The Best 2020 Mid-Size SUV: Veterans of the Game

Despite facing stiff competition, these veteran 2020 mid-size SUVs are still some of the best : Lexus RX350, Nissan Murano, Acura MDX, Ford Explorer, Hyundai Santa Fe

As we well know, the world of SUVs continues to grow and evolve every year. It almost feels like there’s a new SUV announcement every few weeks. Automakers are spending more time and money to bolster their footing in this segment, which is expected to sell more than 53 million units by 2027. Success in this category is a must. 

With all of the new nameplates, though, it’s often easy to overlook some of the best SUVs that have been around for 20-plus years.

Here we look at five SUVs—both in the mainstream and luxe categories—that are well known and continue to impress. 


Lexus RX350

On the market: since 1998

What we like: Front grille, well appointed interior

Who’s it for: Parents juggling kids and high pressured work, with a penchant for road trips

First impressions aren’t permanent, but they do matter. One look at the Lexus RX350 and I was taken. The signature Lexus grille works best on the RX350. It’s large enough to stand out and make its presence known. It simultaneously screams luxe and sporty, without being obtuse. 

On the road, the RX350 is more symphony than rock. The 3.5L V6 pushing 295 hp helps the RX350 sail along the road. Power is smooth and immediate, but also incredibly quiet. It doesn’t hit you, or your driving neighbours, over the head.

Inside, the cabin is serene and chock full of all the safety tech you would expect from Lexus. It’s all well-appointed, with the right amount of visual cues to guide you on your drive. 

With one badass front grille, strong linear acceleration, and a sleek tech-filled interior—the 2020 Lexus RX350 checks nearly every box you want from a luxury SUV. If you’re shopping for a used model, check out our 2016 RX350 review here.


Nissan Murano

On the market: since 2003

What we like: Powerful with great CVT

Who’s it for: SUV lovers that want a V6 with greater road presence

The 2020 Nissan Murano may be the most understated SUV on this list, next to the RAV4. Understated certainly isn’t a negative in this situation, though.

Although it hasn’t received a major overhaul in a number of years, the Nissan Murano has aged well.

It takes advantage of Nissan’s superb CVT, which is paired with its 3.5L V6 engine packed with 260 horses. It’s a powerful, smooth shifter. And its wider stance works great for anyone looking for an SUV that has a greater presence on the road.  

Inside you’ll find classic Nissan styling. A mix of chunky buttons around a centralized screen. It works well, with a great “workflow” once you get used to where everything is placed. 

The 2015 Murano was the first year of the redesigned, third-generation offering – check out our review here.


Acura MDX

On the market: since 2000

What we like: Sporty design with room for seven

Who’s it for: Parents who want to haul ass when driving solo

Packing a 3.5L V6 engine capable of 290 hp, with seating for up to seven people, and one badass sport grille. The Acura MDX should be a heavy favourite for parents who need the extra space as their family grows, but don’t want to bemoan losing the sports coupe or sedan.

The Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD®), and 9-speed transmission makes the MDX a dream to drive. Shifts are slick, and it can take turns at much higher speeds than you might expect for a vehicle its size.   Sequential SportShift® 9-speed automatic transmission

The seating tricks you into thinking you’re i

If you want a sporty high-end SUV, with three rows, look no further than the Acura MDX. Here’s a closer look at the 2019 MDX which gets the A-Spec sport appearance package.


Ford Explorer

On the market: since 1990

What we like: Smooth 10-speed automatic transmission

Who’s it for: SUV buyers who want a rugged look

Don’t sleep on the Ford Explorer. It may be easy to overlook it with the number of new models hitting the market, but the Explorer continues to be a rock solid SUV – and it’s completely redesigned for 2020

Up front, the Explorer has a super clean design. The rotary gear shift dial creates a wealth of room in the centre console, while the infotainment setup minimizes button overload. Opt for the twin-panel moonroof to really feel the cabin open up. And, if you can, step up into the 3.0L Ecoboost engine to get a roaring 365 horses, paired to Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission. 

For more power, there’s the new for 2020 Explorer ST – here’s our full review.

Seating is wide and comfortably firm across the board, which is great for longer hauls with the family. And, of course, the distinctive Ford look gives it an aggressive, truck-like appearance to help you command the highway trek. 


Hyundai Santa Fe

On the market: since 2000

What we like: Great redesign, Turbocharged engine really enhances the drive experience

Who’s it for: Families that want luxe features at a great price

The elder statesman in Hyundai’s SUV roster, the Santa Fe has seen a lot of changes over the years. From major style updates to follow Hyundai’s evolving design language, to briefly seeing a third-row option at one stage.

2021 sees a completely new version of the long-running SUV. Read our 5 Big Changes Inside the Redesigned Hyundai Santa Fe. And the 2024 Santa Fe is completely off the charts.

The constant evolution has done well for the Santa Fe, as it continues to be a leader in the SUV category. Now, it’s looking as good as it ever has, with a strong refresh that gives it a strong look and feel.  

In typical Hyundai fashion, you’ll be flush with features, even on the lower tier trims. That said, step up to the 2.0L Turbocharged GDI engine—it takes the Sante Fe to the next level.

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Author:
Travis Persaud
Travis Persaud
Travis Persaud has contributed to a number of magazines across North America, including enRoute and Exclaim! He loves variety and it shows in the wide range of topics he’s covered: automotive to music, technology to travel, beer to real estate. He’s currently the editor of WHERE Ottawa (city travel guide), beer columnist for Ottawa Magazine, a frequent contributor to CAA Magazine and the former associate editor of Zoomer Magazine.