These Are the Best Midsize SUVs for 2026

Best Luxury Midsize SUV

Our Pick: 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE | Base price: $63,600

Why it won: It’s an understated, highly competent luxury SUV that asks no sacrifice of its driver.

Back in the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s, Mercedes was known for making quietly excellent cars that demand your attention. They were wildly competent and technologically advanced, and if you fast-forward to 2026, you’ll be pleased to know that the current GLE carries that torch. It offers thoughtful design, a high degree of comfort and performance without shouting at passersby. We love it.

Of course, nothing is perfect and the mighty GLE isn’t without its faults. The steering wheel controls, for example, can be a little clumsy to use. The third row of seats is cramped, to say the least. And finally, because it’s German, options are expensive, and the price can quickly spiral into the sub-stratosphere if you’re not careful.