The 10 Best Mid-Size SUVs in Canada

Here are our 10 top picks for the best mid-size SUV models, focusing on the most current offerings in the 2-row segment.

10) Chevrolet Traverse – practical & affordable

Photo: Chevrolet 

Who is this for? Large families looking for the practicality of a minivan but still need the capability of an SUV.

Why we like it: 

• Largest cargo hold in its class
• Minivan practicality with the brawn of an SUV
• Tried and proven drivetrain

The only reason the All-New Traverse is last on our list is because the entire segment has become incredibly competitive. In other words, it’s not that it's a bad vehicle; rather, it's just that the market is filled with strong contenders offering compelling features for the price.

However, overlooking the Traverse, especially the latest model, by modern families seems almost a misstep. Previous perceptions might linger from GM's history, but Chevrolet's mid-size SUV brings forward qualities that make it a notable option: a new turbocharged 2.5L engine that outperforms its predecessor's V6 with smarter, harder work. Add to this the debut of the Traverse Z71, and you have an all-terrain SUV ready to take families not just anywhere, but beyond traditional limits.

With 328 horsepower and 326 lb.-ft. of torque, alongside an available towing capacity of up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) and a maximum cargo volume of 2,763 L (98 cu. ft.), the Traverse sets a high bar for capability without compromise.

Moreover, the All-New Traverse starts at a competitive price point and is equipped with the latest safety features, including Chevrolet Safety Assist, Blind Zone Steering Assist, and more. This ensures that every journey is as safe as it is adventurous. When placed in the context of Chevrolet's lineup, including the larger Chevrolet Tahoe, which offers more in terms of size and power but at a higher cost, the Traverse presents an appealing option. This combination of power, capability, and safety, all for a value that challenges even its toughest competitors, including the Tahoe, makes the All-New Traverse a compelling choice for families looking for more than just a ride.

09) GMC Acadia – customizable with luxury options

Photo: GMC 

Who is this for? Large families looking for something a bit sportier (AT4) or classier (Denali) without spending too much.

Why we like it: 

• A choice of two potent engines
• AT4 and Denali trims add versality to the lineup
• You’re getting a lot of SUV for the price

If the Chevrolet Traverse takes a more pragmatic approach, its corporate sibling, the GMC Acadia, introduces a higher level of customization to the segment for the 2024 model year. This new SUV doesn't just cater to different driving preferences and lifestyles; it pushes the boundaries of design, performance, and technology.

The 2024 Acadia steps up the game with an expanded max cargo volume of nearly 24% over its predecessor, ensuring that it not only remains a versatile three-row SUV but also offers significantly more space for both passengers and cargo. Accommodating up to seven passengers across three rows of seating, the Acadia ensures comfort for every occupant. Enhancing the driving experience is the 15" diagonal premium infotainment system and up to 9 available camera views, highlighting the vehicle's emphasis on safety features and advanced technology.

For those who crave adventure, the AT4 trim stands out with its Active Torque Control AWD System, off-road-tuned suspension, and 18" gloss black painted aluminum wheels with all-terrain tires, elevating the Acadia's off-road capability. Its lifted ride height and AT4-exclusive dark-accented exterior paired with a Forest Storm interior design affirm its rugged yet sophisticated presence.

On the luxurious end, the Denali trim defines premium comfort and style with its unique Denali grille, Galvano silver exterior and interior accents, and premium leather-appointed seating for the first and second rows. The configurable 8" diagonal Head-Up Display and 20" aluminum wheels further accentuate its status, alongside the practicality of third-row power folding seats and second-row one-touch folding seats, making it a pinnacle of luxury in the new SUV market.

Set to be available early 2024, the GMC Acadia is redefining expectations for a three-row SUV, offering a blend of expansive space, advanced safety features, and a choice between the adventurous AT4 and the luxurious Denali trims, each designed to cater to the unique needs and preferences of modern families and explorers alike.

08) Dodge Durango – V8 power & high towing capacity

Photo: Dodge 

Who is this for? Families looking for the highest towing rating in the segment, but that also enjoy the deep rumble of a V8 engine.

Why we like it: 

• Highest towing rating in the segment
• A wide variety of engine choices
• Durango Hellcat is a future classic

In this segment, typically populated by large SUVs with engines ranging from turbocharged four-cylinders to naturally aspirated V6s, the Durango stands out. Nobody, except for the Durango, offers a V8, let alone the latest safety features alongside such powerful options. Dodge goes one step further by offering not one, but three flavors of V8 on top of the standard 3.6L V6. 

At the bottom of the V8 hierarchy, there’s the 5.7L HEMI, which produces 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, capable of towing 7,400 pounds. Then there’s an available 6.4L V8, boasting 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of up to 8,700 pounds. Still not enough? Enter the 710-horsepower Durango Hellcat.

In all its forms, the Durango asserts itself as a beast, offering impressive towing capabilities—even in its base V6 form, it tows more than most SUVs in this class (6,200 pounds)—while also providing one of the largest cargo capacities in the segment (2,409 liters).

