SUV Rankings: Affordable Midsize SUVs
Ranking of midsize SUVs and crossovers, generally priced under $35,000. Toyota 4Runner, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer and more. Rankings based on an in-depth analysis by U.S. News editors of all published auto ratings, reviews and test drives.
- MSRP: $35,165 - $43,695
- Invoice: $33,231 - $41,292
- Avg. Paid: $34,514 - $42,742
- MPG: - TBD - City / - TBD - Hwy
#1
2010 Buick Enclave
The Buick Enclave's upscale appointments, smooth ride and stylish exterior put it near the top of its class -- and nearly on par with some luxury SUVs. ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.8 |
| Performance: | 8.2 |
| Exterior: | 8.4 |
| Interior: | 8.5 |
| Safety: | 9.9 |
| Reliability: | NA |
- MSRP: $29,224 - $39,985
- Invoice: $27,617 - $37,786
- Avg. Paid: $29,112 - $39,549
- MPG: 17 City / 24 Hwy
#1
2010 Chevrolet Traverse
Reviewers say the Traverse is an affordable, stylish and versatile minivan alternative. Since it was just introduced last year, it remains unchanged for 2010. As Chevy's first ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.8 |
| Performance: | 8.4 |
| Exterior: | NA |
| Interior: | 8.7 |
| Safety: | 9.9 |
| Reliability: | NA |
- MSRP: $34,700 - $41,020
- Invoice: $31,577 - $37,122
- Avg. Paid: $33,338 - $39,257
- MPG: 27 City / 25 Hwy
#1
2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Redesigned last year, the Highlander Hybrid offers a spacious interior, smooth ride, and refined hybrid powertrain. However, some feel its price is too steep compared to the ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.8 |
| Performance: | 8.5 |
| Exterior: | 6.9 |
| Interior: | 8.1 |
| Safety: | 9.7 |
| Reliability: | 9.0 |
- MSRP: $31,740 - $42,185
- Invoice: $29,994 - $39,865
- Avg. Paid: $31,174 - $41,193
- MPG: 17 City / 24 Hwy
#4
2010 GMC Acadia
Built on the same platform as its General Motors siblings, the Buick Enclave and Saturn Outlook, the GMC Acadia is both affordable and luxurious. It offers class-leading ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.7 |
| Performance: | 8.1 |
| Exterior: | 8.8 |
| Interior: | 8.7 |
| Safety: | 9.9 |
| Reliability: | NA |
- MSRP: NA
- Invoice: NA
- MPG: 16 (2009) City / 24 (2009) Hwy
#4
2010 Saturn Outlook
The family-friendly Saturn Outlook delivers quick acceleration, competitive safety features, a spacious cabin, and decent fuel economy for its size. Based on the same platform as the ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.7 |
| Performance: | 8.3 |
| Exterior: | 7.8 |
| Interior: | 8.5 |
| Safety: | 9.9 |
| Reliability: | NA |
- MSRP: $21,550 - $32,885
- Invoice: $20,523 - $30,762
- Avg. Paid: $20,760 - $31,285
- MPG: 20 City / 28 Hwy
#6
2010 Mazda CX-7
For 2010, Mazda's performance-minded SUV gets a makeover inside and out. The changes add up to a great value equation -- the CX-7 is a great family ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.6 |
| Performance: | 8.5 |
| Exterior: | 9.0 |
| Interior: | 7.6 |
| Safety: | 9.9 |
| Reliability: | NA |
- MSRP: $27,600 - $34,520
- Invoice: $24,840 - $31,067
- Avg. Paid: $26,798 - $33,422
- MPG: 18 City / 24 Hwy
#6
2009 Toyota Highlander
Redesigned last year, the Highlander is a functional, family-friendly crossover. Riding on a new platform shared with the Toyota Camry and Avalon, the second-generation Highlander boasts a ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.6 |
| Performance: | 7.8 |
| Exterior: | 6.9 |
| Interior: | 8.0 |
| Safety: | 9.7 |
| Reliability: | 9.0 |
- MSRP: $28,550 - $42,065
- Invoice: $26,942 - $38,954
- Avg. Paid: $28,269 - $41,268
