Don’t get stuck with a two- or three-row model you’ll regret buying when there are better, more reliable ones available
If you’re considering a Nissan Murano, you might also want to look at the Toyota Crown Signia.
By Jon Linkov
Don’t choose your next midsized SUV based on popularity. A commonly seen model usually reflects aggressive advertising, financing incentives, or social media trends rather than performance. To find an SUV that excels in fuel efficiency, usability, and family-friendliness, look beyond hype.
To help you find an SUV that gives you long-term peace of mind, Consumer Reports evaluated every model below in our rigorous road-test program. We assessed how they performed in 50 rigorous tests at our 327-acre Connecticut testing facility, focusing on performance, safety, fuel economy, and comfort.
Plus, we collect data from members in Consumer Reports’ Annual Auto Surveys to tell you which models are the most reliable. By comparing how many problems a model has had against the average problem rate for all vehicles of the same model year, we can determine which SUVs are most likely to leave you stranded.
This allows us to present models that are popular in their category but aren’t good choices to buy. Then we present two alternatives.
A better choice: Another vehicle that’s widely available and reliable, and has better owner satisfaction ratings.
An “under the radar” alternative: A reliable and satisfying model that didn’t sell as well, if you aren’t concerned with following the crowd.
So what are the best midsized SUVs to buy? And what qualities do they have? To answer those questions, we’ve compiled a list of popular models to avoid and two alternatives to each, based on our testing, that are among the best midsized SUVs.
The recommended alternatives are models that performed well in our tests, have average or better reliability, and come standard with automatic emergency braking (AEB) that works at highway speeds, blind spot warning (BSW), and rear cross traffic warning (RCTW), unless otherwise noted. Though we tested more expensive all-wheel-drive versions of some of these SUVs, we also recommend the front-wheel-drive versions, if offered.
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Popular Midsized Two-Row SUV to Avoid
See our ratings of midsized SUVs.
The redesigned Murano’s 141-hp, turbo four-cylinder and nine-speed automatic powertrain feels lethargic, sounds noisy, and got only 21 mpg overall in our tests. It is unpredictably lurchy due to noticeable hesitation at low speeds, often followed by an abrupt surge of power right after. The ride is stiff and choppy, and handling is secure but unremarkable. Although the interior is well appointed and the front seats are comfortable, the controls are distributed across a maze of screens, menus, and buttons. The rear-seat room is decent but not particularly generous. Swoopy styling hampers rear and side visibility. Finally, the active driving assistance system causes the Murano to sway back and forth within a lane.
The Better Choice
Nissan sold more than twice as many Muranos as Toyota sold Crown Signias in 2025, but this wagonlike hybrid-only SUV is the smarter choice. For a little more money, buyers get better reliability, much smoother acceleration, and 37 mpg overall. Power comes from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder augmented with an electric drive for a combined output of 240 hp, matched to an electronic continuously variable transmission. The car’s 530-mile cruising range is an added bonus. The ride is comfortable and controlled, and handling is competent and secure. The Crown Signia’s well-appointed interior is just as comfortable and tasteful as the Murano’s but is easier to use, plus the Toyota carries the same amount of luggage with the rear seats up.
The Under-the-Radar Alternative
The redesigned 2026 Passport is again based on the midsized three-row Pilot, but its exterior design has a rugged, off-road flair. Its 285-hp V6 is slick and punchy, but the 10-speed automatic doesn’t always shift smoothly. With its standard AWD, the Passport achieved 21 mpg overall in our testing. The ride is noticeably more comfortable than before, although handling is more competent than engaging. Most controls are clear and straightforward. In an era of screen-based controls, the climate and audio systems are controlled by handy buttons and knobs. The front seats are comfortable and reasonably supportive, the rear seat is very roomy, and the cargo space is generous.
Popular Midsized Three-Row SUV to Avoid
See our ratings of three-row midsized SUVS.
The Explorer helped make SUVs popular when it first went on sale three decades ago. Today, it’s still one of the top sellers in its class. Lane centering assistance and a power liftgate come standard. Most versions use the base 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which is energetic but sounds raspy. The 10-speed automatic has rough shifts, particularly at low speeds. In our tests, this combination returned an unimpressive 21 mpg overall. High-end versions have a slicker 3.0-liter turbo V6. Handling is agile, and the quiet cabin is spacious, but the ride is stiff-legged. Third-row seating is tight, as is common for the class. Finally, reliability is below average.
The Explorer outsold the Grand Highlander by nearly 80,000 units in 2025, but you’ll be wise to choose the Toyota. It gets 35 mpg overall from the thrifty 245-hp, 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain. A stronger 362-hp, 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid version is also available. The third seat is much roomier than it is in the regular Highlander, and it also has a larger cargo capacity than the Explorer. Power is adequate, the ride is comfortable, and handling is decent. Although its base price is higher, the Grand Highlander promises a stronger return on investment, thanks to better reliability and fuel economy.
Buyers who choose the Santa Fe Hybrid over the Highlander get an SUV with a striking interior, a small third-row seat, and very good fuel economy, all for thousands of dollars less. The hybrid version combines a smaller turbo-four with electric drive and a conventional six-speed automatic, and it’s a better choice than the standard version. Although it’s not as quick as the nonhybrid, it achieved a commendable 34 mpg overall. Regardless of the powertrain, the handling is responsive, the ride is steady and comfortable, and the cabin is reasonably quiet. The dash features dual 12.3-inch displays: one for the driver’s instrument panel and one for the infotainment system. The cargo area is generous, and the rear hatch opening is wide.
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