For those who plan on utilizing a car’s third row lots, allow us to no less than make the suggestion {that a} minivan can be a wiser guess than something you are going to see on this listing of finest three-row SUVs. Their third rows are larger, extra comfy and simpler to get to. The children will certainly be happier. Listed here are our two prime decisions.
OK, now that that is out of the way in which, we completely get why minivans are completely miserable and that if the children wish to be happier, they’ll purchase their very own darn car. You are shopping for, you are driving, you are being seen in it and also you’d somewhat have a three-row SUV. Truthful sufficient. Fortunately, there are extra decisions than ever they usually’re actually good. The perfect do a very good job of being household pleasant with out trying like a colorless transportation equipment, though actually, you may’t go unsuitable with any of the mainstream three-row SUVs. Now, among the luxurious decisions are a bit suspect, together with these which might be in any other case very interesting however have cramped third-row seats (the Genesis GV80 and Land Rover Defender come to thoughts). We’re specializing in three-row SUVs right here, so having a usable third row is a should.
On this listing, we have now damaged issues down into 4 sub-categories:
Greatest Three-Row Crossover | Greatest Full-size Three-Row SUV | Greatest Luxurious Three-Row SUV | Greatest Flagship Luxurious Three-Row SUV
Word that we outline crossovers as SUVs since most patrons use the phrases interchangeably, however acknowledge that “crossover” is actually a car with a car-like unibody construction versus the truck-like, body-on-frame development that historically has outlined “SUV.” In different phrases, we take into account all crossovers SUVs, however not all SUVs are crossovers (particularly these within the full-size section and a few within the flagship luxurious section).
Greatest Three-Row Crossover
Hyundai Palisade
Why it stands out: Extra third-row and cargo house; well-executed tech; high-style inside
Might be higher: No hybrid or efficiency model
Learn our full 2022 Hyundai Palisade Overview and comply with updates on our long-term Palisade check
The Hyundai Palisade is mechanically associated to the Kia Telluride, and selecting between this pair of masterfully executed household haulers might mainly come right down to a coin flip. Or, extra realistically, which you suppose appears to be like higher. For its half, the Palisade has a extra luxurious vibe, which is most evident in its Restricted (pictured above) and Calligraphy trim ranges that would simply compete with precise luxury-brand SUVs. The primary purpose for that is the trendy, well-made cabin that not solely appears to be like nice, however boasts helpful storage, user-friendly infotainment tech and extra space than practically each competitor — larger children and even adults might be completely comfy within the third row, and you may match extra stuff behind the raised third row. Hyundai’s driver help and security tech can also be among the many best-executed within the trade. If there is a main gap in its sport, it is the shortage of a hybrid powertrain or a extra {powerful} model.
Kia Sorento
Why it stands out: Distinctive measurement; environment friendly engines together with two hybrid decisions; high-end cabin; well-executed tech
Might be higher: Much less commonplace energy than equally priced midsize fashions
Learn our full 2022 Kia Sorento Overview
The Kia Sorento mainly has the outside dimensions of a two-row midsize SUV, however manages to sandwich in a 3rd row for individuals who might foresee needing one occasionally, however not ceaselessly sufficient to warrant driving round a much bigger, thirstier and pricier car like Kia’s Telluride. It is mainly for individuals who do not essentially suppose that larger is best. And for its half, the Kia Sorento is interesting for myriad different causes. Fully redesigned for 2021, it options revised styling in line with however not copying the profitable Telluride. There are even barely totally different styling flavors, together with the sportier SX Status and extra rugged X-Line that may now be paired with most trim ranges (pictured above left). Inside, materials high quality is elevated, the design is good-looking and expertise will not be solely ample, however person pleasant. The identical well-executed driver help and security options that so impress within the Palisade and Telluride are additionally out there within the Sorento. Maybe most importantly, nonetheless, is that the Sorento is without doubt one of the only a few three-row SUVs provided as a hybrid. Its 37 mpg blows away the V6-powered competitors, and there is now a novel plug-in hybrid selection for 2022 (pictured above proper).
