Buying a midsize SUV in 2022 can be challenging. Between inventory shortages, price gauging, and the many excellent selections, finding the perfect model is nearly impossible. In the second quarter of 2022, the best-selling midsize SUV was the 2022 Ford Explorer. However, it isn’t considered to be one of the best models available. The experts at Consumer Reports don’t even recommend buying the best-selling midsize SUV of Q2 2022.

The best-selling midsize SUV of Q2 2022

The 2022 Ford Explorer is the best-selling midsize SUV of Q2 2022. According to GoodCarBadCar, the model sold 60,181 units, which is surprisingly more than it did in Q2 2021. In addition, it’s more than many other very popular SUVs. For example, the Jeep Wrangler, Toyota Highlander, and Subaru Outback all sold fewer models. In the last month of Q2, Ford sold 19,786 Explorers, which is far higher than the same month last year. In 2021, only 9,445 Explorers were sold, which makes 2022 a 109.49% increase.

Year to date last year, however, the Explorer sold a bit better. Most of which is due to struggling earlier in the calendar year. Thanks to a slow start to 2022, Ford’s midsize SUV is a little behind its sales from 2021. However, it obviously made up for it in the second quarter, becoming the best-selling model. Why are so many people buying a model that Consumer Reports doesn’t recommend?

Consumer Reports doesn’t recommend the 2022 Ford Explorer

According to Consumer Reports, the 2022 Ford Explorer isn’t worth buying. Starting with a poor predicted reliability rating, CR expects the Explorer to be less reliable than the average vehicle. Historically, owners have experienced many issues, mechanical and otherwise, with the midsize SUV. For example, transmission, climate system, suspension, paint, body, power equipment, electronics, and more have all been problematic.

Furthermore, the publication also doesn’t like the Explorer’s ride quality. CR says it “transmits frequent jiggles into the cabin” and that the ride is less comfortable than many rivals. Next, it notes that low-speed shifting is rough, and the engine makes a raspy sound during acceleration. Finally, Consumer Reports pointed out that the price is a bit steep for the equipment. Starting over $35,000 makes it much more expensive than models like the CR-top-ranked Telluride, which begins at just over $33,000.

CR’s best midsize SUV isn’t selling half as well

In addition to the best-selling model not being recommended, Consumer Reports’ best overall three-row midsize SUV does not sell half as well. GCBC has the 2022 Kia Telluride listed as the 11th best-selling model of Q2 2022. With only 24,817 units out the door, CR’s favorite SUV sold fewer than half of the not-recommended Explorer.

CR gave the Telluride one of the best possible scores overall. By looking at the review, you’d think the Kia three-row midsize model was nearly a perfect SUV. Predicted reliability, owner satisfaction, and even road test scores are phenomenal. Overall, it excels in every area the Explorer falls short. More specifically, ride quality, quietness, powertrain, interior space, and value are highlights.

The best-selling midsize SUV of Q2 2022 is not recommended

In conclusion, the 2022 Ford Explorer is the best-selling midsize SUV of Q2 2022. Moreover, the experts at Consumer Reports do not recommend buying it. Unfortunately, it lacks in a few areas that its competitors are well-rounded. One of those ways is the price, which is a bit too steep for the equipment provided. We wouldn’t be surprised to see the Explorer fall from the top spot for Q3, although nothing is certain.