Greatest third Row SUVs of 2023

Should you plan on utilizing a automobile’s third row quite a bit, allow us to no less than make the suggestion {that a} minivan could be a better wager than something you are going to see on this record of greatest three-row SUVs. Their third rows are larger, extra snug and simpler to get to. The youngsters will certainly be happier. Listed here are our two prime selections. 

OK, now that that is out of the way in which, we completely get why minivans are completely miserable and that if the children need to be happier, they will purchase their very own darn automobile. You are shopping for, you are driving, you are being seen in it and also you’d slightly have a three-row SUV. Truthful sufficient. Fortunately, there are extra selections than ever and so they’re actually good. One of the best do a very good job of being household pleasant with out trying like a colorless transportation equipment, though actually, you’ll be able to’t go fallacious with any of the mainstream three-row SUVs. Now, a number of the luxurious selections are a bit suspect, together with these which can be in any other case very interesting however have cramped third-row seats (the Genesis GV80 involves thoughts). We’re specializing in three-row SUVs right here, so having a usable third row is a should.  

On this record, now we have 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

Observe that we outline crossovers as SUVs since most patrons use the phrases interchangeably, however acknowledge that “crossover” is actually a automobile with a car-like unibody construction versus the truck-like, body-on-frame building 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 SUV

Hyundai Palisade

Why it stands out: Extra third-row and cargo house; well-executed tech; high-style interiorCould be higher: No hybrid or efficiency model

Learn our full 2023 Hyundai Palisade Evaluation and observe updates on our long-term Palisade take a look at

The Hyundai Palisade is mechanically associated to the Kia Telluride, and selecting between this pair of masterfully executed household haulers may mainly come all the way down to a coin flip. Or, extra realistically, which you suppose seems higher. For its half, the Palisade has a extra luxurious vibe, which is most blatant in its Restricted and Calligraphy trim ranges that might simply compete with precise luxury-brand SUVs. The primary purpose for that is the trendy, well-made cabin that not solely seems nice, however boasts helpful storage, user-friendly infotainment tech and more room than almost each competitor — larger children and even adults might be completely snug within the third row, and you may match extra stuff behind the raised third row. Hyundai’s driver help and security tech can 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 dimension; environment friendly engines together with two hybrid selections; high-end cabin; well-executed techCould be higher: Much less customary energy than equally priced midsize fashions; hybrids are extra-hard to return by

Learn our full-line Kia Sorento Evaluation or particularly our Sorento PHEV evaluation

The Kia Sorento mainly has the outside dimensions of a two-row midsize SUV, however manages to sandwich in a 3rd row for many who may foresee needing one from time to time, however not regularly sufficient to warrant driving round a much bigger, thirstier and pricier automobile like Kia’s Telluride. It is mainly for many who do not essentially suppose that larger is healthier. And for its half, the Kia Sorento is interesting for myriad different causes. Fully redesigned for 2021, it options revised styling in step 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 know-how will not be solely plentiful, however consumer 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 supplied as a hybrid. Its 37 mpg blows away the V6-powered competitors, and there is an distinctive plug-in hybrid alternative (pictured above proper) that we would whole-heartedly advocate apart from the acute problem you will have find one.

Kia Telluride

Why it stands out: Extra third-row and cargo house; well-executed tech; well-made inside; would not appear to be a household haulerCould be higher: No hybrid or efficiency model out there

Learn our full Kia Telluride Evaluation

Should you’ve already learn the above description of the Hyundai Palisade, you’ve got already been briefed about its mechanical commonalities with the Telluride and that they share the identical basic robust factors: house, know-how, high quality and worth. Additionally they achieve this to an extent that outpaces their rivals. Of the 2, the Kia Telluride has obtained the higher share of accolades, largely as a result of its styling appears to resonate with extra individuals. Principally, fashion is the tie breaker. There’s greater than a whiff of Vary Rover to its blocky proportions and restrained detailing (though Kia did tart it up a bit for 2023 and eliminated the Rover-like “Telluride” written throughout the hood). Principally, the Kia Telluride would not appear to be a three-row household hauler regardless of being probably the greatest three-row household haulers. Win-win.

Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Why it stands out: Greatest gas economic system in its section by many miles; high-end interiorCould be higher: Cramped third-row seat; much less cargo house than rivals

Learn our full 2023 Toyota Highlander Evaluation

The Telluride and Palisade is likely to be glorious, class-leading three-row crossovers, however their gas economic system is solely common for the section at 21 mpg mixed. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid, alternatively, will get 35 mpg mixed. That distinction is as huge because it appears. Moreover the environmental advantages, you’ll save a mean of $850 per yr on the pump with the Highlander Hybrid, based on 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 contemplating at this time’s fuel costs. True, it has solely 243 horsepower, which implies it is on the gradual aspect for the section and might really feel fairly strained if you end up doing a number of freeway passing, however contemplating how most individuals drive their three-row household haulers, we predict the 13-mpg benefit will greater than make up for that. Moreover its gas economic system, although, the not too long ago 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 slightly cramped third-row seat that’s extra akin to the Sorento’s than the Telluride’s. Clearly then, you need to be prepared to sacrifice max three-row house for max gas economic system. We’re guessing many patrons will discover that acceptable.