- MPG: 17 (Est) City / 24 (Est) Hwy
#8
2010 Ford Flex
Introduced in 2009, the Flex is Ford's largest crossover yet. Test drivers are already calling this young retro-styled SUV a great alternative for families who want minivan ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.3 |
| Performance: | 7.8 |
| Exterior: | 8.4 |
| Interior: | 8.3 |
| Safety: | 9.9 |
| Reliability: | 6.0 |
- MSRP: $23,680 - $25,270
- Invoice: $21,784 - $23,247
- Avg. Paid: $23,265 - $24,749
- MPG: 16 (2009) City / 20 (2009) Hwy
#9
2010 FJ Cruiser
The eye-catching Toyota FJ Cruiser continues to impress reviewers with its unique, retro-inspired styling and solid off-road performance. But all that comes at a price -- the ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.2 |
| Performance: | 7.8 |
| Exterior: | 9.2 |
| Interior: | 7.5 |
| Safety: | NA |
| Reliability: | NA |
- MSRP: NA
- Invoice: NA
- MPG: NA
#9
2010 Hyundai Santa Fe
The Hyundai Santa Fe delivers safety and especially value, but lackluster performance prevents it from standing out in a competitive segment. For 2010, the Santa Fe receives ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.2 |
| Performance: | 7.3 |
| Exterior: | 8.5 |
| Interior: | 7.9 |
| Safety: | NA |
| Reliability: | NA |
- MSRP: $27,999 - $31,499
- Invoice: $26,389 - $29,688
- Avg. Paid: $26,845 - $30,029
- MPG: 15 City / 22 Hwy
#9
2010 Mitsubishi Endeavor
The Endeavor receives good reviews for its distinctive styling, strong engine and responsive handling. However, it's based on an aging design and doesn't offer a stand-out total ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.2 |
| Performance: | 8.0 |
| Exterior: | 8.4 |
| Interior: | 8.4 |
| Safety: | 10.0 |
| Reliability: | NA |
- MSRP: $27,680 - $37,260
- Invoice: $25,504 - $34,315
- Avg. Paid: $27,093 - $36,208
- MPG: 18 City / 23 Hwy
#9
2009 Nissan Murano
The redesigned Murano delivers an even more refined ride and interior than its predecessor, making it an attractive and affordable choice within its class. For an even ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.2 |
| Performance: | 8.2 |
| Exterior: | 7.3 |
| Interior: | 8.5 |
| Safety: | 9.4 |
| Reliability: | 6.0 |
- MSRP: $28,640 - $39,360
- Invoice: $25,860 - $35,541
- Avg. Paid: $28,001 - $38,297
- MPG: 16 City / 21 Hwy
#9
2009 Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner's versatility for on-road or off-road driving will satisfy most prospective buyers. Its downsides include limited cabin space and below-average fuel economy.
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.2 |
| Performance: | 8.3 |
| Exterior: | 7.5 |
| Interior: | 7.6 |
| Safety: | 7.5 |
| Reliability: | 9.0 |
- MSRP: $26,275 - $29,550
- Invoice: $23,777 - $26,595
- MPG: 19 (2009) City / 26 (2009) Hwy
#9
2010 Toyota Venza
Reviewers praise the Venza, Toyota's Camry-based crossover for providing all the comforts of a sedan with the functionality of an SUV. Unlike Toyota's other crossover SUVs, the ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.2 |
| Performance: | 7.6 |
| Exterior: | 7.8 |
| Interior: | 9.1 |
| Safety: | NA |
| Reliability: | NA |
- MSRP: $26,920 - $35,770
- Invoice: $25,407 - $33,191
- Avg. Paid: $26,624 - $35,144
- MPG: 18 City / 25 Hwy
#15
2010 Ford Edge
Reviewers praise the Ford Edge for its sharp styling, comfortable cabin and solid performance - but they still say the aging SUV is in dire need of ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.1 |
| Performance: | 7.9 |
| Exterior: | 8.7 |
| Interior: | 8.0 |
| Safety: | 9.3 |
| Reliability: | 7.0 |
- MSRP: $30,450 - $44,845
