most reliable midsize suv with 3rd row seating
Logical interior; good value; attention to detail. Posh interior; good road manners; solid safety record. Because of that, Car and Driver noted its 3rd row is rather cramped. And for all those minuses, its pricing still seems steep. four-cylinder version later in 2020. As if you needed another reason to want the 2021 Kia Telluride. Unlike the Porsche, the Ascent offers no manual or dual-clutch automatic transmission options. All of the cars on this list were road tested by Rachel Rothman, the GH Institute's Chief Technologist and lead engineer. combined with the heavy body-on-frame design, do make it rather inefficient, We took a look at those with the most copious amounts of cargo space and came up with these top 10 used SUVs that fit the bill. All stand out thanks to their sheer size. That said, all this old-school size has the disadvantage of some predictably bad fuel economy. Cons:Dorky looks; tight third row; neck-snapping throttle. Loading and unloading the cargo area is also a breeze, thanks to a lower floor that makes the process less of strain on your back. Available Engines: 2.3L turbo I-4 (300 hp, 310 lb-ft); 3.0L turbo V-6 (365-400 hp, 380-415 lb-ft); 3.3L V-6 hybrid (318 hp, 332 lb-ft), Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined): 16-27/23-28/19-27 mpg. That can quickly raise the price above the base price, which is roughly $47,000 for the upscale Luxe trim. Armadas typically are not very impressive with fuel economy ratings, and the V8 engines powering the 2022 models are no different. It gets a lot of things right, especially safety. Also, those familiar with the Acadia lineup will find this one to be smaller outside and inside. However, rather than oozing the millionaire-rancher personality of the Telluride, the Hyundai feels logical and sterilelike the answer to a complicated math problem. and you'll be good to go with an entire crew. When it comes to storage, the Carnival goes large: Behind the third-row seats awaits 40.2 cubic feet of space, enough to carry 14 carry-on suitcases (!). Working with the new infotainment system is quick and expeditious, making the CarPlay and Android Auto functions all the more useful. 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. IntelliChoice Fair Market Price: $178,865. Lets hope its just as reliable. .css-lwn4i5{display:block;font-family:Neutra,Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif;font-weight:bold;letter-spacing:-0.01rem;margin-bottom:0;margin-top:0;text-align:center;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}@media (any-hover: hover){.css-lwn4i5:hover{color:link-hover;}}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-lwn4i5{font-size:1.375rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-lwn4i5{font-size:1.375rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-lwn4i5{font-size:1.375rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-lwn4i5{font-size:1.375rem;line-height:1.1;}}7 Best Car Vacuums of 2023, Honda Accord First Drive: The Best Gets Better. 0-1.0: This is the rarest group of all because a really bad new car is really, really hard to find these days. However, the 2022 model is well-appointed for the price, offering a smooth and quiet ride. Lets Take a Look Inside the 2024 Mazda CX-90 Inline 6 Turbo, 2023 Kia Sorento vs. 2023 Toyota RAV4 Comparison, 2023 Kia Sportage vs. 2023 Mazda CX-50 Comparison, 2023 Kia Sportage vs. 2023 Nissan Rogue Comparison. If you've outgrown the Forester and Outback, then you may want to take a look at the Subaru Ascent. The secret is out about the Kia's excellence, which means dealers don't have many in stock, and you'll likely pay full sticker price. This list was created by our KBB editors; see how they rank vehicles (link to explanation). .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). IntelliChoice considers resale value . [Read more about the Honda Pilot]. With bench seats in both the second and third rows, the 2023 Highlander seats eight; Captains chairs in the second row reduces the capacity to seven. The Audi Q7's combination of performance, comfort, high technology and value is hard to beat. That, along with its driving dynamics, led MT to put the CX-9 on its list of recommended 3rd-row SUVs. You've likely settled on SUVs if you're reading this, which are optimal if you're looking to maximize space. The 2023 Nissan Armada is a value choice in full-size SUVs with a reasonable price tag and V8 performance. Starting at $ 34,465. Looking for a V-8 in your midsize, three-row SUV? Beyond impressive performance on and off road, the Range Rover offers an elegant interior with luxuries at the beck and call of the occupants of all three rows. The truck chassis-based Armada is tough enough to tow 8,500 pounds, but is not as nimble as some of its competitors. 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. She also manages GHs growing research division and the analysis of applicants for the GH Seal and all other testing emblems. Hardly all show and no go, the sweet-driving Durango serves up a genuinely roomy interior, even for occupants in the way-back third row. SpecificationsBase-Price Range: $32,575-$48,245Available Engines: 2.0L turbo I-4 (235 hp, 258 lb-ft); 3.6L V-6 (276 hp, 266 lb-ft)Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined): 16-21/22-24/18-22 mpgMax Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds, Looking for a V-8 in your midsize, three-row SUV? Easy-to-use infotainment and climate control systems, as well as a handsomeif somewhat boringexterior design, are added draws. Heres our list of the 10 Best Used Family Cars Under $15,000. We've yet to test that model and the Pathfinder will skip the 2021 model year, so the 2020 is represented in our rankings here. 