Best Midsize Suv: 2025’s Boldest Choices, Brutal Truths, and Real Winners

The midsize SUV. It’s become the four-wheeled mirror of modern ambition—a badge of practicality, a shield of safety, an outward flex of success. But here’s the gritty truth: in 2025, picking the best midsize SUV isn’t as simple as scrolling to the top of a review list. The choices are fierce, the marketing is relentless, and the pitfalls are real. Whether you’re eyeing a rugged Toyota 4Runner redesign, a tech-laden Kia Telluride, or the stealthy luxury of a BMW X5, the stakes are higher than ever. Beneath the polished metal and digital dashboards, some models quietly dominate, while others coast on reputation or, worse, get lost in the noise. Welcome to a fearless, deeply researched journey through 2025’s midsize SUV landscape—a guide that cuts through hype and digs into what actually matters, with bold opinions, real-world data, and expert strategies. Get ready to see your next family hauler, adventure machine, or daily commuter in a whole new light.

Why everyone wants a midsize SUV—and why that’s changing

The rise of the midsize SUV in modern culture

Not long ago, the family sedan was the king of suburbia and the station wagon reigned over road trips. But the midsize SUV has bulldozed its way into the heart of global car culture. As of 2023, midsize SUVs generated 44% of global SUV revenue—a market share that leaves sedans and hatchbacks in the dust, according to Grand View Research, 2024. This popularity isn’t just about space; it’s an identity play. Midsize SUVs project adventure, power, and adaptability, even for those stuck in daily traffic.

Moody dusk photo of a midsize SUV on a rain-slick city street, headlights illuminating the urban grit—embodying modern aspiration.

But the tide is shifting. Compact SUVs are making waves for city dwellers who crave efficiency, and the sustainable set is eyeing electric powertrains more than ever. High fuel costs and environmental pressure are forcing even diehard SUV fans to reconsider what “best” really means. According to Kelley Blue Book, 2024, demand is tilting toward models that prioritize tech and green credentials over brute size.

“The midsize SUV is the Swiss Army knife of driving—versatile, comfortable, and, for many, a symbol of making it. But the landscape is changing fast.”
— Auto Industry Analyst, Edmunds, 2024

What buyers really want (and what they regret)

Buyers say they want space, safety, and style. But dig deeper, and you’ll find the wish list is far more nuanced:

• Real comfort: Supportive seats, quiet cabins, and enough legroom for actual adults—not just marketing mannequins.
• Technology that works: Intuitive infotainment, seamless connectivity, and driver-assistance systems that don’t require a PhD.
• Reliability: The kind that outlasts the warranty and doesn’t leave you stranded post-road trip.
• Resale value: Models that won’t tank in value the moment the next shiny thing rolls out.
• Fuel efficiency (or at least sanity at the pump): Especially for families and commuters facing rising gas prices.
• A sense of presence: Even in a crowded parking lot, buyers want a vehicle that feels special.

Yet, according to recent owner surveys aggregated by U.S. News, 2024, common regrets include overestimating off-road needs, buying into tech bloat, and underestimating long-term costs like insurance and depreciation.

Sometimes, the most hyped features turn into daily annoyances. Think about the third-row seat that’s more torture device than family solution, or the adaptive cruise that’s more aggressive than helpful.

Status, safety, or something else? The psychology of SUV shopping

The allure of the midsize SUV goes beyond metal and horsepower—it taps primal instincts. There’s security in size, status in presence, and a subtle thrill in knowing your vehicle can handle a muddy trail even if you never leave the asphalt.

Upscale midsize SUV in a suburban driveway, family loading luggage—blending aspiration with everyday utility.

But beneath the swagger, safety remains a genuine driver. According to MotorTrend, 2024, advanced driver-assistance systems are now among the top three deal-breakers for buyers. For others, it’s about flexibility—hauling kids, dogs, sports gear, or reclaiming a sense of agency in commuter gridlock.

When push comes to shove, the best midsize SUV isn’t just a vehicle. It’s a rolling reflection of the owner’s priorities, fears, and ambitions.

The unfiltered truth: What makes a midsize SUV truly ‘best’?

Beyond the spec sheet: Real-world performance matters

Forget glossy brochures and staged launch videos. The best midsize SUVs prove themselves in the chaos of real life—potholes, school runs, icy parking lots, and the occasional off-pavement detour.