- Invoice: $28,090 - $41,081
- Avg. Paid: $29,590 - $43,364
- MPG: 16 City / 21 Hwy
#15
2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Redesigned last year, the Grand Cherokee is an excellent off-road vehicle with a luxurious interior, plenty of options and five strong engine choices. But it still can't ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.1 |
| Performance: | 8.5 |
| Exterior: | 8.8 |
| Interior: | 7.8 |
| Safety: | 9.3 |
| Reliability: | 6.0 |
- MSRP: $27,895 - $40,245
- Invoice: $25,282 - $36,442
- Avg. Paid: $27,118 - $38,800
- MPG: 17 City / 23 Hwy
#17
2010 Honda Pilot
After a major redesign last year, the Pilot sees no changes for 2010, and pricing should remain about the same. With interior space, a new muscular exterior, ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.0 |
| Performance: | 8.1 |
| Exterior: | 6.8 |
| Interior: | 7.9 |
| Safety: | 9.9 |
| Reliability: | 6.0 |
- MSRP: $20,490 - $28,195
- Invoice: $19,861 - $26,872
- Avg. Paid: $20,103 - $27,511
- MPG: 19 City / 25 Hwy
#18
2010 Dodge Journey
All-new last year, the Dodge Journey is a solid minivan alternative. As Dodge's first crossover, it seeks to incorporate the practicality of an SUV with the comfort ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.8 |
| Performance: | 7.0 |
| Exterior: | 7.8 |
| Interior: | 7.6 |
| Safety: | 9.9 |
| Reliability: | NA |
- MSRP: $28,880 - $38,200
- Invoice: $26,950 - $35,432
- Avg. Paid: $28,060 - $36,876
- MPG: 14 (2009) City / 20 (2009) Hwy
#18
2010 Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer continues to be a solid but unspectacular performer in its class. Thanks to a 2006 redesign, most test drivers say the Explorer rides better ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.8 |
| Performance: | 7.8 |
| Exterior: | 5.7 |
| Interior: | 8.0 |
| Safety: | 9.9 |
| Reliability: | 6.0 |
- MSRP: $28,145 - $35,895
- Invoice: $26,706 - $33,274
- Avg. Paid: $27,407 - $34,787
- MPG: 16 City / 23 Hwy
#18
2010 Hyundai Veracruz
The seven-passenger Veracruz is a surprisingly luxurious family-friendly ride. The well-equipped base trim represents a good value within its class. However, the Veracruz still can't match the ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.8 |
| Performance: | 8.0 |
| Exterior: | NA |
| Interior: | 8.4 |
| Safety: | NA |
| Reliability: | NA |
- MSRP: NA
- Invoice: NA
- MPG: NA
#18
2010 Kia Borrego
Introduced in 2009, the eight-passenger Kia Borrego stands out from the crossover SUV pack by offering true off-road performance. It offers good value and surprising interior quality, ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.8 |
| Performance: | 7.7 |
| Exterior: | NA |
| Interior: | 8.2 |
| Safety: | NA |
| Reliability: | NA |
- MSRP: $38,345 - $40,195
- Invoice: $35,336 - $37,001
- Avg. Paid: $37,356 - $39,220
- MPG: 17 (2009) City / 24 (2009) Hwy
#22
2010 Lincoln MKX
The Lincoln MKX's major strength is a spacious interior filled with luxury features. However, test drivers say the driving experience of Lincoln's first crossover SUV just doesn't ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.7 |
| Performance: | 7.5 |
| Exterior: | 8.3 |
| Interior: | 8.2 |
| Safety: | 9.3 |
| Reliability: | 8.0 |
- MSRP: $29,995 - $37,795
- Invoice: $28,336 - $35,352
- Avg. Paid: $28,517 - $35,684
- MPG: 16 City / 21 Hwy
#22
2009 Subaru Tribeca
While auto reviewers praise the Subaru Tribeca's powerful, responsive ride and excellent performance in crash tests, some wonder if it offers enough to distinguish itself from the ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.7 |
| Performance: | 7.5 |
