles is still a sturdy offering, despite falling short of the competition.
Check out the 2022 Kia Sorento PHEV, which provides fuel efficiency and spacious seating. Browse now on TrueCar.
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Chevrolet
2022 Chevrolet Traverse
The Top Midsize SUV for Ample Cargo Room
The Chevrolet Traverse is a dependable mass-market SUV with three rows that entices budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable transportation. In addition, it boasts an extensive cargo capacity that goes unnoticed.
The Chevrolet Traverse for 2022 boasts the highest cargo capacity among midsize SUVs. By folding the second-row seats, it can accommodate up to 98.2 cubic feet of cargo, exceeding the impressive measurements of other vehicles such as the Buick Enclave (97.6 cubic feet) and the VW Atlas (96.8 cubic feet). Remarkably, only these three midsize SUVs provide interior space that surpasses 90 cubic feet.
Check out TrueCar
Craig Cole/CNET
2022 Hyundai Palisade
The optimal midsize SUV for accommodating passengers
As we have previously highlighted the Kia Telluride on this list, we will instead assess the 2022 Hyundai Palisade for its ability to provide ample passenger space.
Both the 2022 Palisade and 2022 Telluride provide ample room for passengers in all three rows. Those seated in the second row can enjoy an impressive 42.4 inches of legroom, while passengers in the third row have nearly 3 feet of legroom at their disposal, ensuring even tall adults will be comfortable in the back seats.
Check out TrueCar.
Andrew Krok from CNET recommends the 2022 Subaru Ascent as the top choice for midsize SUVs in terms of safety. Instead of just considering standard driver-assistance features, the decision is based on the highest safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The institute conducts rigorous tests that surpass federal requirements.
Based on IIHS statistics, the 2022 Subaru Ascent is deemed the safest midsize SUV, having obtained the highest Good score in all IIHS crash examinations, which entail the challenging small-overlap front tests for the driver and front passenger sides. It’s among the limited vehicles that have received a Good rating in all of their headlights evaluations, besides being awarded the Good Plus score for its LATCH child-seat hardware’s ease of use. The Ascent has also earned top-notch scores for crash avoidance in car-to-car and car-to-pedestrian evaluations.
Check out our review of the 2022 Subaru Ascent.
Available at TrueCar.
The 2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx Edition is not for those seeking luxury.
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Tim Stevens/CNET
2022 Aston Martin DBX
The finest midsize luxury SUV
Initially, news about Aston Martin’s entry into the SUV market was met with hopeful caution. Yet having spent ample time with the DBX, it’s an easy car to endorse.
The twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine generates 542 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque to power the DBX. With a heavy right foot, it offers an enjoyable driving experience and produces a great sound. Despite being larger than a standard-wheelbase Range Rover, the DBX feels agile due to its adaptive air suspension. The ride is comfortable without being excessively rigid. Though the car has some traditional exotic-car quirks such as an outdated infotainment system and occasionally sharp transmission, the DBX is still an exceptional SUV for those in the upper echelons of the industry.
Check out our review of the 2021 Aston Martin DBX. View it on Aston Martin’s website.
The BMW iX, released in 2022, is considered the top midsize SUV to keep an eye on. Although we haven’t had extensive experience with this new electric car, our initial impressions have us intrigued, and we believe it’s worth your attention too.
The iX’s unconventional design is reminiscent of the impact created by the original i3 during its launch. BMW’s newly designed tall kidney grilles are impeccably implemented, and the interior is unlike anything else the automaker has produced. The xDrive50, the first variant to arrive in the United States, is equipped with a 111.5 kWh battery and two electric motors that generate 516 horsepower and 564 lb-ft of torque. The iX offers a superb ride quality, and its regenerative braking system can respond to the car’s sensors to adjust deceleration, depending on traffic conditions. We are eagerly anticipating spending more time with the iX.
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The exterior of the 2022 BMW iX is bizarre while the interior is impressive and stylish.
