While there’s no doubt that SUVs are taking over the auto industry, with about half of overall sales going to the segment, there’s also battles for supremacy between automakers in niche segments within the SUV category.

Hybrids would be one of those battlegrounds, and if we’re talking about the three-row variety of SUV, there are a few key contenders aiming to attract SUV buyers who are seeking some extra fuel mileage but don’t want to make the jump all the way to a full EV.

Toyota has been a leader in the hybrid world, pioneering the segment 25 years ago with the debut of the Prius, so it’s no surprise they are a player here with the three-row HIghlander Hybrid SUV offering — which has been around for about 15 years and competes against vehicles including the Ford Explorer hybrid and Kia Sorento hybrid.

I recently tested a Highlander Hybrid Limited trim model, and I’m back with a full report.

Seemingly everyone wants an SUV these days, and on the domestic front in that battle, there are a few key players leading the charge.

One of those options is the Chevy Traverse, which receives minimal updates for 2021 and is still holding on to the latest full redesign that took place in 2018.

For families, it’s all about space, and that’s one thing the Traverse can claim in spades. With comfortable seating for up to 8 offered and plenty of cargo room, it’s vying for families who seek versatility and space over flash and extreme power.

To say there’s a wide variety of midsize crossover SUVs available to today’s car buyers would be the understatement of the year.

And with so many options, even in years without a complete redesign, automakers must step up their offerings to remain competitive in the segment.

Such is the case with the 2020 GMC Acadia, which remains unchanged in many ways, but still offers some bold upgrades in styling, powerplant and technology. I recently spent time in a 2020 Acadia (AT4 trim level) and I’m back with a full report on how it measures up in the segment.

LOOKS

Let’s start with the interior design on the Acadia, which I found to have a very high quality design compared to many of its competitors. Depending on the trim level you choose, quality will vary some, but higher trims are approaching a true luxury level, especially if you opt for the Denali.

In addition to an attractive look and comfort, you also have roominess in the Acadia, especially in the front two rows. Driver and passengers will never feel cramped. 

Depending how you equip your Acadia, you can comfortably seat 5, 6 or 7 people in the vehicle. Be aware though that there are some crossovers in the segment that edge out the Acadia in terms of cargo space.

Many SUVs these days aim for a bit of flash.

Some razzle dazzle to get your attention amid a growing sea of offerings.

But not the Toyota Highlander.

It is what it is. No gimmicks.

It’s an SUV for families who want reliability and versatility. And it delivers.

Let's take a more in-depth look at how the 2019 Toyota Highlander measures up in a crowded SUV field.