| Exterior: | 6.9 |
| Interior: | 6.8 |
| Safety: | 9.9 |
| Reliability: | 6.0 |
- MSRP: $29,080 - $36,780
- Invoice: $27,167 - $34,174
- Avg. Paid: $28,015 - $35,136
- MPG: 14 City / 20 Hwy
#24
2010 Mercury Mountaineer
Based on the same platform as the Ford Explorer, the truck-based Mountaineer is a competent and comfortable SUV. But it has difficulty competing with its car-based crossover ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.6 |
| Performance: | 7.4 |
| Exterior: | 8.3 |
| Interior: | 8.4 |
| Safety: | 9.9 |
| Reliability: | 7.0 |
- MSRP: $33,390 - $43,130
- Invoice: $31,053 - $40,111
- Avg. Paid: $29,546 - $38,967
- MPG: 14 City / 18 Hwy
#25
2009 Hummer H3
The H3 boasts great off-road capability -- but only mediocre highway performance and comfort -- in a distinctive, rugged package. If you can live without the brawny ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.4 |
| Performance: | 7.8 |
| Exterior: | 8.5 |
| Interior: | 7.6 |
| Safety: | 6.9 |
| Reliability: | 5.0 |
- MSRP: NA
- Invoice: NA
- Avg. Paid: $19,970 - $28,266
- MPG: 22 City / 28 Hwy
#26
2010 Mazda Tribute
The Mazda Tribute continues to be an excellent value thanks to its reasonable base price and high fuel economy. However, many reviewers still say it falls short ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.3 |
| Performance: | 7.2 |
| Exterior: | NA |
| Interior: | 8.3 |
| Safety: | NA |
| Reliability: | NA |
- MSRP: $29,440 - $42,160
- Invoice: $27,584 - $39,041
- Avg. Paid: $28,697 - $40,738
- MPG: 14 City / 20 Hwy
#26
2010 Nissan Pathfinder
First introduced in 1986, the long-running Nissan Pathfinder is a good choice for those who want a versatile cabin and decent off-road capabilities. However, this SUV lags ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.3 |
| Performance: | 7.5 |
| Exterior: | 6.9 |
| Interior: | 7.8 |
| Safety: | NA |
| Reliability: | NA |
- MSRP: $30,625 - $38,670
- Invoice: $28,634 - $36,156
- Avg. Paid: $29,671 - $37,408
- MPG: 15 City / 21 Hwy
#28
2009 GMC Envoy
The Envoy's strengths are its spacious interior and outstanding towing capacity. However, these are eclipsed by sub-par handling and questionable reliability and value. For better value and ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.2 |
| Performance: | 7.6 |
| Exterior: | 9.1 |
| Interior: | 8.0 |
| Safety: | 6.1 |
| Reliability: | 7.0 |
- MSRP: $25,595 - $29,980
- Invoice: $24,572 - $28,781
- Avg. Paid: $24,153 - $28,214
- MPG: 17 City / 24 Hwy
#29
2009 Suzuki XL7
While it's a competent people hauler, the Suzuki XL7 can't match the acceleration, handling and interior quality of top rivals. However, it succeeds as a value-priced seven-passenger ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.0 |
| Performance: | 7.0 |
| Exterior: | 7.5 |
| Interior: | 7.3 |
| Safety: | 8.4 |
| Reliability: | 5.0 |
- MSRP: $29,155 - $39,330
- Invoice: $27,260 - $36,774
- Avg. Paid: $28,578 - $38,409
- MPG: 14 City / 20 Hwy
#30
2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
The TrailBlazer's strong point is its comfortable, roomy and relatively well-equipped cabin, but that can't make up for sub-par handling and cheap interior materials. For a smoother ...
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 6.7 |
| Performance: | 6.9 |
| Exterior: | 8.8 |
| Interior: | 7.1 |
| Safety: | 6.1 |
| Reliability: | 7.0 |
Unranked: Affordable Midsize SUVs
Our rankings are based on analysis of third party reviews. Sometimes, we are unable to find enough reviews to publish a definitive ranking. Please check back later, as we are constantly updating our reviews.
