• Home
  • News
  • E-Cars
  • Technology
  • Dealer
  • Guides
  • Editorials
ProCar Digest
SUBSCRIBE
No Result
View All Result
  • Home
  • News
  • E-Cars
  • Technology
  • Dealer
  • Guides
  • Editorials
ProCar Digest
SUBSCRIBE
No Result
View All Result
ProCar Digest
No Result
View All Result
Home Guides

Every 2023 Mid-Size SUV Ranked from Best to Worst

by Car Digest
February 2, 2024

Mid-size SUVs make up the largest class of vehicles on the market, at least in terms of the number of models available to choose from. Because of the sheer number of vehicles, the mid-size SUV class is particularly competitive. It takes a long to stand out from the pack. On the other hand, that means only a few minor quibbles separate many of the models from one another in our rankings.

We’ll help you cut through the noise by succinctly detailing the pros and cons of each SUV. We rank every mid-size SUV from best to worst by combining their ratings on driving performance, standard features, design, and value.

21. 2023 GMC Acadia

2022 GMC ACADIA
(image via GMC)

The Acadia can have a third row, but should it? We say no, as it’s a pretty cramped affair back there. Plus, the third row cuts into some much-needed cargo space. The cabin is well-designed and upscale, but we can’t help but think the high prices GMC asks of the Acadia make the Chevrolet Traverse (a mechanically similar cousin) the much better value mid-size SUV.

20. 2023 Toyota Highlander

2022 Toyota Highlander
(image via Toyota)

The Toyota Highlander was a brand-new design for the 2020 model year. We actually don’t like the new design very much. It’s a typical overly busy choice from Toyota. That said, the interior is made up of high-class materials and sports modern features. The driving dynamics are good, especially for a family SUV, though the third row is cramped. That’s something families won’t like. However, on the plus side, the hybrid version of the Highlander offers among the best gas mileage in a mid-size SUV, getting 36 MPG combined.

19. 2023 Toyota 4Runner

2022 Toyota 4runner
(image via Toyota)

The Toyota 4Runner is going on nearly 15 years without a full redesign. That’s basically ancient in today’s market. But you wouldn’t know it by the sales numbers; it’s selling the most units in its entire history. That’s probably due to its excellent reliability and off-road prowess. Still, the interior is dated and lacking in modern tech. Plus, the ride is unforgivingly stiff. New for 2023 is the debut of the 40th Anniversary Special Edition trim and newly standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert features.

18. 2023 Nissan Murano

2022 Nissan Murano
(image via Nissan)

The Nissan Murano notches one spot above its sibling. While it has some sleek styling and a clean, spacious interior, there is noticeable body roll through turns. Steering feedback was numb, and it’s not as powerful as some other V6 engines on the market. The cargo space is also lacking compared to others in this segment.

17. 2023 Chevrolet Traverse

2022 Chevy Traverse
(image via Chevrolet)

The Chevy Traverse is spacious for the entire family and all of the cargo to go along with it. As is often the case with Chevrolet infotainment systems, the one in the Traverse is intuitive and not overly complex. It also has affordable price points that make it a much better value proposition than the mechanically similar GMC Acadia. The smooth-riding powertrain is also enjoyable for drivers and passengers alike, but the interior quality materials look like they belong on a budget vehicle.

16. 2023 Chevrolet Blazer

2022 Chevy Blazer
(image via Chevrolet)

The Chevy Blazer returned in 2019 after a long absence, but it bears no resemblance to the S-10 Blazer that left the market in 2005. We’re a fan of the aggressive styling borrowed from the Camero, and the Blazer is surprisingly responsive and agile for its size. The downside is that value seems to disappear quickly at high-priced higher trims. The cargo area is also smaller than some competitors.

15. 2023 Jeep Wrangler

2022 Jeep Wrangler

(image via Stellantis)

The tried-and-true Jeep Wrangler is the granddaddy of off-roading vehicles. And while it may be a beast off the beaten track, things go wonky on the pavement. City drivers will find that it’s not particularly agile for having compact dimensions. It also has a high starting price compared to similarly equipped mid-size SUVs, though it does retain its resale value very well. We also wish there was more cargo space. It’s soon to have some more direct competition with the impending arrival of the resurrected Ford Bronco. New for 2023 is standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and air conditioning.

14. 2023 Volkswagen Atlas

2022 VW Atlas
(image via Volkswagen)

The Volkswagen Atlas also has three spacious rows of seats but drives like a much smaller vehicle. It’s agile without lots of body roll through turns, common among other mid-size SUVs. It also is well appointed in terms of both materials and tech options. The minimalist dashboard styling is easy to use and read, which is important when you want to keep your eyes on the road ahead. For buyers looking for a more streamlined, less-boxy design, Volkswagen offers the Atlas Cross Sport which is a little bit shorter with a more slanted back roof.