Source: Original analysis based on U.S. News, 2024 and Edmunds, 2024

What does this tell you? That “best” is a moving target—your perfect SUV might be a fuel-sipping Mazda with tight handling, or a muscle-bound Telluride that doubles as a tow rig. Numbers only tell half the story; how these vehicles handle the grind of daily life is what separates the real winners from the pretenders.

Safety, tech, or price—what really tips the scales?

When shoppers put their money down, three factors usually break the tie:

• Safety: Top crash-test scores and advanced safety tech (adaptive cruise, lane keeping, blind-spot monitoring) are now non-negotiable for most families.
• Technology: Seamless smartphone integration, over-the-air updates, and infotainment that doesn’t require constant troubleshooting give some models a decisive edge.
• Price (and value): It’s not just about the sticker—total cost of ownership, reliability, resale, and incentives heavily sway decisions.

According to CarGurus, 2024, buyers increasingly pick value-rich models that blend all three—why else would the Kia Telluride and Mazda CX-5 keep topping the charts?

Yet tech can be a double-edged sword. Clunky interfaces and glitchy software often tip owners into regret, as revealed in owner forums and Money.com’s 2024 survey.

Expert hacks: How to spot a winner (and avoid a dud)

There’s an art to separating hype from substance. Here’s a proven path:

1. Test drive at rush hour: If it shines in traffic, it’ll shine anywhere.
2. Check real-world owner forums: Ignore cherry-picked testimonials—look for recurring complaints.
3. Inspect material quality: Fiddle with switches, knobs, and seat adjusters. Cheap plastic or flimsy trim signals corners have been cut.
4. Dig into cost of ownership: Use calculators from futurecar.ai/ownership-costs to check fuel, insurance, and maintenance.
5. Cross-shop resale values: Compare projected depreciation on futurecar.ai/resale-value before signing.
6. Ask about software updates: Some brands are notorious for slow or buggy updates—future-proofing starts here.

Modern SUV dashboard with tactile controls and premium materials—proof that details matter.

Doing the homework turns up duds fast. Models that look great in ads may creak, lag, or guzzle gas when the honeymoon ends. According to [Edmunds, 2024], the difference between loving and loathing your SUV is often found in the little things—like whether the rear seat folds flat or the infotainment system actually syncs on the first try.

2025’s most surprising midsize SUV picks: Beyond the usual suspects

Top contenders nobody’s talking about

The headline-grabbers get all the attention, but several under-the-radar picks deserve your shortlist:

• Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport: Big on space, bold on style, and surprisingly agile in urban settings.
• Subaru Ascent: Standard AWD, top safety scores, and a cult-like following among outdoorsy families.
• Ford Edge: Often overlooked, it packs strong engines and intuitive tech at a competitive price.
• Chevrolet Blazer: Reliable and sharp-looking, but struggles to carve out a unique identity among rivals.
• Jeep Grand Cherokee (non-Trackhawk): Balances ruggedness with everyday comfort and tech.

Subaru Ascent in the wild—highlighting the outdoor appeal of less-hyped midsize SUVs.

Underdogs and overhyped: Who really delivers?

Here’s how a few “underdog” and “overhyped” models stack up:

Source: Original analysis based on Money, 2024 and CarGurus, 2024

Sometimes, the best move is to skip the obvious and dig into the overlooked. According to [Money.com, 2024], buyers who choose the “known” over the “hyped” often end up with less buyer’s remorse.

“Don’t let the badge blind you. Some of the best midsize SUVs fly under the radar, quietly outperforming household names where it counts: reliability, comfort, and total value.” — Senior Editor, CarGurus, 2024

Real owner stories: The wins, the regrets, the wake-up calls

Talk to real owners, and the script flips quickly. One Mazda CX-5 driver raves about handling that “makes commuting almost fun,” but gripes about a rear seat “built for kids, not adults.” A Telluride owner swears by road trip comfort but admits the fuel bill “stings on long hauls.” A 4Runner loyalist celebrates off-road weekends but confesses, “I wish it was quieter on the highway.”

“I bought the Toyota 4Runner for its reputation, but nobody warned me about the ride quality on daily commutes. Off-road king, sure—but don’t expect luxury on asphalt.” — Actual owner review, U.S. News, 2024

Bottom line: Spec sheets can’t predict your personal pain points. Real experiences—good and bad—are gold dust when narrowing your list.

