4.0: This is the area where the rubber meets the recommendations. Since the 2017 model year, CR has ranked the QX60s reliability as above average, and officially recommend the 3rd-row SUV. A perennial favorite among the car experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute, the Palisade is well-priced, well-outfitted, comfortable and good-looking. Our editors drive and live with a given vehicle. [Read more about the Subaru Ascent]. For the price tag, the interior is notably upscale and comfy, while the center stack features easy-to-reach buttons that operate much of the climate control system and major touchscreen functions. The Nissan Pathfinder is getting oldso old, in fact, that an all-new model is arriving for 2022. The flat-folding of the second and third-row seats allows for generous and flexible cargo configurations. See 2022 Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid for Sale, See 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid for Sale. Available Engines: 2.5L I-4 hybrid (243 hp, 175 lb-ft); 3.5L V-6 (295 hp, 263 lb-ft), Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined): 20-36/27-35/23-36 mpg, How can the platform-sharing cousin of the segment-leading (and 2020 MotorTrend. 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. The Suburban is a workhorse, but its large size doesn't mean its noisy or clunky to drive. The CX-9 made it onto our list of the best used cars for $18,000, so selecting one with a few more miles or years to get under this list's $15,000 bar was easy. Any car you choose in this group will treat you very well over time. We focused this Challenge on three-row SUVs that cost less than $40,000, including a destination charge, and achieved at least 19 mpg in EPA combined city/highway fuel-economy ratings. Jeep Grand Cherokee L2. The engineers and parenting experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute test drive dozens of new vehicles each year. She also manages GHs growing research division and the analysis of applicants for the GH Seal and all other testing emblems. In addition to having a stellar reliability rating, it's a handsome and spacious mode of transport for up to eight passengers. The Chrysler Pacifica minivan is available as a gas-fueled ride or a plug-in hybrid. Keep reading to learn more about each pick and about our rigorous testing process, designed to find the best car for your family. Heres our list of the 10 Best Used Family Cars Under $15,000. 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. 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. We've reviewed them all, so read on for MotorTrend's picks for the best three-row midsize SUVs you can buy for 2021. In addition, according to NY Daily News, the 3rd row is cramped and takes away almost all the rear cargo space. 15. We found that cabins are well-tailored and comfortable, even in the most basic trim, while high-end models are nothing short of luxurious just be prepared for a luxury price tag to match. On the flip side, they're more challenging to park and generally have lower fuel economy ratings. The Audi Q7's combination of performance, comfort, high technology and value is hard to beat. He loves cars from the 1980s and Bleu, his Great Pyrenees, and is an active member of the Buffalo Wild Wings community. Best Midsize SUVs for 2018: Editors' Top-Rated for 2018 - Edmunds However, rather than oozing the millionaire-rancher personality of the Telluride, the Hyundai feels logical and sterilelike the answer to a complicated math problem. While its 5.7-liter V8 and four-wheel drive, Now, the 2021 Kia Telluride earned some pretty high marks in terms of reliability. Mazda CX-95. The 2023 Nissan Armada is a value choice in full-size SUVs with a reasonable price tag and V8 performance. This modern American road bound luxury yacht is mainly built to offer stately speed and supreme comfort. If youre SUV shopping, youve come across the Toyota RAV4. With three children under six, she's had ample experience hauling kids and their gear around in SUVs and her 61 husband knows what a roomy third row feels like. 2023 Kia Carnival Review, Pricing, and Specs - Car and Driver We ask all the right questions about the interior, the exterior, the engine and powertrain, the ride and handling, the features, the comfort, and of course, about the price. Looking for a V-8 in your midsize, three-row SUV? In its place sits a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. While the Tahoes recent significant update might open up the possibility of design bugs, for now, it and its GMC version received above-average reliability ratings from Consumer Reports. 