By The best used midsize SUVs are the Toyota Highlander (especially the Hybrid), Honda Pilot, Toyota 4Runner, Mazda CX-9 and Kia Sorento. The Highlander and 4Runner have the strongest long-term reliability records. The Pilot has the most usable third row, and the CX-9 and Sorento give you the most for your money. For most families, a 2017–2019 Highlander Hybrid or a 2016–2020 Mazda CX-9 is the safest bet. Prices vary a lot by mileage, trim and region, so treat the price bands below as starting points.
This guide zooms in on one size class. If you’re still deciding between body styles, start with our broader guide to the best used SUVs, or step back further to the best used cars to buy across every category.
Our quick picks
- Best overall: Toyota Highlander (Hybrid preferred)
- Best for a usable third row: Honda Pilot
- Best for longevity and off-road ability: Toyota 4Runner
- Best driving feel: Mazda CX-9
- Best value: Kia Sorento (2019 and newer)
- Best for bad weather: Subaru Outback or Ascent
- Best modern features for the money: Hyundai Palisade / Kia Telluride (2022 and newer)
How we chose these SUVs
“Midsize” covers a lot of ground in the used market, from two-row crossovers like the Outback to true three-row family haulers. We weighed four things, following the approach described in our review and testing methodology and our editorial policy:
- Reliability evidence. We leaned on Carfax’s analysis of the likelihood of unexpected repairs across 2019–2023 models, along with long-term survival data and model-year problem history.
- Family practicality. That means real third-row space, cargo room and ease of use, not just seat count.
- Ownership costs. We looked at fuel economy, powertrain complexity and known weak points.
- Price and availability. Every model here has a healthy supply on the used market.
Used midsize SUV comparison
| Model | Best years to target | Seating | Standout strength | Watch for | Typical used price* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander | 2014–2019, Hybrid preferred | 7–8 | Reliability, resale value, hybrid economy | Hesitant 8-speed on 2017+ gas models | ~$16K–$28K |
| Honda Pilot | 2016 and newer; 2009–2015 for budgets | 7–8 | Best third row in class | Verify service history and transmission behavior | ~$10K–$20K |
| Toyota 4Runner | Most years since 2010 | 5–7 | Exceptional longevity, body-on-frame | Dated interior, thirsty engine | Varies; holds value |
| Mazda CX-9 | 2016–2020 | 6–7 | Turbo power, upscale feel | Cramped third row | ~$12K–$18K |
| Kia Sorento | 2019 and newer | 5–7 | Value, refined SX trims | Very tight third row | ~$12K–$20K |
| Subaru Outback | 2015 and newer | 5 | Standard AWD, cargo space | CVT on some years | ~$7K–$11K for 2010–2014 |
| Subaru Ascent | 2021 and newer | 7–8 | Safety, weather capability | Early-year issues | Varies |
| Hyundai Palisade / Kia Telluride | 2022–2025 | 7–8 | Features, space, style | Avoid 2020 models | Varies |
Price bands are approximate, drawn from CarGurus listing examples captured in March 2026. Your local market will differ.
Toyota Highlander: the safest all-rounder
Verdict: The best overall used midsize SUV, and the Hybrid is the one to get.
The Highlander has earned its reputation for dependability, strong safety scores and straightforward operation. Every version has a third row and generous cargo space. The Hybrid delivers up to 29 mpg combined, and in the 2014–2019 generation it comes with all-wheel drive as standard.
There is one caveat. For 2017, Toyota introduced a revised V6 paired with an eight-speed automatic, and reviewers noted the transmission could hesitate on downshifts. The Hybrid’s powertrain carried over largely unchanged, so it avoids that problem. Demand keeps Highlander prices a bit higher than rivals, but you get that back at resale.
Honda Pilot: the best third row
Verdict: The pick for families who will actually use all three rows.
The Pilot’s third row is easier to reach than the Highlander’s, and it offers nearly six extra inches of legroom back there. It also beats the Highlander on cargo capacity and has clever storage throughout. Both generations share a 3.5-liter V6 making 250–280 hp. The 2016–2017 models earned stronger crash-test results than earlier ones. On a tighter budget, the older 2009–2015 generation often gets you a lower-mileage example.
Toyota 4Runner: the longevity champion
Verdict: Choose it for durability and capability, not comfort or fuel economy.
