The mid-size SUV with 3rd row seating and the ability to carry seven passengers provides that extra space for accommodating the additional passengers, but it also allows you to carry musical instruments, soccer gear or your favorite pets. These third row seats are normally the fold-down car seats and are certainly not as comfortable as those in the second row.

If you find that the compact SUV is just too small for your needs and the full-size SUV is too large, you should consider a midsize SUV with 3rd row of seating. Apart from providing better fuel mileage, they are easier to park, are equipped with lots of features and amenities and you can select from a range of different makes and models available in the auto market. There are several choices for perceptive car buyers. Among other things, the style counts as well as reliability and safety of the vehicle. There are some luxury vehicles available in this segment as well.

However, the best mid-size SUV with 3rd row seating are few and far between. It is also a fact that in the case of midsize SUVs, the passengers seated on the third row will find their accommodation to be cramped with the feeling of being away in the back. This seating is suitable for kids really. However, if you consider the overall performance, style and comfort, you can get some things you expected out of luxury SUVs. Some of the choices available for midsize SUV with 3rd row seating include the BMW X5, Lincoln MKT, Mercedes-Benz R-Class, Acura MDX and the Land Rover LR4.

Land Rover LR4

The 2012 model of the Land Rover LR4 is one of the most capable off- road luxury mid-size SUVs available in the market. However, the car buyers looking for high fuel efficiency and a low price need to look for another vehicle. In fact, this mid-size SUV with 3rd row of seating is capable of things the pickup trucks and larger SUVs are not. The LR4 is quite comfortable in snow, muddy waters and sand. The vehicle also comes with luxurious interiors and comfortable seating for seven passengers, because of the third row of seating.

There are some negatives as well. The truck based frame of the LR4 that makes it good for climbing mountains places restrictions on the vehicle when running on paved roads. It does not provide a great fuel mileage either. Land Rover became famous all over the world for its burly go-anywhere vehicles. In the US, these off- road luxurious monsters are used for trips to the mall in snowy conditions. However, if you have the budget to buy the $49,000 vehicle, you can rest assured that it will perform all its duties well. The interiors of the LR4 are quite comfortable and the third row of seating is capable of accommodating adult size passengers. The Land Rover mid-size SUV is available in three models.

The buyers that can afford to purchase a mid-size luxury SUV are unlikely to be worried about the fuel that their new vehicle will consume. However, if the fuel mileage is an issue, there are a few options available within this segment. With the Lexus RX hybrid, you get one of the most efficient vehicles available in the division or also available is the Porsche Cayenne Hybrid, which comes with the legendary Porsche performance even while lowering your carbon footprint. The Lexus is a relatively sedate vehicle. At the same time as you are riding in this luxury midsize SUV, you will also end up saving some fuel. This saving can be augmented further by opting for a diesel engine vehicle. The Audi Q7 has an optional diesel engine, which provides a fuel mileage of 25 mpg on the highway. There are some luxury midsize SUVs which are capable of seating seven passengers. The Acura MDX, for example, comes with a third row of seating ideal for children. However, if you need to seat adults on the third row of seats, you should consider the larger SUVs such as the Land Rover LR4. It has back seats that are also comfortable for adults.

The features available in a mid-size luxury SUV segment are similar to the ones found on smaller luxury versions. You can expect your SUV to have a navigation system, leather seats, Bluetooth and sunroof. The VW Touareg comes with a list of extraordinary standard features including: an automatic dual-zone climate control, a satellite radio, navigator system, Bluetooth, trip computer and leather seats. Apart from these, the car has many interior storage places, making it an excellent family car. However, it does not have, unfortunately, the optional third row of seating.

Porsche Cayenne

The Cayenne is a midsize luxury SUV from Porsche and is intended for people who would rather be driving sports cars. This vehicle is a powerful and luxurious alternative to the ho-hum SUVs or minivans from the midsize luxury segment. Now you can also obtain hybrid models for drivers who are concerned about the environment or fuel mileage. It is almost too good to be true. However, it comes with a stiff sticker price at around $46,000 for the base model. Of course, for this expenditure you get the genuine performance expected from a Porsche car. The midsize luxury SUV comes in several versions and the AWD is standard in all of them. The diesel model is not available in US.