2018 . But its most sexy feature might be what you get for what you spend: the GV80's long list of standard features would quickly tally up to thousands more dollars from most competitors. Best Luxury Midsize SUVs of 2023 | Kelley Blue Book We love that the control layout is intuitive, the standard equipment is generous and the pricing is value-oriented. But if twisty mountain roads are a regular part of the terrain you drive, consider holding out for the 2023 Ford Explorer. Regardless, most will likely find the third-row space tight. Though the Atlas lacks the verve and driving engagement of segment leaders such as the Mazda CX-9 or Honda Pilot, the Volkswagen still packs its perks. The Chevrolet Traverse currently leads the "larger" three-row SUVs with a $35,05 base MSRP, including a $1395 destination fee. Both Car and Driver and Autoblog felt the 3rd-row seats were really only suitable for children. [. With seating arrangements that can accommodate between six and eight passengers, and a range of towing capacities and off-road abilities, there's a 3-row SUV to match every need. Pick up a Highlander equipped with all-wheel drive and Multi-Terrain Select, and not even sand or mud will slow you down. If you're budget-conscious, those changes could be worth the wait, since once you start adding on optional features, Explorer prices can easily soar into luxury levels. The luxury mid-size SUV also received a CR recommendation. Still, it's relatively spacious, and great for hauling cargo with fold-flat second-row seats. $50,745 . Look, we know, you have a growing family. unlike the Highlander, the Sequoia can genuinely off-road. We found that actual grown-ups can easily access the third row, and once they're back there, theyll be pleased with the amount of stretch theyll have for their legs a claim many three-row SUVs cant make. It earned the same title last year (and the two years before that) but then got even better for 2023 with a variety of meaningful enhancements. The large-size 2023 Yukon SUV is one of the most accommodating and luxurious passenger vehicles in the brands history, according to Car and Drivers Drew Dorian. The strategy from Kia has been very clear - to stay with utility vehicles and not bother with sedans or hatchbacks. Best Luxury SUVs with 3rd Row. As if you needed another reason to want the 2021 Kia Telluride. (Whether that purpose is commuting efficiently to and from work in the city, keeping your family safe, making you feel like youve made it to the top or that youre on your way or making you feel like youve finally found just the right partner for your lifestyle.). If you've specifically decided on buying a three-row SUV, you need to think about who will be sitting there. Decent acceleration; powerful uprated engines; macho design. It's hard to fault the best-in-class, though the last row in this third row SUV is somewhat small. Learn more at Kelley Blue Book. If you're particularly concerned about the gas bills that come with the purchase of a large (and pricey) SUV, choose the optional turbodiesel. The Carens nails a lot of important bits - ride quality, ergonomics in the cabin, third row accessibility and even boot space. The 10 Best Rated Used SUV With Third Row Seating 2023 Acura MDX. All rows have USB ports, air vents, and cupholders, and the available BlueCruise hands-free-driving technology makes cruising long distances all the easier. CX-9 owners also report high satisfaction. (The screen placement allows the front-seat passenger better access the radio and navigation system, which some might consider a good thing.). Some would say the 2023 Kia Carnival is a minivan masquerading as an SUV. Yet there's also tons of room for you and your stuff. Even the third-row seats can fit adults comfortably. 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.. It carries up to eight people in three rows of seats and offers between 18 and 86.4 cubic feet of cargo space. The truck chassis-based Armada is tough enough to tow 8,500 pounds, but is not as nimble as some of its competitors. Plush seating is matched with truly expansive interior space that nears multiplying the interior volume of smaller classes of SUVs. That, along with its driving dynamics, led MT to put the CX-9 on its list of recommended 3rd-row SUVs. It also has better off-road capabilities than most of its rivals, with a 5,000-pound towing capacity. A newcomer to the market only a few short years ago, the Kia Telluride has quickly become one of the most in-demand and award-winning SUVs in the U.S. Its popularity among families is not likely to diminish thanks to its relative affordability and spacious interior, even for third-row passengers, whether they're adult-size kids or actual adults. All of the cars on this list were road tested by Rachel Rothman, the GH Institute's Chief Technologist and lead engineer. No surprise, then, that the 2023 Telluride earned a spot on our list of 10Best Trucks and SUVs for 2023. 