Finding the perfect midsize SUV that caters to the needs of tall drivers can be a daunting task. Tall individuals often struggle with cramped legroom, limited headspace, and uncomfortable seating positions. However, fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best midsize SUV for tall drivers available in the market that prioritize comfort and provide ample space. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious ride, advanced safety features, or impressive cargo capacity, we’ve got you covered.
Factors to Consider for Tall Drivers
Before diving into the specific SUV models, it’s crucial to understand the factors that make a vehicle suitable for tall drivers. Here are some key considerations to choose the best midsize SUV for tall drivers:
1. Legroom
For tall drivers, having sufficient legroom is paramount. Look for midsize SUVs that offer generous legroom in both the front and rear seats. This will ensure that you can stretch your legs comfortably and avoid feeling cramped during long drives.
2. Headroom
Another crucial aspect is headroom. Taller individuals often struggle with low ceilings that result in uncomfortable seating positions. Choose an SUV that provides ample headspace, allowing you to sit upright without any restrictions.
3. Seat Adjustability
Having adjustable seats is a game-changer for tall drivers. Look for SUVs that offer power-adjustable seats with multiple settings, including height, tilt, and lumbar support. This way, you can customize your seating position to find the perfect balance of comfort and visibility.
4. Visibility
Good visibility is essential for safe and confident driving. Opt for midsize SUVs with large windows, thin pillars, and well-placed mirrors to enhance your field of vision. This will help eliminate blind spots and improve overall driving experience, especially for taller drivers.
5. Cargo Space
Tall drivers often have additional needs when it comes to cargo space. Whether it’s carrying sports equipment, luggage, or simply accommodating taller passengers in the rear seats, choosing an SUV with ample cargo capacity is vital. Additionally, for those considering a used SUV, negotiating the car price can be an important aspect to ensure a satisfactory deal.
Top Midsize SUVs for Tall Drivers
Now, let’s delve into the top midsize SUVs that excel in providing a comfortable and spacious driving experience for tall individuals:
1. Ford Explorer
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Engine Options | 2.3L EcoBoost I4, 3.0L EcoBoost V6 |
Horsepower | Up to 400 HP (3.0L EcoBoost V6) |
Torque | Up to 415 lb-ft (3.0L EcoBoost V6) |
Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
Drive Type | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
Seating Capacity | 7 or 6 with optional second-row captain’s chairs |
Cargo Space | Up to 87.8 cubic feet with rear seats folded |
Fuel Efficiency | 20-27 MPG combined (depending on engine and drivetrain) |
Towing Capacity | Up to 5,600 – 5,600 lbs (2.3L/3.0L EcoBoost V6) |
Infotainment System | SYNC 3 with touchscreen display |
Safety Features | Pre-Collision Assist, Lane-Keeping System, Blind Spot Information System, Rear View Camera, etc. |
Available Trim Levels | XLT, Limited, ST, Platinum |
The 2023 Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV that offers a variety of features to appeal to a wide range of buyers. Some of the key features of the Explorer include:
- A choice of three engines, including a hybrid option
- A spacious interior that can seat up to seven passengers
- A variety of advanced safety features, including Ford Co-Pilot360™ 2.0
- A wide range of technology features, including a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system
The Explorer is available in a variety of trim levels, so buyers can choose the one that best suits their needs and budget. The base model, the XLT, starts at $33,995. The mid-level Limited starts at $41,495, and the top-of-the-line Platinum starts at $55,495.
Here is a more detailed look at some of the key features of the 2023 Ford Explorer:
- Engines: The Explorer is available with three engines: a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, and a hybrid powertrain that combines a 3.0-liter V6 with an electric motor. The base engine produces 300 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, while the V6 produces 365 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid powertrain produces 318 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque.
- Transmission: The Explorer is available with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
- Drivetrain: The Explorer is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
- Interior: The Explorer has a spacious interior that can seat up to seven passengers. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and there is plenty of legroom and headroom in both rows. The second row is also comfortable, and there is enough space for three adults to sit comfortably. The third row is a bit cramped, but it is still usable for children or small adults. The cargo area is also spacious, and it can hold up to 67.6 cubic feet of cargo with the second and third rows folded down.
- Technology: The Explorer comes standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system is easy to use and has a variety of features, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Explorer is also available with a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.
- Safety: The Explorer comes standard with a variety of safety features, including forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with lane keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert. The Explorer is also available with a variety of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, automatic parking assist, and a head-up display.