Greatest Full-Measurement Three-Row SUV

Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban and GMC Yukon

Why it stands out: Gasoline-efficient diesel engine; extra third-row house than massive crossovers; luxurious interiorsCould be higher: Many driver help options not out there on decrease trims

Learn our full 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban Evaluation and our GMC Yukon Evaluation

The Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban have lengthy been best-selling full-size SUVs, however these gross sales did not mirror its power relative rivals. A change to an impartial rear suspension for the all-new era for 2021 has radically reworked it, nonetheless. The third-row within the Tahoe and its GMC Yukon twin go from almost uninhabitable to one of many largest in any automobile. Cargo house has ballooned, together with within the prolonged size Suburban and Yukon XL, and the cargo ground is decrease. The trip and dealing with have additionally been dramatically improved. Moreover the suspension-related enhancements, there is a distinctive diesel engine possibility that will get you crossover-like gas economic system, and a totally aggressive inside. The GMC Yukon even will get its personal inside design for the primary time, but it surely’s unique to the Denali trim degree. Add all of it up, and also you get a full-size SUV household that we will now advocate. 

Ford Expedition

Why it stands out: Silky clean V6 with class-leading torque and gas economic system; larger third-row than GM SUVs (barely)May very well be higher: Much less engaging and opulent inside than Tahoe/Suburban/Yukon

Learn our most up-to-date Ford Expedition Evaluation and skim concerning the important updates made for final yr’s Expedition

Till the Tahoe/Yukon have been redesigned, recommending the Expedition was a simple alternative. Now, the enjoying 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 might probably’t do a lot concerning the latter, no less than the Expedition received an up to date inside for 2022. Ford additionally nonetheless has the larger, extra snug third-row seat, although, plus the piece de resistance: its silky clean 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 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. Higher but, it is gas economic system is healthier than the GM V8s and considerably higher than the Jeep Wagoneer’s gas-guzzlers (though these are changed with a far-more aggressive engine within the extended-length Wagoneer L). In different phrases, simply because the Expedition’s been round some time does not imply it’s best to ignore it. 

Jeep Wagoneer L

Why it stands out: It is longer than the Titanic; kidding apart, the inside is simply huge; lovely inside; higher engine than regular-length WagoneersCould be higher: Delicate suspension with a number of physique motions; good luck parking such an infinite automobile

Learn our evaluation of the Jeep Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L

The letter L makes all of the distinction right here and never for the explanation you may assume. The regular-length Wagoneer and ritzier Grand Wagoneer are literally massively spacious in their very own proper, boasting a much bigger third-row seat than its Ford and GM rivals. There’s extra cargo house behind that third-row, too. Actually, solely essentially the most excessive people-and-stuff-hauling wants ought to require one thing as huge as a Jeep Wagoneer L, which is a foot longer with 7 additional inches of wheelbase. As an alternative, the explanation we advocate the new-for-2023 Wagoneer L and never its regular-length siblings is what’s underneath the hood. Relatively than the thirsty V8 engines that’ll price you 1000’s extra on fuel per yr than a Tahoe or Expedition, the L will get Jeep’s new “Hurricane” turbocharged V6 that produces 28 extra horsepower and 64 extra pound-feet of torque than the previous 5.7-liter Hemi V8 whereas returning an estimated 20 mpg mixed. The hole with the Grand Wagoneer and its 6.4-liter V8 is even higher. Principally, the Wagoneer’s horrible gas economic system saved it from this record previously. With the brand new Hurricane, we welcome it aboard … simply so long as its the L model. 

Greatest Three-Row Luxurious SUVs

Acura MDX

Why it stands out: Superior dealing with; versatile second row; worth on your cash; reliability fame; sporty Sort SCould be higher: Steep tech interface studying curve; stiff brake pedal really feel; no plug-in hybrid possibility

Learn our common Acura MDX Evaluation and our evaluation of the Sort S

The MDX was utterly redesigned final yr. 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 newest in-car know-how, although the interface is an acquired style. Most vital, 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 concentrate on driving pleasure. That is very true with the Sort S (pictured above proper). On the similar time, although, the MDX stays some of the wise luxurious SUV selections. The third row is friendlier for teenagers or adults, and the versatile second row incorporates a detachable middle-seat portion, that means you do not have to decide on between seven-passenger capability or extra snug second-row captain’s chairs. There’s additionally the matter of getting extra gear 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 spaceCould be higher: A less expensive, less-powerful entry mannequin that may open the Aviator as much as extra patrons

Learn our full Lincoln Aviator Evaluation

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 may 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 identify 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. 

