Best Midsize SUVs

Mazda CX-9 isn't just practical; it's also fun

Being the best reviewed midsize SUV/crossover demands strengths in many attributes -- carrying people, hauling cargo, driving well, looking sharp, and providing comfort for long trips, among other traits. Nearly all of the most reputable sources say that the 2011 Mazda CX-9 (Base MSRP: $29,135 to $34,535) comes closest to the ideal, despite the wave of newer competitors over the last few model years. Experts say the CX-9 delivers the best driving experience; Edmunds.com says the CX-9 "drives like a smaller, more agile vehicle, especially in its precise and communicative steering," and the 3.7-liter V6 churns out 273 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque.

The Mazda CX-9 has three-row seating with usable room for the third-row occupants. Most reviewers find the interior to be comfortable, ergonomically sound, and composed of good quality materials. The Mazda SUV's maximum cargo capacity of 101 cubic feet with the second and third-row seats isn't the best in class, but is certainly sufficient for trips to Costco, say reviewers. The ride is firm as a result of the CX-9's sportier suspension tuning, but most reviewers aren't bothered by this. Overall, the Mazda CX-9 does everything expected of a midsize SUV very well, and has few weak points.

Reviewers also heap heavy praise upon the 2011 Honda Pilot (Base MSRP: $28,320 to $40,670), which shares many qualities with the Mazda CX-9, while offering a little more capability for off-road excursions. Reviewers generally prefer the CX-9's on-pavement demeanor, though, which they weigh more heavily since that's where most SUVs and crossovers earn their keep these days.

The 2011 Toyota Highlander (Base MSRP: $28,090 to $37,045) is another well-regarded midsize SUV, though reviewers don't find it as fun to drive and some say it has blander aesthetics, even after a mild facelift that came with the current model year. What the Highlander does provide is a polished, comfortable ride and excellent reliability, in addition to excellent safety-test results from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

You can find more information on the 2011 Mazda CX-9 (Base MSRP: $29,135 to $34,535), 2011 Honda Pilot (Base MSRP: $28,320 to $40,670), and 2011 Toyota Highlander (Base MSRP: $28,090 to $37,045) by clicking through to our full reports on those particular models.

2012 Kia Sorento delivers huge bang for the buck

When it comes to overall value, no other midsize SUV/crossover gets better reviews than the 2012 Kia Sorento (Base MSRP: $21,250 to $34,850), according to reviews. The Sorento has not only the lowest base price of any midsize SUV, but it also is one of the best looking and most competent. Standard equipment includes a spacious third-row seat. Fuel efficiency is better than many competitors at an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined (for front-wheel-drive models), and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety names the Sorento as a 2011 Top Safety Pick. Read our full report on the 2012 Kia Sorento (Base MSRP: $21,250 to $34,850) to gain additional insight into what reviewers are saying.

The 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe (Base MSRP: $21,845 to $30,845) has a similarly low price, but its reviews fall a bit short of the Kia Sorento. This isn't to say it's not a capable vehicle; many reviewers find a lot to like in the Santa Fe, including its powerful V6, impressive list of standard features, and long warranty. While reviews say the Hyundai SUV's ride quality isn't as sophisticated as that of the Kia Sorento, and its older design is somewhat bland by comparison, the Santa Fe remains a strong value proposition. Our full review of the 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe (Base MSRP: $21,845 to $30,845) provides more details on what experts have to say.

Performance and amenities: Acura MDX the best midsize luxury SUV

Some might consider luxury SUVs to be the best of all worlds, combining the highest quality materials, elegant design, lots of power, and practicality. If any luxury SUV embodies all of these traits, experts say it's the 2011 Acura MDX (Base MSRP: $42,930 to $52,555). High performance is not a problem, thanks to its smooth 300-horsepower 3.7-liter V6. Perhaps even more importantly, in the eyes of reviewers, is that the MDX delivers handling to match the power under the hood.

The luxury aspect is well covered, too: Xenon headlights, three-zone climate control, and a rear-view camera are among the standard features, while the optional tech package adds such features as a 10-speaker sound system, GPS navigation, and an adaptive suspension. Leather seating is standard, and reviews note the use of high-quality materials and switchgear throughout. All-wheel drive is standard, as is a third-row seat, and cargo capacity is admirable compared to other luxury SUVs. In addition, the Acura MDX is priced lower than many competing midsize luxury SUVs.

The 2011 Lexus RX 350 (Base MSRP: $39,075 to $40,475) and the 2011 Land Rover LR4 (Base MSRP: $47,650) are strong runner-up SUVs for different reasons. The Lexus offers a serene ride, a powerful and smooth engine, a sumptuous interior, and excellent reliability and safety ratings. The laid-back RX 350 isn't as fun to drive as the Acura MDX, and doesn't offer a third-row seat, limiting the number of people it can shuttle around to five. The Land Rover LR4 is sports a more traditional boxy design, and those truck-like looks hint at its off-road prowess. Not only is the LR4 luxurious, but it's a superb off-road performer.

The 2011 Volvo XC60 (Base MSRP: $32,900 to $47,600) also earns praise, primarily for its stylish exterior and elegant interior, along with its engaging turbocharged engine and excellent crash-test results.

For an in-depth look at these models and how experts say they stack up against the competition, see the full write-ups for the Acura MDX (Base MSRP: $42,930 to $52,555), Lexus RX350 (Base MSRP: $39,075 to $40,475), Volvo XC60 (Base MSRP: $32,900 to $47,600) and the Land Rover LR4 (Base MSRP: $47,650).

Redesigned 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is reviewers' favorite off-roader

While off-road vehicle purists may take issue, most experts say that the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee (Base MSRP: $30,215 to $42,295) is their favorite off-road capable midsize SUV. It isn't necessarily the absolute benchmark for rock crawling and river fording, but its impressive capabilities are undeniable, stemming from its advanced four-wheel-drive options and off-road-minded suspension design. All-new for the 2011 model year, the Grand Cherokee is also greatly improved in terms of fit-and-finish and on-road abilities. Furthermore, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee has a 7,400-pound tow rating when properly equipped. Both V6 and V8 powertrains are available. Reviewers say that for a midsize SUV with so much off-road cred, the Grand Cherokee performs very well in everyday driving as well.

Reviewers also praise the 2011 Toyota 4Runner (Base MSRP: $30,305 to $40,435). This truck-based SUV also excels off-road yet remains civil on pavement. It's just not as sophisticated in terms of ride and interior materials as the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Reliability feedback is excellent for the Toyota 4Runner.

Our full reviews of the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the 2011 Toyota 4Runner provide additional links to expert reviews and analysis of what reviewers like and dislike.