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. Ultimately, we were looking for vehicles that not only drive well but are enjoyable and practical for a variety of needs and budgets. High-end materials complement the interior's attractive design, the combination of which makes the CX-9 feel like a bonafide luxury SUV. They're the answer for buyers who have a lot of kids and, subsequently, an ever-expanding pile of stuff, but dont want to live with the power-sliding doors of a minivan. Once you've honed in on your top picks, it's time to go for a test drive. 15. Starting with a price limit of $75,000, weve compiled [], The traditional contenders in the compact SUV segment are boring. These family-sized, voluminous people movers are each the best SUV in their category. While this long wheelbase three-row SUV makes this list simply by cost, it does offer a raft of features and amenities that few vehicles of any price can challenge. "The [2022 Ford] Explorer ST is far more athletic, and its extra power and stiffer suspension make it a real performance SUV," says Car and Driver Senior Buyer's Guide Editor Drew Dorian. So-so cargo capacity, limited active safety tech, fuel economy, aging bones. Its attractive styling, ergonomic interior design, and reasonable price makes it a strong contender on paper. 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). However, the 2021 models shift to independent suspension has significantly increased space in the rear. Mazda CX-9. 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. The all-new Kia Sportage, fully redesigned for 2023, is one of []. We love that the control layout is intuitive, the standard equipment is generous and the pricing is value-oriented. This is a three-row SUV with surprising off-road chops, not to mention vast amounts of interior space for both people and parcels, and a spacious third row. The SR5 is the base 4Runner and the Limited slots between the TRD and TRD Pro. You need a vehicle that can carry all the kids and their piles of gear. Cargo Space. 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. They want a big box for up to eight occupants and their stuff, and which also accelerates sharply and brakes smartly. Comfort and tech levels are high, and all-wheel drive is standard. 3rd-Row Legroom: 33.5 inches. Nissan Pathfinder6. 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. Their high seating position, great cargo space, and easy-driving character make them the right choice for more buyers than any other kind of vehicle. And what a price it carries. Jeep Grand Cherokee L2. 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. 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. But if you need a proper family vehicle, you'll want something more spacious. Fortunately, Kia also offers the bigger Telluride SUV and Carnival minivan for those in need of additional space. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. 1. However, the Atlas is a bit slow off the line, and its suspension delivers a busy ride that left more than a couple of our iron-stomached editors queasy (hope you brought Wet-Wipes!). Available Engine: 3.8L V-6 (291 hp, 262 lb-ft), Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined): 19/24-26/21-22 mpg, One of the oldest entries in the segment, the. We must highlight that the third row is comfortable, but large adults might feel snug. Pros:Good ride; confident brakes; smart interior touches. The 3-4 range is full of good cars and some great ones. We also vet our picks with the editors at Car and Driver (a fellow Hearst-owned title) to ensure we're rounding up the best SUVs that deliver on performance, convenience, comfort and safety. Honda Sensing continues to be one of the best safety suites, and it's standard on the Pilot. Cons:Plasticky interior; steep price ladder; transmission calibration. Available Engines: 2.0L turbo I-4 (235 hp, 258 lb-ft); 3.6L V-6 (276 hp, 266 lb-ft), Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined): 16-21/22-24/18-22 mpg. Great acceleration; leading fuel economy; smart packaging. But that grille is regrettable. And its brakes aren't as good. Subaru Ascent11. Let's take a look at all of the top rated third-row-equipped SUVs. 2019 Mazda CX-9. Although Car and Driver noted the Lincoln Navigator has more rear storage room than both, reviewers managed to fit 3 suitcases with the 3rd row up. If you're looking for a stable, comfortable and reliable midsize SUV, check out the 2023 Toyota Highlander lineup, which includes a number of standard and optional upgrades that will appeal to both Toyota devotees and families exploring SUVs for the first time. Power folding second- and third-row seat are optional or standard, depending on trim. Not only to Cons:Clunky infotainment; dated interior; tough third-row access. In addition, according to NY Daily News, the 3rd row is cramped and takes away almost all the rear cargo space. As with the Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon, the Mazda CX-9 spent several years with poor CR reliability scores. And unless they're children, passengers headed for the middle and third rows will feel the squeeze. In a recent MotorTrendBig Testmidsize SUV comparison test, a very well-equipped Highlander came in $5,000 less than the rest of the pack. 