Best 3-Row SUVs of 2026 and 2027

The Edmunds experts test drive 3-row SUV contenders on our test track and in the real world. Our ratings assess performance, comfort, technology, utility, value and more. How we rank 3-row SUVs

Best Small 3-row SUVs

If you need a lot of seats on a tight budget, a small three-row SUV might be a good fit. The third row will be cramped for anyone larger than a child, but it's nice to have the option.

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If you like the size of compact SUVs but need three rows, there's a handful of compact 3-row SUVs that fit the bill. We admit we're not big fans of the idea, or of the available options. Cramming three rows of seats into a smaller body comes with inherent compromises to passenger comfort. While there are still only a small number of SUVs in this class, the offerings are better than ever before thanks to some updated models.
  1. #12026 Kia Sorento Hybrid
  2. #22026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
  3. #32026 Kia Sorento
  4. #42026 Hyundai Santa Fe
  5. #52026 Mitsubishi Outlander
1st
2026 Kia Sorento Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
The Kia Sorento Hybrid is an enticing option if you're looking for a small SUV with three rows of seating and good mpg. It's also easy to drive and comes well stocked with features. Only the elevated price tag on the top-of-the-line model could be a deterrent.
MSRP
$38,890 - $47,190
Combined MPG
34 - 37
2nd
2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
7.7/10
The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid is a great option for a family-oriented SUV. It provides plenty of space for both passengers and cargo and comes with the latest driver assistance features. We appreciate the smooth, quiet, and responsive turbocharged hybrid powertrain, but it falls slightly short of expectations in terms of efficiency.
MSRP
$36,400 - $50,500
Combined MPG
34 - 36
3rd
2026 Kia Sorento
Edmunds Rating
7.7/10
With its mix of quality, practicality and available performance, the Sorento is an enticing option if you're looking for a small SUV with above-average versatility. Only the elevated price tag on the top-of-the-line model could be a deterrent.
MSRP
$32,390 - $47,790
Combined MPG
23 - 26
4th
2026 Hyundai Santa Fe
Edmunds Rating
7.5/10
The Hyundai Santa Fe is comfortable and easy to drive and has a third-row seat for occasional use. It also boasts plenty of interior room and distinctive styling. It certainly gets our recommendation if you're shopping for a family-oriented SUV.
MSRP
$35,050 - $50,500
Combined MPG
21 - 36
5th
2026 Mitsubishi Outlander
Edmunds Rating
6.3/10
The latest Outlander SUV has a smooth ride, comfortable front seats and lots of space for people and cargo. It looks pretty sharp, too. Slow acceleration is its only major drawback.
MSRP
$29,995 - $44,845
Combined MPG
27 - 28

Best Midsize 3-row SUVs

Midsize three-row SUVs provide lots of utility at a reasonable price. Expect advanced safety features, too, along with capable acceleration when you need it.