SUVs and your wallet: The hidden costs (and secret savings)

Cost of ownership: More than just sticker price

Sticker shock is just the beginning. The best midsize SUV won’t just fit your driveway; it needs to fit your budget over years of insurance, fuel, maintenance, and depreciation.

Source: Original analysis based on Kelley Blue Book, 2024 and Edmunds, 2024

Ignore these numbers and you’ll regret it. According to futurecar.ai/ownership-costs, many buyers are blindsided when “affordable” SUVs balloon in cost after insurance hikes and more frequent shop visits.

Depreciation, insurance, and surprise expenses

• Depreciation: Midsize SUVs drop an average of 40–50% in value over five years; luxury models often lose more.
• Insurance: High-tech safety gear can reduce premiums, but repair costs for radar sensors or cameras can spike totals after a fender-bender.
• Maintenance and repairs: Turbo engines, AWD systems, and advanced electronics can mean pricier fixes—sometimes outside the basic warranty window.
• Registration and taxes: Heavier, pricier vehicles typically mean higher annual fees.
• Fuel: Don’t trust EPA numbers alone—real-world MPG can be 10–20% lower depending on your driving.

Plan for these hidden costs before you fall for a “deal.”

How to game the system: Insider strategies for buyers

1. Use total cost calculators: Don’t just look at monthly payments—factor in every cost with tools like futurecar.ai/ownership-costs.
2. Shop end-of-model-year: Dealers are hungrier to negotiate just before the new model drops.
3. Hunt for loyalty and conquest incentives: Brands will pay to poach you from rivals—ask for every rebate.
4. Negotiate maintenance packages: Dealers often throw in prepaid plans to close a deal.
5. Target low-depreciation models: Research projected resale values on futurecar.ai/resale-value.

Own the process, and you’ll save thousands—maybe more than you’d expect.

Tech wars: The features that actually matter in 2025

Safety tech: Which innovations save lives—and which are hype?

Today’s midsize SUVs are bristling with sensors, cameras, and microchips. But which “innovations” are legit game-changers?

Source: Original analysis based on IIHS, 2024

Safety tech is only as good as its execution. According to IIHS, 2024, features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring save lives, while “luxury” add-ons like night vision are rarely needed outside niche scenarios.

If you’re shopping, prioritize well-executed essentials over flashy extras.

Infotainment overload: When connectivity becomes chaos

• Screen size arms race: Giant touchscreens look slick but can distract more than inform.
• Voice assistants: Great—when they work. Many still misinterpret basic commands.
• App clutter: Too many native apps often mean slow, buggy systems.
• Wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay: Essential for seamless smartphone integration, but check for compatibility issues.
• Subscription creep: Some brands now lock features (like heated seats or remote start) behind paywalls—know what’s “free” and what’s not.

According to Edmunds, 2024, usability still trumps novelty. Don’t fall for “smart” systems that make you work harder just to change the radio station.

DIY upgrades vs. factory options: What’s worth it?

1. All-weather floor mats: Cheaper aftermarket, often better quality.
2. Dash cams: Easy DIY and can lower insurance.
3. Infotainment add-ons: Aftermarket CarPlay/Android Auto retrofits can rescue older systems.
4. Roof racks: Factory fit is cleanest, but aftermarket offers more flexibility.
5. LED lighting upgrades: Factory options have warranty, aftermarket delivers more bang for buck—but check local laws.

“Factory options hold resale value, but DIY upgrades give you more control and often better bang for the buck. Just avoid electrical mods that can void your warranty.”
— Automotive Tech Writer, MotorTrend, 2024

Gas, hybrid, or electric? The powertrain debate nobody’s winning

The evolution of midsize SUV engines

Midsize SUVs have evolved from thirsty V6s to turbo-fours and electrified hybrids. Here’s what’s on the menu:

Gasoline : Traditional, easy to fuel, often cheaper upfront. Still king for towing and simplicity.

Hybrid : Blends gas and electric for better mileage—especially in city driving. Can be more expensive but offsets with lower gas bills.

Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) : Adds bigger batteries, allowing short all-electric commutes. Needs regular charging for full benefit.

Electric (BEV) : Zero tailpipe emissions, instant torque, lower running costs. Range anxiety and charging access still limit mass adoption.

