Today, the three-row SUV is a commonplace part of American family life, along with smartphones and streaming services. Additionally, it can be overwhelming to choose the proper one because almost every carmaker sells one. While some consumers may favor technology and safety features, others may choose the highest fuel efficiency. On room, however, all three-row SUV purchasers may probably agree. There is never enough room for passengers or stuff in a family SUV, and Edmunds’ automotive experts have compiled their top choices based on capacity, affordability, and adaptability. Call it the Oversized Midsized Battle. The destination charge is included in all pricing.
The Chevrolet Traverse
You would need to purchase a Tahoe or Suburban if you wanted anything larger than the Traverse from Chevy’s inventory. For a midsize SUV, the Traverse’s load capacity of 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row is exceptional, and it can accommodate up to seven passengers. When all rows are folded, the greatest space available for hauling is 98 cubic feet, which is more than six times the size of the trunk of a normal midsize sedan. In addition to the Traverse’s spacious cargo area, the third row offers enough of legroom for adults. Under normal driving conditions, the Traverse’s 328-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine can tow up to 5,000 pounds and get an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of 23 mpg.
Starting price for the 2025 Traverse: $41,995
Telluride Kia
The Telluride is an excellent family hauler because of its luxurious cabin, standard eight-passenger seating, and numerous standard driver assistance systems. Even the tallest children and adults can unwind since there is plenty of legroom in the second row. With 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind it, even the third row provides plenty of legroom. The Telluride’s 291-horsepower V6 engine has a long 10-year powertrain guarantee and can achieve up to 22 mpg combined, according to EPA estimates. The Hyundai Palisade, which is the Telluride’s mechanical twin beneath the sheet metal, offers an option for those who want a bit more luxury. It’s easy to understand why the Telluride is still one of Edmunds’ best SUVs.
Starting price for 2025 Telluride: $37,585
The Nissan Pathfinder
The Pathfinder is an excellent three-row option that bridges the gap between Nissan’s little Rogue and the large, truck-like Armada. It has eight seats, a V6 engine with 284 horsepower, and a combined fuel economy of up to 23 mpg. Even fully loaded, it’s also among the more affordable options in the class. Similar to the Traverse, the Pathfinder’s ample front legroom makes it a great vehicle for taller drivers. Although it comes at the sacrifice of cargo space, passengers in the second and third rows also have plenty of room. The area behind the third row is just 16.6 cubic feet. However, the Pathfinder’s increased towing capacity makes up for its load limitations. The Pathfinder can tow up to 6,000 pounds when properly outfitted, which is roughly 1,000 pounds more than its competitors.
Starting price for the 2025 Pathfinder: $38,460
The Toyota Grand Highlander
The Grand Highlander, as its name suggests, is a larger and more upscale variant of Toyota’s standard Highlander SUV. There is plenty of room for equipment and merchandise because the Kia Telluride’s 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row is only slightly less than the Toyota’s. Additionally, it has a ton of space for passengers in the second and third rows. Although the Grand Highlander is quite expensive, those looking for fuel economy will value its EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of up to 24 mpg. The even more efficient Grand Highlander Hybrid model, which starts at about $46,000 and can achieve up to 36 mpg combined, is also available.
Starting price for the 2024 Grand Highlander: $45,08
Atlas from Volkswagen
You would think that a Volkswagen SUV with a name like Atlas would be large, and you would be correct. There is 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which is spacious enough to accommodate numerous adults. 96.8 cubic feet—nearly the same as the Traverse—are obtained by folding the two back rows. Additionally, there are lots of places inside to store tiny personal belongings. The EPA estimates that a four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 269 horsepower can achieve up to 22 mpg overall. Volkswagen also makes sure that even the base Atlas has several standard equipment, such as wireless phone charging, synthetic leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats.
Starting price for 2025 Atlas: $39.625
Edmunds states
You want to have the most space for both passengers and cargo when purchasing a midsize three-row SUV. Thankfully, the roomiest options are also some of the best choices.
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The Associated Press received this article from Edmunds, an automotive website.
At Edmunds, Dan Frio contributes.
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