The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has released its Top Safety Picks for 2026. Of the 45 winners, 13 models were midsize SUVs.
These midsize SUV winners were subjected to multiple crash tests to determine how the vehicles would hold up in different crash scenarios. Safety features were also tested to decide whether they would work and how effective they were at preventing and mitigating crashes.
Here are the winners and which models stand out among the 13 safest 2026 midsize SUVs.
These Midsize SUVs Are IIHS Top Safety Picks for 2026
Japanese and South Korean midsize SUVs dominate the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Picks for 2026. The SUVs use a mix of gas, plug-in hybrid and fully-electric powertrains.
IIHS Midsize SUV Top Safety Picks
- Honda Passport
- Hyundai Ioniq 9
- Hyundai Santa Fe
- Kia EV9
- Kia Sorento (built after September 2025)
- Mazda CX-70
- Mazda CX-70 PHEV
- Mazda CX-90
- Mazda CX-90 PHEV
- Nissan Murano
- Nissan Pathfinder
- Subaru Ascent
- Subaru Outback
One of the most appealing midsize SUV options among the list of safest new midsize SUVs is the Subaru Outback. Subaru sold over 157,000 Outback models in 2025, according to a sales report. The Japanese automaker was also named one of the most reliable car brands (second to Toyota) by Consumer Reports.
Another standout model listed among the safest new midsize SUVs for 2026 is the Hyundai Santa Fe. Hyundai sold over 142,000 Santa Fe units in 2025, says sales data. The recently redesigned Santa Fe has “great safety scores” and even more standard safety tech for the 2026 model year, according to Kelley Blue Book.
Who Should Get a New Midsize SUV in 2026?
New midsize SUVs are best for families that need more cabin and cargo space than popular small SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V can provide. Midsize SUVs typically have family-friendly layouts that prioritize roomy seating and enough trunk space for the whole family.
New midsize SUVs also come with plenty of great standard driver assistance and safety features that make driving both safer and more convenient. The models listed by the IIHS all include accident avoidance and mitigation features that can keep drivers and occupants safe.
How Much Does a New Midsize SUV Cost in 2026?
Several of the safest new SUVs “have base prices under $40,000” says the IIHS. New midsize SUVs for 2026 can cost anywhere from around $35,000 to as high as $55,000 and upwards depending on the model, trim and segment. Final trim models can get pricey, but they do provide adequate value in certain instances thanks to long standard features lists.
If you’re looking for a new midsize SUV in 2026, there are several best-selling and popular models on the market like the Subaru Outback ($34,995) that provide great value.
You don’t have to break the bank to own a safe and overall appealing midsize SUV in 2026.
Charles Singh is an Autos Connect Reporter for The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY network. Contact him at [email protected]
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What are the safest midsize SUVs for growing families in 2026?
Reporting by Charles Singh , USA TODAY / USA TODAY
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
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