Ultimate Guide to 2021 Mid-Size SUVs: Top Models for Comfort, Efficiency, and Driving Experience

Explore the top mid-size SUVs of 2021, including the Kia Sorento, Hyundai Palisade, Honda Pilot, and Mazda CX-9. This comprehensive guide highlights their key features, performance, safety, and pricing, helping you find the perfect vehicle for your needs. From spacious interiors to advanced safety tech, discover the best options for comfort, efficiency, and reliability in the competitive SUV market.

Comprehensive Overview of 2021’s Best Mid-Size SUVs for Quality and Value

Every year, automotive manufacturers introduce a range of new and upgraded mid-size SUVs designed to cater to diverse consumer needs. These vehicles are praised for their ability to combine spacious interiors, powerful engines, safety features, and modern technology into versatile packages. With so many options available, choosing the right mid-size SUV that fits your lifestyle, budget, and preferences can be a complex process. To assist potential buyers, this detailed guide explores the top mid-size SUVs of 2021, highlighting their key features, different trim levels, performance specifications, safety systems, and pricing. Understanding these models in depth can help you make informed decisions and find the perfect vehicle that balances comfort, performance, and value.

Let's explore the standout models of 2021 that have gained popularity among consumers and automotive experts alike.

Kia Sorento 2022

The Kia Sorento continues to excel as a leader in the mid-size SUV segment with its impressive blend of interior space, stylish design, and affordability. Its 2022 version maintains its reputation as a versatile family vehicle that offers excellent value for money. When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo capacity reaches approximately 87 cubic feet, making it ideal for carrying larger items or bulkier gear — a feature that surpasses many rivals in this class.

Powered by a responsive 3.8-liter V6 engine, the Sorento offers smooth acceleration and confident handling. The vehicle comes with options for front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, providing flexibility depending on driving needs. The ride quality is enhanced by responsive steering and stable handling, making it comfortable for city commutes and highway trips alike.

Designed to accommodate families or groups, the Sorento offers seating options for seven or eight passengers, depending on the configuration. The interior features modern materials, advanced infotainment technology, and various comfort amenities that make every journey enjoyable. Fuel efficiency is respectable—averaging around 20 miles per gallon in the city and 26 on the highway—making it economical for daily use.

Pricing for the Sorento starts at approximately $35,000 for the base model, with higher trims such as the SX offering more luxury features at around $42,000. This competitive pricing, combined with its superior features, has made the Kia Sorento a popular choice among consumers seeking reliability, style, and affordability in a mid-size SUV.

Hyundai Palisade 2022

The Hyundai Palisade 2022 remains one of the most impressive options for buyers desiring a spacious, safe, and technologically advanced mid-size SUV. Known for its upscale interior, the Palisade combines luxury and practicality seamlessly. It is equipped with a host of safety features such as rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot detection, and integrated turn signals in the side mirrors, ensuring high levels of driver awareness and passenger protection.

Under the hood, the Palisade features a robust 3.8-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth and responsive performance. The vehicle is designed to comfortably seat seven or eight passengers across all trim levels, which include features like trailer wiring and sway control to enhance towing and stability capabilities.

In terms of fuel economy, the Hyundai Palisade averages about 19 miles per gallon in city driving and 26 miles per gallon on highways, making it efficient for its size and powertrain. The second-row seats are adjustable with one-touch mechanisms, allowing easy access to the third row. The interior tech includes an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Bluetooth connectivity, and a remote vehicle app via Hyundai’s Blue Link system for added convenience.

Pricing for the Palisade begins at around $34,000 for the SE trim, with higher-end versions like the Calligraphy reaching approximately $47,000. Its combination of style, safety, and technology has established it as a top contender among mid-size SUVs in 2021.

Honda Pilot 2021

The Honda Pilot is renowned for its reliable performance, spacious interior, and sophisticated design. Its 2021 model features a potent 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission for smooth and efficient driving. The Pilot can comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers with standard or optional captain’s chairs in the second row, providing versatility for larger families or group outings.

Safety features are comprehensive, including lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and collision mitigation systems—all contributing to a secure driving experience. The vehicle's elevated stance provides excellent outward visibility, aided by large windows and thoughtfully designed pillars. Fuel economy is competitive for its class, with front-wheel-drive models averaging about 20 miles per gallon in the city and 27 on highways.

Available in six different trims—LX, EX, Special Edition, Touring, Elite, and Black Edition—the Pilot offers a wide range of features such as paddle shifters, dual-zone climate control, and premium audio options. Starting prices are approximately $33,000 for the base models, with fully loaded versions like the Black Edition exceeding $50,000. The Honda Pilot’s reputation for durability and comfort makes it a top choice for family-oriented buyers seeking reliability and advanced safety features.

Mazda CX-9 2021

Celebrated for its stylish exterior and dynamic handling, the Mazda CX-9 2021 stands out in the mid-size SUV segment with its sleek design and engaging driving experience. It is equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that provides a good balance of power and efficiency. The interior boasts a quiet, spacious cabin that can seat six or seven, with versatile configurations and premium interior materials.

The CX-9 offers features including cloth upholstery, heated seats, and an adjustable driver's seat as standard, with options for leather-appointed interiors and added comfort amenities. With five trims available — Sport starting at $34,000, Touring at $35,000, Carbon Edition at $41,000, Grand Touring at $42,000, and Signature at $46,000 — this SUV provides options for different tastes and budgets. Its superior handling, combined with stylish design and comfort features, makes it a favorite among mid-size SUV enthusiasts who seek style without sacrificing driving enjoyment and practicality.