13. 2023 Dodge Durango

2022 Dodge Durango
(image via Stellantis)

The 2023 Dodge Durango has some strong engines, which probably helps it have some of the strongest towing capacity in the class. There’s also lots of room inside. However, fuel economy numbers are particularly terrible. Handling is a wash, and there are few standard safety features. Not something you want in a family vehicle. Reliability also tends to be poor. It’s soon to be the only mid-size SUV that Dodge offers.

12. 2023 Subaru Ascent

2022 Subaru Ascent
(image via Subaru)

The Subaru Ascent features great handling and a comfortable ride. That’s something most of the other mid-size SUVs on this list aspire to. The third-row seat is a little cramped, but the Ascent makes up for it with tons of tech options and good first- and second-row room. It also has good fuel economy numbers for a mid-size SUV: 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. New for 2023 is a bold new exterior.

11. 2023 Ford Edge

2022 Ford Edge
(image via Ford)

The 2023 Ford Edge is right in the middle of our mid-size SUV ranking thanks to strong engine options, an open and airy cabin, and an infotainment system that isn’t overly complex. Ford updated the transmission this year, also, from a six-speed to an eight-speed automatic. There is some noticeable body roll when cornering, however.

10. 2023 Ford Explorer

2022 Ford Explorer

(image via Ford)

The 2023 Ford Explorer is completely redesigned from the ground up. We are fans of the new distinctive look with its side-swoop rearward. It has some impressive standard safety tech and other features that come with this design upgrade. Plus, there’s lots of cargo space for passengers and cargo. The exciting engine lineup even has a hybrid offering. The finishing materials are somewhat bland, though. The new Explorer is among the best V6 mid-size SUVs available.

9. 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
(image via Stellantis)

Like Jeep’s other offerings, the Grand Cherokee has stellar off-roading capabilities. But it’s also just at home on the pavement as off it. The engines are powerful, and the interior is well-appointed and stately. Also appreciated are blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts. These are now standard offerings and really up the safety factor. It also improves on cargo space from the smaller Wrangler further down on this list.

8. 2023 Toyota Venza

2022 Toyota Venza
(image via Toyota)

The Venza nameplate is back after a break of six years. This time around, the new 2023 Toyota Venza is a crossover (what isn’t these days) that only comes with a hybrid powertrain. This powertrain delivers one of the best mid-size SUV gas mileage ratings on the market, getting a combined 39 MPG!

Inside, it’s essentially a more upscale version of a RAV4 and has the upgraded interior to make that claim. The driving dynamics and hand-off between the electric and gasoline engines show off Toyota’s knowledge of having done this for a while longer than most rivals. However, if you are looking for something a little bit bigger than the RAV4, the Venza is the best  midsize 2-row SUV of 2023

7. 2023 Honda Pilot

2022 Honda Pilot Sport
(image via Honda)

The well-rounded Honda Pilot is a good minivan substitute. There’s plenty of space around the cabin—including adult-friendly third-row seating. It drives smoothly and assuredly, responding well to input from the driver. The infotainment stack is also intuitively designed with a clean layout. Plus, the Pilot should hold its value well for when you do decide to trade it in years down the line.

6. 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe

2022 Hyundai Santa Fe
(image via Hyundai)

The 2023 Santa Fe sports a mild facelift even though it was completely redesigned in 2018. It no longer has 3 rows, as that position has been ceded to the larger Palisade. With good reliability ratings, tons of standard features, and affordable price points, the new Santa Fe is a winning package. Features have been reshuffled this year and the SEL Convenience package has been discontinued.

5. 2023 Mazda CX-9

2022 Mazda Cx9
(image via Mazda)

Like its smaller sibling (the CX-5), Mazda’s CX-9 is a larger mid-size SUV that almost drives like a sports car. It has powerful engines that allow it to be speedy around town. The CX-9 also has nimble handling, a solid list of standard features, and a cockpit that looks like it was pulled straight from the luxury class. With all that packed into an affordable package, it makes the CX-9 hard to beat.

4. 2023 Honda Passport

2022 Honda Passport
(image via Honda)

When this newest version of the Honda Passport arrived in 2019, it was a sight for sore eyes. It, essentially, looks like a Honda Pilot with the back third cut off (and that’s a good thing). It has a spacious cabin that is also well-designed. You might not think of Honda when it comes to off-roading prowess, but the Passport holds its own. When compared to something like the Chevy Blazer, the Passport offers more bang for your buck.

