Best Midsize Luxury SUV: As automakers roll out their 2025 lineups, the midsize luxury SUV segment continues to heat up with fresh designs, advanced tech, and refined performance that cater to drivers seeking a blend of comfort and capability. Industry experts have zeroed in on the Genesis GV80 as the standout choice this year, earning top honors across multiple evaluations for its updated styling, spacious interior, and value-packed features.
The South Korean brand’s GV80, which underwent a mid-cycle refresh for 2025, impressed testers with its smooth ride and upscale cabin materials. Starting at around $58,000, it offers a turbocharged V6 engine delivering 375 horsepower, paired with all-wheel drive and an estimated 19-21 miles per gallon combined. Reviewers praised its quiet highway manners and intuitive infotainment system, making it a strong contender for families or long-distance commuters. “The 2025 Genesis GV80 gets new styling and better features as part of a mid-cycle refresh that sweetens this already lavish mid-size luxury SUV,” noted one analysis.
Close behind, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class secured high marks for its versatile powertrains and plush ride quality. Priced from about $63,000, the GLE provides options ranging from a mild-hybrid inline-six to a plug-in hybrid variant, with fuel economy up to 23 mpg combined in some configurations. Its adaptive air suspension and optional third-row seating add flexibility, though some controls drew criticism for being less user-friendly. This model has long been a benchmark in the category, and its 2025 updates keep it competitive among European rivals.
BMW’s X5, entering its 2026 model year with carryover refinements, remains a favorite for those prioritizing driving dynamics. The X5 lineup includes gas, diesel, and plug-in hybrid versions, with the base model starting under $66,000 and achieving up to 25 mpg combined. Its sharp handling and responsive steering shine on winding roads, while the interior boasts high-quality leather and a curved digital display. “Overall the X5 is one of the most appealing midsize luxury SUVs on the market,” according to recent assessments.
Porsche’s Cayenne, both in standard and hybrid forms, continues to appeal to enthusiasts with its sports-car-like agility. The 2025 Cayenne starts at $80,000 and packs a twin-turbo V8 option pushing 468 horsepower, alongside a turbo-four hybrid that sips fuel at 20 mpg combined. Its precise chassis tuning and optional torque-vectoring differential make it feel planted in corners, though cargo space trails some peers. The hybrid variant adds efficiency without sacrificing much thrill, broadening its draw for eco-conscious buyers.
Volvo’s XC90, refreshed for 2025, emphasizes safety and Scandinavian minimalism. From $57,000, it features a plug-in hybrid powertrain with 455 horsepower and up to 32 miles of electric-only range. Standard driver-assist tech, including automatic emergency braking, underscores its family-friendly profile, with seven seats and a serene cabin. Fuel efficiency hits 27 mpg combined in hybrid mode, positioning it well for urban and suburban use.
Audi’s Q7 rounds out the top tier with its seven-passenger layout and Quattro all-wheel drive. Starting at $60,000, the 2025 model offers a supercharged V6 with 335 horsepower and 21 mpg combined. Its virtual cockpit and massaging seats enhance long-trip comfort, while updated mild-hybrid tech improves smoothness. The Q7’s balanced ride appeals to those needing versatility without excess flash.
Other notables include the Lincoln Aviator, which blends American muscle with luxury at $54,000, featuring a twin-turbo V6 and 20 mpg combined. The Acura MDX, from $52,000, delivers Honda reliability in a premium package with 21 mpg and standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive. BMW’s X6 adds a coupe-like roofline for style, while the Cadillac Lyriq brings electric power with 300 miles of range starting at $59,000.
Safety remains a priority across the board, with many models earning top marks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The 2025 Audi Q5, a slightly smaller sibling, received a Top Safety Pick+ for its crash avoidance features, and similar tech carries over to larger entries like the Lincoln Nautilus and Mercedes-Benz GLC.
These vehicles reflect broader trends in the midsize luxury SUV market, where buyers weigh electrification, connectivity, and all-weather capability. With inventory stabilizing post-supply chain issues, dealers report steady demand as consumers upgrade from aging crossovers. As 2025 progresses, expect more hybrid and electric options to challenge gas-only leaders, keeping the competition fierce.
For those shopping, test drives are key to matching features to needs, whether it’s the GV80’s value or the Cayenne’s performance edge. The segment’s evolution underscores how luxury has become more accessible, without skimping on refinement.