Best of
Best medium SUVs 2026
Practical, fashionable and stylish, SUVs are the modern family car of choice – here are our favourite mid-size models


Words by: Erin Baker

Additional words by: Eleanor Greaves
Last updated on 28 August 2026 | 0 min read
Kia Sportage
It’s no surprise to find the Kia Sportage on this list as it’s a consistent best-seller for the brand. The latest version has a new look and healthy dollop tech to help it keep up with the competition. Unlike many Chinese rivals like the Jaecoo 7, the Sportage has a more user-friendly infotainment system which should be easier to live with. Its blend of style, practicality and Kia’s seven-year warranty make it a consistent family favourite. Plus, the option of petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid means there’s a Sportage to suite everyone. Browse new and used Kia Sportage on Autotrader.

Audi Q5
The Audi Q5 is a great option if you’re looking for a more premium medium SUV. It’s a good all-rounder which is enjoyable to drive and running costs are surprisingly reasonable. There’s a very decent-sized boot for its shape so suitable for the full food shop or weekend football kits! If the 2.0-litre petrol engine is not for you, there’s also a diesel option, a plug-in hybrid or the seriously powerful SQ5. Read more about the Audi Q5 on Autotrader.

Renault Scenic E-Tech
The Renault Scenic has plenty of SUV inspired styling, with a spacious cabin and lots of practical features that make it an excellent family car. It’s fully electric, with a choice of 60kWh or 87kWh batteries, the latter offering almost 400 miles off a single charge – plenty for those weekend trips! Theres also a clever Solarbay panoramic sunroof which can go from clear to opaque at the touch of a button something you’d expect with a high-end brand, while the built-in tablet bracket on the rear cupholders are perfect to keep the kids entertained. Browse new and used Renault Scenic E-Tech on Autotrader.

Volvo EX60
The Volvo EX60 is a great option if you’re looking for a medium sized SUV that feels a bit special inside. With a lovely leather and wool interiors, open-grain woods and plenty of light and space. Volvo’s exemplary safety record is also a huge plus and makes the EX60 a great choice for families, plus it will do up to 500 miles on a single charge! And if you’re not ready to go fully electric, the XC60 is an equally good alternative. Browse new and used Volvo EX60s on Autotrader.

Geely Starray
The Geely Starray ‘Super’ hybrid is a great option if you want to make the switch to an electrified SUV without going fully electric. It has an impressive 84 miles of electric range with a quiet and smooth driving experience. Geely also offers an eight-year warranty, giving you some extra peace of mind. Browse new and used Geely Starray on Autotrader.

Dacia Bigster
With the Dacia Bigster, you get a lot of value for money with an affordable list price and low running costs making it a perfect option if you are aiming to keep costs down. Theres also lots of space inside, including plenty of room for passengers in the back and a large boot. Whilst it might not be the fanciest SUV out there, it’s a spacious and practical car which doesn’t come with a big price tag. Browse new and used Dacia Bigster on Autotrader.

Toyota C-HR+
The Toyota C-HR+ slots nicely between the smaller Urban Cruiser and the larger bZ4X. It’s quiet and comfortable on the road, with plenty of room for passengers and a decent boot. The long-range version can deliver up to 378 miles of range and it takes less than 30 minutes to charge to 80% at the fastest rate. This makes it a good all-rounder and Toyota’s reputation for reliability and offer of up to 10 –years of warranty gives you that extra reassurance. Browse new and used Toyota C-HR+ on Autotrader.

Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y has set the standard for electric SUVs, with its roomy interior, low running costs and great in-car tech. Owners highly rated its ease of use which is why they awarded it Best Car for Families 2026 at Autotrader’s Drivers’ Choice Awards. It also received an award for the Best Car for Dog Owners 2026 for its large boot, low loading tailgate and of course its famous ‘dog mode’. The Tesla Model Y is a great all-rounder and thanks to the Supercharger network, it remains one of the easiest EV’s to live with. Browse new and used Tesla Model Y on Autotrader.