2. Honda Passport
Specifications | Details |
---|---|
Engine | 3.5L V6 |
Horsepower | 280 hp |
Torque | 262 lb-ft |
Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
Drive Type | All-wheel drive (AWD) or Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
Fuel Economy | 20 mpg city / 25 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined |
Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
Cargo Space | 41.2 cubic feet (behind rear seats) |
77.9 cubic feet (rear seats folded) | |
Ground Clearance | 8.1 inches |
Towing Capacity | Up to 5,000 lbs |
Wheelbase | 111.0 inches |
Length | 190.5 inches |
Width | 78.6 inches |
Height | 72.2 inches |
Curb Weight | 3,937 – 4,237 lbs (depending on trim) |
The Honda Passport is a midsize SUV that offers a variety of features to appeal to a wide range of buyers. Some of the key features of the Passport include:
- A powerful 3.5L V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque
- A smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission
- A standard all-wheel drive system
- A comfortable and spacious interior with seating for up to five passengers
- A long list of standard features, including a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 5-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- A variety of available features, including a panoramic sunroof, a heated steering wheel, and a 10-speaker audio system
The Honda Passport is a great choice for anyone looking for a midsize SUV that offers a balance of performance, comfort, and features.
Here is a more detailed list of the features available on the Honda Passport:
- Engine and Transmission: The Passport is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
- Drivetrain: The Passport is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The all-wheel drive system is designed to provide added traction in slippery conditions.
- Exterior: The Passport has a bold and rugged exterior design. It features a wide stance, large wheels, and a raised suspension.
- Interior: The Passport has a spacious and comfortable interior. It seats up to five passengers and features plenty of cargo space. The interior is also well-equipped with a variety of standard features, including a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 5-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
- Safety: The Passport comes standard with a variety of safety features, including a rearview camera, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
- Technology: The Passport is available with a variety of technology features, including a panoramic sunroof, a heated steering wheel, and a 10-speaker audio system.
3. Toyota Highlander
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Model | Toyota Highlander |
Body Style | SUV |
Seating Capacity | 7 or 8 passengers |
Engine Options | 2.7L 4-cylinder or 3.5L V6 |
Horsepower | Varies by engine option |
Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive |
Fuel Type | Gasoline |
Fuel Efficiency (City/Hwy) | Varies by engine and drivetrain configuration |
Suspension | Independent MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension |
Steering | Electric Power Steering (EPS) |
Brakes | Power-assisted ventilated front disc brakes, solid rear disc brakes |
Length | Varies by model year |
Width | Varies by model year |
Height | Varies by model year |
Wheelbase | Varies by model year |
Cargo Space | Varies by seating configuration |
Infotainment System | Touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration |
Safety Features | Toyota Safety Sense™ P (TSS-P) with features like Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and more |
Available Trims | Varies by model year (e.g., L, LE, XLE, Limited, Platinum) |
Renowned for its reliability and longevity, the Toyota Highlander is a popular midsize SUV among tall drivers. It boasts a spacious cabin, accommodating both driver and passengers with ease. The Highlander’s smooth ride, advanced safety features, and ample cargo capacity make it a solid choice for tall individuals seeking comfort and versatility.
Some of the standard features on the Highlander include:
- A 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 265 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque
- An eight-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
- A 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- A six-speaker sound system
- Bluetooth connectivity
- A rearview camera
- A hands-free power liftgate
- Heated front seats
- A power-adjustable driver’s seat
- And more
The Highlander is also available with a variety of optional features, including:
- A 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque
- A hybrid powertrain that produces 243 horsepower
- A 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- A JBL audio system
- A panoramic sunroof
- A heated steering wheel
- Ventilated front seats
- A power-adjustable passenger seat
- And more
The Toyota Highlander is a well-rounded SUV that offers a variety of features to appeal to a wide range of buyers. It is a good choice for families who are looking for a comfortable, spacious, and fuel-efficient SUV.
Here are some additional details about the Toyota Highlander’s features:
- Safety: The Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+, which includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, and dynamic radar cruise control. The Highlander also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
- Technology: The Highlander comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system is easy to use and has a clear display. The Highlander is also available with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is larger and has more features.
- Comfort and convenience: The Highlander is a comfortable SUV with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The front seats are supportive and the second-row seats are spacious. The third-row seats are a bit cramped for adults, but they are still usable for children or short trips. The Highlander also comes standard with a power liftgate, which makes it easy to load and unload cargo.
- Performance: The Highlander is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 265 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Highlander has adequate power for most driving situations. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds. The Highlander also gets good fuel economy for its class. The EPA estimates that the Highlander gets 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
4. Subaru Ascent
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Engine | 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder |
Horsepower | 260 hp |
Torque | 277 lb-ft |
Transmission | Continuously Variable Transmission |
Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
Seating Capacity | 7 or 8 passengers |
Fuel Economy | 21 mpg city / 27 mpg highway |
Cargo Space | Up to 86.5 cu ft |
Towing Capacity | Up to 5,000 lbs |
Wheel Size | 18 inches (standard), 20 inches (optional) |
Infotainment System | 6.5-inch touchscreen (standard), 8-inch touchscreen (optional) |
Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard |
Safety Features | Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, Blind-Spot Detection, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Reverse Automatic Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control |
The Subaru Ascent offers a winning combination of comfort, safety, and practicality. Tall drivers will appreciate the Ascent’s roomy cabin, well-designed seats, and excellent visibility. Its standard all-wheel drive and impressive towing capacity further enhance its appeal, making it suitable for both urban adventures and off-road excursions.
