As tradition dictates, the Car Guide annually publishes its Best Buys list across all vehicle categories.
As part of this exercise, we’ve split midsize SUVs into two distinct categories: two- and three-row models. The models in question here are those with three rows of seats.
The Kia Telluride stands out
As in 2021, it is the Kia Telluride which occupies the first position. With it, the manufacturer immediately placed itself at the top of the category and never left it.
Thanks to good interior space, generous equipment considering the price paid and road holding to match, the Telluride combines the qualities. Not to mention its 291 horsepower V6 engine, powerful and voluntary, which is much smoother than some 4-cylinder turbo used by some competitors.
Photo: Kia
The finalists
The Hyundai Palisade again takes second place on the podium. Sharing a large number of components with the Telluride, including the chassis and the engine, the big SUV signed Hyundai owes its second place due to a slightly less dynamic handling than that of the Kia. The team of Car Guide also found its cabin a little too flashy. Objectively, the two vehicles are very close, and if you like the interior design of the Palisade, you won’t make a bad choice.
Photo: Michel Deslauriers
Finally, the third place goes to the Honda Pilot, which hasn’t evolved for several years, but which goes through the years brilliantly. Its first strong point is obviously its spacious and practical interior, which is important for families shopping for this type of vehicle. Its handling is always satisfactory, as is the V6 engine, whose liveliness at high revs guarantees very good performance.
Photo: Honda Canada Inc.
However, it must be recognized that the technological integration and the quality of the materials do not equal what more recent competitors offer. But if that doesn’t bother you too much, the Pilot remains a sensible choice in this hotly contested class.