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What qualities make the best midsize luxury SUV? Are you looking for three rows of seats, ample cargo room, upscale materials, a smooth ride, or top-level performance? Luxury SUVs are generally more expensive than mainstream models, which should bring features and qualities befitting the higher price tag. Let’s see what makes some of these midsize luxury SUVs the best for some drivers.

What should we expect when shopping for the best midsize luxury SUV?

At the very least, the luxury SUV chosen should have five seats, good cargo space, a smooth driving experience, and some high-end tech features. If the vehicle includes a third row, AWD, decent tow rating, or off-road qualities, those are bonuses. Here are the things CarFax likes about several luxury midsize SUVs to give you a better idea of the diversity in this class.

2023 Genesis GV80

Silver 2023 Genesis GV80 luxury SUV - This might be the best midsize luxury SUV offered
2023 Genesis GV80 | Genesis

The GV80 is a midsize luxury SUV with an affordable price, an optional third row of seats, and a full package of Genesis features. This SUV rides smoothly on the road, includes horizontal lights and a large front grille to give it a premium look, and it’s filled with excellent safety features.

Pros: Price, large cargo area, 300 horsepower, great safety scores

Cons: Finicky infotainment system

Base price: $55,800

The Genesis GV80 could be the best midsize luxury SUV for many drivers. It achieves the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating and has an optional V6 engine that delivers up to 375 horsepower.

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE Class

Blue 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE Class SUV
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE Class | Mercedes-Benz

How can you go wrong with a Mercedes-Benz SUV? This brand name has stood near the top of the luxury vehicle market for decades. The GLE comes in a regular body style or sporty coupe-style SUV.

Pros: Excellent crash-test scores, tons of performance and luxury features, 7,700-pound tow rating

Cons: Coupe model has less interior space and a higher price

Base Price: $57,700

When you want one of the most opulent midsize luxury SUVs offered, the Mercedes-Benz GLE Class has what you’re after. This SUV must include the 362-horsepower V6 engine to enjoy the high tow rating.

2023 Volvo XC90

Gray 2023 Volvo XC90 Luxury SUV Parked - This could be the best midsize luxury SUV you find; it checks off a lot of boxes for you
2023 Volvo XC90 | Volvo

Unlike the GV80 and GLE Class, the XC90 has a standard third-row seat. This means more versatility in the rear for carrying passengers and cargo. This Volvo SUV is one of the most advanced models in the class, with impressive engine technology and impressive safety features.

Pros: 85.7 cu-ft cargo area is the largest in the class, impressive crash-test scores, good fuel mileage, PHEV option

Cons: Not much

Base Price: $56,000

The 2023 Volvo XC90 might be the best midsize luxury SUV. This vehicle carries the Volvo reputation for safety with tons of safety tech and an impressive cabin designed to protect passengers. In addition to excellent fuel mileage, you’ll find 400 horsepower from the PHEV powertrain, giving you the best of both worlds. With three rows of seats, you’ve got room for a couple of extra passengers.

Which midsize luxury SUV is the best one for you?

These three examples offer different translations of what a midsize luxury SUV should be. Which one will you choose? If you’re still stuck, the video below offers a few more suggestions, enjoy.

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