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Top Mid-Size SUVs of 2019: Expert Picks & Comparisons

Ultimate Mid-Size SUV Showdown: Top 5-Seaters Compared | MotorVero

The Ultimate Mid-Size SUV Comparison: Finding the Perfect 5-Seater


best mid-size SUVs

In today's crowded SUV market, mid-size five-seaters often get overlooked between compact crossovers and three-row family haulers. However, this segment offers the ideal balance of spaciousness, maneuverability, and efficiency for many drivers. MotorVero recently put six top contenders through rigorous testing to determine which models deliver the best combination of comfort, technology, performance, and value.

2022 Alfa Romeo Giulia Image
2022 Alfa Romeo Giulia

$26906

Gas

2054 mi

Good Deal   Good

0 (5)

2016 Lexus ES 350 Image
2016 Lexus ES 350

$23988

Gas

49923 mi

Very Good Deal   Very Good

0 (5)

2024 Tesla Cybertruck Image
2024 Tesla Cybertruck

$134524

electric

445 mi

Very Good Deal   Very Good

0 (5)


Our Comprehensive Testing Methodology

To provide the most accurate comparison, we evaluated each SUV across 17 critical categories:

  • Front and rear seat comfort
  • Interior quality and materials
  • Cargo capacity and versatility
  • Powertrain performance
  • Child safety seat compatibility
  • Advanced safety features
  • Ride quality and handling
  • Braking performance
  • User interface and controls
  • Multimedia and connectivity
  • Fuel efficiency
  • Overall value

All vehicles were tested in their top or near-top trim levels with either V-6 engines or turbocharged four-cylinder powertrains. Each SUV featured all-wheel drive, with prices ranging from $39,905 to $51,975. Our real-world testing included over 200 miles of mixed driving conditions to evaluate fuel economy, performance, and daily usability.

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The Contenders: Six Top Mid-Size SUVs Compared

1. Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited X 4×4

 5-seater SUV comparison

Price as tested: $51,975
Engine: 3.6L V-6 (295 hp)
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Observed MPG: 22.2
The verdict: While aging gracefully, the Grand Cherokee falls behind newer competitors in most categories but maintains superior off-road capability and ride comfort.

Strengths

  • Best-in-test ride quality that absorbs road imperfections
  • Intuitive Uconnect infotainment system with responsive touchscreen
  • Genuine off-road capability unmatched in this segment
  • Rear-drive platform offers better balance than front-drive competitors
  • Premium interior materials give luxury feel

Weaknesses

  • Worst child safety seat accommodation with difficult Latch anchors
  • Poor fuel economy compared to competitors
  • Cargo area lacks modern convenience features
  • Uncomfortably low rear seat position
  • Questionable value at nearly $52,000

The Jeep Grand Cherokee remains a compelling choice for buyers prioritizing off-road capability or traditional SUV character. However, its age shows in family-friendly features and daily usability compared to newer competitors. The comfortable ride and premium interior help justify its price, but value-conscious buyers will find better-equipped alternatives.

2. Chevrolet Blazer Premier AWD

family SUV review

Price as tested: $49,290
Engine: 3.6L V-6 (308 hp)
Transmission: 9-speed automatic
Observed MPG: 22.1
The verdict: The most engaging SUV to drive comes with significant compromises in safety tech and rear seat comfort at a premium price.

Strengths

  • Best handling in the group with carlike dynamics
  • Strong V-6 power and responsive transmission
  • Confident braking performance
  • Abundant USB ports (including USB-C)
  • Clever interior storage solutions

Weaknesses

  • Missing critical safety features at nearly $50,000
  • Poor value proposition compared to rivals
  • Firm ride quality with optional 21-inch wheels
  • Claustrophobic rear seat with limited headroom
  • Some confusing control placements

The Chevrolet Blazer shines as a driver's SUV but falters as a family vehicle. Its sporty character comes at the expense of comfort and practicality, while the lack of standard advanced safety features at this price point is difficult to overlook. Enthusiasts may appreciate its dynamics, but most buyers will find better-rounded alternatives.

3. Nissan Murano Platinum AWD

Hyundai Santa Fe vs Honda Passport

Price as tested: $46,420
Engine: 3.5L V-6 (260 hp)
Transmission: CVT automatic
Observed MPG: 26.4
The verdict: A luxurious interior and impressive fuel efficiency can't fully compensate for outdated dynamics and limited cargo space.

Strengths

  • Best fuel economy in the test despite V-6 power
  • Excellent child safety seat accommodation
  • Premium interior materials with plush surfaces
  • Comprehensive safety tech including 360-degree camera
  • Surprisingly responsive V-6 power delivery

Weaknesses

  • Smallest cargo area in the group
  • Poor handling with excessive body roll
  • Heavy, outdated steering feel
  • Limited interior storage space
  • Compromised visibility due to design

The Nissan Murano continues to offer one of the most luxurious interiors in the segment, along with surprising efficiency from its V-6 engine. However, its aging platform shows in driving dynamics and packaging efficiency. For buyers prioritizing comfort over utility and driving engagement, the Murano remains a compelling choice, but those needing more space or better handling should look elsewhere.

