Edmunds Ranks Top 5 Midsize Two-Row SUVs for 2026
Edmunds has identified the top midsize two-row SUVs, evaluating factors like space, utility, value, and safety for the 2026 model year.
For drivers seeking more space than a compact SUV but less bulk than a three-row model, midsize two-row SUVs offer a compelling balance of roominess, utility, and affordability. Edmunds has tested and ranked the top five contenders for the 2026 model year, considering a blend of performance, comfort, and safety.
Subaru Outback
Redesigned for 2026, the Subaru Outback features a more rugged, boxy exterior that enhances its signature utility. It is the only vehicle on the list with a starting price under $40,000, making it a budget-friendly option. While the standard engine is modest, an available turbocharged engine provides more power. The Outback boasts impressive safety ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), and offers a comfortable interior with modern technology. Its off-road capability is sufficient for moderately challenging terrain. The 2026 Outback starts at $36,445.
Honda Passport
The 2026 Honda Passport receives a redesign aimed at a more rugged appearance and upgraded technology, while maintaining its generous passenger and cargo space. Built on the same platform as the three-row Honda Pilot, the Passport is among the most spacious midsize two-row SUVs available. It comes standard with a V6 engine and all-wheel drive, though fuel economy is noted as a drawback. The SUV offers significant utility, a 5,000-pound towing capacity, and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation. The 2026 Passport has a starting price of $46,445.
Mazda CX-70
Positioned as a sporty option, the Mazda CX-70 prioritizes on-road driving dynamics over off-road prowess. It comes standard with a potent turbocharged six-cylinder engine and exhibits stable, precise handling. The CX-70's interior design leans towards entry-luxury, featuring upscale materials. An available plug-in hybrid powertrain offers improved fuel efficiency. However, potential buyers should note a firm ride, firm seats, limited in-cabin storage, and a potentially distracting infotainment system. The CX-70 also received an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating. Pricing for the 2026 CX-70 begins at $44,395, with the hybrid version starting at $46,095.
Toyota Crown Signia
For those prioritizing fuel efficiency, the Toyota Crown Signia is the standout choice, equipped exclusively with a hybrid powertrain that achieves an EPA-estimated 38 mpg combined. It presents a more sophisticated, wagon-inspired design with an upscale interior, diverging from a rugged aesthetic. Front seats are comfortable, and the rear seats are accommodating, though not as spacious as some rivals. Downsides include limited cargo space and noticeable road and engine noise. It offers a more refined option for Toyota loyalists seeking an alternative to smaller models. The 2026 Crown Signia starts at $46,285.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep has updated the Grand Cherokee for 2026, introducing a powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine as standard equipment and discontinuing previous V6 and plug-in hybrid options. This new engine enables a maximum towing capacity of 6,200 pounds, the highest in its class. The Grand Cherokee offers a variety of trims, including off-road-focused and luxury-oriented versions with advanced features like multiple dashboard screens and an available hands-free driving assist system. Despite its capabilities, the Grand Cherokee's ride comfort is noted as less plush than expected for its price point, and Edmunds has reported instances of glitchy technology. The 2026 Grand Cherokee has a starting price of $40,915.
These top-rated midsize two-row SUVs cater to diverse driver preferences, whether the priority is off-road capability, fuel economy, robust towing power, or advanced safety features.