Top Picks For Best Midsize SUV 2018

Discover the best midsize SUVs of 2018 with a focus on Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, and Mazda CX-9. Compare features, performance, and user reviews to find the perfect fit for your needs.

Toyota Highlander

When it comes to the best midsize SUVs of 2018, the Toyota Highlander certainly stands out. Known for its reliability, spacious interior, and smooth ride, the Highlander is a top choice for families and adventurers alike. With seating for up to eight passengers, ample cargo space, and advanced safety features, the Highlander offers the perfect combination of comfort and practicality. Whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling off-road trails, the Highlander delivers a versatile and enjoyable driving experience.

Features a powerful V6 engine for impressive performance
Offers a comfortable and upscale interior with high-quality materials
Comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense for added peace of mind on the road

Honda Pilot

Another standout in the midsize SUV category is the Honda Pilot. With its spacious cabin, strong safety ratings, and efficient V6 engine, the Pilot is a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and versatile vehicle. Whether you’re hauling a full load of passengers or towing a trailer, the Pilot’s impressive towing capacity and comfortable ride make it a great option for families on the go. Plus, with its advanced technology features and user-friendly infotainment system, the Pilot keeps you connected and entertained on every journey.

Boasts a roomy and flexible interior with three rows of seating
Features Honda Sensing suite of driver assistance technologies for enhanced safety
Offers a smooth and composed ride, even over rough roads

Ford Edge

The Ford Edge is another top contender in the midsize SUV market, offering a winning combination of style, performance, and comfort. With its athletic handling, powerful engine options, and upscale interior, the Edge provides a fun and engaging driving experience. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or exploring off the beaten path, the Edge’s responsive steering and smooth ride make every journey enjoyable. Plus, with its generous cargo space and advanced technology features, the Edge is a practical and stylish choice for drivers looking for a well-rounded SUV.

Features a turbocharged engine for strong acceleration and fuel efficiency
Offers a spacious and well-appointed interior with plenty of storage options
Comes equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of driver assistance features for added safety

Mazda CX-9

Last but not least, the Mazda CX-9 rounds out our list of top midsize SUVs for 2018. Known for its sleek design, engaging driving dynamics, and upscale interior, the CX-9 is a standout in its class. With its turbocharged engine, agile handling, and refined cabin, the CX-9 offers a premium driving experience without the premium price tag. Whether you’re zipping around town or embarking on a road trip, the CX-9’s comfortable seats, smooth ride, and user-friendly infotainment system make every journey a pleasure.

Boasts a luxurious interior with high-quality materials and stylish design
Features Mazda’s i-Activsense suite of safety technologies for added peace of mind
Offers a quiet and comfortable ride, even at highway speeds

Features to Consider in a Midsize SUV

When looking for the perfect midsize SUV, there are several key features that you should consider to ensure you are getting the best vehicle for your needs. Let’s delve into the important aspects that can make or break your driving experience.

Safety Ratings

Safety should always be a top priority when choosing a midsize SUV. Look for vehicles that have high safety ratings from reputable sources such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These ratings can give you peace of mind knowing that you and your passengers will be protected in the event of an accident.

Some top-rated midsize SUVs for safety include:
Toyota Highlander
Honda Pilot
Ford Edge
Mazda CX-9

Fuel Efficiency

In today’s world of rising gas prices, fuel efficiency is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a midsize SUV. Look for vehicles that offer good gas mileage without sacrificing power or performance. Hybrid options are also available for those looking to save even more on fuel costs.

Some fuel-efficient midsize SUVs to consider are:
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Honda Pilot Elite
Ford Edge EcoBoost
Mazda CX-9 Signature

Cargo Space

Whether you’re hauling groceries or packing for a family road trip, having ample cargo space in your midsize SUV is essential. Look for vehicles with versatile storage options, such as fold-down seats and under-floor storage compartments, to maximize your hauling capabilities.

Midsize SUVs with excellent cargo space include:
Toyota Highlander (83.7 cubic feet)
Honda Pilot (83.9 cubic feet)
Ford Edge (73.4 cubic feet)
Mazda CX-9 (71.2 cubic feet)

Technology and Infotainment

In today’s connected world, having the latest technology and infotainment features in your midsize SUV can enhance your driving experience. Look for vehicles with advanced safety features, such as lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control, as well as entertainment options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Some midsize SUVs with top-notch technology and infotainment include:
Toyota Highlander Limited
Honda Pilot Touring
Ford Edge Titanium
Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring

When considering these features in a midsize SUV, remember to prioritize your own needs and preferences to find the perfect vehicle that suits your lifestyle. By focusing on safety, fuel efficiency, cargo space, and technology, you can make an informed decision that will provide you with years of driving enjoyment.

Comparing Midsize SUVs

When comparing midsize SUVs, there are several key factors to consider in order to make an informed decision. Let’s take a closer look at the performance, interior comfort, price range, and resale value of these vehicles.

Performance

Performance is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing a midsize SUV. The Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, and Mazda CX-9 each offer their own unique performance capabilities. From powerful engines to responsive handling, these SUVs are designed to provide a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.

Toyota Highlander: The Toyota Highlander is known for its reliable performance and strong engine options. Whether you’re cruising on the highway or tackling rough terrain, the Highlander delivers a responsive and smooth ride.
Honda Pilot: The Honda Pilot offers a balance of power and efficiency, making it a practical choice for families on the go. With its advanced safety features and comfortable ride, the Pilot is a top contender in the midsize SUV market.
Ford Edge: The Ford Edge is praised for its agile handling and impressive acceleration. With a range of engine choices and dynamic driving modes, the Edge is a versatile option for drivers seeking a sporty SUV experience.
Mazda CX-9: The Mazda CX-9 stands out for its athletic performance and upscale interior. From its turbocharged engine to its precise steering, the CX-9 delivers a thrilling driving experience without compromising on comfort.

