Every year, our Car Confections Team gets behind the wheels of hundreds of cars, from every size and price point, to make reviews for the channel. So, we wanted to jot down our Top Picks for each of the segments we spend time in. Today, we will be sharing our Top 10 Midsize Three-Row SUVs for 2025. For an in-depth video about each, be sure to head to the video linked at the bottom of this article!
Scoring Criteria
As the opinions of two brothers with no kids can differ from those of others in the market for a car, we have developed multiple categories that we feel shoppers prioritize in shopping for a Compact SUV. The categories are as follows:
- Luxury Features – Do you get some unexpected cool features?
- Powertrain Choices – Does it offer a hybrid?
- Drive Experience – Dynamics, ride quality
- Rear Seats – Space and features
- 3rd Row
- Cargo Space
- Technology – Quantity, quality, screen size, advanced features
- Active Safety Features
- Reliability and Resale Value
- Value under $50,000 – Do you get a lot with a mid-level trim that most people buy?
Each of the categories will be rated on a 1–5-point scale, and winners will be determined by adding each category up for a final score. Ties will be broken by our professional opinions of each model.
Also, if you’re interested in buying any of the models we mention today, we have a tool on the website that you will want to check out. Click here for our too that will connect you to local dealerships to get the best price and give you access to invoice pricing. With that being said, let’s get into the countdown!
#10: Volkswagen Atlas – 32 Points
The only German recipient on this list, the Atlas gained a lot of traction with its redesign. Not only is it still one of the largest in the segment, it now has even more luxury and technology than ever, combined with some welcome advanced technology. However, the Atlas is still lacking in terms of reliability and powertrain diversity, as it is in need of a hybrid offering.
#9: Toyota Highlander – 32 Points
The Toyota Highlander has long been a prominent option in the segment, but with the recent trend for more and more space, it has fallen from the top of the list. Despite its shortcomings, the Highlander is still a very reliable choice, and offers all of Toyota’s most recent tech and safety offerings. It also has powertrain diversity for buyers to choose from.
#8: Ford Explorer – 33.5 Points
One of the few Rear-Drive based options left in the segment, the refreshed Ford Explorer offers a unique value for enthusiast buyers. The top-end ST model is very fun to haul the family around in, and it also has much improved technology for this year. Despite this, the Explorer can get pricey considering how the lack of space it offers.
#7: Mazda CX-90 – 35.5 Points
The Mazda CX-90 is the other, and newest, Rear-Drive offering in this segment, truly carrying Mazda’s driving dynamics well with its Inline-6 and PHEV options. The cabin is also very plush, rivaling that of some luxury brands in all three rows. Similar to the Explorer, the CX-90 is lacking in terms of overall space and practicality.
#6: Honda Pilot – 36 Points
Another veteran in the segment, the Honda Pilot is a choice that rules in terms of traditional elements and practicality. Though it may not be the biggest in terms of cargo, the Pilot still has a tried-and-true V6 engine with its unique second row flex seat. However, if class-leading luxury and tech is your goal, it would be best to seek out another option in the segment.
#5: Kia Telluride – 37 Points
The Kia Telluride has established itself as an important player in the 3-row segment in just a short amount of time. Not only does it have a wide array of trim offerings, it also offers an incredible amount of value on just about every trim. Though its tech was groundbreaking a few years ago, the Telluride is now showing some age in the tech department, and it is also lacking a hybrid option.
#4: Hyundai Palisade – 37 Points
It makes sense that the Hyundai Palisade ties the Telluride, as the two models share the same platform and powertrain, as well as that same value proposition the Telluride has. The tie-breaker here was that the Palisade offers just a bit more luxury, especially on top trims. Similarly to the Telluride, the Palisade is in need of a space, tech, and hybrid upgrade as well, which is likely to happen soon.
#3: Chevy Traverse – 37.5 Points
As we enter the top three, there have been some big changes since the last time we visited this segment. The all-new Chevy Traverse is one of those changes, as it is now an updated rendition of this large family hauler. In addition to its class-topping size, the Traverse now has big technology, including a 17.7-inch display and SuperCruise, which is a rare feature for the segment. However, in terms of luxury and overall materials, you’d have to consider the next place competitor to find an improvement there.
#2: GMC Acadia – 38.5 Points
Unsurprisingly, the GMC Acadia pulls an advantage on its sibling, especially in terms of overall luxury. The materials in this new Acadia far outdo the Traverse, and it builds upon the tech and space of the Chevy. Because of these upgrades, there is a trade-off in terms of value, though. The Denali Reserve can sit well into the $60k range, which keeps this option from growing its advantage even further.
#1: Toyota Grand Highlander – 41 Points
As its name would suggest, the new Toyota Grand Highlander is the grand prize winner for this segment! Toyota developed this new product to score in all categories, and that is exactly what the Grand Highlander did. From having a diverse powertrain set, responsive tech, class-leading space, and good availability of luxury features, this Grand Highlander dresses to impress. Though its competitors may have higher scores in a fewer number of segments, the Grand Highlander is a great well-rounded option.
Close Calls for a Highly Competitive segment!
As you can see, the point values over these categories create many close calls, so you really can’t go wrong with any of these choices. As far as our personal picks, Drew and Josh lean towards the Mazda CX-90, and Mason would choose the value packed and stylish Kia Telluride. With car prices being so high nowadays, it’s a breath of fresh air to see some value packed options!
Thank you for checking out our expert picks for the Best 10 Three-Row Midsize SUVs of 2025! Let us know in the comments which one you would choose and be sure to check out the associated video, as well as our individual reviews for each vehicle. We hope this helps in your journey to purchase a new vehicle!
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