most reliable midsize suv with 3rd row seating
In addition, according to NY Daily News, the 3rd row is cramped and takes away almost all the rear cargo space. Pros:Good ride; confident brakes; smart interior touches. It gets a lot of things right, especially safety. You've likely settled on SUVs if you're reading this, which are optimal if you're looking to maximize space. A perennial favorite among the car experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute, the Palisade is well-priced, well-outfitted, comfortable and good-looking. The Ford Explorer may be the midsize crossover that ignited America's love affair with SUVs 30+ years ago, but the latest three-row model offers a much better driving experience than any previous Explorer. The 2021 Hyundai Palisade is another reliable midsize SUV with three-rows. Kia Sorento3. Fords intuitive SYNC 4 infotainment system is already one of the better systems available in a midsize SUV, though we wouldn't be surprised if the 2023 Explorer adds more standard touches like wireless charging or wireless smartphone connectivity. This years model earned a four out of five predicted reliability rating from Consumer Reports. It's the biggest SUV on the list at over 17 feet long, giving it more cargo space behind the second row than anything else in the mid-size segment. While SUVs like the Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, and Honda Pilot . An 8.4-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto comes standard. Its cabin is spacious, and even the third row will fit adults semi-comfortably for shortish drives. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available. Cons:Rental-car interior; cheap switchgear; startling pricing. The Mazda CX-90 is an all-new flagship for the Mazda brand, available with a turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine or as a plug-in hybrid (covered separately) Pricing starts at $39,595 | Price it your way On sale now | See Mazda CX-90 models for sale near you Mazda has an all-new flagship vehicle that just debuted. The Nissan . According to Consumer Reports, the ride is quite comfortable, and the interior offers up a pleasing mix of soft-touch surfaces, nicely-styled imitation wood, and satin-finish trim.. With optional seating for seven and lots of advanced safety and technology features, the Volkswagen Tiguan earns a top rank among a small group of compact 3-row SUVs. SpecificationsBase-Price Range: $33,725-$46,395Available Engine: 3.5L V-6 (280 hp, 262 lb-ft)Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined): 19-20/26-27/22-23 mpgMax Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds, Subaru is back in the big-SUV game withthe Subaru Ascent, and boy did it make an entrance when it arrived fresh last year. Power comes courtesy of a turbocharged flat-four enginejust like lower-level Porsche 718 models! The gas mileage, clocking in at 22 mpg combined per EPA Fuel Economy. That, along with its driving dynamics, led MT to put the CX-9 on its list of recommended 3rd-row SUVs. But if it isnt quite your style? What's all the more stunning is that the downright violent performance of the V-series supercharged engine can also be optioned with the exorbitant size of the Escalade ESV. Sadly, too much of the Chevrolet parts bin carries over into this premium-badged vehicle. The only powertrain is a 310-hp 3.6-liter V-6 engine, which pushes power to the drive wheels by way of a nine-speed automatic transmission. Rather, we found it to be remarkably nimble, regardless of which of the three engine options is under the hood. Cons:Clunky infotainment; dated interior; tough third-row access. Honda Sensing continues to be one of the best safety suites, and it's standard on the Pilot. A 300-hp 2.3-liter inline-four engine and 10-speed automatic are standard. Unless you love the growl of the Atlas's V-6 or want your own three-row VW SUV ASAP, you're likely better off waiting for next year's model. Both Car and Driver and Autoblog felt the 3rd-row seats were really only suitable for children. Ask for extras or a more powerful engine and you quickly blast pass $50,000; Ford seems aware of this. Subaru Ascent11. Those who dabble in light off-roading will gravitate toward the TrailSport trim that brings extra off-pavement capability to this people mover. costing roughly $62,000. And while we normally hate continuously variable transmissions, this application is a good one. Many buy the Suburban for its Herculean strength, and it is rock solid for towing up to 8,300 pounds with a properly equipped Max Tailoring package. Fold down the third row for 46 cubic feet of cargo space; fold down both rows for 86 cubic feet. Behind the third row you'll find a modest 16 cubic feet of space which expands to 49.9 with the third row folded down and 95.4 cubic feet of total cargo volume with the second and third rows down. Hyundai Palisade1. The Hyundai Palisade SE is not far behind at $36,545, including a . 