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Safety is one of the top concerns for people buying a new SUV. This is especially true for those who count on their vehicles to carry around a decent amount of people. Luckily, most of the most popular options excel in this category of automotive design. Here are thee contenders for the best midsize SUV with super-high safety ratings.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander is a contender for best midsize SUV

2023 Toyota Highlander, one of the best midsize SUVs
2023 Toyota Highlander | Toyota

The 2023 Toyota Highlander is one of the best midsize SUVs on the market. It has this distinction for many reasons. However, one of the most important is its safety rating. The 2023 Toyota Highlander has a five out of five-star ranking and is also a Top Safety Plus Pick from the NHTSA. This status means drivers and passengers can count on it for added protection in the unfortunate event of a crash. The vehicle also has top-of-the-line safety features. 

In addition to being ultra-safe, the 2023 Highlander delivers stellar performance. According to Edmunds, it has a standard turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four with a maximum output of 265 horsepower. Its torque is rated for 310 lb-ft, and its front-wheel drive. The Highlander accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7.5 seconds. This midsize SUV is also reliable, with an 81 out of 100 predicted reliability rating from J.D. Power. 

2023 Mazda CX-9 is a safe vehicle

2023 Mazda CX-9 | Mazda

The 2023 Mazda CX-9 could be considered the best midsize SUV with a super high safety rating. The Mazda SUV has a five out of five-star rating from the NHTSA, and it’s a Top Safety Pick. Though not as safe as the 2023 Toyota Highlander, drivers can depend on the CX-9 in the unfortunate event of a crash. Additionally, the vehicle is reliable, meaning it will function well for years to come.

Regarding performance, the 2023 Mazda CX-9 is pretty solid. It comes standard with a 227 hp turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four engine. It’s all-wheel drive and uses a six-speed automatic transmission. In terms of speed, the vehicle accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in nine seconds. One of its highlights is its advanced interior with its 10.3-inch touchscreen display.

2023 Ford Edge will keep you safe and sound

2023 Ford Edge in red
2023 Ford Edge | Ford

The 2023 Ford Edge is another contender for best midsize SUV for safety. It’s not the most talked about option, but it will protect drivers and passengers. Not only does it have a five out of five-star rating from the NHTSA, but it was a Top Safety Pick for 2022. Additionally, Consumer Reports believes it will be more reliable than the average new vehicle. These facts alone make it an excellent midsize SUV that is often overlooked.

The 2023 Ford Edge also delivers solid performance. It has a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with a maximum output of 250 horsepower and a torque of 280 lb-ft. This Ford SUV is all-wheel drive and uses an eight-speed automatic transmission. It accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7.4 seconds, which is a pretty awesome acceleration time for a midsize SUV.

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