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Moving up to midsize SUVs with three rows, you're squarely in growing-family territory. These are the SUVs you want when you need to move a few kids and their things, but you can't stomach the thought of a minivan. Most offer a V6 engine or a high-power turbo four-cylinder, loads of room, and comfortable cabins made for long distances. Despite their size, these SUVs are fairly easy to drive in the city due to their car-like underpinnings.
  1. #12026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid
  2. #22027 Kia Telluride Hybrid
  3. #32026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
  4. #42026 Hyundai Palisade
  5. #52027 Kia Telluride
1st
2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
8.3/10
The Palisade Hybrid takes all of the desirable attributes of the regular Palisade and adds quicker acceleration and improved fuel economy. The result is an impressively comfortable, practical and stylish three-row SUV. It's one of our top recommendations for sure.
MSRP
$44,160 - $58,780
Combined MPG
29 - 34
2nd
2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
8.1/10
The Kia Telluride boasts roomy seating in all three rows, making it great for family use. It's also stylish and loaded with features. High mpg from the Telluride Hybrid is a nice bonus, too. Overall, we think the new Telluride is a great pick for a midsize three-row SUV.
MSRP
$46,490 - $57,590
Combined MPG
31 - 35
3rd
2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
The Grand Highlander Hybrid has the same appealing qualities as the regular Grand Highlander along with improved fuel economy. There are two versions: Choose the standard Hybrid if you want to maximize fuel efficiency, or opt for the Hybrid Max if you want the most powerful version of the Grand Highlander.
MSRP
$45,610 - $60,175
Combined MPG
27 - 36
4th
2026 Hyundai Palisade
Edmunds Rating
7.7/10
You're going to love the new Hyundai Palisade. It builds upon the success of the previous model and adds a nicer interior, updated tech and an even more premium third-row experience. Sluggish acceleration is one of its few faults.
MSRP
$39,435 - $58,780
Combined MPG
19 - 34
5th
2027 Kia Telluride
Edmunds Rating
7.5/10
We think the Kia Telluride is a great choice for a midsize three-row SUV. 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. We're disappointed with the Telluride's distracting-to-use controls and lackluster mpg compared to the Telluride Hybrid, but overall you're getting a lot here for the price.
MSRP
$39,190 - $56,790
Combined MPG
20 - 22
6th
2026 Toyota Grand Highlander
Edmunds Rating
7.4/10
The Grand Highlander is larger than a regular Highlander but also gets a number of tweaks that help make it one of our top recommendations for a midsize three-row SUV. It has one of most adult-friendly third rows you'll find and still scores high for fuel efficiency, comfort and technology. The Grand Highlander is, indeed, pretty grand.
MSRP
$42,260 - $55,445
Combined MPG
22 - 24
7th
2026 Ford Explorer
Edmunds Rating
7.2/10
The Ford Explorer has uncommonly good balance and poise. It's not the roomiest three-row SUV, but its standard infotainment and safety tech offerings are competitive, and the available engines are strong. The Explorer is mainly held back by subpar interior material quality and high pricing.
MSRP
$38,465 - $56,905
Combined MPG
20 - 24
8th
2026 Volkswagen Atlas
Edmunds Rating
6.7/10
The Volkswagen Atlas is an appealing pick thanks to a roomy cabin that provides comfortable, adult-size seating in all three rows. The cargo area is massive too.
MSRP
$39,310 - $54,630
Combined MPG
21 - 23
9th
2026 GMC Acadia
Edmunds Rating
6.7/10
The GMC Acadia is well suited for family use. It has three rows of seating, a big cargo area, and plenty of advanced technology features. We also like its upscale cabin design. But other rival SUVs do a few things better, such as seat comfort and making the controls easy to use.
MSRP
$43,800 - $65,100
Combined MPG
21 - 22
10th
2026 Honda Pilot
Edmunds Rating
6.4/10
The latest Honda Pilot is comfortable and plenty spacious for its front and middle-row passengers. But it lags behind class leaders in third-row room and cargo space, and its tech is a half-step behind the curve. Some competitors deliver more bang for your buck.
MSRP
$42,395 - $55,195
Combined MPG
20 - 22
10th
2026 Nissan Pathfinder
Edmunds Rating
6.4/10
The Nissan Pathfinder is spacious and pleasant to drive and packed with in-car tech and driver aids, too. The Pathfinder may not be the most exciting choice, but it is great for hauling people and cargo in relative comfort.
MSRP
$37,500 - $51,790
Combined MPG
21 - 23
12th
2026 Mazda CX-90
Edmunds Rating
6.4/10
The Mazda CX-90 is undeniably luxurious and outperforms just about everything else in its class with its sharp handling and quick acceleration. Though third-row space and cargo capacity are a bit lacking, the CX-90 is otherwise a highly recommended pick for a three-row SUV.
MSRP
$39,300 - $58,700
Combined MPG
25 - 26
$299/mo lease found!
This exceptionally rare deal is $290 below typical
12th
2026 Toyota Highlander
Edmunds Rating
6.4/10
The Toyota Highlander gets high marks for its superb comfort, responsive acceleration, and above-average fuel economy. But if third-row-seat space is important to you, the Highlander's accommodations can't compete with the top SUVs in this segment.
MSRP
$46,270 - $53,925
Combined MPG
24
14th
2026 Buick Enclave
Edmunds Rating
6.4/10
The Buick Enclave gives a great first impression thanks to its classy styling and elegant interior design. However, some cheap-feeling materials and a so-so driving experience conspire to make this big family hauler feel less than special.
MSRP
$46,400 - $60,000
Combined MPG
22
15th
2026 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
6.4/10
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid effectively starts with the solid foundation of the regular Highlander and simply adds excellent fuel economy. It's a solid pick choice for a fuel-sipping people mover, but we prefer the more spacious and adult-friendly Toyota Grand Highlander.
MSRP
$48,020 - $55,675
Combined MPG
35
16th
2026 Chevrolet Traverse
Edmunds Rating
6.3/10
The Chevrolet Traverse is a solid pick for a three-row crossover SUV. It boasts class-leading cargo space and helpful technology features. However, its underwhelming performance and lackluster comfort keep it from being its very best.
MSRP
$40,800 - $57,400
Combined MPG
21 - 22
17th
2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
Edmunds Rating
6.1/10
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L supplies generous room for passengers and outmatches competitors with its off-road and towing capabilities. But it's also less comfortable than some of its rivals.
MSRP
$40,920 - $62,600
Combined MPG
21 - 23
18th
2026 Dodge Durango
Edmunds Rating
4.9/10
The Dodge Durango is certainly a muscular SUV. Acceleration is strong with either of the Durango's available V8s, and towing capability is robust. But this three-row SUV also suffers from poor mpg, a dated design and a lack of helpful advanced technology features.
MSRP
$38,995 - $80,990
Combined MPG
13 - 20