2023 Acura MDX. We sifted through the data to select the best cars and trucks in every category. Depending on how you feel about kids' screen time, it's a feature that can help cut down on refrains of "Are we there yet?" Car buying can be a daunting process. Toyota provides Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa integration for all models. was new last year, switching to a new rear-drive-based platform like the Durango, which delivers decent driving dynamics for a SUV, and also offers decent acceleration even from the base engine. The 2023 Toyota Highlander is an excellent midsize 3-row SUV with seating for up to eight. And everyone gets a USB port. Its upscale cabin is quiet, comfortable and thoughtfully designed. A fancier Calligraphy trim level is new for 2021, and replaces the grille with a new one. The second row is spacious, yet accessing the third row is a snap. An optional 10.3" touchscreen embedded into the dashboard directly in front of the passenger seat provides in-dash navigation with real-time traffic and weather updates as options. As with the Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon, the Mazda CX-9 spent several years with poor CR reliability scores. That can quickly raise the price above the base price, which is roughly $47,000 for the upscale Luxe trim. The 2023 Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size 3-row SUV with accommodations for a large family and plenty of luggage. Fortunately, the bigger 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander ought to provide solace to Toyota fans looking for a mid-size SUV with an adult-sized third-row. Safety features abound; the manufacturer has a history of top safety scores including the coveted IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. Instead, the 2024 Atlas welcomes a turbocharged four-cylinder engine under its hood that pushes out 269 horsepower34 more horses than the 2023 model's standard 2.0-liter four. In addition to having a stellar reliability rating, it's a handsome and spacious mode of transport for up to eight passengers. In the full-size category, there are some with larger interiors, mind you, but this truck drives much smaller than it is. Thats quite an accolade given that General Motors GMC division is best known for its commercial vehicles and work trucks. Mazda CX-95. ), safety features, roominess, ergonomics, price point and more. Posh interior; good road manners; solid safety record. Age aside, the current Pathfinder offers generous space inside, clever second-row seat-folding tech for accessing the third row, and a peppy-feeling engine standard across the lineup. The 2021 Kia Telluride Killed the 2021 Lincoln Aviator on Consumer Reports. 25 MPG. Set a realistic budget so you're only looking at vehicles you can afford. While front-wheel drive is standard on the Highlander, all-wheel drive is available or, if you're buying a hybrid, the choice is yours. This thing is a miracle of packaging for people and their stuff. Available Engines: 2.0L turbo I-4 (230 hp, 258 lb-ft); 2.5L I-4 (193 hp, 188 lb-ft); 3.6L V-6 (310 hp, 271 lb-ft), Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined): 19-22/26-29/21-25 mpg, is the SUV for you if you need maximum space. And its brakes aren't as good. Strong engine, easy-driving, big third row. Ford Explorer8. The 2023 Toyota Highlander is an excellent midsize 3-row SUV with seating for up to eight. Generous interior, plush ride, powerful top line engine. Pros:Passenger space; cargo capacity; intuitive infotainment. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, plus a Wi-Fi hotspot as standard. Though we like its ergonomic dashboard design and comfortable ride, we remain unimpressed with the Highlanders interior space. 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe XL. According to Consumer Reports, this years model earned itself an impressive five out of five predicted reliability rating. The third row is easy to access and is roomy enough for adults on shorter drives. The top rated three-row SUVs all share the ability to move you and yours, though what third-row option is best may vary for different buyers. If you have a long commute or a bad back, go for the available front-seat massage function. The next-gen Tahoe is shaping up to be a roomier 3rd row SUV. While its 5.7-liter V8 and four-wheel drive, Cons:Cheap parts, safety tech optional, finicky controls. SpecificationsBase-Price Range: $33,415-$43,715Available Engine: 3.8L V-6 (291 hp, 262 lb-ft)Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined): 19-20/24-26/21-23 mpgMax Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds. You have too much personality for