Best Midsize SUVs of 2024: Combining Space, Comfort, and Performance
Midsize SUVs are the sweet spot for many drivers, big enough to handle family road trips, but not so bulky that they’re difficult to park or guzzle fuel. The class has exploded in popularity for good reason, with manufacturers constantly trying to outdo each other in terms of features, performance, and value. In 2024, the competition is fierce, and some models are truly standing out. So, if you’re looking for something that combines space, comfort, and solid performance, buckle up as we take a look at the best midsize SUVs of the year.
Toyota Highlander: The All-Around Champ
There’s a reason the Toyota Highlander continues to be a favorite year after year. It’s like that reliable friend who always shows up with just the right amount of everything. With seating for up to eight, the Highlander isn’t just spacious, it’s also comfortable with its well-appointed interior and smooth ride quality.
The 2024 model comes with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that churns out 265 horsepower. While it’s not a V6, it still provides more than enough power for highway merging and passing maneuvers. What really sets it apart is its array of safety features bundled in Toyota’s Safety Sense suite, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
If you’re someone who wants a vehicle that can comfortably fit your kids and all their gear without sacrificing style or tech features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Highlander should definitely be on your radar. You can learn more about it on Toyota's website.
Kia Telluride: Stylish and Tech-Savvy
When Kia first launched the Telluride, people were skeptical. Was this just another SUV in an already crowded market? Fast forward to 2024, and the Telluride has established itself as one of the top contenders in the midsize SUV segment. It stands out with its bold design, luxurious interior, and tech-packed cabin.
With three rows of seating and room for up to eight passengers, this SUV doesn’t skimp on comfort either. The second-row seats are especially spacious, a huge win if you’re ferrying taller passengers or just want some extra legroom on longer drives. Under the hood is a 3.8-liter V6 engine delivering 291 horsepower, a smooth operator whether you’re cruising around town or taking it off the beaten path.
What truly elevates the Telluride is its technology package. You get dual 12.3-inch displays (one for infotainment and one for your digital gauge cluster) giving it an ultra-modern feel without being too complicated to use. Plus, features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and navigation-based adaptive cruise control make driving safer and easier. Check out more details at Kia’s official page.
Ford Explorer: Versatility Meets Power
If you’re looking for something that brings serious muscle to your daily drive without sacrificing family-friendly features, Ford’s Explorer continues to be a top choice in 2024. It strikes a nice balance between rugged capability and urban practicality.
The Explorer offers multiple engine options to suit different preferences, from a fuel-efficient four-cylinder turbocharged engine to a robust twin-turbo V6 in the ST model that cranks out a whopping 400 horsepower. If towing capacity is important to you, the Explorer can haul up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped, perfect for those who need to tow boats or trailers for weekend adventures.
It’s also loaded with smart tech features like Ford Co-Pilot360™, which provides advanced driver assistance technologies such as automatic emergency braking and intelligent adaptive cruise control with lane centering. With ample cargo space (up to 87 cubic feet with both rear rows folded) and plenty of powertrain options, it’s an excellent choice for families who need their vehicle to do a little bit of everything.
Hyundai Palisade: Luxury on a Budget
The Hyundai Palisade has carved out its niche by offering near-luxury levels of comfort without hitting luxury-level price points. In fact, if you were to step into one blindfolded (not recommended while driving), you’d likely mistake it for something from a higher-end brand.
The 2024 Palisade comes with an upgraded interior featuring premium materials like quilted leather upholstery in higher trims. It’s incredibly spacious too, offering room for seven or eight passengers depending on whether you opt for captain’s chairs in the second row.
Underneath all that elegance is solid performance from its 3.8-liter V6 engine delivering 291 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s no speed demon but is more than adequate for daily driving or long highway hauls.
Tech-wise, Hyundai leaves nothing behind, wireless charging pads, multiple USB ports throughout the cabin, and an optional heads-up display keep everyone happy during long trips. The available HTRAC® All-Wheel Drive system also ensures that you're ready for inclement weather or light off-roading when necessary.
Mazda CX-90: Driving Enthusiast's Pick
If you're someone who enjoys driving as much as getting from point A to point B comfortably, Mazda's CX-90 should definitely make your shortlist. Often referred to as one of the most fun-to-drive SUVs in this category, Mazda leans heavily into its sporty heritage while still delivering family-friendly practicality.
The CX-90 offers two powertrains: a base turbocharged inline-six engine making 280 horsepower or an available plug-in hybrid setup that combines electric torque with gasoline efficiency, a growing trend in this segment.
Mazda has always focused on delivering an engaging driving experience through responsive steering and well-tuned suspension systems and this philosophy holds true in their newest flagship SUV as well. Even though it fits seven passengers comfortably across three rows, it handles more like a compact crossover than a midsize SUV when navigating tight corners or weaving through traffic.
That said, it doesn't skimp on interior quality either, everything from its Nappa leather seats to its intuitive infotainment system feels well-thought-out and premium-quality without reaching sky-high price tags.
Final Thoughts: Which Midsize SUV is Right For You?
The "best" midsize SUV ultimately depends on what you prioritize most, whether it's tech features, towing capacity, luxury touches at an affordable price point, or how much fun you'll have behind the wheel. The Toyota Highlander offers reliability; Kia Telluride mixes style with tech; Ford Explorer delivers power; Hyundai Palisade brings luxury within reach; and Mazda CX-90 nails performance while keeping things practical.
No matter which option catches your eye in 2024's lineup of midsize SUVs, rest assured these vehicles are pushing boundaries when it comes to balancing space, comfort (and yes) even excitement behind the wheel.