The Ascent comes standard with a long list of features, including:
- A 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- A panoramic sunroof
- Heated front seats
- A rearview camera
- Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance suite, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking
The Ascent is available in seven trim levels: Base, Premium, Limited, Touring, Onyx Edition XT, Limited XT, and Touring XT. The top-of-the-line Touring XT trim adds features such as a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, a power-adjustable front passenger seat, and a heated steering wheel.
The Ascent has been praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and long list of standard features. It has also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Here are some of the key features of the 2023 Subaru Ascent:
- All-wheel drive standard
- Seating for up to eight passengers
- 260-horsepower turbocharged engine
- 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Panoramic sunroof
- Heated front seats
- Rearview camera
- Subaru EyeSight driver assistance suite
5. Chevrolet Traverse
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Engine | 3.6L V6 |
Horsepower | 310 hp |
Torque | 266 lb-ft |
Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) |
Seating capacity | 7 or 8 passengers (depending on configuration) |
Fuel economy (city/highway) | 18-20 MPG city / 27-27 MPG highway |
Cargo capacity | Up to 98.2 cubic feet with rear seats folded |
Wheelbase | 120.9 inches |
Length | 204.3 inches |
Width | 78.6 inches |
Height | 70.7 inches |
Curb weight | 4,362 – 4,656 lbs |
Towing capacity | Up to 5,000 lbs |
Infotainment system | Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system with touchscreen display |
Safety features | Various safety features including airbags, traction control, stability control, rearview camera, and more. |
The Chevrolet Traverse offers ample space for both passengers and cargo, making it an excellent choice for tall drivers who prioritize versatility. Its spacious cabin provides comfortable seating positions, even for taller individuals, and the third-row seats are accommodating as well. The Traverse also offers a smooth and composed ride and advanced safety features to ensure peace of mind on the road.
Some of the key features of the Traverse include:
- A 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque
- A nine-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
- Up to 8-passenger seating
- A spacious cargo area
- A variety of standard and available safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist
- A variety of infotainment features, including a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot
The Traverse is available in six trim levels: LS, LT, Premier, High Country, RS, and Z71. The LS is the base trim level and comes standard with features such as cloth seats, a rearview camera, and a 7-inch touchscreen display. The LT trim adds features such as leather seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a Bose sound system. The Premier trim adds features such as heated front seats, a sunroof, and a navigation system. The High Country trim is the top-of-the-line trim and adds features such as heated and cooled front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a 10-speaker Bose sound system.
The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse is a great choice for families who need a spacious and comfortable SUV. It offers a variety of features and trim levels to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.
Here are some additional details about the features of the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse:
- Engine and transmission: The Traverse is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
- Fuel economy: The Traverse gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
- Seating: The Traverse can seat up to eight passengers. The second- and third-row seats can be folded flat to create more cargo space.
- Cargo space: The Traverse has 23.0 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats, 78.8 cubic feet behind the second-row seats, and 157.4 cubic feet with all the seats folded down.
- Safety features: The Traverse comes standard with a variety of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. It also comes standard with a rearview camera.
- Infotainment system: The Traverse comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen display. An 8-inch touchscreen display is available. The infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
6. Volvo XC90
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Vehicle Type | SUV |
Seating Capacity | Up to 7 passengers |
Engine Options | 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged (T5, T6) |
2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged and supercharged (T8) | |
Horsepower Range | 250 hp (T5) |
316 hp (T6) | |
400 hp (T8 hybrid) | |
Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive (T5) |
All-wheel drive (T6, T8) | |
Fuel Efficiency | EPA-estimated: |
T5 FWD: 21 mpg city / 30 mpg highway | |
T6 AWD: 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway | |
T8 hybrid: 27 mpg combined (gasoline) | |
T8 hybrid: 55 MPGe combined (electric) | |
Cargo Space | Up to 85.7 cubic feet with rear seats folded |
Infotainment System | 9-inch touchscreen display (Sensus Connect) |
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility | |
Safety Features | Adaptive cruise control |
Lane-keeping assist | |
Blind-spot monitoring | |
Collision mitigation with automatic braking | |
Rearview camera | |
Parking sensors | |
Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving | |
Cross-traffic alert |
Known for its luxurious appeal and Scandinavian design, the Volvo XC90 is a top contender for tall drivers seeking both comfort and style. The XC90 offers generous legroom and headroom in all three rows, ensuring a delightful experience for both the driver and passengers. With its premium materials, advanced technology, and impressive safety features, the XC90 combines elegance and practicality in a way that few other SUVs can match.