3rd row SUVs especially need to be reliable, as theyre often used to transport families, although minivans are arguably superior in this regard. .css-dhtls0{display:block;font-family:GlikoS,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-weight:400;margin-bottom:0;margin-top:0;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}@media (any-hover: hover){.css-dhtls0:hover{color:link-hover;}}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-dhtls0{font-size:1.125rem;line-height:1.2;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-dhtls0{font-size:1.25rem;line-height:1.2;}}@media(min-width: 61.25rem){.css-dhtls0{font-size:1.375rem;line-height:1.2;}}The Best Off-Road-Ready SUVs for 2023, Every 2023 Compact SUV Ranked from Worst to Best, Most Fuel-Efficient Gas Cars (That Aren't Hybrid). What you might not love? Thats why weve rounded up the most reliable 3rd row SUVs as determined by Consumer Reports. If you want to keep the joy of driving even though you have to buy a SUV. Plasticky interior; steep price ladder; transmission calibration. ), safety features, roominess, ergonomics, price point and more. It could stand a bit more cargo and third-row, New Audi A4 Allroad for Sale in Clifton Park, NY, Best Acura MDX Lease Deals in Chesapeake, VA, New Chevrolet Silverado 3500Hd for Sale in Moab, UT, New Audi A4 Allroad for Sale in Millbury, MA, Best Acura Integra Lease Deals in Fayetteville, NC, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers the best fuel economy of any 3-row SUV, returning an EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined. 15 Best 3-Row SUVs for Families in 2023 - Good Housekeeping If that's not enough, the 400-hp twin-turbo V-6 in the Explorer ST models rockets the SUV to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds. Base price: $37,755 C/D rating: 8/10 Cheap parts, safety tech optional, finicky controls. All models come with a 10-speed automatic transmission operated by buttons on the dashboard and offer rear- or all-wheel drive. The SR5 is the base 4Runner and the Limited slots between the TRD and TRD Pro. Cons:Cramped passenger space; aging infotainment setup; tiny cargo area. The Hyundai Palisade is the Kia Telluride's fraternal twin, sharing a platform, powertrain, and suspension, but its looks, inside and out, are where the two are most different. Our pros were impressed with the fuel-efficient V6 engine option, which allows for a peppy and enjoyably smooth ride experience. Todays compact crossovers are filled with technology found in luxury cars just a few years ago. But the plasticky accoutrements inside the Explorer feel cut-rate and carried over from the previous generation model. Only SR5 and Limited trims can be equipped with a 3rd row. Its cabin is spacious, and even the third row will fit adults semi-comfortably for shortish drives. Americans bought more SUVs last year than cars and trucks combined. This years Palisade was even tapped by the IIHS as an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. 2020 Kia Sorento. [Read more about the Chevrolet Traverse]. Lows Front-wheel drive only, not as much room for cargo as other vans, optional second-row reclining . The Chevy's offering of advanced safety features also trails its competitors. In a recent MotorTrendBig Testmidsize SUV comparison test, a very well-equipped Highlander came in $5,000 less than the rest of the pack. 0-1.0: This is the rarest group of all because a really bad new car is really, really hard to find these days. []. Credit: Ford. The 2023 Kia Telluride, 2023 Ford Expedition, and 2023 Ford Expedition MAX are the highest-rated models on KBB.coms list of best 3-row SUVs. Just take note though: The high trims come with a high price tag. warning and blind-spot monitoring, these SUVs are rather expensive. Chevrolet Traverse12. 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. . Good ride; confident brakes; smart interior touches. Kia updates the Telluride for 2023. Working with the new infotainment system is quick and expeditious, making the CarPlay and Android Auto functions all the more useful. This Range Rover is priced more like a modest piece of real estate than a vehicle. Tech junkies will also be pleased to know that wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the line, as is an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment setup. No surprise, then, that its rugged body-on-frame chassis and five-speed automatic transmission are old-school. 