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. Cons:Tiny cargo room with seats up, limited active safety tech, outdated infotainment, totally anodyne experience. Americans bought more SUVs last year than cars and trucks combined. The Toyota 4Runners entry on this list isnt due to its reliability. It boasts a flexible and stylish interior, refined driving manners, and a long list of attractive features and tech. Still, it's relatively spacious, and great for hauling cargo with fold-flat second-row seats. ), safety features, roominess, ergonomics, price point and more. Although luxury vehicles arent always the most reliable, Infinitis QX60 has reversed its previous standing with Consumer Reports. 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 . We found the first- and second-row seats to be comfy, but the snug third row is more suitable for kids than adults. The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse midsize 3-row SUV has space and an efficient 310-horsepower V6 on its side. The third-row seat is a little cramped, but the Ascent makes up for it with tons of tech options and good first- and second-row room. Its handling is somewhat doughy and soft, but the car-based Nissan is wieldy and, well, carlike out on the road. The Kia Sorento, though, [], Do you and your family and friends frequently travel together? But you also want a vehicle small enough you can actually park it on the street if you go downtown. Not only do they share platforms and engines, the two 3rd row SUVs are also very similarly priced. Rental-car interior; cheap switchgear; startling pricing. A hybrid powertrain is also available. Though the Ascent is far from a penalty box, the three-row SUV lacks the polish that makes this segment's top-ranked models so sought after. See Details. 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. No surprise, then, that its rugged body-on-frame chassis and five-speed automatic transmission are old-school. 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. [Read more about the Nissan Pathfinder]. All models come with a 10-speed automatic transmission operated by buttons on the dashboard and offer rear- or all-wheel drive. The class leader for midsize three-row SUVs just keeps getting better, as the 2023 Kia Telluride has some noticeable upgrades. Only true love and limitless passion (or a free vehicle) should allow you to give in to temptation for one of these vehicles. 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's been more than a decade since the Toyota 4Runner was given a major update. A new version of the Highlander Hybrid is coming soon, and it promises to offer even better mileage. Although the Land Cruiser and its Lexus counterpart arent particularly strong-sellers, these are two extremely reliable 3rd row SUVs. With an impeccably built interior and sharp reflexes on the road, the Q7 is rewarding to both drivers and passengers. However, the Atlas is a bit slow off the line, and its suspension delivers a busy ride that left more than a couple of our iron-stomached editors queasy (hope you brought Wet-Wipes!). By Jon Linkov. For a reliable midsize three-row SUV thats fun to drive? 4.0: This is the area where the rubber meets the recommendations. Engine could use more power; inventory levels; paying full price. The Aviator's third row is smaller and can be harder to access than ideal, but should fit children just fine. 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 (!) $50,745 . It's also quick off the line, with a sub-seven-second trot from zero to 60 mph. Buick Enclave. But the plasticky accoutrements inside the Explorer feel cut-rate and carried over from the previous generation model. A 10.1-inch screen is optional. Toyota Highlander7. If you're buying a seven-seat SUV for "just in case" situations, you'll be okay. Available air springs afford the Grand Cherokee L up to 10.3 inches of ground clearance, something that ought to appeal to three-row mid-size SUV buyers who prioritize off-pavement performance. Rather than pulling random numbers out of the air or off some meaningless checklist, KBBs editors rank a vehicle to where it belongs in its class. Three-row crossovers arent the vehicles that will save the planet or encourage spirited mountain driving. 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.. See our list of the best 3-row SUVs and find the vehicle that will provide the cargo room, driving performance, features, and fuel economy you need. Lows Front-wheel drive only, not as much room for cargo as other vans, optional second-row reclining . The third row is easy to access and is roomy enough for adults on shorter drives. The safe and fuel-efficient 2023 Kia Sorento Hybrid delivers interior comfort and modern technology in a stylish midsize 3-row SUV. Pros:Great acceleration; leading fuel economy; smart packaging. The Toyota Sequoia is sometimes forgotten about compared to the RAV4 and Highlander. The Dodge Durango is essentially a three-row muscle car, and the return of the 710-hp SRT Hellcat for 2023 serves to further drive this point home. Its cabin is spacious, and even the third row will fit adults semi-comfortably for shortish drives. The interior is the typically spartan-but-chic style that is familiar to VW fans, and the infotainment system is logical, speedy, and delivers good fidelity from both the base and premium stereos. The new all-wheel-drive Black Label Special Edition Luxe package features a jet cosmetics package offered with Reserve and Black Label trim. When Austin isnt working on his own cars, hes likely on the side of the highway helping someone else fix theirs. Carsickness-inducing ride and body control, recalcitrant powertrain, mediocre value. Safety features abound; the manufacturer has a history of top safety scores including the coveted IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. This modern American road bound luxury yacht is mainly built to offer stately speed and supreme comfort. Strong engine, easy-driving, big third row. Ride comfort is sensational, although when passing 18-wheelers, we wished for a few more horsepower and a quicker-to-react transmission. If safety is an absolute priority the Audi Q7 is also a good pick. 