Best Large SUVs

These truck-based workhorses can tow a boat and transport a family of eight at the same time. Fuel economy is predictably forgettable, but that may seem a small price to pay for maximum versatility.

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This segment is the last stronghold of the traditional SUV that dominated American garages from the 1990s into the 2000s. It's not hard to see the appeal of these brutes, what with their robust towing capabilities and massive interiors that can typically seat seven or eight passengers. On the other hand, large SUVs are relatively cumbersome from behind the wheel, and their interiors are compromised by truck-like platforms that impinge on available space.
  1. #12027 Ford Expedition
  2. #22026 GMC Yukon
  3. #32026 Nissan Armada
  4. #42026 Chevrolet Suburban
  5. #52026 Chevrolet Tahoe
1st
2027 Ford Expedition
Edmunds Rating
7.7/10
The new Ford Expedition ticks almost every box you'd want in a large SUV. It's spacious, quiet on the road, packed with great tech, and capable of towing a heavy trailer. We think the Expedition is a great pick for a three-row SUV.
MSRP
$58,300 - $89,670
Combined MPG
18 - 19
2nd
2026 GMC Yukon
Edmunds Rating
6.7/10
The GMC Yukon is an appealing pick for a large three-row SUV. As expected, it can carry people in comfort, haul plenty of cargo, and tow a heavy trailer. It's worth checking out if you want something nicer than a Chevrolet Tahoe but don't want to pay a bunch to get an all-out luxury SUV.
MSRP
$69,600 - $103,900
Combined MPG
16 - 17
3rd
2026 Nissan Armada
Edmunds Rating
6.4/10
The redesigned Nissan Armada is a far more well-rounded and impressive SUV than in years past. It boasts helpful technology features, an easy-to-drive nature despite its size, and a spacious third-row seat. The Pro-4X version is remarkably comfortable over every type of terrain too. If you need a big SUV, take a hard look at this one.
MSRP
$58,840 - $80,550
Combined MPG
16 - 18
4th
2026 Chevrolet Suburban
Edmunds Rating
6.4/10
The modernized Chevrolet Suburban has a smooth ride and a massive cargo space, plus heaps of available technology. You can also choose from a trio of powerful engines. There is no getting around its size, however.
MSRP
$63,700 - $86,700
Combined MPG
16 - 17
5th
2026 Chevrolet Tahoe
Edmunds Rating
6.3/10
The redesigned Tahoe has big improvements in ride comfort, technology and convenience features. But overly firm seats and a puzzling interior layout mean there's less useful storage than you might expect for such a big vehicle. Still, family haulers don't get much more modern and capable than this.
MSRP
$60,700 - $83,700
Combined MPG
16 - 17
6th
2026 Toyota Sequoia Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
6.3/10
The Toyota Sequoia stands out with its powerful hybrid powertrain, bold style, and impressive towing and off-road capabilities. Unfortunately it's a bit expensive and compromises heavily on rear passenger comfort and cargo space.
MSRP
$65,725 - $86,135
Combined MPG
20 - 22

