Three-row SUVs have become a staple of American family life, offering the ideal balance between the constraints of a two-row vehicle and the bulk of a full-size SUV. Yet with more than a dozen mainstream models available, selecting the right one can feel overwhelming. Edmunds has tested the full range and identified the five best midsize three-row SUVs, representing a variety of priorities and budgets.
The Hyundai Palisade tops Edmunds’ midsize three-row rankings as the standout choice in the category. Its quiet, roomy interior gives everyone—even third-row passengers—ample room to spread out. An exceptionally smooth ride makes it ideal both for long highway travel and short local hops on typical city roads. The Palisade’s user-friendly technology, such as wireless smartphone connections and USB ports in all three rows, ensures the driver and passengers stay connected and entertained. While maximum cargo capacity falls short of some rivals, clever small-item storage throughout the cabin compensates.
The redesigned 2026 Palisade features new styling and a roomy interior fitted with premium features and materials. Although it ranks among the pricier picks in the class, the Palisade comes with generous features, high-end materials, and an industry-leading warranty. Edmunds recommends getting the hybrid version if your budget allows, which delivers up to 34 miles per gallon in combined city and highway driving and provides quicker acceleration than the regular Palisade. The 2026 Palisade starts at $41,035, with the hybrid version beginning at $45,760.
The Kia Telluride makes an excellent alternative if the Palisade appeals to you but you prefer a sportier look. Mechanically related to the Palisade and priced nearly the same, the Kia offers its own compelling character. The tall, flat grille, vertical headlights, and aggressive styling give the Telluride a bold, trucklike appearance. The redesigned 2027 Telluride boasts roomy seating in all three rows, making it great for family use. Its spacious cabin is perfect for families, and the Telluride’s smooth ride and generous list of standard tech features make it an easy SUV to drive every day.
The 2027 Kia Telluride starts at $40,735 including destination, making it the first generation of the model to cross the $40,000 threshold. The Telluride Hybrid, now available for the first time, starts at $48,035 and delivers up to 35 miles per gallon combined. The new generation is longer and roomier than before, with more space for second- and third-row passengers and additional cargo space. New features include dual wireless phone charging pads and a refreshed X-Pro version with a lifted stance and all-terrain tires for enhanced off-road capability.
The Ford Explorer proves that three-row SUVs can also be sporty. The athlete of the class, the Explorer offers agile handling and acceleration that rivals like the Chevrolet Traverse and Toyota Grand Highlander don’t quite match. The Explorer ST, in particular, packs a 400-horsepower V6 that accelerates from zero to 60 miles per hour in just 5.6 seconds. Technology is a highlight, with a Google-integrated infotainment system featuring a 13.2-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone connectivity, and Ford’s optional BlueCruise hands-free driving system.
The Explorer stands out for its quick acceleration and engaging driving experience. It also offers a special Tremor version better equipped to handle dirt roads and light-duty off-road trails. However, small cargo space and tight third-row legroom diminish some of the SUV’s utility, and the rear seats aren’t as comfortable as those up front. Additionally, Ford doesn’t offer a hybrid version of the Explorer. The 2026 Explorer starts at $38,465 for the base Active trim, making it one of the more affordable options in this category.
The Toyota Grand Highlander brings efficiency and space to the three-row segment. The Grand Highlander is one of the pricier midsize three-row picks, but the premium interior materials and generous space still make it a good value. The Grand Highlander Hybrid proves particularly appealing, delivering up to 36 miles per gallon combined. The 2026 Grand Highlander starts at $43,855, with the hybrid version beginning at $47,205.
Rounding out Edmunds’ top five is the Volkswagen Atlas, which combines spacious interiors with practical functionality. A spacious cabin and adult-size seating in all three rows help keep Volkswagen’s biggest SUV high in Edmunds’ rankings. The Atlas’ interior is quiet and easy to access, with massive maximum cargo space. Both back rows fold flat for vanlike utility. The Atlas also rides smoothly over bumps but without the floaty feeling noticed in some rivals. Impressively, VW has stuffed a lot of standard features into the Atlas, with even the base trim coming with synthetic leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel.
There are a few minor drawbacks to the Atlas, such as some distracting-to-use controls and no available hybrid powertrain option. But overall the Atlas gets plenty right. Whether you need a three-row SUV with cavernous cargo space, maximum fuel economy, or simply speed and performance, today’s top midsize picks deliver something for every buyer.