Interior Comfort

When it comes to interior comfort, midsize SUVs offer a range of features to enhance the driving experience. From spacious cabins to premium materials, these vehicles prioritize comfort for both drivers and passengers.

Toyota Highlander: The Toyota Highlander boasts a roomy interior with comfortable seating and ample cargo space. With available leather upholstery and advanced technology features, the Highlander provides a luxurious and convenient driving environment.
Honda Pilot: The Honda Pilot excels in interior comfort with its versatile seating configurations and user-friendly infotainment system. Whether you’re taking a road trip or running errands around town, the Pilot keeps everyone comfortable and entertained.
Ford Edge: The Ford Edge offers a stylish interior with modern design elements and high-quality materials. With supportive seats and intuitive controls, the Edge creates a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere for all occupants.
Mazda CX-9: The Mazda CX-9 impresses with its upscale cabin design and refined finishing touches. From its premium leather upholstery to its customizable seating options, the CX-9 elevates the midsize SUV experience with its attention to detail.

Price Range

Price is a significant factor for many car buyers when comparing midsize SUVs. The Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, and Mazda CX-9 each come with their own price range, offering a variety of options to suit different budgets.

Toyota Highlander: The Toyota Highlander is competitively priced in the midsize SUV segment, making it an affordable choice for families seeking a reliable and spacious vehicle.
Honda Pilot: The Honda Pilot offers a range of trim levels to accommodate various budgets, from the base model to the fully loaded version with premium features.
Ford Edge: The Ford Edge provides a good value for its price, offering a balance of performance and comfort at a competitive price point.
Mazda CX-9: The Mazda CX-9 is priced at a premium level compared to its competitors, reflecting its upscale design and luxurious amenities.

Resale Value

Resale value is an important consideration for many car buyers, as it can impact the long-term cost of ownership. The Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, and Mazda CX-9 are known for their strong resale value, making them smart investments for those looking to retain their vehicle’s worth over time.

Toyota Highlander: The Toyota Highlander has a reputation for holding its value well, thanks to its reliability and durability. This makes the Highlander a popular choice for buyers seeking a dependable SUV with strong resale potential.
Honda Pilot: The Honda Pilot is also recognized for its high resale value, making it a wise choice for those looking to maximize their investment in a midsize SUV.
Ford Edge: The Ford Edge maintains good resale value due to its popularity and reputation for quality craftsmanship. Owners can expect a solid return on their investment when it comes time to sell or trade in their Edge.
Mazda CX-9: The Mazda CX-9’s premium features and upscale design contribute to its strong resale value, appealing to buyers who prioritize long-term value and quality.

User Reviews of Midsize SUVs

Pros and Cons of Toyota Highlander

When it comes to the Toyota Highlander, there are plenty of pros and cons to consider. One of the biggest advantages of this midsize SUV is its reputation for reliability. Owners often praise the Highlander for its long-lasting performance and low maintenance costs. Additionally, the Highlander offers a spacious interior with comfortable seating for up to eight passengers, making it a great choice for families.

On the downside, some owners have reported that the Highlander’s fuel efficiency could be better, especially compared to other SUVs in its class. Another common complaint is the lack of advanced technology features, which some drivers may find disappointing. Despite these drawbacks, the overall consensus among Toyota Highlander owners is positive, with many praising the SUV for its blend of comfort, reliability, and versatility.

Honda Pilot Owner Experiences

The Honda Pilot is another popular choice in the midsize SUV market, known for its smooth ride and spacious cabin. Owners of the Honda Pilot often rave about its responsive handling and comfortable seats, making long road trips a breeze. The Pilot also boasts impressive safety features, giving drivers peace of mind on the road.

However, some Honda Pilot owners have noted that the vehicle’s infotainment system can be a bit outdated and slow to respond. Additionally, fuel economy may not be as impressive as some competitors in the same class. Despite these minor drawbacks, many Honda Pilot owners are loyal fans of the brand, citing its reliability and overall performance as major selling points.

Ford Edge Performance Feedback

The Ford Edge is a stylish and versatile midsize SUV that has garnered positive reviews for its performance and handling. Owners of the Ford Edge appreciate its powerful engine options and smooth ride, making it a great choice for daily commuting or weekend getaways. The Edge also offers ample cargo space, perfect for hauling groceries or gear for outdoor adventures.

On the flip side, some Ford Edge owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s reliability, citing frequent trips to the mechanic for repairs. Another common complaint is the lack of advanced safety features that come standard on other SUVs in its class. Despite these concerns, many Ford Edge owners remain loyal to the brand, praising its sleek design and comfortable interior.

Mazda CX-9 Reliability Ratings

The Mazda CX-9 is a standout in the midsize SUV segment, known for its upscale interior and engaging driving dynamics. Owners of the CX-9 often praise its luxurious cabin, featuring high-quality materials and modern design elements. The CX-9 also offers strong acceleration and nimble handling, making it a fun and enjoyable SUV to drive.

However, some Mazda CX-9 owners have expressed concerns about the vehicle’s reliability, citing issues with the transmission and electrical components. Another potential drawback is the limited cargo space compared to other SUVs in its class. Despite these challenges, many CX-9 owners appreciate the SUV’s upscale feel and sporty performance, making it a top contender in the midsize SUV market.

In conclusion, each midsize SUV in this group has its own set of strengths and weaknesses, catering to different preferences and driving needs. Whether you prioritize reliability, performance, or comfort, there is a midsize SUV that suits your lifestyle. Consider these user reviews and feedback when making your decision to ensure you find the perfect match for your driving experience.