For 2026, here is our top pics for best suvs with 3 rows. following models are excellent in offering space, specs, smart connectivity and practical cargo solutions.
2026 Hyundai Palisade
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade has set a new benchmark for the midsize SUV segment. This machine is powered by a 287-hp 3.5-liter V6, offering FWD and AWD options with a combined fuel economy of 20–21 MPG. Key tech includes:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation
- Wireless device charging and dual panoramic displays
- Hyundai Digital Key 2 Premium, Apple CarPlay, and Alexa integration
- Nappa leather seating surfaces and relaxation seats in top trims
Families benefit from the available power-folding third-row, hands-free smart liftgate, USB-C ports, surround-view monitor, built-in dash cam, UV-C sterilization compartment, and camera cleaning system. Safety covers all needs, with SmartSense—forward collision assist, blind spot warning, and highway driving assist standard. The Palisade also offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs and up to 600 miles of driving range for upcoming hybrid models.
Owners enjoy a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and features like remote start, premium Bose audio, and integrated memory seating. The Palisade won the 2025 Red Dot Design and iF Design Awards, highlighting its blend of durability and premium style.
2026 Kia Telluride
Telluride continues to be the “buy it once, enjoy it for years” pick—big space, calm road manners, and pricing that still undercuts luxury makes. What’s shaping up for 2026:
- Expected powertrains: carryover V6 near 287–291 hp with 8‑speed; hybrid likely 2.5T plus dual motors targeted around 329 hp (projected).
- Towing: about 5,000 lb expected, similar to current.
- Design: boxier body, pop‑out handles, EV9‑inspired lighting; likely LX/S/EX/SX plus X‑Pro with chunkier tires and more ride height.
- Timing & pricing: debut late 2025; pricing broadly near current $38k–$55k window.
if the hybrid lands near 30 mpg highway as projected, it fixes Telluride’s one real weak spot—fuel economy—without killing the big‑SUV feel.
Toyota Grand Highlander (2026)
Grand Highlander is the “people-first” choice—adult‑friendly third row and generous cargo even with all seats up; the hybrids keep fuel bills in check. Key specs:
- Powertrains: 2.4L turbo I‑4 (265 hp); 2.5L hybrid (245 hp combined); Hybrid MAX (362 hp combined).
- Drivetrains: FWD or AWD depending on powertrain; 8‑speed auto on 2.4T; e‑CVT on 2.5 hybrid.
- EPA/observed: 2.4T rated around 23/21/27 mpg; C/D observed ~21 mpg, 29 mpg at 75‑mph highway test.
- Dimensions (C/D test on similar spec): wheelbase 116.1 in; length 201.4; width 78.3; height 70.1.
- Cargo: up to ~97.5 cu ft with seats down; generous space with third row up.
- Trims: LE, XLE, Limited, Platinum, Nightshade depending on market; pricing from low $41k (regional example).
- Reviewer take: third‑row cushion and toe room are better than most; hybrid MAX adds punch without making the nose feel heavy.
2026 Lexus TX
TX is what families wanted from a luxury badge: a truly usable third row, quiet cabin, and electrified options that don’t feel compromised.
- Layouts: gas, hybrid, and plug‑in hybrid (TX 550h+), with AWD availability.
- Seating: adult‑friendly third row, roomy second‑row captain’s chairs on many builds.
- Towing: up to about 5,000 lb when properly equipped.
- Tech: modern infotainment with big touch display and advanced driver assists; premium audio available.
Cabin hush and seat comfort put it in a sweet spot—luxury feel without the parking anxiety of a full‑size ute.
2026 Mazda CX‑90
This is the driver’s pick: smooth inline‑six, rear‑biased dynamics, and interiors that punch above price point.
- Powertrains: 3.3L turbo inline‑six up to ~340 hp; plug‑in hybrid variant also available; AWD standard in most configurations.
- Seating: 6–8 depending on second‑row layout; third row fine for kids and short adult trips.
- Tech: dual 12.3‑in displays, wireless smartphone mirroring, comprehensive safety suite.
body control and steering precision make it feel smaller than it is; still hauls family gear without drama.
2026 Kia Sorento
The “just‑right” three‑row that’s easy to park, still fits seven when needed, and delivers strong hybrid-friendly efficiency for mixed city and suburban driving. In the lineup, there’s a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder around 191 hp, an available 2.5T making about 281 hp, plus hybrid options (and a plug-in hybrid in some markets), with front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive available.
Typical tow capacity lands around 3,500 pounds on common builds, and the X‑Pro variant adds all-terrain tires, a more confident stance, and traction-focused tuning for snow or gravel. Inside, the Sorento brings a wide panoramic display setup, heated seats, available second-row captain’s chairs, and a comprehensive active-safety/driver-assist suite.
If the third row is only used occasionally and fuel economy matters every day, this is the sensible pick—especially in hybrid form.
