Midsize SUVs have become the goldilocks of the automotive market—not too big, not too small, and packed with the space, tech, and versatility today’s drivers demand. In 2026, the competition is heating up with brand-new entries, bold redesigns, hybrid and electric innovations, and smart upgrades to existing favorites.
Whether you’re shopping for comfort, off-road capability, hybrid performance, or three-row family function, this in-depth guide covers the best midsize SUVs hitting dealerships in 2026.
We’ve sorted them by segment—mainstream, premium, hybrid, plug-in, and electric—with side-by-side comparisons, pricing insights, and expert analysis to help you make a smart buy.
Why Midsize SUVs Still Dominate in 2026
In a market shifting toward electrification and crossovers, midsize SUVs remain a sweet spot for buyers. Here’s why:
- Room for families without feeling oversized
- Available AWD and off-road trims
- Balance of performance, comfort, and fuel economy
- Wide variety of hybrid, plug-in, and all-electric options
- Strong resale and reliability scores from brands like Toyota, Honda, and Subaru
With automakers refining their platforms and adding next-gen infotainment, safety tech, and electrified drivetrains, the 2026 model year is stacked with standout options.
Mainstream Midsize SUVs for 2026
1. 2026 Toyota Highlander (Redesign)
Toyota is giving the Highlander a long-awaited redesign. Expect more cargo room, a revised infotainment interface, and updated hybrid powertrain options.
- Powertrain: 2.4L turbo, hybrid, and possible plug-in hybrid
- Seating: 7 or 8 passengers
- Tech: New infotainment UX, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto
- Est. Price: $39,000–$52,000
- Why Buy: Proven resale value, efficiency, and family practicality
2. 2026 Honda Passport (New Generation)
The Passport moves into its next generation with a boxier design, improved ground clearance, and hybrid power for the first time.
- Powertrain: 2.0L turbo hybrid AWD
- Trims: TrailSport, Elite, Sport
- Towing: Estimated 5,000 lbs
- Est. Price: $40,000–$48,000
- Why Buy: Midsize size with rugged spirit—great for weekenders
3. 2026 Nissan Murano (Redesign)
The Murano finally gets its first major overhaul in over a decade, likely debuting a turbo-four engine and more angular exterior.
- Powertrain: Turbocharged four-cylinder, CVT or new auto
- Interior: Modernized dash, larger screen
- Est. Price: $38,000–$45,000
- Why Buy: If you want style and comfort in a city cruiser
4. 2026 Subaru Outback
Expect a facelift with upgraded EyeSight driver assist, a refreshed grille, and cabin tech tweaks.
- Powertrain: 2.5L flat-four or 2.4L turbo
- AWD: Standard symmetrical all-wheel drive
- Est. Price: $33,000–$45,000
- Why Buy: Best for snow, pets, camping, and active lifestyles
5. 2026 Ford Edge (Redesigned as EV-only)
Rumors suggest the Edge may become an all-electric crossover with a sportier profile and Mustang Mach-E platform inspiration.
- Powertrain: Likely dual-motor AWD EV
- Range: Estimated 275–325 miles
- Est. Price: $45,000–$55,000
- Why Buy: A mainstream EV with familiar space and comfort
Premium Midsize SUVs for 2026
6. 2026 Lexus RX
The RX continues to be Lexus’ best-selling SUV for a reason. In 2026, new hybrid trims and possibly a performance plug-in will enhance the lineup.
- Powertrain: RX 350h, RX 500h, RX 450h+ (plug-in)
- Interior: Lexus Interface, 14-inch touchscreen
- Est. Price: $49,000–$64,000
- Why Buy: Quiet ride, hybrid power, and top resale value
7. 2026 Acura MDX
A refresh for 2026 is likely, including a larger infotainment system and revised grille. The MDX continues to offer performance and family comfort.
- Powertrain: 3.5L V6, 10-speed automatic
- Trims: A-Spec, Type S, Advance
- Est. Price: $52,000–$68,000
- Why Buy: Premium SUV that still feels sporty
8. 2026 BMW X5
The BMW X5 gets a tech refresh and slight styling updates. It remains one of the best-driving midsize luxury SUVs on the market.