that. Those high-end models also gain power-folding exterior mirrors, while the midrange Highlanders will include a hands-free, power-operated rear liftgate. A unique look and an uncommon in-between size already make this three-row SUV stand out, but extraordinary performance both on and off the road mark the R1S as unparalleled within the segment. A new 12.3" infotainment display and a 12.3" digital gauge cluster now come standard on the top two trims (most trims come with an 8" infotainment system). After multiple tests and countless hours of driving, weve ranked the current available mid-size crossovers and SUVs. You can slide and recline the second-row seats, and you can remove the center seat in that row for easy third-row access . Adventurous families love the midsize Jeep Grand Cherokee L for escapades up mountains, at far-off beaches or just to the local supermarket. The SUV did garner high marks for its interior quality and exterior styling, however. The Suburban is a workhorse, but its large size doesn't mean its noisy or clunky to drive. Its also an IIHS Top Safety Pick. Regardless, most will likely find the third-row space tight. Front-row seats are comfortable, but the massage option is one you may want to opt out of, since the seat can feel lumpy when the massage function isn't in use. As a happy bonus, highway gas mileage is good for such an inexpensive SUV. We think the Telluride has an advantage where looks are concerned, but the Palisade is still the next-best choice if your local Kia dealership is out of stock. There are many SUVs on the used market from which to choose. The SR5 is the base 4Runner and the Limited slots between the TRD and TRD Pro. Available Engine: 2.5L turbo I-4 (250 hp, 320 lb-ft), Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined): 20-22/26-28/23-24 mpg. Regardless, our testers say that passengers will not feel crowded an important feature that anyone who has ever bashed a shin clambering into the third row of an SUV will appreciate. Armadas typically are not very impressive with fuel economy ratings, and the V8 engines powering the 2022 models are no different. However, Consumer Reports ranked both SUVs as above average in reliability, reporting high owner satisfaction. The Ascents interior is spacious and puts high-quality interior materials to good use. The Toyota 4Runners entry on this list isnt due to its reliability. The screen itself is not exactly at fingertip's length for the driver, but a click-wheel controller mounted on the center console works well. 2022 Explorer. However, that didnt stop Car and Driver from naming the 3rd row SUV to its 10Best Trucks and SUVs list 3 years in a row. But the plasticky accoutrements inside the Explorer feel cut-rate and carried over from the previous generation model. The Kia Telluride is our top pick for a midsize 3-row SUV. Every Durango sits on a stout platform with a rear-wheel-drive-based layout (all-wheel drive is optional or standard on every model), and thus even the base V-6-powered models can tow 6,200 pounds. Its ride quality is excellent, even over uneven roads or rough terrain, and it's available in both two- and three-row versions. Yet, chintzy interior materials, a middling driving experience, and a coarse V-6 engine continue to hold the Pathfinder back from truly going to toe-to-toe with segment leaders. And what a price it carries. The most appealing Upper Midsize SUV of 2022 is the Hyundai Palisade. Chief Technologist & Executive Technical Director, The 2022 Lincoln Navigator Is a Great Choice for Families, debut an all-new Pilot for the 2023 model year, 20/26/23 (city/highway/combined) as per EPA Fuel Economy, 60/40-split folding bench or captain's chairs, 22/28 (city/highway) as per EPA Fuel Economy, FWD: 19/26/22; AWD: 19/24/21 (city/highway/combined) as per EPA Fuel Economy, 60/40-split folding bench (captain's chairs available), Manual folding bench (power-folding available), 18/26/21 (city/highway/combined) as per EPA Fuel Economy, 35/30/35-split powered folding bench or captain's chairs, 20/28 (city/highway) as per EPA Fuel Economy, 30/35/30-split folding bench (captain's chairs available), 19/26/22 (city/highway/combined) as per EPA Fuel Economy, 35/35/35 (city/highway/combined) as per EPA Fuel Economy, 19/28/22 (city/highway/combined) as per EPA Fuel Economy, 18/23/20 (city/highway/combined) as per EPA Fuel Economy, 15/19/16 (city/highway/combined) as per EPA Fuel Economy, Manual 60/40-split folding bench (powered available) or captain's chairs, Manual 60/40-split folding bench (powered available), 14/19/16 (city/highway/combined) as per EPA Fuel Economy, 60/40-split folding bench (captain's chairs optional), 15/20/17 (city/highway/combined) as per EPA Fuel Economy, Manual 60/40 split-folding bench (powered available) or captain's chairs, Manual 60/40 