Today, hybrids and plug-in hybrids are gaining real traction, especially in urban areas. According to U.S. News, 2024, luxury brands like BMW, Mercedes, and Porsche are doubling down on electrified options.

Hybrid vs. gas vs. electric: Which fits your life?

Source: Original analysis based on U.S. News, 2024 and Kelley Blue Book, 2024

The “best” depends more on your daily grind than bragging rights.

The myth of “future-proofing” your SUV purchase

• No powertrain is truly “future-proof”: Gas, hybrid, and electric all face regulatory, technology, and infrastructure shifts.
• Battery tech changes fast: Today’s top-range EV may lag in five years.
• Resale value is a moving target: As laws and incentives change, so do used market values.
• Charging networks are growing, but not everywhere: Rural and apartment dwellers still face gaps.
• Fuel prices are volatile: What’s cheap today can bite back tomorrow.

If you’re after a “set and forget” solution, you’ll be chasing vapor. Focus on what fits your life today—don’t buy for an uncertain tomorrow.

Lifestyle fit: Choosing the best midsize SUV for your real life

Urban vs. suburban vs. wild: Matching SUV to your world

City dwellers love the maneuverability of smaller midsize models, with tight turning circles and parking assist tech. Suburban families crave space, easy-fold seats, and all-wheel drive for errant snow squalls. Weekend warriors and off-roaders need real clearance, skid plates, and proven durability.

SUV slicing through urban dawn—proof that the “best” fit is geographic as much as technical.

Your world dictates your winner. Even the best midsize SUV can feel like a mistake if it’s misaligned with your daily reality.

Families, singles, and road warriors: What really matters

• For families: Third-row access, ISOFIX/LATCH points, and rear-seat entertainment support sanity on long hauls.
• For singles: Compact handling, sporty feel, and the option to go roof-down (panoramic sunroof).
• For road warriors: Adaptive cruise, seat ventilation, and real-world MPG trump raw horsepower.
• For dog owners: Flat cargo floors, tri-zone climate, and low step-in heights matter more than 0–60 times.

The best midsize SUV flexes to fit your real, not imagined, needs.

Accessibility, comfort, and the small things no one tells you

1. Test rear seat comfort: Even in “three-row” SUVs, only a few genuinely fit adults in the back.
2. Assess cargo access: Power liftgates and wide openings matter when you’re juggling groceries or strollers.
3. Check seat adjustability: Tall drivers often struggle with legroom even in big vehicles.
4. Look for flat-fold seats: Not all second and third rows create a flat cargo floor.
5. Try all the tech features: Bring your phone, simulate real use, and stress-test connectivity.

Miss these small details, and the daily grind will get old fast.

The red flags: Common midsize SUV myths (and how to avoid them)

Myth vs. reality: What automakers want you to believe

• “All-wheel drive means you’re invincible.” (False—tires and ground clearance matter more.)
• “Third-row seats are usable for adults.” (Rarely true.)
• “All safety systems are standard.” (Nope—often only on upper trims.)
• “Luxury badge means reliability.” (Not always—complex tech can mean more time in the shop.)
• “Bigger is always better.” (More size = harder to park, higher taxes, worse MPG.)

Don’t buy the marketing. Real-world context always wins.

Dealership tricks and traps in 2025

1. Add-on frenzy: Dealers push overpriced paint protection, VIN etching, and “security” packages.
2. Payment focus: Sales tactics skew toward low monthly payments that balloon with hidden fees.
3. Leasing games: Watch for low upfront costs masking high mileage penalties.
4. Trade-in undervaluation: Get multiple offers—use online appraisal tools from futurecar.ai/tradein.
5. Scarcity scare tactics: Demand is high, but don’t rush into a bad deal.

“Dealers are masters at turning urgency into profit. Bring data, know your walk-away price, and be ready to call their bluff.”
— Consumer Advocate, Edmunds, 2024

How to check your own biases (before you buy)

• Did you test drive competitors back-to-back?
• Have you checked ownership costs, not just price?
• Are you buying for real needs or aspirational lifestyle?
• Did you read owner forums for recurring complaints?
• Are you letting badge prestige cloud your judgment?

Self-reflection is crucial—don’t let marketing or peer pressure make your decision.

Buying a midsize SUV is about fit, not just features.