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Volvo XC90

Why it stands out: Spacious third-row and cargo space; Scandinavian design; large worth vary; out there plug-in hybridCould be higher: Unrefined engines; tech interface would not agree with everybody; trip will be tough with massive wheels

Learn our most up-to-date Volvo XC90 Evaluation

You may get an XC90 dressed to the nines with the 455-horsepower XC90 Recharge plug-in hybrid powertrain and each high-tech, leather-lined possibility out there for almost $85,000 and stroll away with a really particular luxurious SUV befitting that price ticket. On the similar time, although, you can get a base XC90 Core for round $58,000 and stroll away with a well-equipped and well-made household SUV that is extra spacious, environment friendly and classy than most luxurious fashions. Such widespread enchantment and competitiveness are uncommon. The XC90 is a superb luxurious SUV regardless 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 CruiseCould be higher: V8 gas effectivity; gargantuan dimension impedes dealing with and maneuverability 

Learn our 2023 Cadillac Escalade Evaluation and our particular Escalade Diesel evaluation

The Escalade was all new for 2021, radically improved and way more aggressive. The change to an impartial rear suspension took the third row from uninhabitable to one of many largest in the marketplace, whereas additionally benefiting the trip, dealing with and cargo house. The styling equally is as refined you’d count on from this lofty worth level when it comes to supplies, design and know-how. Particularly, the 38 inches price of three OLED screens that encompass the driving force. The Escalade can be out there with GM’s extremely superior Tremendous Cruise hands-free driving know-how. One other key ingredient is the diesel engine possibility, which offers the identical 460 pound-feet of torque as the usual 6.2-liter fuel V8, however ought to prevent important cash on the pump even with excessive diesel costs. It is the one to get. On the other finish of the spectrum, there’s the brand new Escalade-V, however that is only a bit too foolish to advocate. 

Jeep Grand Wagoneer L

Why it stands out: Stunning inside; huge inside house even by section requirements; higher engine than regular-length WagoneersCould be higher: Delicate suspension with a number of physique motions; good luck parking such an infinite automobile

Learn our evaluation of the Jeep Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L

Similar to the non-grand Wagoneer, the letter L makes all of the distinction right here and never for the explanation you may assume. The regular-length Grand Wagoneer is definitely massively spacious in its personal proper, boasting a much bigger third-row seat than its Lincoln and Cadillac rivals. There’s extra cargo house behind that third-row, too. Actually, solely essentially the most excessive people-and-stuff-hauling wants ought to require one thing as huge as a Jeep Grand Wagoneer L, which is a foot longer with 7 additional inches of wheelbase. As an alternative, the explanation we advocate the new-for-2023 Grand Wagoneer L and never its regular-length sibling is what’s underneath the hood. Relatively than the shockingly thirsty 6.4-liter V8 that’ll price you 1000’s extra on fuel per yr than a Navigator or Escalade, the L will get Jeep’s new “Hurricane” turbocharged V6 that produces 39 extra horsepower and 45 extra pound-feet of torque than that previous Hemi V8. Principally, the Grand Wagoneer’s horrible gas economic system saved it from this record previously. The Hurricane adjustments that, that means the Grand Wagoneer and its actually luxurious inside can stand extra compellingly toe-to-toe with its American luxurious rivals.

Lincoln Navigator

Why it stands out: Excessive-style cabin; buttery clean and massively {powerful} engine; unmatched third-row spaceCould be higher: Touchscreen appears awfully small due to Cadillac; gargantuan dimension impedes dealing with and maneuverability

Learn our Lincoln Navigator Evaluation

It is simple to be wowed by the range-topping Navigator Black Label fashions that may be dressed up within the beautiful coloration “Themes” of deep inexperienced or icy blue. They’re actually particular, and you probably have the money, the priciest Navigators are with out query essentially the most fascinating ones. On the similar time, each Navigator advantages from the identical common Mid-Century Fashionable-inspired inside design (up to date with a much bigger touchscreen for 2022), unmatched passenger house, plentiful options record, refined street 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). Positive, it is nonetheless gigantic and slightly truckish in lots of regards, however the Navigator can nonetheless stand tall towards the world’s most interesting flagship luxurious SUVs. 

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Why it stands out: Stunning inside; impeccable engineering oozes from all the pieces; numerous mannequin line; well-executed security techCould be higher: Overwhelming and complicated tech interface

Learn our most up-to-date Mercedes GLS Evaluation

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 searching for essentially the most superior SUV Mercedes has to supply (the Maybach GLS 600 would not even have it), however that aft-most row can be genuinely adult-friendly, which is uncommon amongst luxurious makers. As such, the GLS can without delay 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 if you would like the most effective, then it is definitely exhausting to argue towards them.