Today's dominant family car isn't a car at all—it's a midsize SUV. The reasons are simple. Midsize SUVs offer a compelling combination of interior space, versatility, safety, and affordable purchase price. In addition, some midsize SUVs can carry up to eight people at a time.
Most midsize SUVs are crossovers based on vehicle platforms they share with sedans. However, some current ones still ride on a traditional truck frame, emphasizing their all-terrain capabilities. No matter their underlying architecture, one thing all midsize SUVs share is an excellent driving position.
With their elevated bodies, midsize SUVs lift their drivers above the traffic, giving them a commanding view of the road ahead. At the same time, their taller bodies and increased ride height make them easier to get into and out of than typical sedans and coupes.
The heightened bodies of midsize SUVs give them another significant advantage: extra interior space. Midsize SUVs provide buyers with significantly more passenger room and cargo space than a sedan based on the same platform. Auto designers leverage the height advantage by equipping their vehicles with versatile seating, enabling them to transport various combinations of people and things.
Many midsize SUVs also allow customers to choose the powertrain that meets their needs. All midsize SUVs give buyers the option of all-wheel drive to improve their vehicle's traction and safety. Beyond that, many of the best midsize SUVs offer conventional and hybrid powertrains that deliver excellent drivability and praiseworthy fuel economy.
Whether you have a family to transport or want to tote a lot of gear, the list of the best midsize SUVs on this page will help make your buying decision easier.