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1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsThe strongest 2018 midsize SUV depends on what matters most: the Honda Pilot is a well-rounded family choice, the Chevrolet Traverse emphasizes passenger and cargo room, the Mazda CX-9 favors agile handling and an upscale feel, and the Toyota Highlander balances comfort with available V6 and hybrid powertrains. This is a focused shortlist, not a ranking of every two-row, luxury, or three-row vehicle that could fit the midsize category.
How the four SUVs compare
Kelley Blue Book ranked the 2018 Honda Pilot first and the Chevrolet Traverse second in its midsize SUV list. Edmunds highlighted the Mazda CX-9 and Toyota Highlander for different strengths. Those editorial assessments are useful starting points, but the best fit depends on how you use the seats, which powertrain you want, and the exact vehicle’s equipment.
| Model | Best fit | Maximum cargo capacity | Maximum towing capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda Pilot | Families seeking an all-rounder with seating for up to eight, versatility, comfort, and value, according to Kelley Blue Book. | 83.9 cubic feet, per Edmunds’ published specifications. | 5,000 pounds, per Edmunds’ published specifications. |
| Chevrolet Traverse | Buyers prioritizing room for up to eight and cargo space with the third row in use, according to Kelley Blue Book. | Not stated in the cited sources. | Not stated in the cited sources. |
| Mazda CX-9 | Drivers who value maneuverability, engaging handling, standard three-row seating, and an upscale presentation; Edmunds notes that overall cargo space is not outstanding. | 71.2 cubic feet, per Edmunds’ published specifications. | 3,500 pounds, per Edmunds’ published specifications. |
| Toyota Highlander | Buyers looking for a comfortable, quiet ride, above-average passenger and cargo room, and a choice of available V6 or hybrid powertrains. | 83.7 cubic feet, per Edmunds’ published specifications. | 5,000 pounds, per Edmunds’ published specifications. |
The cargo and towing figures are maximum published specifications, not guarantees for every trim or configuration. The cited sources do not provide comparable cargo measurements with all seats occupied, so check the specific vehicle and test it with the people and luggage you expect to carry.
Which one suits your priorities?
Honda Pilot: the balanced family pick
Kelley Blue Book describes the Pilot as an eight-passenger SUV that combines reliability, safety, comfort, value, versatility, and style, and ranks it first in its 2018 list. Edmunds lists maximum cargo capacity of 83.9 cubic feet and maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. If you are considering a used Pilot, evaluate the particular trim’s safety equipment and headlights rather than assuming every version earned the same award status.
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Chevrolet Traverse: room for people and cargo
Kelley Blue Book ranks the Traverse second and emphasizes seating for up to eight, with substantial cargo room even when the third row is up. The available evidence does not give a comparable maximum cargo or towing figure, so use a hands-on cargo check and confirm the towing rating for the precise vehicle you are shopping for.
Mazda CX-9: handling and presentation
Edmunds points to the CX-9’s maneuverability, engaging handling, standard three-row seating, and upscale presentation. Its maximum published cargo capacity is 71.2 cubic feet and maximum towing capacity is 3,500 pounds. The lower cargo maximum among the three models with figures here matters if you regularly carry bulky loads; also try the third row with the intended passengers, since a three-row layout alone does not establish how comfortable or accessible it will be for your family.
Rank #2
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Toyota Highlander: comfort and powertrain choice
Edmunds describes the Highlander as having a comfortable, quiet ride and above-average passenger and cargo room, with an available V6 and hybrid. Its maximum published cargo capacity is 83.7 cubic feet and maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds. Edmunds also notes standard advanced safety technologies, but shoppers should verify the equipment on the individual vehicle rather than infer it from the model name alone.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What the 2018 safety awards do—and do not—tell you
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s 2018 midsize SUV award list names the Honda Pilot, Kia Sorento, Mazda CX-9, and Toyota Highlander as Top Safety Picks under specified conditions. The list is not a blanket endorsement of every trim, headlight, or equipment package. IIHS says the 2018 award required Good ratings in several crashworthiness tests, acceptable or Good passenger-side small overlap performance, and specified front crash prevention and headlight performance.
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Rank #3
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- Honda Pilot: The Top Safety Pick award requires optional front crash prevention and specific headlights. In the listed evaluation, Elite headlights were rated Acceptable; LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring headlights were rated Poor.
- Mazda CX-9: The award requires optional front crash prevention and specific headlights. IIHS also identifies production-date conditions for some ratings.
- Toyota Highlander: The listed award result does not carry the same qualifiers shown for the Pilot and CX-9.
- Chevrolet Traverse: IIHS rated the driver-side small overlap, passenger-side small overlap, moderate overlap, original side, roof strength, and head restraints Good; the updated side rating was Acceptable. Its applicable front crash prevention system was optional and rated Superior.
Before relying on a rating for a used vehicle, match the model year, build date, trim, headlight type, and installed crash-prevention equipment to the details on the IIHS Traverse rating, IIHS Pilot rating, or IIHS CX-9 rating. For the award criteria and model list, consult the IIHS 2018 midsize SUV award list.
Quick Recap
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Rank #4
- Waterproof Car Cover for Mid-Size SUVs Measuring 188-206 Inches Long. Fits Explorer, Grand Cherokee, Traverse, Highlander, Sorento and More.
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- Driver-Side Zippered Door for Easy Access to the Car when the Cover is On
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What to check before choosing one
- Test the seating arrangement. Sit in the second and third rows, check how the third row is accessed, and see whether the seats work for the passengers you plan to carry.
- Try your real cargo load. Bring a stroller, luggage, or other bulky items and check the space with the seats in the positions you will actually use. Published maximum cargo capacities do not show how much room remains with every row occupied.
- Match powertrain and towing needs. Compare the Highlander’s available V6 and hybrid choices with the other vehicle’s exact configuration; confirm the specific vehicle’s towing rating against your trailer and load.
- Inspect the safety equipment and headlights. Confirm the vehicle’s trim, production date, headlight type, and optional front crash prevention features against the applicable IIHS rating.
- Compare the individual used vehicles, not just model names. A model’s reputation or award does not establish the condition, maintenance history, or installed features of the vehicle for sale.
Sources
- Kelley Blue Book: “20 Best Mid-Size SUVs of 2018”.
- Edmunds: “Best Midsize SUVs for 2018: Editors’ Top-Rated for 2018”.
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety: “2018 Top Safety Picks: Midsize SUVs”.
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