Best Midsize 3-row luxury SUVs

Midsize luxury three-row SUVs typically offer seating for seven, or six if you spring for second-row captain's chairs.

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Like their 2-row counterparts, 3-row midsize luxury SUVs focus on comfort, serenity and tech, although it's harder to find bonkers horsepower numbers in this group. If you're looking for adult-size space in the third row, it's worth noting that you're actually more likely to find it among mainstream 3-row midsize SUVs.
  1. #12026 Lexus GX
  2. #22026 Acura MDX Type S
  3. #32026 Lexus TX
  4. #42026 Acura MDX
  5. #52026 Land Rover Defender 130
1st
2026 Lexus GX
Edmunds Rating
7.3/10
The Lexus GX is an appealing pick for a luxury SUV. It's comfortable to drive and its boxy styling definitely stands out. The Overtrail version is impressively capable off-road too. Where the GX falls short is space. The small third-row seating area and limited cargo room mean you'll have to choose between carrying passengers or their things.
MSRP
$66,785 - $83,250
Combined MPG
17
2nd
2026 Acura MDX Type S
Edmunds Rating
7.0/10
The Type S treatment doesn't turn the MDX into a superstar athlete, but it does make for an all-around nicer three-row Acura. A comfortable and spacious cabin and a generous list of standard equipment are highlights. But we think the regular MDX is a better value.
MSRP
$75,850
Combined MPG
19
3rd
2026 Lexus TX
Edmunds Rating
7.0/10
The Lexus TX is impressively family-friendly. It offers fantastic passenger space in all three rows and lots of cargo space. Unfortunately, it's a little too similar to the mechanically identical Toyota Grand Highlander to justify its price tag.
MSRP
$56,940 - $80,610
Combined MPG
23 - 29
4th
2026 Acura MDX
Edmunds Rating
6.8/10
The Acura MDX is a pragmatic choice, with a standard third-row seat and generous feature content at an attractive price. There are more luxurious and sportier options, but the MDX does just about everything well.
MSRP
$51,800 - $75,850
Combined MPG
19 - 22
5th
2026 Land Rover Defender 130
Edmunds Rating
6.5/10
The Defender is a compelling SUV in any guise, and the 130 simply stretches an already winning formula. With more cargo capacity than the 110 and the option to accommodate up to eight people, the 130 is versatile and still has plenty of the off-road ability we've come to expect from Land Rover.
MSRP
$73,000 - $105,000
Combined MPG
18 - 19
6th
2026 Volvo XC90 T8
Edmunds Rating
6.5/10
We like the Volvo XC90's classy-looking interior and big cargo space. It also comes with many features for a competitive price. But some notable drawbacks, including a small third-row seat, distracting-to-use controls and some buggy software, keep it from being a top pick for a luxury SUV.
MSRP
$61,050 - $83,900
Combined MPG
23 - 27
7th
2027 Lincoln Aviator
Edmunds Rating
6.5/10
The Lincoln Aviator provides good bang for the buck, with a powerful engine, a nicely appointed interior, and lots of included features, including a hands-free driving suite. As compelling as it is, however, pricier class leaders offer more refinement and finesse and more exotic luxury features.
MSRP
$57,495 - $85,910
Combined MPG
20 - 21
8th
2026 Land Rover Discovery
Edmunds Rating
6.2/10
The Land Rover Discovery stands out with its luxurious interior and above-average off-road performance. A difficult-to-access third-row seat and bus-like driving position are the Disco's main drawbacks.
MSRP
$60,200 - $83,500
Combined MPG
19 - 21
9th
2026 Audi Q7
Edmunds Rating
6.0/10
The Audi Q7's combination of performance, comfort, high technology and value is hard to beat. With an impeccably built interior and sharp reflexes on the road, the Q7 is rewarding to both drivers and passengers. It could stand a bit more cargo and third-row passenger space, though.
MSRP
$62,000 - $76,900
Combined MPG
20 - 22
10th
2027 INFINITI QX60
Edmunds Rating
5.7/10
The Infiniti QX60 looks sharp and has a nice-looking interior. It's also priced lower than many three-row rivals. However, a lackluster driving experience and disappointing comfort keep the QX60 from being a fully competitive three-row luxury SUV.
MSRP
$51,890 - $66,890
Combined MPG
24