- Powertrain: Inline-6 mild hybrid, V8, PHEV
- Tech: iDrive 9, curved display
- Est. Price: $66,000–$90,000
- Why Buy: Sporty, refined, and fully loaded with features
Best Hybrid Midsize SUVs for 2026
9. 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
After debuting in 2024, the Grand Highlander Hybrid continues to impress with its size and MPG.
- MPG: 34 city / 34 highway
- Seating: True three-row space
- Powertrain: 2.5L hybrid or Hybrid MAX
- Est. Price: $45,000–$57,000
- Why Buy: Bigger Highlander, better MPG, Toyota durability
10. 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
Hyundai’s bold new Santa Fe returns with an off-road look and hybrid power. Expect minor refinements in 2026.
- MPG: 36 combined
- Powertrain: 1.6L turbo hybrid, AWD
- Est. Price: $39,000–$46,000
- Why Buy: Great tech, warranty, and cool new design
11. 2026 Kia Sorento Hybrid
Expect small changes after the 2025 refresh. The Sorento Hybrid balances efficiency with 3-row flexibility.
- MPG: 37 city / 35 highway
- Trims: SX Prestige, EX
- Est. Price: $38,000–$44,000
- Why Buy: Best MPG in a three-row under $45K
12. 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid (Midsize Territory)
Though technically compact, the CR-V Hybrid is big enough to compete. Updated interior tech is expected in 2026.
- MPG: 40+ combined
- Powertrain: 2.0L hybrid, e-CVT
- Est. Price: $35,000–$40,000
- Why Buy: Fantastic for commuting and small families
Best Plug-In & Electric Midsize SUVs for 2026
13. 2026 Toyota RAV4 Prime (Updated)
The RAV4 Prime is expected to get a range boost and redesigned dash. Still one of the fastest and most efficient SUVs in its class.
- EV Range: 45–50 miles
- Total Range: 600+ miles
- Power: 302 hp AWD
- Est. Price: $45,000–$50,000
- Why Buy: Plug-in flexibility, Toyota reliability
14. 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
Still one of the few plug-in SUVs with three-row seating, the 2026 version may gain slight battery improvements.
- EV Range: 38 miles
- MPG: 64 MPGe
- Price: $40,000–$46,000
- Why Buy: Efficient and surprisingly well-equipped
15. 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 7
An all-electric three-row SUV with family-first focus.
- Range: 300–325 miles
- Seating: 6 or 7 passengers
- Charging: 800V, 10–80% in 18 minutes
- Price: $50,000–$65,000
- Why Buy: Quiet, roomy, and ultra-modern
16. 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV
Blazer EV combines classic muscle SUV looks with all-electric power.
- Range: Up to 320 miles
- Trims: LT, RS, SS
- Power: SS trim: 557 hp, 0–60 in under 4 seconds
- Price: $48,000–$60,000
- Why Buy: GM’s sharpest electric midsize yet
Midsize SUV Buyer’s Guide: Who Should Buy What?
| Buyer Type | Recommended SUV | Why It Fits |
| Family-first | Grand Highlander / Santa Fe | Room, MPG, safety, and rear seat space |
| Daily commuter | CR-V Hybrid / RAV4 Prime | Quiet, smooth, ultra-efficient |
| Luxury lover | Lexus RX / BMW X5 | Comfort, power, resale |
| Adventurer | Outback / Passport TrailSport | AWD, roof racks, and off-road readiness |
| Tech-forward | Ioniq 7 / Blazer EV | EV range, fast charging, smart connectivity |
| Value seeker | Sorento Hybrid / Murano | Great features under $45,000 |
| Resale conscious | Highlander / RAV4 Prime | Known long-term value and brand trust |
Final Thoughts
If you’re shopping for a midsize SUV in 2026, you’re walking into one of the most competitive and exciting segments in the industry. Brands are refining their top sellers, introducing better hybrid and EV options, and giving buyers more ways to customize how they drive.
From electrified tech to off-road capability and family functionality, the best midsize SUVs of 2026 prove you don’t have to choose between performance and practicality.