Honda Crosstour

The Crosstour is one of the affordable midsize SUVs available on the market. It is an attempt from Honda to mix the best of an SUV with the best from a sedan into one wagon. This affordable, mid-size SUV only succeeds partially in the attempt. The Crosstour comes with a good engine and a smooth drive but the overall performance leaves you feeling disappointed. There is a lot of room for passengers but the luggage area is small and one usually buys a wagon specifically for the cargo space. This and the expensive price tag are the two main problems with the car. The Crosstour is also marketed as a genre-bending vehicle that enhances the cargo versatility with an AWD and brings this to the famous Honda Accord platform. The sedan characteristics picked from the Accord such as excellent passenger accommodation and a balanced performance remain intact with the Crosstour. Therefore, the Crosstour will suit people who give more importance to the seating capability than the luggage carrying capacity.

You can get some higher end models of the Crosstour, and some of them are equipped with AWD. The Crosstour has a standard V6 engine. The year 2012 will see the name of the vehicle change from Honda Accord Crosstour to Honda Crosstour. You will also get a USB port and Bluetooth as standard equipment. The Crosstour also comes with excellent safety features. The basic model of the vehicle retails for about $30,000 and it obtains fuel mileage of 18 mpg in cities and 27 mpg in cities.

Subaru Tribeca

The Tribeca from Subaru is one of the affordable midsize SUVs. The main advantage of having a Tribeca is that it can seat up to seven passengers and comes with standard AWD. However; most reviewers are of the opinion that it is expensive. It is a decent vehicle but in this market, “decent” is probably not enough. The Tribeca comes with standard AWD, which is rather unusual in this segment but remember that AWD has negative impact on any vehicle’s fuel mileage. There are three versions available with the Tribeca and they are subdivided into various packages and extra features. The basic model comes with a respectable quantity of equipment but you need to add many standard features as optional packages. This increases the price further, which is already too high. All the Tribeca models come with a 3.6-lit 6-cylnider engine, AWD and seating capacity for seven. The basic model is available with price tag of around $30,000.

You need to keep the budget in mind before you start comparing the different models of sedans. You can get these sedans in a wide range of pricing options and as a result, it is easy to get carried away and overspend. Generally, the prices range from $18,000 to $80,000. The expensive midsize sedans come with several luxury features and as a result, cost more. Be sure to make a note of the fuel efficiency and engine size of the vehicles that you are comparing. Engines are available in 4 to 12 cylinder alternatives and you will find that the hybrid vehicles offer the best gas mileage.

Always select the mid-size sedans that come with quality safety features, especially if you are going to take your family around in the new car. Some of the important ones include: side curtain bags; stability control and ABS brakes. Always choose a vehicle that offers features that are important to your requirements. Nowadays many vehicles come with heated seating, seat adjustments, navigation system and automatic climate control. Understand the difference between automatic and manual transmission for the midsize sedan. Automatic transmission is normally simpler to control, and the vehicles with manual transmission provide better fuel mileage.

Suzuki Kizashi

The Kizashi is one of the affordable mid-size sedans and comes with AWD and lively handling. Due to this, the Kizashi is fun to drive and a popular choice in the affordable mid-size cars segment. If you are especially keen on getting a car with excellent handling, Kizashi is the choice for you. It is particularly enjoyable on twisty and hilly roads. The underpowered 4-cylinder engine is a bit of a disappointment, however. The interiors of the Kizashi are attractive and loaded with high quality material. However, the other features such as USB audio port and Bluetooth are available in the higher end models only. The vehicle is available in four versions and the base model is available at around $20,000.

Volkswagen Passat

The redesigned version of the Passat for the year 2012 has made some valuable additions and now is a good choice for the car buyers. The new Passat comes with better legroom and more spacious interiors. The Passat also offers an optional diesel engine, which is rare in the class and provides an environmentally friendly alternative with an incredible 43 mpg mileage on highways. You can also get free maintenance for three year. The vehicle is priced at $20,000 for the base model. Other standard features available include: power locks, power windows, automatic climate control etc.

With a midsize car, you can be pretty much be assured of savings at the gas station. Only the compact and economy segment cars have better fuel mileage but the latest technology is closing the gap fast. Actually, the midsize cars are more fuel-efficient than larger cars, SUVs, light trucks or minivans. This cash saved in gas consumption allows you to drive around without worrying about fuel costs. You will be contributing towards the environment as well because this type of car uses less fuel than other popular ones. The mid-size car is also likely to handle a lot better than the bigger or smaller cars. The reason for this is that the weight distribution of the car is on its axles, making for a more stable center of gravity. This permits the car to turn without leaning or the having it roll over during sharp turns. Almost all the midsize cars available in the market come with 4WD, which further enhances the maneuverability and stability. A 4WD car is better than RWD one when driving on rough roads or snow filled ones.