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. Still, it's relatively spacious, and great for hauling cargo with fold-flat second-row seats. If it's only children, you may be able to get away with a more cramped back row. 2016 GMC Yukon XL. Expected to remain one of the most popular three-row SUVs in its class, updates are rumored to include better interior materials, a bigger 12" center touchscreen and additional updated technology. The 2021 Hyundai Palisade is another reliable midsize SUV with three-rows. Clunky infotainment; dated interior; tough third-row access. As for comfort factor, our testers found it depends on where you're sitting. 5.0: These scores represent the cream of the crop, with 5.0 representing, well, near perfection. Though we like its ergonomic dashboard design and comfortable ride, we remain unimpressed with the Highlanders interior space. But you dont want the same crossover two friends and three coworkers have. With all seats folded, think 48 carry-on bags. The 2022 Mazda CX-9 midsize crossover carries a reasonable price tag, given that its interior materials are more akin to what you'd find in a true luxury three-row SUV. Though it has a tempting entry-level MSRP, you get what you pay forwhich isn't much. 2019 Mazda CX-9. While SUVs like the Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, and Honda Pilot . By Jon Linkov. The reliable Highlander has got you covered. GMC Acadia13. 3rd Row 50:50 Split Seats with Reclining and Full Flat Folding; ISOFIX Child Anchor . With a choice of potent powertrains and best-in-class towing capacity, the Dodge Durango is a midsize family workhorse that's competitively priced, even if its ten-year-old design is getting long in the tooth. Yes, they have their charms. If you're looking for the best 3-row SUV or the best SUV for families, the Palisade should be on your shopping list. Unlike some other SUVs on the list, however, the QX60 is a mid-size SUV. The first is a 360-hp 5.7-liter Hemi, followed by a 475-hp 6.4-liter in the sporty SRT model, and a 710-hp (!) But back to the 2022 model: The solid turbocharged four-cylinder V6 base outpaces competitors, so if you're looking for a powerful engine you won't be disappointed. Once you've honed in on your top picks, it's time to go for a test drive. SUVs with third row seating tend to be about impressive and usable interior size, so it's possible the 227.0 inch long battleship that is the 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV isn't just about vanity. While reliability (strangely) doesnt appear in the top list of brand loyalty factors, its undeniably important to consumers. 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. Compare. 2018 Ford Edge. And everyone gets a USB port. Space-wise, the cabin feels comfortable and roomy unless you're assigned a third-row seat. The Palisade's cabin is both attractive and finished in top-quality materials, and it comes with an . We found the first- and second-row seats to be comfy, but the snug third row is more suitable for kids than adults. Those high-end models also gain power-folding exterior mirrors, while the midrange Highlanders will include a hands-free, power-operated rear liftgate. Car and Driver ranked the 2022 Genesis GV80 first among its foreign high-end crossover competitors, awarding it the brand's prestigious Editors Choice award. GOOD TO KNOW: The biggest potential change expected for the large-size 2023 Chevy Suburban is the addition of the manufacturers Super Cruise hands-free driving technology. Car buying can be a daunting process. However, that didn't stop Car and Driver from naming the 3 rd row SUV to its 10Best Trucks and SUVs list 3 . . The Highlander also gets demerits for its claustrophobic third row, an already-outdated native-app infotainment system (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa interaction save the day), and its base 3.5-liter V-6 engine that turns thrashy when urged to accelerate. A new version of the Highlander Hybrid is coming soon, and it promises to offer even better mileage. Armadas typically are not very impressive with fuel economy ratings, and the V8 engines powering the 2022 models are no different. Its upscale cabin is quiet, comfortable and thoughtfully designed. It's also quick off the line, with a sub-seven-second trot from zero to 60 mph. Though we prefer the extra muscle of the 360- and 475-hp naturally aspirated V-8s that come standard in the R/T and SRT 392 trims, respectively, even the base V-6 offers enough grunt to move the Durango with reasonable gusto. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Tiny cargo room with seats up, limited active safety tech, outdated infotainment, totally anodyne experience. The Hyundai Palisade is one of our best-rated three-row SUVs for 2022 and for almost too many reasons to list here. While brake feel is squishy, the stopping distances are excellent. this three-row midsize luxury SUV offers an attractive cabin with ample room for passengers and cargo. Seating for five comes standard, but a two-person third row is optional. The 2023 Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size 3-row SUV with accommodations for a large family and plenty of luggage. Even the third-row seats can fit adults comfortably. Think about your lifestyle and needs when deciding what type of vehicle is best for you and your family. 