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. Every 3-Row Mid-Size SUV for 2023 Ranked from Worst to Best, Your Privacy Choices: Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads. The outgoing Tahoe, Motor Trend noted, had a rather cramped 3rd row. Pros:V-8 engine options, intuitive infotainment, satisfying handling. The Hyundai Palisade is a top choice in midsize 3-row SUVs. 2023 . The 60/40-split folding third-row has narrow access, so like many three-row SUVS, it's best as a kids row. It also has better off-road capabilities than most of its rivals, with a 5,000-pound towing capacity. This thing is a miracle of packaging for people and their stuff. The SUV did garner high marks for its interior quality and exterior styling, however. 11. Massive size is a luxury all its own with the 2023 Jeep Grand Wagoneer. The infotainment system does not require tech chops to learn and use, and it's thankfully been updated with an 11.6" vertical touchscreen; Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard. Cons:So-so cargo capacity, limited active safety tech, fuel economy, aging bones. 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. The CX-9's sharp exterior and interior design cues also rival many luxury-branded SUVs. The Subaru Ascent is arguably one of the best value picks on our list, due to its relatively low-price tag and standard AWD. Those who dabble in light off-roading will gravitate toward the TrailSport trim that brings extra off-pavement capability to this people mover. Mazda CX-95. With all seats folded, think 48 carry-on bags. Which isn't a bad thing as there is a lot of attention to detail. Our pros were impressed with the fuel-efficient V6 engine option, which allows for a peppy and enjoyably smooth ride experience. The high-end Denali Ultimate model joins the Yukon lineup in 2023, showing off fancier leather upholstery, open-pore trim and an 18-speaker Bose stereo system among other treats. And they all play football or hockey or some sport with lots of equipment to haul around. And in 14,000 miles, Car and Driver not only didnt experience any glitches, it had to stretch to find anything really flawed with the SUV. Clunky infotainment; dated interior; tough third-row access. Second to the Mazda CX-9, the Pilot might be the most rewarding SUV in its class to drive. 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. 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. If you typically travel with a lot of cargo in addition to humans, you might find yourself wishing for more space when all seven seats are in use. 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. The family-friendly 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan is a rare compact SUV offering three rows of seating to accommodate up to seven occupants. Not bad, am I right? Dorky looks; tight third row; neck-snapping throttle. Stuffed with humans, there isn't much room left for cargo, but hey, toss your items in a trailer (the thing can tow!) We sifted through the data to select the best cars and trucks in every category. Sadly, too much of the Chevrolet parts bin carries over into this premium-badged vehicle. 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. V-8 engine options, intuitive infotainment, satisfying handling. particularly fuel-efficient. 2018 Ford Edge. . According to Consumer Reports, this year's model earned itself an impressive five out of five predicted reliability rating. SpecificationsBase-Price Range: $33,470-$55,725Available Engines: 2.3L turbo I-4 (300 hp, 310 lb-ft); 3.0L turbo V-6 (365-400 hp, 380-415 lb-ft); 3.3L V-6 hybrid (318 hp, 332 lb-ft)Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined): 16-27/23-28/19-27 mpgMax Towing Capacity: 5,600 pounds, If you want to keep the joy of driving even though you have to buy a SUV,the Mazda CX-9is for you. Any car you choose in this group will treat you very well over time. We especially love that second-row passengers can enjoy a dual-screen infotainment system with Amazon FireTV on higher trims. Other upgrades to this already comfortable and largely spacious top rated SUV include better driving assists and more rugged looking trim options. (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.). Cons:Engine could use more power; inventory levels; paying full price. Chevrolet Traverse12. Except you're not willing to give up the outdoorsy lifestyle symbolism you exuded when you were single. But the 2021Chevrolet Traverse's utilitarian exterior design and interior "styling" befits the Hertz counter. However, that didn't stop Car and Driver from naming the 3 rd row SUV to its 10Best Trucks and SUVs list 3 . Also, there are no USB ports in the third row, if your kids haven't already informed you. Some would say the 2023 Kia Carnival is a minivan masquerading as an SUV. Despite its size, the Traverse still managed to achieve 27 mpg on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test. If you have a long commute or a bad back, go for the available front-seat massage function.