3. 2023 Kia Sorento

2022 Kia Sorento
(image via Kia)

The Kia Sorento brought a fresh face to 2021 and that same designs continues into the 2023 model year. It features a more aggressive front fascia and a more modern interior layout. That big upgrade on the inside is what really sends the Sorento shooting up our list to #3. The Sorento already had good fuel economy numbers for this class (26 mpg combined), but now there is a hybrid model that offers an even better 37 mpg combined! It’s easily one of the best three-row mid-size SUVs. But, yes, the third row is somewhat uncomfortable. Nevertheless, you can just fold that last row down for added cargo space and utilize the much more comfortable first and second rows.

2. 2023 Hyundai Palisade

2022 Hyundai Palisade
(image via Hyundai)

The pair of sister Korean companies both released their largest mid-size offerings ever in 2020, and they hit it out of the park. The interior of the Hyundai Palisade is sufficiently upscale (and, honestly, something you would probably more commonly find in a luxury vehicle). As is the Hyundai way, there is an extensive list of standard safety and tech features, as well as even more upgrade options. It’s also one of the most reliable midsize SUVs on the market. It falls behind its Kia cousin simply because some early models had a production issue (that has since been remedied) where odd smells would come from the seats.

1. 2023 Kia Telluride

2022 Kia Telluride
(image via Kia)

Kia’s newest and largest SUV has great boxy proportions that give it an aggressive stance on the road. Inside, the interior also features a great design that isn’t quite as luxurious as the Palisade but is by no means cheap. The Telluride also has a large array of standard features, especially for its price tag. Where it really beats the mechanically similar Palisade is with a peppy V6 engine and some off-roading chops. It’s equally at home carrying kids around town or mudding through rough terrain.

The Kia Telluride is the best V6 mid-size SUV and the best mid-size overall. Few models can compete. If you want a real SUV, this is the model for you.

Related Posts

The Safest SUVs for 2025

The Safest SUVs for 2025

by Car Digest
March 8, 2025

If you’re in the market for a family car, safety needs to be your number one priority. Along with having...

Say Goodbye to These Car Models Discontinued in 2025

Say Goodbye to These Car Models Discontinued in 2025

by Car Digest
March 7, 2025

The automotive market continues its dramatic shift toward electrification and SUVs, leading several manufacturers to bid farewell to beloved models...

The 2025 Car Recall Drama You Shouldn’t Miss

The 2025 Car Recall Drama You Shouldn’t Miss

by Car Digest
March 6, 2025

Hold on tight, because 2025 is shaping up to be a year of unexpected twists and turns in the world...

Biggest Mistakes Car Brands Have Ever Made

Biggest Mistakes Car Brands Have Ever Made

by Car Digest
March 5, 2025

The world of car brands is full of innovation, success, and awe-inspiring designs. But let’s be real. Even the most...

4 Best Extended Car Warranty Providers

4 Best Extended Car Warranty Providers

by Car Digest
August 22, 2024

An extended car warranty is an insurance policy on your new or used vehicle. Warranties can help to cover the...

How to Find a Durable Car Cover

How to Find a Durable Car Cover

by Car Digest
August 20, 2024

When you take the time to find the perfect vehicle and you make the financial investment into that vehicle, you...

Car Maintenance You Can Do Yourself

Car Maintenance You Can Do Yourself

by Car Digest
August 15, 2024

With just a little bit of effort, you can save money by fixing your car yourself. It may seem like...

Load More

Related Post

Dealer Service Business Down

Dealer Service Business Down

December 25, 2023
Recently Sold Texas Toyota Store Rebranded

Recently Sold Texas Toyota Store Rebranded

September 4, 2024
US EV Makers Have Mixed Q3

US EV Makers Have Mixed Q3

October 2, 2023
Here’s how to get more mpg out of your Toyota hybrid

Here’s how to get more mpg out of your Toyota hybrid

June 11, 2023
5 Tips for Buying Truck Tires

5 Tips for Buying Truck Tires

August 11, 2024
Green Bond Availability Grows

Green Bond Availability Grows

September 16, 2023
Texas Discretionary Allocation Suit Decided

Texas Discretionary Allocation Suit Decided

August 4, 2023
  • About us
  • Contact Us
  • Disclaimer
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
Do not sell my personal information.
Cookie SettingsAccept
Manage consent

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
CookieDurationDescription
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytics
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Others
Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
SAVE & ACCEPT
No Result
View All Result
  • Home
  • News
  • Guides
  • E-Cars
  • Dealer
  • Technology
  • Editorials

© 2022 procardigest.com