4. Ford Edge Titanium AWD

SUV buying guide

Price as tested: $48,210
Engine: 2.0L turbo-4 (250 hp)
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Observed MPG: 25.6 (premium fuel)
The verdict: A balanced performer with class-leading safety tech, compromised by an overmatched base engine and premium fuel requirement.

Strengths

  • Best safety tech including full-range adaptive cruise
  • Excellent front seat comfort and adjustability
  • Good balance of ride and handling
  • Responsive Sync 3 touchscreen interface
  • Abundant interior storage solutions

Weaknesses

  • Underpowered base engine for this size vehicle
  • Premium fuel recommended for full performance
  • Mediocre child seat installation
  • Mixed interior material quality
  • Some confusing control interfaces

The Ford Edge delivers one of the most well-rounded packages in the segment, particularly for safety-conscious buyers. Its combination of comfort features and driving dynamics would make it a stronger contender with a more powerful standard engine. The requirement for premium fuel to achieve rated performance is an unfortunate drawback in this price-sensitive segment.

5. Honda Passport Elite AWD

off-road SUV ratings

Price as tested: $44,725
Engine: 3.5L V-6 (280 hp)
Transmission: 9-speed automatic
Observed MPG: 24.9
The verdict: Outstanding visibility and packaging overcome frustrating tech interfaces to create one of the most practical mid-size SUVs.

Strengths

  • Best visibility with upright greenhouse design
  • Exceptional interior storage capacity
  • Spacious rear seat with premium amenities
  • Smooth V-6 powertrain delivery
  • Good value for features offered

Weaknesses

  • Frustrating touchscreen interface
  • Unintuitive push-button gear selector
  • Busy ride quality at highway speeds
  • Mediocre handling with body roll
  • Some cheap interior plastics

The Honda Passport delivers where it matters most for families - with exceptional visibility, clever storage, and a spacious interior. While its tech interfaces frustrate, the fundamentals of comfort and practicality excel. For buyers who prioritize function over flash, the Passport offers one of the most usable packages in the segment, provided you can live with its idiosyncrasies.

6. Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate 2.0T AWD


Price as tested: $39,905
Engine: 2.0L turbo-4 (235 hp)
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Observed MPG: 25.2
The verdict: Class-leading value, straightforward controls, and excellent cargo versatility overcome powertrain shortcomings to take top honors.

Strengths

  • Best value with most features at lowest price
  • Most intuitive controls and user interfaces
  • Excellent cargo capacity and versatility
  • Good forward visibility
  • Strong warranty coverage

Weaknesses

  • Disappointing turbocharged powertrain performance
  • Firm front seats may not suit all drivers
  • Vague steering feel at center
  • Inconsistent interior material quality
  • Mushy brake pedal feel

The Hyundai Santa Fe claims victory by delivering what matters most to mid-size SUV buyers: exceptional value, user-friendly technology, and versatile cargo space. While its turbocharged engine disappoints, the base 2.4-liter option may prove more satisfactory for many buyers. With the longest warranty in the segment and thousands of dollars in savings compared to competitors, the Santa Fe represents the smartest choice for practical buyers who want premium features without luxury prices.

2011 BMW 1 Series 128i Image
2011 BMW 1 Series 128i

$6176

Gas

158183 mi

Fair Deal   Fair

0 (5)

2022 Lexus ES 350 Image
2022 Lexus ES 350

$36888

Gas

25516 mi

Very Good Deal   Very Good

0 (5)

2024 Honda Prologue Image
2024 Honda Prologue

$40948

electric

2943 mi

Very Good Deal   Very Good

0 (5)


Final Recommendations

Choosing the right mid-size SUV depends on your priorities:

  • Best Overall: Hyundai Santa Fe - Unbeatable value with premium features
  • Most Spacious: Honda Passport - Excellent visibility and passenger room
  • Best Safety: Ford Edge - Comprehensive driver assistance tech
  • Most Luxurious: Nissan Murano - Premium interior materials
  • Best Driving: Chevrolet Blazer - Sportiest handling in the group
  • Best Off-Road: Jeep Grand Cherokee - Genuine trail capability

Mid-size SUVs continue to evolve, blending car-like efficiency with family-friendly practicality. Whether you prioritize technology, comfort, or driving dynamics, today's market offers compelling options across a range of budgets. Always test drive your top choices to determine which vehicle best suits your needs and preferences.

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Last Updated On Apr, 16-2025

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