Initially, purchasing an SUV meant you would almost probably be purchasing a midsize SUV. Early off-roading vehicle models like the Explorer, Blazer, Grand Cherokee, Pathfinder, and 4Runner are what caused this niche market to evolve into the mainstay of family mobility and to give rise to multiple subsequent segments based on size, capability, performance, and luxury.
1. Nissan Ariya
It was unexpected that Nissan waited so long to release a replacement for the Leaf, the Japanese company’s highly successful EV pioneer. The wait for the all-new Ariya EV was worthwhile. The stylish Nissan has a fantastic appearance that combines coupé refinement with trendy SUV curb appeal. It has elegant interior finishing and ingenious Japanese-inspired details, and the user-friendly technology gives it a cutting-edge appearance. The flagship 302bhp twin-motor e-4ORCE setup supports this with a driving experience that combines unexpected agility with explosive performance. But it also offers the refinement and comfort you’d find in a far more expensive luxury vehicle.
2. Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorento is essentially a two-row midsize SUV with a third row sandwiched in for those who might occasionally require one but not often enough to justify driving a larger, more expensive vehicle like the Kia Telluride. While its smaller size is sure to appeal to individuals who don’t regard bigger as necessarily better, we believe this versatility gives the Sorento an advantage over two-row crossovers like the Honda Passport and Chevy Blazer. The Kia Sorento, on the other hand, is enticing for a plethora of additional reasons. Completely remodeled for 2021, it has updated look that is consistent with the profitable Telluride design while not imitating it. The Sorento offers a wide range of fuel-efficient powertrain options, including the outstanding plug-in hybrid, a powerful turbo upgrade that is more efficient than the V6s of most competitors, and the standard engine’s somewhat paltry 191 horsepower. Sadly, supply problems make the hybrids very difficult to locate.
Kia EV6
For the core EV6 range, two configurations are offered: a 226-horsepower rear-wheel-drive system, or a 321 bhp dual-motor version with all-wheel drive. The 77.4kWh battery pack gives both vehicles a range of more than 300 miles per charge. This indicates that, even if you need to travel farther afield, the EV6 should be fairly simple to live with on a daily basis. This has upgraded 14-speaker Meridian audio system, heated rear seats, tilt/slide sunroof, 20-inch alloy wheels, and head-up display. Kia’s Premium Relaxation Seats are one of the most distinctive features; they automatically recline when the car is charging to give the driver a more comfortable position, and you can even take a sleep if you like.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Considering how most people drive their three-row family haulers, its 243 horsepower puts it on the weaker side for the segment, but we believe the double-digit mpg advantage will more than make up for that. But aside from its fuel efficiency, the recently updated Highlander is attractive in in of itself thanks to an interior that rivals the Palisade, a composed ride and handling, and a generous feature set. The somewhat small third-row seat is the only thing that might cause pause. Toyota claims that its consumers were satisfied with the Highlander’s smaller-than-average size and did not significantly increase it; yet, it cannot be denied that the majority of three-row midsize SUVs are larger. Additionally, it’s the only other three-row, non-luxury SUV that comes in a hybrid version.
Skoda Enyaq iV
The Audi Q4 e-tron and Volkswagen ID.4 use the same MEB chassis as the Czech brand’s first custom electric car, but the Skoda is actually the best model of the lot despite costing thousands less to purchase. It provides more room and variety, as you might anticipate from the brand. The fact that it feels more upscale while also being cozier and more entertaining to drive is more surprising. There are two battery pack options: 58 kWh or 77 kWh, with the latter having a range of up to 335 miles. There is also a twin-motor four-wheel drive option and a stylish vRS Coupé.
Ford Mustang Mach-E
One of the best electric vehicles on the market is also one of the most talked-about new cars. Not “the new Mustang,” this. The Mach-E is something new, not a replacement, that effectively transforms “Mustang” into a Ford sub-brand by developing an electric crossover with aesthetic elements and a driving personality that is performance-oriented and inspired by the gasoline-powered Mustang coupe and convertible. Since it’s a Mustang, it looks better and performs better. Additionally, Ford’s first entirely electric vehicle is adaptable to a variety of needs and tastes thanks to its crossover-like body style, which offers usable backseat and cargo space, its enormous Sync 4A touchscreen, which has impressed our editors with its clean simplicity, and its wide range of drivetrain and battery combinations.