10 Best Used Three-Row SUVs Under $25,000. With refreshed styling inside and out, the revised Telluride takes the top-spot in our rankings of mainstream three-row mid-size SUV, a position previously occupied bythat's rightthe Kia Telluride. Posh interior; good road manners; solid safety record. The Aviator's third row is smaller and can be harder to access than ideal, but should fit children just fine. costing roughly $62,000. Follow more updates from MotorBiscuit on our Facebook page. Toyota provides Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa integration for all models. Pros:Enormous inside, massive cargo space, intuitive infotainment. As for actually driving this three-row SUV? The Kia Sorento, though, [], Do you and your family and friends frequently travel together? Dorky looks; tight third row; neck-snapping throttle. Its handling is somewhat doughy and soft, but the car-based Nissan is wieldy and, well, carlike out on the road. Volkswagen Atlas10. Highs Smooth-running V-6 engine, supple ride, attractive inside and out. All-wheel drive is optional, and with it, the towing capability increases from 3,500 to 5,000 pounds. Either way, youll enjoy first-rate visibility, versatile storage options and driver-friendly controls. Rounding out all these positives are annoyances like occasionally iffy driver-assistance systems and an overly digital control layout. In fact, its warranty is one of the best we've seen: a limited warranty of five years or 60,000 miles, and a powertrain warrantee that covers 10 years or 100,000 miles. The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder is a family-friendly midsize 3-row SUV with a rugged look, roomy interior, and plenty of desirable features and technologies. But if you're considering purchasing a vehicle with a third row, you'll want to ensure it's comfortable, practical and designed to meet your family's wants and needs. Two of the more interesting new options in 2023 are the Kia Sportage and the Mazda CX-50. Every 3-Row Mid-Size SUV for 2023 Ranked from Worst to Best It comes packed with standard features and tech . There's certainly a need for a three-row SUV, and the best ones can be extremely functional . Not only is the Toyota Land Cruiser recommended by Consumer Reports, it has the 2nd highest score in CRs large luxury SUV category. With three roomy rows of seats, the Yukon accommodates eight passengers; seven if you opt for captains chairs in the second row. But this three-row SUV is more than reliable. Cons:Engine could use more power; inventory levels; paying full price. Rental-car interior; cheap switchgear; startling pricing. Jeep's latest Grand Cherokee comes in two forms: two-row Grand Cherokee and three-row Grand Cherokee L. The latter doesn't just offer more seats, it also adds more space courtesy of its longer wheelbase and size. SpecificationsBase-Price Range: $33,075-$46,400Available Engines: 3.5L V-6 (284 hp, 259 lb-ft)Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined): 19-20/26-27/21-23 mpgMax Towing Capacity: 6,000 pounds, The GMC Acadiais the luxury version of the Chevrolet Traverse, in that they both share GM's C1 platform. If you want to drive feeling elegant, the Subaru provides comfortable seats, chic multi-tone interior colors and wood accents, and an excellent (optional) Harman Kardon stereo that will drown out the kids' screaming from the back seats. With that high of a score, this years new Telluride has ranked as the most reliable midsize SUV with three-rows. 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. (There are a few compact SUVs with third row seat options, plus a handful of full-size SUVs that all come with the feature.) New for 2023 is a bold new exterior. You still got it when it counts, right? Although luxury vehicles arent always the most reliable, Infinitis QX60 has reversed its previous standing with Consumer Reports. All Yukon models come with an easy-to-use 10.2" infotainment display that stands in the center of the dashboard (except for the luxe Denali, whose infotainment system is embedded into the dashboard). Still, as Mom used to say, an oldie but goodie. In a segment where elegant interiors are the norm, the 2021 Explorer feels built-to-price. The 2023 Mazda CX-9 is the 3-row SUV for buyers who appreciate driving and design as much as they do shuffling the kids to soccer practice.