Case studies: Real-world winners and losers in today’s SUV market

The commuter’s dilemma: Balancing comfort with cost

Meet Mark, a suburban commuter. He wanted the best midsize SUV for rush-hour hell—comfortable seats, decent mileage, and a stress-free drive. After cross-shopping the Hyundai Palisade and BMW X5, he discovered that the Palisade’s ventilated seats and tech-rich cabin made daily traffic bearable, while the X5’s higher payments and maintenance costs tipped the scales.

But comfort came at a cost—Mark’s insurance premium jumped $300/year for the larger, more tech-laden Palisade.

Source: Original analysis based on Kelley Blue Book, 2024 and owner interviews

Family adventures: Space, safety, and sanity

Jane’s family chose the Kia Telluride for its cavernous cargo, rear-seat climate controls, and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ status. On road trips, wireless charging and rear USB ports prevented sibling meltdowns. But after a year, she noticed wind noise at highway speeds—a small, but daily, annoyance.

Choosing the best midsize SUV meant trading ultimate luxury for peace of mind and kid-friendly features.

The long-term gamble: Resale value and reliability

• Toyota 4Runner: Holds value stubbornly, thanks to bulletproof reputation.
• Mazda CX-5: Above-average resale and low maintenance costs.
• Ford Edge: Depreciates quickly, despite strong tech suite.
• Hyundai Palisade: Holds value well, but future tech updates could impact resale.

“Reliability isn’t sexy, but it pays off. The Mazda CX-5 may not have a luxury badge, but it won't drain your wallet when the warranty runs out.” — Automotive Resale Analyst, CarGurus, 2024

Sometimes, boring is brilliant.

The evolution of the midsize SUV: From station wagons to tech titans

A brief (but wild) history of the midsize SUV

1. 1990s: SUVs explode in popularity, replacing wagons as family haulers.
2. 2000s: Midsize models surface to balance brawn with driveability.
3. 2010s: Tech and comfort rival luxury sedans; hybrids emerge.
4. 2020s: Electrification, ADAS, and digital cockpits become standard.
5. 2025: SUVs symbolize lifestyle agility—urban, suburban, or wild.

The midsize SUV’s journey is a mirror to shifting lifestyles and technology’s relentless march.

How changing culture is reshaping the SUV

As urbanization accelerates, tech advances, and environmental awareness grows, the “best” midsize SUV morphs from brute force to smart, sustainable, and stylish. Brands now tell stories—think Hyundai’s Amazon partnership or BMW’s eco-leather interiors—rather than just selling sheet metal.

Today’s midsize SUV is part lifestyle accessory, part digital command center.

What’s next: Predictions for the next five years

• Electrification will become standard, if not dominant, in urban centers.
• Subscription and “feature unlock” models will be more common.
• Expect more tailored, AI-driven buying experiences (see: futurecar.ai).
• Tech and sustainability will trump raw horsepower in buyer priorities.
• Ownership models (leasing, car-sharing) will diversify.

But remember: the best midsize SUV is always the one that fits today’s reality, not tomorrow’s speculation.

Electric and hybrid midsize SUVs: Are you ready for the future?

Barriers to entry: The real challenges of going green

• Charging infrastructure: Still patchy in many regions; home charging is a must for most EV owners.
• Upfront cost: Hybrids and EVs are often pricier, though tax incentives can help.
• Range anxiety: Even with 250+ mile ranges, long trips require planning.
• Battery degradation: Modern batteries last, but replacement costs are high if needed.
• Learning curve: Regenerative braking, charging etiquette, and new tech take adjusting.

Don’t underestimate the learning curve—and the genuine limitations—in 2025’s eco-friendly SUV market.

The cost and payoff of eco-friendly SUVs

Source: Original analysis based on MarketResearchFuture, 2024, GreenCarReports, 2024

Going green pays off for city drivers and those who can charge at home, but rural drivers should crunch the numbers.

Hybrid hype: Who should (and shouldn’t) buy one?

Hybrid : Best for city commuters and families who want fewer fuel stops—lower emissions, high reliability, but more tech to maintain.

Plug-in Hybrid : Ideal for short commutes with home charging—enjoy tax breaks, but beware higher sticker prices.

Full Electric : Perfect for urbanites with charging access. Lowest running costs, but range limits and higher upfront costs.

Gasoline : Still best for towing, long highway drives, or rural areas with limited charging.