Best Large luxury SUVs

With plenty of seating and strong towing abilities to go with their quilted leather upholstery, these behemoths are as functional as they are luxurious.

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Large luxury SUVs are essentially old-school SUVs in a tuxedo. You get the same eight-passenger seating (although most offer optional second-row captain's chairs that reduce capacity to seven), big power and robust towing capacity. But here you'll find exclusive luxury amenities such as high-quality leather upholstery, premium-branded stereo systems, and power seats with seemingly countless adjustments. Some big luxury SUVs also offer extended-length variants, while nearly all deliver bold styling.
  1. #12026 Mercedes-Benz GLS
  2. #22026 INFINITI QX80
  3. #32027 BMW X7
  4. #42026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer
  5. #52026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer L
1st
2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS
Edmunds Rating
7.6/10
The Mercedes GLS is a fancy people- and gear-hauler that combines luxury DNA with a princely ride, remarkable performance and a commodious interior.
MSRP
$90,250 - $151,050
Combined MPG
16 - 21
2nd
2026 INFINITI QX80
Edmunds Rating
7.5/10
The Infiniti QX80 is a well-rounded luxury SUV with few notable drawbacks. It provides a comfortable cabin with quality amenities, modern technology, solid towing capabilities, and a decent driving experience. Its competitive pricing also adds to its overall appeal.
MSRP
$83,750 - $111,500
Combined MPG
17 - 18
3rd
2027 BMW X7
Edmunds Rating
7.2/10
BMW's biggest SUV, this three-row X7 strikes an optimal balance of luxury, performance and refinement that should please shoppers, drivers and passengers alike.
MSRP
$87,500 - $115,000
Combined MPG
18 - 22
4th
2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer
Edmunds Rating
7.1/10
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer excels at carrying a full load of passengers and luggage while allowing you to have a trailer in tow too. It also delivers on Jeep's reputation for off-road capability. But it can't quite match segment leaders in terms of quality and comfort.
MSRP
$63,995 - $100,310
Combined MPG
19
5th
2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer L
Edmunds Rating
6.9/10
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer L abandons Jeep's usual focus on rugged aesthetics and goes all in on luxury style. It mostly works, and the Grand Wagoneer L is the only choice for max towing power, where it beats rivals. Unfortunately, it lacks the refinement you'd expect of a vehicle at this price.
MSRP
$66,995 - $103,310
Combined MPG
18
6th
2026 Lexus LX 700h
Edmunds Rating
6.6/10
The Lexus LX 700h is elegant, opulent and impeccably built, boasting powerful acceleration, ample towing power and great off-road capability. The hybrid doesn't add much fuel economy, but it does add refinement and even more powerful acceleration. New Overtrail models offer more on-road comfort too.
MSRP
$115,735 - $141,500
Combined MPG
20
7th
2026 Cadillac Escalade
Edmunds Rating
6.5/10
A luxury-infused truck with presence, the Cadillac Escalade is for people who want to tow, carry a bunch of people and impress the valet, all in the same day.
MSRP
$91,100 - $168,000
Combined MPG
13 - 17
8th
2026 Lexus LX 600
Edmunds Rating
6.4/10
The Lexus LX 600 is an impeccably built and impressive piece of machinery whose strengths lie primarily in off-roading. But the LX fails to provide the genuine modern luxury experience you'd expect from a vehicle that costs this much. Most buyers' needs will be better served by other vehicles.
MSRP
$107,000 - $141,500
Combined MPG
19 - 20
9th
2027 Lincoln Navigator
Edmunds Rating
6.3/10
We like the Lincoln Navigator's helpful technology features and well-appointed cabin. This is a family-friendly luxury SUV that's well suited for cruising in style. But it is held back by its awkward steering wheel, which dampens the driving experience, and worse-than-expected ride quality.
MSRP
$89,995 - $120,995
Combined MPG
17