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Comparison of the Top Midsize SUVs for 2022
CategoryNameBase engineOutputFuel economy (mpg, city/hwy/combined)Base price Best overall midsize SUV for 2022 Kia Telluride3.8-liter V6291 hp / 262 lb-ft20 / 26 / 23$34,725Runner-up for Best overall midsize SUV for 2022 Honda Passport3.5-liter V6280 hp / 262 lb-ft20 / 25 / 22$39,665Best midsize luxury SUV for 2022 Genesis GV802.5-liter I4300 hp / 311 lb-ft21 / 25 / 23$56,646Runner-up for Best midsize luxury SUV for 2022 Acura MDX3.5-liter V6290 hp / 267 lb-ft19 / 26 / 22$49,195Best midsize performance SUV for 2022 Porsche Cayenne3.0-liter V6335 hp / 332 lb-ft17 / 22 / 19$70,350Runner-up for Best midsize performance SUV for 2022 Dodge Durango SRT6.4-liter V8475 hp / 470 lb-ft13 / 19 / 15$71,890Best midsize hybrid SUV for 2022 Toyota Venza2.5-liter I4 hybrid219 hp net40 / 37 / 39$34,575Runner-up for Best midsize hybrid SUV for 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid1.6-liter I4 hybrid226 hp net36 / 31 / 34$35,595Best midsize plug-in hybrid SUV for 2022 BMW X5 xDrive45e3.0-liter I6 PHEV389 hp / 443 lb-ft50 MPGe (20 mpg gas-only)$61,595Best midsize electric SUV for 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5Single electric motor168 hp / 258 lb-ft110 MPGe$41,245Best midsize SUV for towing for 2022 Dodge Durango3.6-liter V6293 hp / 260 lb-ft19 / 26 / 21$30,090Best midsize SUV for off-roading for 2022 Ford Bronco2.3-liter I4275 hp / 315 lb-ft20 / 21 / 20$32,895Best midsize SUV with three rows for 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L3.6-liter V6290 hp / 257 lb-ft19 / 26 / 21$46,440Best midsize SUV for tech lovers for 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee3.6-liter V6290 hp / 257 lb-ft19 / 26 / 22$40,120Best midsize SUV with a long warranty for 2022 Kia Sorento2.5-liter I4191 hp / 181 lb-ft24 / 29 / 26$30,885Best midsize SUV for cargo space for 2022 Chevrolet Traverse3.6-liter V6310 hp / 266 lb-ft18 / 27 / 21$35,095Best midsize SUV for passenger space for 2022 Hyundai Palisade3.8-liter V6291 hp / 262 lb-ft19 / 26 / 22$36,545Best midsize SUV for safety for 2022 Subaru Ascent2.4-liter H4260 hp / 277 lb-ft21 / 27 / 23$33,970Best midsize exotic SUV for 2022 Aston Martin DBX4.0-liter V8542 hp / 516 lb-ft14 / 20 / 16$179,986Best midsize SUV to keep an eye on for 2022 BMW iXDual electric motor516 hp / 564 lb-ft86 MPGe$84,195
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我们如何制作清单：
CNET的编辑们每周花费数小时的时间在路上，通过各种不同的方式评估车辆。正是这些共同的经验，成为我们确定汽车在这个清单中的位置的依据。
改写后：
The process of compiling our list involved CNET’s editors spending countless hours on the road every week, assessing vehicles in diverse ways. It’s the accumulation of these experiences that we rely on to determine a car’s ranking on this list.
As always, individual results may vary. Each individual and household has unique requirements, and we highly recommend that you select your preferences from this list and visit your local car dealership to take a test drive to ensure that our opinions meet your standards. It is also important to note that we typically assess vehicles for just one week at a time, so we are unable to provide long-term reliability ratings. Furthermore, price is a crucial aspect to consider, particularly in the current new-car market, and the prices indicated in the aforementioned chart may not reflect the actual dealership prices. In the instance of a dealer markup on the vehicle’s window sticker, conducting thorough research may prove beneficial in terms of saving hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Are you searching for other options?
The concept of “midsize” can have various interpretations, whether it’s a label given by an automaker or a measurement that corresponds with the EPA’s (potentially outdated) grouping system. However, there’s no need to worry – if you’re interested in vehicles that are a bit bigger or smaller, we offer several alternative lists that showcase our top picks from various vehicle segments. Check out the options below if you’re interested in exploring other categories.
Frequently Asked Questions about Midsize SUVs
Which midsize SUV is ranked number one?
While we believe the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Ioniq 5 are superior to other midsize SUVs we have tested, it’s important to note that every organization, including ourselves, J.D. Power, and others, use unique metrics to rank vehicles. It’s crucial to understand that these scores are not absolute; use our suggestions as a guide to assist with your decision-making process. The vehicle that you ultimately purchase should reflect your specific needs and values.
Which midsize SUVs are considered the top performers in the market? The ones mentioned above! Admittedly, there are numerous robust midsize SUVs for sale. The finest ones provide advanced drivetrains, incredible utility, and a generous amount of in-car technology. However, it’s essential to prioritize your own requirements to ensure any vehicle you buy caters to your needs.
Which midsize SUV is the most dependable to purchase?
Determining reliability can be a difficult task as every individual’s experience varies. At CNET Cars, we typically do not test vehicles for longer than a week, which is standard practice for most reviews. To provide guidance on this question, we will reference J.D. Power’s most recent Vehicle Dependability Study which evaluates vehicle reliability after three years of ownership. As per the 2022 VDS, the most dependable mass-market SUVs come from Kia, Buick, Hyundai, Toyota, and Dodge, in that specific order. In terms of luxury SUVs, the rankings are Genesis, Lexus, Porsche, Cadillac, and Lincoln.
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