07) Hyundai Palisade – premium feel without the price

Photo: Hyundai 

Who is this for? Families looking for a premium-feeling SUV that can tow a decent-sized trailer without breaking the bank.

Why we like it: 

• Premium cabin and a lot of technology at a decent starting price
• Class-competitive towing rating
• Spacious and comfortable

Hyundai’s Palisade is an SUV that does everything it should with an added touch of sophistication and luxury. The Palisade’s 5,000-pound rating is right smack in the middle of the segment and its 3.8L V6 is potent, smooth, and incredibly reliable. The Palisade’s 2,446-litre total cargo space is up there among the highest in the segment. 

Not everyone will like the Palisade’s polarizing looks, but one thing is for certain: this SUV sure knows how to envelop its occupants in utmost comfort. The Palisade’s build quality is second to none, with a premium feel that makes it appear much more expensive than it is. 

Then there’s all the standard features you’ll be getting at an attainable price point; things like heated and ventilated seats, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and one of the most impressive autonomous driving systems this side of a Tesla. The Palisade is clear proof of how far Hyundai's SUV model lineup has come in such a short timeframe.

06) Nissan Pathfinder – proven 3.5L V6 engine

Photo: Nissan 

Who is this for? Families looking for a reliable SUV that can tow a good amount of weight all while maintaining an excellent resale value.

Why we like it: 

• 6,000-pound towing rating
• Well packaged and well priced
• Tried and proven V6 engine

When Nissan overhauled the Pathfinder for the 2022 model year, it made sure to not change what consumers loved about the old model. This meant keeping the tried and proven 3.5L V6 and maintaining the class-leading 6,000-pound towing rating. Oh, and Nissan listened to the complaints from the old model. Gone is the dreaded continuously variable transmission (CVT) and in its place comes a ZF-sourced 9-speed automatic gearbox.

The Pathfinder doesn’t reinvent the segment but shines bright in the areas that matter. It’s refined, sophisticated, and loaded with neat storage solutions, like a tablet located over the glovebox and compartments installed underneath the center console. The customizable digital gauge pod is both attractive and functional, while the second row easily moves forward to give way to a spacious third row. 

And while its cargo space isn’t at the top of the segment, the 2,280-litre rating is a net improvement over its predecessor (2,251 litres) and still plenty competitive. 

Read our full story - 2022 Nissan Pathfinder review

05) Kia Telluride – brawny yet sleek styling

Photo: Kia 

Who is this for? Families looking for an SUV that looks like nothing else on the road while keeping running costs at reasonable prices. 

Why we like it: 

• Land Rover vibes at an affordable price point
• Reliable V6 engine
• Competitive towing rating

Yes, the Kia Telluride is a mechanical clone to the Hyundai Palisade, but it looks and feels like much more than that. For starters, its design is much more engaging, appearing more adventure-ready and, at times, being mistaken for a Range Rover. From every angle, the Telluride looks like it’s ready to take on mother nature thanks to its outdoorsy vibes.

Then there’s the interior, which simply does a better job of integrating storage solutions than the Hyundai. Its 3.8L V6 is just as reliable and pumps out the same 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, and the Telluride will also tow up to 5,000 pounds. 

Here’s a fun fact though: while the Telluride rides on the same platform as its Hyundai twin, it’s more practical, boasting a 2,463-litre rating versus the Palisade’s 2,446 litres, offering slightly more cargo space. Basically, the Telluride is a better product than the Palisade, and the good news is that it’s not necessarily more expensive.

04) Subaru Ascent – AWD at its best

Photo: Subaru 

Who is this for? Families looking for an SUV with the sure-footedness of a Subaru. 

Why we like it: 

• Punch turbocharged engine
• Subaru symmetrical all-wheel drive
• Spacious and capable

The Ascent SUV is proof that Subaru’s full-time, symmetrical all-wheel drive system and flat-four Boxer engine can make any kind of vehicle handle well. Yes, all SUVs in this category come with all-wheel drive, but none of them perform like Subaru’s during a tough Canadian blizzard. With the addition of adaptive cruise control, the Ascent further enhances its safety features, providing a more relaxed and secure driving experience especially during long journeys.

Thanks to a low center of gravity created by the turbocharged 2.4L four-cylinder, the Ascent drives like any other Subaru. This means it’s always well planted on the ground, never feels unsettled when entering a corner too fast, and simply makes driving a mid-size SUV a fun affair. Some might not like the elastic feel of the CVT, but Subaru’s setup is intelligently thought out thanks to simulated gear changes that make it feel like an automatic.

And don’t let that four-cylinder fool you. Although it’s missing two cylinders, the Ascent will tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. It’s also massive in there, yielding great storage solutions, more cup holders than you’ll ever need, and a class-competitive 2,449 litres of total cargo space. The incorporation of adaptive cruise control into this suite of features confirms the Ascent’s position as a top contender for those who value both performance and safety.

