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Top Mid-Size SUVs of 2019: Expert Picks & Comparisons
The Ultimate Mid-Size SUV Comparison: Finding the Perfect 5-Seater
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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