Kia Telluride
Why it stands out: Extra third-row and cargo house; well-executed tech; well-made inside; would not seem like a household hauler
Might be higher: No hybrid or efficiency model out there
Learn our full 2022 Kia Telluride Overview
For those who’ve already learn the above description of the Hyundai Palisade, you have already been briefed about its mechanical commonalities with the Telluride and that they share the identical elementary robust factors: house, expertise, high quality and worth. In addition they achieve this to an extent that outpaces their rivals. Of the 2, the Kia Telluride has obtained the larger share of accolades, largely as a result of its styling appears to resonate with extra folks. Principally, model is the tie breaker. There’s greater than a whiff of Vary Rover to its blocky proportions and restrained detailing. Heck, “Telluride” is even written throughout the hood, very similar to a Vary Rover can be. Principally, the Kia Telluride would not seem like a three-row household hauler regardless of being top-of-the-line three-row household haulers. Win-win.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Why it stands out: Greatest gasoline economic system in its section by many miles; high-end inside
Might be higher: Cramped third-row seat; sluggish and simplistic infotainment
Learn our full 2022 Toyota Highlander Overview
The Telluride and Palisade may be glorious, class-leading three-row crossovers, however their gasoline economic system is just common for the section at 21 mpg mixed. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid, however, will get 35 mpg mixed. That distinction is as huge because it appears. Moreover the environmental advantages, you’ll save a median of $850 per 12 months on the pump with the Highlander Hybrid, in line with the EPA. When you think about it prices solely $1,400 greater than a comparable V6-powered Highlander, you are an extremely fast payback time. True, it has solely 243 horsepower, which suggests it is on the sluggish aspect for the section and may really feel fairly strained if you end up doing numerous freeway passing, however contemplating how most individuals drive their three-row household haulers, we predict the 14-mpg benefit will greater than make up for that. Moreover its gasoline economic system, although, the just lately redesigned Highlander is interesting in its personal proper with Palisade-rivaling inside high quality, composed trip and dealing with, and ample function content material. If there’s purpose for pause, it is the somewhat cramped third-row seat that’s corresponding to the Sorento’s. Clearly then, it’s important to be keen to sacrifice max three-row house for max gasoline economic system. We’re guessing many patrons will discover that acceptable.
Greatest Full-Dimension Three-Row SUV
Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban and GMC Yukon
Why it stands out: Gasoline-efficient diesel engine; extra third-row house than most; luxurious interiors
Might be higher: Many driver help options not out there on decrease trims
Learn our full 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban Overview plus our GMC Yukon Denali Overview
The Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban have lengthy been best-selling full-size SUVs, however these gross sales did not replicate its energy relative rivals. A swap to an unbiased rear suspension for the all-new era for 2021 has radically remodeled it, nonetheless. The third-row within the Tahoe and its GMC Yukon twin go from practically uninhabitable to one of many greatest in any car. Cargo house has ballooned, together with within the prolonged size Suburban and Yukon XL, and the cargo flooring is decrease. The trip and dealing with have additionally been dramatically improved. Moreover the suspension-related enhancements, there is a new diesel engine possibility that will get you crossover-like gasoline economic system, quite a few new options and a best-in-class inside. The GMC Yukon even will get its personal inside design for the primary time, nevertheless it’s unique to the Denali trim degree. Add all of it up, and also you get a full-size SUV household that we are able to now suggest.
Ford Expedition
Why it stands out: Silky easy V6 with class-leading torque and gasoline economic system; best-in-class third-row house
Might be higher: Much less enticing and opulent inside than Tahoe/Suburban/Yukon
Learn our most up-to-date Ford Expedition Overview and browse in regards to the important updates made for the 2022 Expedition
Till the Tahoe was redesigned, recommending the Expedition was a straightforward selection. Now, the taking part in discipline has largely been leveled between the 2, with the scales tilting towards the GM SUVs when it comes to inside design and high quality, infotainment options, and the out there diesel engine. Whereas it could actually’t do a lot in regards to the latter, no less than the Expedition will get an up to date inside for 2022. Ford additionally nonetheless has the largest, most comfy third-row seat, although, plus the piece de resistance: its silky easy 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 that produces 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque (and it goes as much as 440 hp and 510 lb-ft within the new 2022 Expedition Timberline pictured above left). Moreover that being class-leading torque, it is horsepower additionally blows away most rivals, together with GM’s 5.3-liter V8 present in most trim ranges. In different phrases, simply because it has been round some time does not imply it is best to ignore it.
Greatest Three-Row Luxurious SUVs
Acura MDX
Why it stands out: Superior dealing with; versatile second row; worth on your cash; reliability repute
Might be higher: Steep tech interface studying curve; stiff brake pedal really feel; no plug-in hybrid possibility
Learn our 2022 Acura MDX Overview
The MDX was utterly redesigned for 2022. It is extra luxurious than its predecessor, making Acura’s three-row crossover a extra convincing competitor for the Audis, BMWs and Lexuses of the world. It additionally has Acura’s latest in-car expertise, although the interface is an acquired style. Most necessary, although, the MDX will not be solely extra participating to drive than earlier than, it additionally outpaces its three-row competitors — credit score to Acura’s latest-generation Tremendous-Dealing with All-Wheel Drive system in addition to an elevated deal with driving pleasure. On the similar time, although, the MDX stays one of the wise luxurious SUV decisions. The third row is friendlier for teenagers or adults, and the versatile second row contains a detachable middle-seat portion, which means you do not have to decide on between seven-passenger capability or extra comfy second-row captain’s chairs. There’s additionally the matter of getting extra tools on your cash, in addition to the MDX’s historically robust resale worth and reliability.