split-folding bench (powered available), 20/27/23 (city/highway/combined) as per EPA Fuel Economy, Power-folding bench (captain's chair's available), 20/26/22 (city/highway/combined) as per EPA Fuel Economy. Currently, the 2023 Kia Telluride tops the list of KBB.coms best 3-row SUVs. Other than a minivan, there are few family vehicles on the road today that offer as much space for passengers and cargo as the Yukon, says Dorian (the XL offers a cavernous 145 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats stowed). Plus, while the QX60 does offer a wide array of standard features, and the seats are comfortable, many of its luxury features are optional. Cons:Front fascia styling; hard seats; harsh ride. Cons:Poor third row; outdated infotainment; thrashy V-6. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and SiriusXM satellite radio are standard. Some would say this adds sophistication, but other SUV manufacturers are enjoying success with dash-mounted displays. It's interior styling and features are better than luxury SUVs costing twice as much. The Toyota Highlander ditches the V-6 for 2023. Look, we know, you have a growing family. But if affordability is your top concern when it comes to a 3-row SUV, there's no denying the Journey's appealing price. The Chevy's offering of advanced safety features also trails its competitors. SpecificationsBase-Price Range: $33,345-$46,495Available Engine: 2.4L turbo H-4 (260 hp, 277 lb-ft)Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined): 20-21/26-27/22-23 mpgMax Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds, There is a reason theKia Telluridekeeps winning comparison tests after being named the 2020 MotorTrendSUV of the Year: It really is that good. According to the IIHS, in the 2011-2014 period, not a single person died behind the wheel of a Q7. Among even the best SUVs with third row seating, the 2023 Aviator offers an impressively plush interior and trims to suit a variety of buyers. Unlike the Porsche, the Ascent offers no manual or dual-clutch automatic transmission options. The 2023 Audi Q7 luxury 3-row midsize SUV provides plush transport for seven. WhileSUVs like the Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, and Honda Pilot have been around for a couple decades, this segment has seen a lot of recent new entries, including the Kia Telluride, Subaru Ascent, Hyundai Palisade, and Volkswagen Atlas. Heres our list of the 10 Best Used Family Cars Under $15,000. But the plasticky accoutrements inside the Explorer feel cut-rate and carried over from the previous generation model. Also, there are no USB ports in the third row, if your kids haven't already informed you. See Details. Edmunds' current top pick for a 3-row SUV is the Kia Telluride, winner of our Top Rated award. Let's take a look at all of the top rated third-row-equipped SUVs. Pros:Top flight driving experience for an SUV; interior design; good safety tech. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers the best fuel economy of any 3-row SUV, returning an EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined. With the third and second rows stowed, we fit 35. It also has better off-road capabilities than most of its rivals, with a 5,000-pound towing capacity. In addition to a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics from the University of Pennsylvania, Rachel has 15 years of experience in the auto industry, test driving cars and presenting at the NY Auto Show. With up to seven USB ports available, you can connect two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. Fortunately, Kia also offers the bigger Telluride SUV and Carnival minivan for those in need of additional space. Other upgrades to this already comfortable and largely spacious top rated SUV include better driving assists and more rugged looking trim options. The Hyundai Palisade is one of our best-rated three-row SUVs for 2022 and for almost too many reasons to list here. Along with an optional rear-seat entertainment system that includes two 12.6" screens, a standard 10" touchscreen is fitted into the center stack and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If not a minivan, then, a midsize, three-row SUV is your likely answer. In fact, the Revel audio system is among the best we've found in any vehicle. Kia Telluride. The reliable Highlander has got you covered. Up to eight people can count on a no-squeeze ride, whether its to the local ballpark or a lengthy road trip. Nevertheless, parents will be happy to know that car-seat installation in the second row is easy to navigate (no cursing necessary!). Factor in how you'll use the vehicle. While reclining second row seats are offered, we think the way to go is with a bench seat, which has three distinct sections, each of which can be separately adjusted for comfort.