The bottom line? Hybrids and electrics are sensible for many, but not all. It’s a tool, not a lifestyle badge.

The psychology of SUV obsession: What your ride says about you

SUVs as status symbols: Fact or fiction?

In some circles, the best midsize SUV is code for “I’ve made it.” The badge, the trim, the parking spot by the club—they all speak a language of aspiration.

“SUVs are the modern status symbol—not just for what you drive, but for what your life could be. It’s less about need, more about narrative.” — Cultural Sociologist, Grand View Research, 2024

But here’s the kicker: more buyers now prioritize authenticity over flash. According to GM Insights, 2024, value-driven purchases are on the rise, putting pressure on luxury brands to back up their swagger with substance.

The “status” game is evolving.

Social trends and shifting perceptions

• Sustainability matters: The rise of eco-friendly SUVs signals a move from conspicuous consumption to conscious choice.
• Tech as status: The latest ADAS and infotainment now impress more than badge alone.
• Family-first image: SUVs project responsibility—think “good parent” more than “show-off.”
• Gender neutralization: Once a “dad car,” the midsize SUV is now as likely to be piloted by a single exec or a retiree on a cross-country trek.

SUVs are everyone’s vehicle now.

Are we ready to break up with SUVs?

For some, yes. Segment data from GoodCarBadCar, 2024 shows compact SUV and crossover sales rising as urbanization squeezes parking and budgets. But for millions, the midsize SUV remains the goldilocks solution—flexible, safe, and just aspirational enough.

“We’re not done with SUVs yet—but the conversation is shifting from ‘how big’ to ‘how smart’ and ‘how green.’” — Automotive Market Analyst, GM Insights, 2024

The breakup isn’t happening—just a slow, negotiated redefinition.

Your ultimate midsize SUV decision toolkit

Priority checklist: Don’t buy before you tick these boxes

• Test drive three direct competitors
• Run a total cost of ownership calculation (futurecar.ai/ownership-costs)
• Research actual owner stories (not just reviews)
• Check insurance rates with your provider
• Compare projected resale values
• Inspect tech and comfort features in person
• Review safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA

Doing this turns the “best midsize SUV” from buzzword to reality.

Step-by-step: How to master your midsize SUV search

1. Clarify your real needs: List what you do weekly—commutes, trips, sports, towing.
2. Set a realistic budget: Include insurance, fuel, maintenance, and depreciation.
3. Shortlist 3–5 contenders: Use objective rankings from U.S. News, 2024 or Edmunds.
4. Test drive each—twice: Once in traffic, once on open roads.
5. Negotiate like a pro: Leverage incentives and timing (see futurecar.ai/deals).
6. Review contract fine print: Watch for dealer add-ons and hidden fees.
7. Celebrate your choice: Best is what fits your life, not just your image.

Follow this, and you’ll sidestep 90% of common mistakes.

Where to get real, unbiased help (and why futurecar.ai is worth a look)

• futurecar.ai: AI-driven, expert-reviewed recommendations with a focus on transparency.
• IIHS: Best for deep safety data.
• Edmunds: Real-world test drives and owner reviews.
• U.S. News: Objective rankings and data aggregation.
• Kelley Blue Book: Comprehensive pricing and resale analysis.

Expertise matters—tap it early and often.

Conclusion: Are you ready to choose your best midsize SUV?

Synthesis: What we learned, what matters now

The best midsize SUV isn’t a single model—it’s a matchup of your needs, budget, and the unvarnished reality of ownership. The Mazda CX-5, Kia Telluride, and Hyundai Palisade keep winning for a reason: they blend comfort, value, and reliability without drowning you in tech headaches or financial regret. But ignore the underdogs at your peril—quiet contenders like the Subaru Ascent or Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport prove that real-world fit trumps reputation.

The modern SUV buyer is savvier than ever. Armed with verified data, owner stories, and the right tools, you can dodge the marketing spin and land a ride that genuinely works for you.

The final question: Will you follow the herd or do it your way?

So here’s the challenge for 2025: Will you chase the crowd, or cut your own path? The best midsize SUV is the one that fits your life, your wallet, and your values. Do the research, embrace the brutal truths, and don’t let anyone—dealer, neighbor, or algorithm—pick your next legend on wheels.

Because, in the end, the only “best” that matters is yours.