03) Ford Explorer – a trim level for everyone

Photo: Ford 

Who is this for? Families looking for a tough SUV that offers various kinds of engine configurations. 

Why we like it: 

• Wide range of available engines
• Hybrid option lowers your gas bills
• Class-leading towing ratings

Ford's Explorer has become a household name that's endured six generations, synonymous with versatility and reliability. Entirely overhauled for the 2022 model year, it brings to the table a unique design language and a choice of compelling engine choices, remaining highly competitive in its class. When comparing it to its larger sibling, the full-size SUV Ford Expedition, several contrasts and similarities emerge, illuminating the diverse range Ford offers to meet different consumer needs.

At the bottom of the ladder, the 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine makes a stout 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, all while towing up to 5,300-pounds. Consumers can then opt for a hybrid option that will still haul up to 5,000 pounds. For those seeking enhanced performance, the Explorer ST and Platinum trims are prime choices, featuring a twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6 engine. This powertrain delivers an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, pushing its towing capability to 5,600 pounds. In comparison to the Porsche Cayenne, the Explorer ST offers a compelling mix of power and utility, serving as an accessible alternative for enthusiasts valuing performance in the mid-size SUV category, without the luxury price tag associated with the Porsche brand.

Looking for something that’s a bit more off-road oriented? Try the available Explorer Timberline model, complete with offroad tires, skid plates and a slew of off-road ready accessories. 

Here’s our look at all of Ford’s utility vehicles - Ford’s SUV & Crossover Lineup: All 8 Models Previewed

02) Toyota Highlander – top all-rounder with great resale value

Photo: Toyota 

Who is this for? Families in search of a sensible, reliable SUV with excellent fuel efficiency that also maintains a fantastic market value.

Why we like it: 

• Fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain
• The expected Toyota quality and reliability
• Class-competitive towing rating

With the Highlander, Toyota isn’t reinventing the mid-size SUV segment, yet it consistently manages to remain a top choice. This is because the SUV not only meets but exceeds the expectations that matter most to consumers, emphasizing safety, performance, and utility. The standard model is equipped with a robust 3.5L V6 engine, renowned for its reliability and power, capable of a class-competitive 5,000-pound towing rating.

In 2023, Toyota introduced a shift towards a more efficient powertrain with the replacement of the V6 by a turbocharged 2.4L four-cylinder engine, a move that signifies Toyota’s commitment to evolving performance standards while maintaining high levels of efficiency and reliability.

Additionally, the Highlander stands out for its advanced safety features, such as blind spot monitoring and lane departure warning, providing drivers with enhanced awareness and control. These features, along with Toyota's focus on safety, contribute to a driving experience that prioritizes the well-being of all passengers. For families prioritizing fuel economy, the Highlander Hybrid presents an attractive option. 

Despite its slightly lower towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, the hybrid variant boasts an impressive 6.5L/100 km fuel consumption average, making it a preferred choice for those looking to minimize their trips to the fuel pump. Moreover, the Highlander excels in practicality with generous cargo room, offering ample space for luggage, groceries, and adventure gear, making it an ideal vehicle for family outings and road trips.

Combined with Toyota’s reputation for low running costs, excellent ride quality, and one of the best resale values on the market, the Highlander emerges as a compelling choice. Its blend of performance, safety features, cargo room, economic efficiency, and rider comfort solidifies its position as a leading option in the best mid-size SUV category.

Here’s the entire lineup - Toyota’s SUV Lineup: All 8 Models Previewed

01) Honda Pilot – checks off most of the boxes

Photo: Honda 

Who is this for? Families looking for a tried and tested SUV that performs like a sports car and seats up to eight passengers.

Why we like it: 

• Powerful and fuel-efficient V6 engine
• The expected Honda reliability and resale value
• Class-competitive cargo hold and towing rating

The Honda Pilot is one of the oldest models on this list, yet, it ranks first. Why is that? Because no other mid-size SUV has still managed to beat Honda in this segment. The Pilot’s 3.5L V6 engine pulls strong thanks to its VTEC technology. It makes great sounds, especially at higher RPM, allowing this SUV to perform like no other in this category. Its smaller sibling, the Honda CR-V, though operating in the compact SUV segment, brings its own set of strengths with a focus on efficiency and versatility, making Honda a formidable presence across different SUV categories.

The Pilot is also one heck of a handler too, thanks to a solid platform and Honda’s renowned iVTM-4 all-wheel drive system that changed characteristics according to the truck’s drive modes. The Pilot will tow 5,000 pounds when equipped with the tow package, which remains in the heat of segment, and while larger SUVs have come to steal its lunch money, it still holds its own thanks to 2,372 liters of total cargo space. 

Add to all that impeccable build quality, witty storage solutions and Honda’s expected reliability and resale value, and it’s clear to see why the Pilot is still the king of mid-size SUVs – for now.