Some of the standard features on the XC90 include:
- A 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- A panoramic sunroof
- Heated front seats
- A leather-wrapped steering wheel
- A Harmon Kardon sound system
- A rearview camera
- Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning with lane keeping assist
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross traffic alert
The XC90 is also available with a variety of optional features, including:
- A 4-zone automatic climate control system
- A heated steering wheel
- A heated windshield
- A power-adjustable passenger seat
- A memory function for the driver’s seat and mirrors
- A panoramic sunroof with power sunshade
- A Bowers & Wilkins sound system
- A head-up display
- A 360-degree camera system
- Adaptive cruise control
- Pilot Assist (semi-autonomous driving)
The Volvo XC90 is a well-rounded luxury SUV that offers a variety of features and amenities to make your driving experience more enjoyable and safer. It is a great choice for families who are looking for a comfortable and safe SUV.
Here are some additional details about some of the XC90’s most notable features:
- Safety: The XC90 has been awarded the highest possible safety rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert.
- Comfort: The XC90 has a spacious and comfortable interior. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, and there is plenty of legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The cabin is also quiet and well-insulated, making it a pleasant place to spend time.
- Technology: The XC90 comes standard with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system that is easy to use and navigate. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can easily access your favorite apps and music from your smartphone. The XC90 also comes standard with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that displays important information such as speed, fuel level, and navigation directions.
7. Mazda CX-9
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Engine | 2.5L Turbocharged Inline-4 |
Horsepower | 227 horsepower (regular gasoline) |
250 horsepower (with premium gasoline) | |
Torque | 310 lb-ft |
Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive (FWD) or |
Optional all-wheel drive (AWD) | |
Fuel Efficiency (City) | Approximately 20-22 mpg (FWD) |
Approximately 19-21 mpg (AWD) | |
Fuel Efficiency (Highway) | Approximately 26-28 mpg (FWD) |
Approximately 24-26 mpg (AWD) | |
Seating Capacity | 7 passengers |
Cargo Space | 14.4 cubic feet behind the 3rd row |
38.2 cubic feet behind the 2nd row | |
71.2 cubic feet with all seats folded | |
Infotainment System | 10.25-inch touchscreen display |
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility | |
Safety Features | Advanced airbag system |
Blind Spot Monitoring | |
Lane-Keep Assist | |
Adaptive Cruise Control | |
Rearview Camera |
The Mazda CX-9 stands out for its upscale interior, engaging driving dynamics, and well-designed seats that cater to tall drivers’ needs. With its spacious cabin and supportive seating positions, the CX-9 delivers a comfortable ride, even on long journeys. It also offers a sleek and stylish exterior, making it an attractive choice for those who value both form and function.
It is available in six trim levels:
- Sport
- Touring
- Grand Touring
- Carbon Edition
- Signature
- Turbo
The CX-9 is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and can be equipped with all-wheel drive.
The CX-9 comes standard with a long list of features, including:
- LED headlights and taillights
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Cloth upholstery
- A 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth connectivity
- A rearview camera
- A six-speaker sound system
Higher trim levels add features such as:
- Leather upholstery
- Heated front seats
- A power-adjustable driver’s seat
- A sunroof
- A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- A 12-speaker Bose sound system
- A navigation system
- A head-up display
- Adaptive cruise control
- Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning with lane keeping assist
The Mazda CX-9 is a great choice for families who are looking for a stylish, comfortable, and fun-to-drive SUV. It offers a long list of standard features and a variety of available options to make it the perfect fit for your needs. Here are some of the most notable features of the Mazda CX-9:
- Stylish design
- Comfortable interior
- Engaging driving dynamics
- Powerful engine
- Long list of standard features
- Variety of available options
The Mazda CX-9 is a great choice for families who are looking for a well-rounded SUV that offers a little bit of everything. It is stylish, comfortable, fun to drive, and packed with features.
Conclusion
Finding the best midsize SUV for tall drivers involves considering factors such as legroom, headroom, seat adjustability, visibility, and cargo space. The Ford Explorer, Honda Passport, Toyota Highlander, Subaru Ascent, Chevrolet Traverse, Volvo XC90, and Mazda CX-9 are all exceptional options that prioritize comfort and accommodate the needs of taller individuals.
Remember, each person’s preferences may vary, so it’s essential to test-drive these SUVs and evaluate which one suits you best. By prioritizing your comfort and specific requirements, you can confidently select a midsize SUV that will enhance your driving experience and provide the space you need to enjoy your journeys to the fullest.
Choose wisely, and embark on your adventures with a midsize SUV that caters to your stature, allowing you to drive comfortably and enjoy the open road like never before.
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