Families nowadays have four or less members and for them the midsize car is the perfect compromise between expenses and room. Four normal sized adults can easily fit in these cars and more than four children can be seated easily. There is no need to spend that extra cash to get an SUV or a minivan in order to comfortably seat four. You can also get adequate trunk space in the latest mid-size car, enabling you to easily transport your baseball gear, groceries or luggage.

Mazda MAZDA6

The Mazda MAZDA6 is an affordable option in this segment and definitely is one of the best handling and enjoyable to drive. This is an ideal vehicle for people looking to have some fun while going to the office every day. Apart from the dynamic handling, good brakes and precise steering are also present in the car. The 6-speed manual transmission is common for sedans in this segment. The four-cylinder engine is a little underpowered but you can upgrade to an optional V6. Another plus of the vehicle is the interior, which is comfortable and spacious even for taller individuals. The MAZDA6 comes with a huge trunk and you can load cargo easily into it. If you are looking for a midsize sporty sedan this vehicle should be on the top of your list.

Nissan Murano

The Murano is one of the affordable midsize SUVs. It is one of the top vehicles due to its superior quality interiors and nimble handling. The 2012 Nissan Murano model sticks to the successful formula of using exciting dynamics, decent fuel economy, near luxury interiors and a solid engine. Even the base versions of this SUV have impressed the reviewers. However, what has been the most popular is the convertible model of Murano called the Crosscabriolet. It was introduced in 2011 and it is the only convertible among the mid-size SUVs available in the market, apart from the Jeep Wrangler. In spite of this fact there is precious little in common between the Murano and the Wrangler. The Crosscabriolet is more of an open roofed cruiser for fair weather and the Wrangler is more of an off road champion. Despite this fact, the Murano remains the first vehicle to blend a convertible roof with crossover driving dynamics.

Despite being slightly on the expensive side, the Murano has satisfied everyone. It is not as sporty to handle as some of its competitors but it wins with other features like luxury interiors and a potential for top-down cruising. You can get the Murano in five models, plus the convertible version. There are a few new options available in the 2012 models along with more exterior color options. It also is equipped with several safety features. Murano retails for around $26,000 and provides a fuel economy of 17 mpg in city and 22 mpg on highway.

Toyota FJ Cruiser

This FJ Cruiser is an affordable midsize SUV from Toyota and shines off the beaten path. The vehicle handles well on roads and is a decent choice for daily use. The FJ Cruiser comes across as having a retro and rugged personality, which is also reflected in the basic and utilitarian interiors. FJ Cruiser offers a comfortable ride and is nimble for a vehicle in this class. If you are looking for an all-family vehicle having some off-road capabilities FJ Cruiser will not be your best bet. However, if you are looking for a boulder basher SUV that is civilized enough for the 9-5 office routine, you will find the FJ Cruiser to be one of the best options available in the market.

You can get the FJ Cruiser in just one model. The 2012 version of the vehicle comes with new exterior paint colors; however, there are no other major changes from the last year’s model. FJ Cruiser is one of the last few midsize SUVs that come with manual transmission.

The midsize trucks were first introduced in the automobile market in 1987 by the truck giant, Dodge. The first of such trucks was called the Dodge Dakota. The mid-size trucks are larger in size and cargo carrying capability than the compact trucks. You can haul as much as 800 kg in the rear of these medium-size trucks at one time. The older models of these trucks normally had V6 engines however, the newer versions come with V8 engines, generating as much as 230 hp of power. This engine can propel your vehicle to dazzling speeds of 150 mph even with a cargo load included.

Before buying, research the available midsize trucks. You need to assess the performance, features and price tag of each vehicle by reading the reviews on the internet. You might also want to check out other features specifically required by you such as: transmission choice, cargo carrying abilities, fuel efficiency, maximum seating capability and towing capacity. You can also visit the carmakers websites and read various reviews in magazines. Also, do not forget to check the safety ratings given to the vehicle by the government vehicle safety authorities. You can compare the reviews from magazines, newspapers and manufacturer’s websites as well. After performing the research, you can decide which models you prefer. Eliminate the expensive vehicles or those that do not provide sufficient seating or do not satisfy some other requirements needed for your family. Remember to then research the insurance costs for the shortlisted midsize trucks. Get quotes from the agents or from the internet sites. Do not forget to test drive the shortlisted vehicles from the local dealership to experience the handling and maneuverability of each.

