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2018 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL

1. Volkswagen Tiguan

CarMax owner rating

Price range
$12,998—$36,998
Estimated combined MPG
24 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating
3.5 out of 5
2021 Ford Explorer Platinum

2. Ford Explorer

CarMax owner rating

Price range
$14,998—$54,998
Estimated combined MPG
19 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating
3.5 out of 5

Pros

  • Wide range of engine choices

  • Maximum tow rating of 5,600 pounds

  • Cargo space

Cons

  • Key rivals have roomier third-row seats

  • Higher trims are very pricey

  • Some humdrum cabin trim

2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum

3. Toyota Highlander

CarMax owner rating

Price range
$15,998—$54,998
Estimated combined MPG
24 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating
4 out of 5

Pros

  • Good visibility throughout

  • Pleasing fuel figures for a three-row SUV

  • Hushed ride experience

Cons

  • Third row not suited to adults

  • Cargo cubes are lacking

2022 Honda Pilot Touring

4. Honda Pilot

CarMax owner rating

Price range
$16,998—$50,998
Estimated combined MPG
20 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating
3.5 out of 5
2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid EX

5. Kia Sorento

CarMax owner rating

Price range
$12,599—$42,998
Estimated combined MPG
23 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating
4 out of 5

Pros

  • Easy-to-use infotainment system

  • Quiet cabin

  • Ample standard and optional features

Cons

  • Optional audio system lacks performance

  • AWD not available on base trim level

  • Raised third-row seats impact cargo space

2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SEL R-Line 4MOTION

6. Volkswagen Atlas

CarMax owner rating

Price range
$16,998—$47,998
Estimated combined MPG
20 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating
(data not available)
2020 Hyundai Palisade Limited

7. Hyundai Palisade

CarMax owner rating

Price range
$19,998—$52,998
Estimated combined MPG
21 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating
4.5 out of 5

Pros

  • Tons of passenger space

  • Impressive ride comfort

  • Strong engine across all trim levels

Cons

  • Only one engine option

  • Some tech items are optional

  • Not particularly agile handling

2022 Nissan Pathfinder SV

8. Nissan Pathfinder

CarMax owner rating

Price range
$12,998—$45,998
Estimated combined MPG
21 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating
3.5 out of 5

Pros

  • All three rows are adult-friendly in terms of headroom and legroom

  • Rock Creek trim adds extra off-road cred

  • Smooth highway ride, excellent towing capability

Cons

  • Acceleration is just adequate

  • Infotainment system has some dated-looking graphics

  • Cargo space is snug with all three rows occupied

2020 Kia Telluride LX

9. Kia Telluride

CarMax owner rating

Price range
$19,998—$50,998
Estimated combined MPG
21 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating
4.5 out of 5

Pros

  • Standout exterior styling

  • Great ride and interior comfort

  • Tons of standard tech features

Cons

  • Could have better interior storage for small items

  • Only one engine available

  • Handles like a larger SUV

2021 Chevrolet Traverse LS

10. Chevrolet Traverse

CarMax owner rating

Price range
$14,998—$53,998
Estimated combined MPG
20 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating
3.5 out of 5

Pros

  • Intuitive infotainment technology

  • Impressive acceleration

  • Spacious seating across all three rows

Cons

  • Some panel finishing feels subpar

  • Rear row design impairs visibility

Frequently asked questions about 3-row SUVs

A 3-row SUV is a top choice for its superior seating capacity, offering comfort and space for large families. Furthermore, they provide ample cargo space, powerful performance, and advanced safety features.

A standard SUV does not typically have a third row. However, many midsize and large SUVs offer a third row as either standard or optional equipment.

Ready to find your 3-row SUV?

How we ranked this list

To create our "Best Of" lists, our analysts looked at CarMax vehicle and sales data over a recent 6-month period, from December 2025 through May 2026. Looking back over a 6-month period allows for the highest sample size possible while also providing up-to-date pricing information. Some articles may include data points with lower sample sizes.

Price excludes state and local taxes, title, registration, tags, and any optional products or services. Price assumes that final purchase will be made in the State of NC, unless vehicle is non-transferable. Vehicle subject to prior sale. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions. Limited warranty is 30 days. See store for details. We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.

We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.​

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities.​ By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.

We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.