How could not a single Kia appear on a list of the five best midsize SUVs? That might sound odd to some and perfectly acceptable to others. The Kia Telluride and Sorento have earned numerous accolades. Still, neither shows up on one respected source’s list of the best midsize SUVs of 2023.

What is J.D. Power’s best midsize SUV of 2023?

J.D. Power recently released its list of the best midsize SUVs of 2023, and you won’t find a single Kia SUV near the top five.

For the 2023 model year, the market research firm’s roundup of the top midsize SUVs is as follows:

• Nissan Murano
• Chevy Blazer
• Honda Passport
• Toyota Venza (tied for fourth with the Passport)
• Hyundai Santa Fe
• Subaru Outback (tied for fifth with the Santa Fe)
• Ford Edge

J.D. Power lists the Jeep Grand Cherokee L but hasn’t rated it yet because it’s a new model. As you can see, not a single Kia SUV appears on this list.

Do other experts agree with overlooking 2 midsize Kia SUVs?

Turning to another expert opinion, we look at how Car and Driver reviewers feel about the Kia Telluride and Kia Sorento. Incidentally, the Telluride made C/D’s 10Best list, which should tell you this SUV ranks near the top.

Car and Driver’s list of the best midsize SUVs is as follows:

• Kia Telluride
• Ford Bronco
• Hyundai Palisade
• Jeep Grand Cherokee L
• Jeep Grand Cherokee
• Ford Bronco Raptor
• Kia Sorento
• Mazda CX-9
• Honda Passport
• Hyundai Santa Fe

As you can see, the Kia Telluride and Sorento appear.

Let’s consider another expert opinion regarding the midsize SUV class

Another trusted source is Kelley Blue Book. Dealers and consumers turn to KBB to learn about expected vehicle value and ratings.

KBB lists the best midsize SUVs of 2023 as follows:

• Kia Telluride
• Hyundai Santa Fe
• Kia Sorento
• Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
• Kia Sorento Hybrid
• Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV
• Kia Sorento PHEV
• Subaru Outback
• Hyundai Palisade
• Ford Mustang Mach-E

Strangely, the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, which share a platform and powertrain, are on opposite ends of this top 10. However, four Kia models make this list.

What midsize SUV has the fewest problems?

Some SUVs are more reliable than others. Those on the higher end of the reliability rankings have fewer problems and a more satisfying driving experience. For a list of the most reliable midsize SUVs, we turn to U.S. News & World Report. Its top 14 midsize SUVs for predicted reliability are the following:

• Nissan Murano
• Chevy Blazer
• Kia Telluride
• Jeep Grand Cherokee
• Toyota Highlander
• Chevy Traverse
• Toyota 4Runner
• Ford Explorer
• Dodge Durango
• Subaru Ascent
• Hyundai Santa Fe
• Honda Passport
• Mazda CX-9
• Hyundai Palisade

U.S. News says its predicted reliability rating is a projection of how dependable a car might be over time. It derives data from a model or brand’s historical trends in J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study ratings and Vehicle Dependability Study ratings.

What do these lists tell us about the best midsize SUVs?

With four lists showing Kia SUVs in different positions or omitting them, we can gather that each expert uses varying criteria to rate vehicles. Therefore, we advise consumers to gather information from several sources before choosing which midsize SUV to drive.

Should you ignore the J.D. Power list for excluding the Kia midsize SUVs?

On the one hand, J.D. Power is a respected automotive rating organization. Its awards are featured in car commercials as a sign of excellence. On the other hand, Car and Driver and Kelley Blue Book have the Kia Sorento and Kia Telluride listed among the top midsize SUVs.

So, should you dismiss the J.D. Power list for excluding the two Kia midsize SUVs? Although no rating system is the definitive source, J.D. Power is trustworthy. Still, consult numerous reputable authorities when car shopping.