Chevrolet Colorado

Colorado is a midsize pickup truck and is a utilitarian and competent vehicle. The Colorado is a decent truck and buyers are willing to purchase it because of its reasonable price tag. If you are not looking for a fancy utility vehicle, you will find that the Colorado is a suitable choice. You can obtain the upgraded 4WD system as a standard feature on the 2LT or 3LT models. The manual transmission ceases to exist on these editions.

Toyota Tacoma

This is another midsize pickup truck from Toyota and widely regarded as the best in the lot. You cannot call any truck in the midsize truck segment “luxurious” by any stretch. However, the Tacoma is a well-created vehicle and has features that are simple to use. The 2012 Tacoma comes with a new appearance and high tech features. It is equipped with Toyota’s latest Entune voice command system for the infotainment package. This is the sportiest midsize truck out there. It also comes with an off road package called TRD and is reasonably capable on rough terrains as well. This is a lightweight and nimble truck.

Most analysts have said that people are not looking to get larger cars anymore. Everyone is looking for vehicles that offer enough room for their families without compromising in terms of fuel mileage and safety. This clear shift in the preference of the modern car buyers is affecting the carmakers as well. They are desperately trying to make fuel-efficient, yet spacious family vehicles.

Ford Fusion

The Ford Fusion is one of the best affordable mid-size cars available in the market. The Fusion is a family car along with being a vehicle that is fun to drive. It also comes with top quality interiors. In addition to being a practical car, the Fusion also offers several high tech features, making it excellent value for your money in its category. It comes with two V6 engine options, an optional AWD, manual transmission and several models. Apart from being inspiring in the categories described above, the Fusion offers excellent fuel economy, a large cargo space and comfortable interiors.

Audi A4

The A4 from Audi is one of the best upscale midsize cars available in the market. The reasons for this are its excellent interiors, exteriors, the availability of AWD and excellent fuel mileage. The car is also reasonably priced when compared to the more expensive rivals. Everyone praises the A4 because it combines high quality interiors with nimble handling dynamics. The A4 may be configured with either AWD or 4WD. The Quattro AWD system helps in improving the A4′s grip on winding roads. The vehicle is perfectly suitable for car buyers looking for exceptional German driving dynamics, good design and excellent fuel mileage. The vehicle offers a fuel mileage of 21 mpg in cities and 31 mpg on highways. It performs well in all areas such as: performance, exterior styling, high feature interiors, high reliability and excellent safety features.

First, examine the size of the engine. Most SUVs from this segment come with 6-cylinder engines. However, it is possible to upgrade to a V8, but the fuel mileage will drop accordingly. Check out the other standard features in the car such as electric seats, CD player and cruise control. If you are looking for a higher end vehicle, it should come with automatic climate control, leather seating and CD changer. Decide whether you want a 2WD, 4WD or an AWD vehicle. Pay attention to the price tag. You can get the base models of midsize SUVs starting from around $25,000, going up to about $45,000 with additional features. Also, perform a midsize SUV comparison for the operating costs including maintenance, insurance and fuel mileage.

Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer

The Grand Cherokee is one of the most affordable mid-size SUVs. Its performance has been acknowledged for its poise on the road, interior comforts and off-road solidity. The reviews are raving that this well-made vehicle is capable of competing with the Mercedes Benz M Class. Although the Grand Cherokee is far from sporty, it drives more like a crossover than an all-brawn off-road midsize SUV. Even though the performance of the Grand Cherokee is typically what it expected from Jeep, it has some interior features that can be compared to the luxury midsize SUVs, such as Lexus. Jeep and Grand Cherokee have been notorious for low quality interiors and that is why everyone is surprised to see the drastically improved interiors. All these improvements have taken their toll on the price tag however. The Grand Cherokee retails for around $27,000, and that places it very close to the luxury segment. Therefore, if you are performing a mid-size SUV comparison for family requirements, off-road capabilities and perhaps carpooling duties as primary considerations, Grand Cherokee is the top pick from its segment.

It will be difficult to find another midsized SUV with off road capabilities similar to the Grand Cherokee, in addition to having excellent interior features. However, a couple of vehicles should be considered in a midsize SUV comparison. If you are willing to exchange some rough terrain capabilities for better fuel efficiency and comfort, you may want to consider the Ford Explorer. It is equipped with 2WD and an optional Ecoboost engine. The fuel economy from the Explorer is far better than the Grand Cherokee but the vehicle is more expensive to purchase. Another advantage with the Explorer is that it seats seven passengers and the interiors are more luxurious than that offered by the Grand Cherokee. Another vehicle that will not sacrifice its off road capabilities is the Land Rover LR2. However, it costs significantly more than the Grand Cherokee.