The medium-sized market is one of the most competitive. In , different SUVs offer similar performance, similar space and similar pace. But they are not all the same. What do Edmunds reviewers say are the best midsize SUVs for 2023?
What is a midsize SUV?
Midsize SUVs are what most of us think of when we see an SUV. This class offers plenty of interior space, usually all the amenities you’d expect, and on this list, all have starting prices in the $32,000 to $42,000 range, making them relative bargains. Some have three rows of seats, some are off-road monsters, still others are cheap luxury SUVs. is a site that rates and reviews new and used cars.
, but received a minor update in 2022 that added several new trim levels. The new 2023 Honda Passport is a utility player that ranks high in many categories and proves that the best SUV is one that does everything extremely well. While others may ride better, or have more clearance or more horsepower, few can do all of those things better than the Passport. For 2023, it starts at $41,400 (if you can still find a new 2022, they start at under $40,000) with a 280-horsepower V6.
No. 2: Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
The VW Atlas Cross Sport is a bit of a surprise for this list, if only because the Atlas is the smallest Atlas. The Atlas is VW’s big three-row SUV, but with the Cross Sport trim, VW has removed the practical large cargo area and instead added a sporty sloping rear. The Cross Sport version only seats five, and you pay a cargo space penalty for its best looks. However, its turbocharged four-cylinder or larger V6 feel a bit overwhelmed in this big SUV.
The 2023 Atlas Cross Sport starts at $34,460, however the more practical seven-seat Atlas starts at $35,150.
#3: Jeep Grand Cherokee
To no one’s surprise, they made the list. Jeep has updated the for 2022, and unlike most on the list, it has a true all-wheel drive option and real off-road capability. The update has given this SUV a modern interior and a ride to match. The TrailHawk is now 4xe only, or a plug-in hybrid, while the stunning Hemi V8 and potent V6 are both options.
For 2023, it gets just a couple of minor updates and its price starts at $41,530. The Grand Cherokee is also available in an extra-long three-row version if you need that much space.
#4: Ford Bronco
It appears that Ford Broncos are finally becoming more commonplace, after a couple of years of being rare SUVs, thanks to a shortage of Ford chips and early buyers hoarding these cool SUVs. Like Broncos of yesteryear, you can order one with two or four doors that roll off, a soft top, and, of course, four-wheel drive. Not many vehicles can tackle the great outdoors as well, but unlike its main rival, the Jeep Wrangler, the new Bronco is a fun commuter and family hauler.
The 2023 Bronco starts at $32,295, but options can quickly push that price to more than $50,000. The top-dog Raptor version is an elite off-roader, with an elite price tag of $74,000.
No. 5: Toyota Venza
The Venza is often overlooked for the hugely popular RAV4 on Toyota dealer lots. It shouldn’t be overlooked because it’s the same SUV, only with a sportier design and an improved interior. It gets the RAV4’s hybrid system, which means it also gets all-wheel drive standard. For those who want to stand out a bit, the Venza is a great alternative to the RAV4. The 2023 Venza starts at $34,120, which might be $2,000 more than a RAV4, but the designer suits always cost more than the standard versions.