Carfax ranks the 4Runner as the most reliable midsize SUV, with a 2.1% average repair likelihood for 2019–2023 models against a segment average of 7.6%. About 81% of those sold since 2006 are still on the road. The trade-offs are a truck-like ride, a dated cabin and thirsty running costs, so it suits buyers who tow, go off-road or keep vehicles for a very long time. If towing is your main priority, it’s also worth comparing it with our list of the most reliable trucks.
Mazda CX-9: the one that’s fun to drive
Verdict: The best driver’s SUV here, if you can live with a small third row.
The 2016–2023 generation is the one to shop. Its turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder makes up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque, and the cabin feels a class above its price. Carfax puts its repair likelihood at 3.2%. The third row is cramped and best kept for young children. Treat the CX-9 as a comfortable five-seater with occasional extra capacity.
Kia Sorento: the value play
Verdict: A smart buy from 2019 onward, especially in SX trim.
Carfax notes that Sorentos from the 2019 refresh onward show notably better reliability than earlier ones, at a 4.1% repair likelihood. CarGurus recommends the 2016–2020 generation and suggests seeking out the turbo four or the 3.3-liter V6 over the base engine. Like the CX-9, its third row is tight, so it works best as a roomy two-row SUV.
Subaru Outback and Ascent: for snow and rough roads
Verdict: Standard AWD and strong safety make both easy to recommend.
The Outback is a two-row midsize wagon-style SUV with standard AWD and excellent cargo space. Carfax reports much lower unexpected-repair rates for 2015 and newer models than for earlier ones. For a third row, the Ascent has improved with every model year, and Carfax notes recent years are as reliable as the Highlander and Pilot. Early Ascents had transmission problems, so lean toward later years.
Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride: modern features, choose the year carefully
Verdict: Excellent SUVs, but skip 2020.
Owner complaints for the 2020 models were far higher than for later years. CarGurus considers 2022–2025 first-generation Palisades the best bet, and says the 2021 Telluride is better than the 2020 but not as trouble-free as 2022 and newer. With both SUVs redesigned for the newest generation, first-generation used examples are the tested choice. Check that any seat-motor recall on Tellurides has been completed.
Also worth a look
- Nissan Murano: Carfax says it has been a stalwart since the 2015 generation, and it’s comfortable, if not exciting to drive.
- Nissan Pathfinder: More rugged and better for towing than most three-row rivals, with above-average reliability overall.
- Buick Enclave: Roomy, with the largest third row on CarGurus’ list, though fuel economy is around 18 mpg combined.
Which used midsize SUV is right for you?
- You need a real third row: Honda Pilot, Highlander or Ascent.
- You mostly carry four or five people: CX-9, Sorento or Outback.
- You want the lowest fuel bills: Highlander Hybrid.
- You want it to last a decade or more: Toyota 4Runner or Highlander.
- You drive in snow: Outback, Ascent or an AWD Highlander.
- You want the most features per dollar: 2022+ Palisade or Telluride.
Frequently asked questions
Which used midsize SUVs are most reliable?
By Carfax’s repair-likelihood data, the Toyota 4Runner leads, followed by the Nissan Murano and Mazda CX-9. The Highlander and Pilot also have long track records.
Which have the lowest ownership costs?
The Highlander Hybrid combines strong fuel economy with a durable powertrain, and the 4Runner tends to need few unscheduled repairs. Compare insurance, fuel and repair quotes for the exact year you’re considering, since these vary by region.
Is a used three-row SUV worth it?
Yes, if you check the year carefully. The Pilot, Highlander and Ascent offer a usable third row. Sorento and CX-9 third rows are better for small children.
How much does a used midsize SUV cost?
CarGurus puts the average used midsize SUV listing at around $37,000, across a very broad range. Older Outbacks and Pilots can be found near $10,000, while newer Highlanders and Lexus-level SUVs run far higher.
What to check before you buy
- Pull a vehicle history report and confirm consistent service records.
- Check for open recalls on the manufacturer’s site or NHTSA.
- Test-drive for transmission behavior, including hesitation and rough shifts.
- Confirm the third row and rear-seat folding actually suit your family.
- Get a pre-purchase inspection from an independent mechanic.
Bottom line
For most families, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is the safest all-round choice. Pick the Honda Pilot if third-row space matters, the Mazda CX-9 if you like driving, and the Kia Sorento if value is the priority. To keep narrowing your options, head back to our guide to the best used SUVs.