Best Large performance SUVs

The laws of physics technically still apply to these high-horsepower family haulers, but that may be hard to believe when you're hurtling along inside one.

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  1. #12026 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLS 63
  2. #22026 BMW ALPINA XB7
  3. #32026 BMW XM
1st
2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLS 63
Edmunds Rating
7.2/10
The Mercedes-Benz AMG GLS 63 takes one of our favorite large luxury SUVs and infuses it with one of the most potent turbo V8 powertrains, resulting in a ridiculously quick yet supremely comfortable way to travel.
MSRP
$151,050
Combined MPG
17
2nd
2026 BMW ALPINA XB7
Edmunds Rating
6.6/10
The Alpina XB7 is one of the most expensive and powerful vehicles BMW has to offer. It's comfortable, well appointed, and loaded with just about every feature you could ask for. But it doesn't feel all that much better than a regular X7.
MSRP
$156,000
Combined MPG
17
3rd
2026 BMW XM
Edmunds Rating
5.7/10
Much like art or high fashion, you're either going to "get" the BMW XM or you won't. The clever engineering that underpins the XM is the vehicle's saving grace, as the styling, performance and luxury elements defining the rest of this M model are simply not enough to justify the experience on their own.
MSRP
$159,600
Combined MPG
14
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Most Popular 3-Row SUVs of
2025

Table view of

Vehicles included in the data set are exclusively retail registrations to individuals and do not include rental sales or registrations from government bodies*

    20252025

    Some Takeaways

    • The Ford Explorer was the best selling 3-row SUV in 2025.
    • The Toyota Grand Highlander is very populare on the West Coast, with California, Oregon and Washington selling over 20,000 units combined.
    • Chevrolet retook the #1 spot from Kia in overall 3-row SUV sales.
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    Best 3-Row SUVs

    SUVs have taken over our roads in recent years, due in no small part to the family-friendliness of 3-row SUVs. They look cooler than minivans while providing much the same versatility, and unlike minivans, they may come packed with off-road capability or even high-performance racetrack credentials. This is especially true of luxury 3-row SUVs, which often sit at the very top of the brand’s model lineup.

    A key question for any 3-row SUV shopper is how much you plan to use the third-row seat. If you’ll only use it rarely, then a smaller 3-row SUV is probably the right choice, unless you intend to fold down the rear seats and haul a large amount of cargo. But if you’ll be using the third-row seat regularly then you’ll need a true minivan substitute, which gets you into the larger 3-row SUV size classes. Naturally, the price tends to goes up as the size increases, but if you need the versatility, there’s no substitute.

    Choosing the Right 3-Row SUV for You

    Our list of the top-ranked 3-row SUVs is the result of hundreds of hours of driving, testing and comprehensive evaluation. We take each vehicle to a private test track, where we measure acceleration, braking and handling performance. Next, we drive it on a real-world driving loop that tests its performance on city streets, through twisty mountain curves, and in high- and low-speed freeway conditions. Finally, our editors take a turn at the wheel and come to a consensus on an overall rating for the vehicle relative to its competitive set.

    The outcome of this rigorous process is the list of 3-row SUV rankings you see here. But don’t just take our word for it; go test-drive a few of your favorites and see how they stack up. We’re here to help you narrow down the field and focus on the best 3-row SUVs for your needs. From there, it’s all about how they feel to you when you’re in the driver seat, the second row and even the third row. That’s the fun part. Just don’t forget to come back and write a consumer review once you’ve chosen the right 3-row SUV for you.