The Best Midsize SUVs in 2024
The team at The Car Guide has analyzed all the various midsize SUVs available in Canada and identified the best buys for 2024.
As you know, midsize SUVs come in two different packages—those offering just two rows of seats and those with three. In the former category, our top three picks are unchanged from a year ago.
1. Subaru Outback
Our reigning No. 1 midsize SUV is debatable for some. Isn’t it more of a wagon? Well, it’s no ordinary wagon, that much is certain. Call it a crossover if you prefer.
Refreshed for 2023, the Outback comes standard with a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine that performs decently. The available turbocharged 2.4-litre engine delivers much stronger acceleration and passing manoeuvres, though it burns more fuel in the process. Incidentally, there is still no hybrid variant in the lineup.
Blessed with an excellent AWD system, the Outback makes a mockery of tough winter conditions. Even eight inches of snow are no problem. Meanwhile, the ride proves comfortable without sacrificing handling, a combination that many drivers will appreciate. The more adventurous Outback Wilderness, which gets subtle tweaks for 2024, will take you farther off-road.
As mentioned earlier, the biggest complaint about Subaru’s high-riding wagon/crossover/SUV is arguably the lack of a fuel-saving electrified powertrain. New competitors might take advantage of that and grab our Best Buy award in the coming years.
2. Honda Passport
The Passport may look and feel familiar to Honda fans. That’s because it’s essentially a two-row version of the Pilot. The engine is the same, namely a 3.5-litre V6 that proves lively under acceleration but is clearly not the most fuel-efficient around.
Similar to the Outback Wilderness, the Passport comes in a more rugged and more capable model called TrailSport. The latter has been revised for 2024 (suspension, tires, wider tracks) in order to make it a more solid off-roader.
The interior is spacious and practical while offering superb visibility. Cargo room is another highlight of the Passport. On the other hand, the design is getting old and uninspiring. What’s more, prices are high and not that far from those of the more modern, seven-passenger Pilot.
3. Toyota Venza
The Venza is clearly more urban-oriented than the aforementioned SUVs. There is no adventure-ready model in the lineup and no plastic body cladding, just an elegant albeit conservative crossover that prioritizes comfort and space. Handling is nothing to write your mother about.
The main thing we like about the Venza is the standard hybrid powertrain that can save you a ton of gas. Natural Resources Canada officially rates it at a combined 6.1 L/100 km, which is seriously impressive considering its size. With 219 horsepower on tap, performance is not too shabby, either, especially with the low-end torque supplied by the electric motor.
While smooth and frugal, the Venza suffers from limited visibility and boasts less cargo room than even some compact SUVs. Also, towing is not recommended. For some, that could be a deal breaker.