Lincoln Aviator
Why it stands out: Excessive-style cabin; huge energy; comparatively spacious third-row; ample cargo house
Might be higher: A less expensive, less-powerful entry mannequin that might open the Aviator as much as extra patrons
Learn our full 2022 Lincoln Aviator Overview
You will not hear us say this fairly often, however the Lincoln Aviator has an excessive amount of energy. With a regular 400-horsepower turbo V6, the Aviator obliterates the bottom and improve engines of most rivals. That is undoubtedly commendable, and we’re probably not complaining. It is simply that the Aviator is so good, it might simply provide a much less sturdy engine and cater to extra patrons with a lower cost. They’d nonetheless be getting a spacious, well-equipped, easy-to-use and high-style inside, plus a refined driving expertise that makes an attempt to make your time behind the wheel “easy” versus “sporty.” Sure, even with 400 hp, the Aviator is extra about grand-touring velocity than taking corners (acceptable for a Lincoln). And, talking of Grand Touring, the Aviator’s trim of that title is in actual fact a plug-in hybrid that boasts 494 hp and 630 pound-feet of torque. It additionally has a helpful 21 miles of electrical vary.
Volvo XC90
Why it stands out: Spacious third-row and cargo space; Scandinavian design; huge value vary; out there plug-in hybrid
Might be higher: Unrefined engines; tech interface would not agree with everybody
Learn our full 2021 Volvo XC90 Overview
You may get an XC90 dressed to the nines with the 400-horsepower plug-in hybrid powertrain and each high-tech, leather-lined possibility out there for practically $80,000 and stroll away with a very particular luxurious SUV befitting that price ticket. On the similar time, although, you could possibly get a base XC90 T5 for lower than $50,000 and stroll away with a well-equipped and well-made household SUV that is extra spacious, environment friendly and trendy than most luxurious fashions. Such widespread attraction and competitiveness are uncommon. The XC90 is a superb luxurious SUV irrespective of the worth or trim degree.
Greatest Flagship Luxurious Three-Row SUV
Cadillac Escalade
Why it stands out: 38 inches of OLED screens; diesel engine; tow functionality; adult-friendly third row; Tremendous Cruise
Might be higher: V8 gasoline effectivity; gargantuan measurement impedes dealing with and maneuverability
Learn our full 2021 Cadillac Escalade Overview and our particular Escalade Diesel evaluate
The Escalade was all new for 2021, radically improved and way more aggressive. The swap to an unbiased rear suspension has taken the third row from uninhabitable to one of many greatest in the marketplace, whereas additionally benefiting the trip, dealing with and cargo house. The styling is extra refined and the inside will get a severe improve when it comes to supplies, design and expertise. Particularly, the 38 inches price of three OLED screens that encompass the driving force. The Escalade can also be out there with GM’s extremely superior Tremendous Cruise hands-free driving expertise. One other key new component is the addition of a diesel engine, which offers the identical 460 pound-feet of torque as the usual 6.2-liter gasoline V8, however will prevent on common $950 per 12 months on gasoline. It is the one to get.
Lincoln Navigator
Why it stands out: Excessive-style cabin; buttery easy and massively {powerful} engine; unmatched third-row house
Might be higher: Touchscreen appears awfully small because of Cadillac; gargantuan measurement impedes dealing with and maneuverability
Learn our full 2021 Lincoln Navigator Overview and examine the numerous updates made for 2022
It is simple to be wowed by the range-topping Navigator Black Label fashions that may be dressed up within the beautiful colour “Themes” of deep inexperienced or icy blue. They’re really particular, and in case you have the money, the priciest Navigators are with out query probably the most fascinating ones. On the similar time, each Navigator advantages from the identical basic Mid-Century Fashionable-inspired inside design (up to date with a much bigger touchscreen for 2022), unmatched passenger house, ample options listing, refined highway manners and a regular engine that produces 450 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque. Regardless of this important energy benefit over the 6.2-liter Escalade, it is also extra environment friendly (though Lincoln would not provide a fuel-efficient reply to the diesel Escalade). Certain, it is nonetheless gigantic and somewhat truckish in lots of regards, however the Navigator can nonetheless stand tall in opposition to the world’s best flagship luxurious SUVs.
Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
Why it stands out: Lovely inside; impeccable engineering oozes from every thing; numerous mannequin line; well-executed security tech
Might be higher: Overwhelming and complicated tech interface
Learn our Mercedes GLS Overview
The Mercedes GLS is a lot larger and a lot nicer than three-row luxurious SUVs just like the Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90 that it is elevated past them into the uppermost echelon of luxurious SUVs: the flagships. That it has three rows is in some methods only a bonus for these looking for probably the most superior SUV Mercedes has to supply (the Maybach GLS 600 would not even have it), however that aft-most row can also be genuinely adult-friendly, which is uncommon amongst luxurious makers. As such, the GLS can directly compete with the Vary Rover and Navigator … to not point out the Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan when in Maybach guise. In fact, we predict the Maybach and AMG GLS 63 variations are borderline offensive of their overkill and extravagance, however in order for you the most effective, then it is actually laborious to argue in opposition to them.
