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. Today, we will be sharing our Best 10 Midsize Three-Row SUVs for 2026, all of which we have spent extensive time with. We have hand-crafted segment specific scores, to help tailor them for each unique buyer. After we share our top rankings, we will also include our “Do Not Buy” model for 2026, as well as what we’d personally park in our driveways. For an in-depth video about each, be sure to check out each linked video, as well as our full rankings at the bottom of this article!
Scoring Criteria
From reading thousands of comments our viewers have left on our channel; we developed a list of the ten most important categories for shoppers looking for a Midsize Three-Row Crossover.
We have spent countless hours testing out each of these models, driving them over all types of terrain, testing the technology, sampling the space, and living with them. We then took the time to craft these rankings based off our experience into the following criteria categories.
Of course, consumer priorities do vary, so be sure to sort these categories and weigh them based on what’s most important to you.
#10: Ford Explorer
One of the few Rear-Drive based options left in the segment, the Ford Explorer is one of the longest running nameplates in this segment, selling pretty well every year. Refreshed last year, the Explorer added some modern styling and much improved technology, while keeping signature elements like an available V6 and a fun to drive nature. While updated, the Explorer is still lacking in terms of space nowadays, especially when some models get quite pricey. The Explorer is a pretty well-rounded choice, but we wish Ford would either lower the price or add more space to stay competitive.
#9: Kia Sorento
Based on third row availability, we have bumped the smaller yet quite competitive Kia Sorento to the three-row segment this year! There are quite a few options in this segment already, so being able to place as a commonly shopped “two row” midsize crossover is quite the feat. Part of the reason the Sorento scores so well is because it has so many options, from ICE to PHEV, Luxury to Off-road, and all these trims can be had for a value packed price. In addition to the many options, the Sorento packs in great tech and luxury for this segment, making it a reasonable choice for families who don’t need a ton of space. Of course, due to its segment positioning, the Sorento will be smaller than most in this class, both in the third row and cargo space, which could affect your ability to road trip with every row filled. Also, especially compared to the Explorer or CX-90, the Sorento’s driving experience is a tad lackluster.
#8: Kia Telluride
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, but it also offers an incredible amount of value on just about every trim. Especially compared to its sibling Sorento, the Telluride is also more spacious and practical for consistent third row use. Though its tech was groundbreaking a few years ago, the current generation Telluride is now showing some age in the tech department and is also lacking a hybrid option.
While there is a new Telluride coming for the 2027 model year, with no official 2026 model launching, we still wanted to score the 2025 Kia Telluride since this model is currently available on dealer lots.
#7: Hyundai Santa Fe
Another upgraded contestant from the segment below, the Hyundai Santa Fe brings the heat to this competitive space! The winner of its commonly shopped midsize “two-row” segment last year the Santa Fe falls due to its lesser space available in its standard third row and cargo areas. Nonetheless, the Santa Fe remains a fantastic value-oriented model to consider, beating out some very popular and long running nameplates for 2026. Primarily, the Santa Fe is strongest in value, getting a perfect score due to its clever packaging and large offering of features, almost all for under $50,000. If its bold and unique styling catches your eye, the Santa Fe is worth a look! Though, we wish Hyundai would continue to improve their reliability rating.
#6: Honda Pilot
A veteran within this segment, the refreshed Honda Pilot is a choice continues rules in terms of traditional elements and practicality. Honda understands what their customers value, which is why they have kept key elements like a naturally aspirated V6, clever rear seats, and nimble steering for this refresh. While it’s still not any bigger in terms of cargo, Honda has added bigger tech, with a 12.3-inch display finally available with the newest Honda software. While the Pilot is dripping in practicality, the cabin luxury is still not on par with most of its competitors in the segment.
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#5: Mazda Cx-90
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. As the years pass, the CX-90 packaging continues to improve, with Mazda adding even more luxury to lower trim models, making this one of the most value-packed options in the segment now. The cabin continues to be very plush, rivaling that of some luxury brands in all three rows. The technology in the CX-90’s cabin is continuing to show its age though, and its packaging still doesn’t offer the most space, so keep that in mind while cross-shopping.
#4: Chevy Traverse
The recently redesigned Chevy Traverse shook up the segment last year with its redesign and continues to reign in practicality and technology for this year. In addition to its class-topping size, the Traverse has big technology, including a 17.7-inch display and SuperCruise, a rare road-trip helping feature within this segment. While the Traverse establishes itself with strong space and tech, a compromise is made in terms of luxury and powertrain, as the cabin materials and louder 2.5L Turbo I-4 are on the louder side of things, especially for its price.
#3: GMC Acadia
Unsurprisingly, the GMC Acadia continues to pull an advantage on its Chevy sibling, especially when it comes to the luxury it is lacking. The materials in this new Acadia far outdo the Traverse, but it builds upon the tech and class leading space of the Chevy. While we wish GMC would also tweak or upgrade the same 2.5L Turbo I-4, the driving experience is improved with technology like SuperCruise. But, be prepared to pay the price premium for the Acadia, as this model can now touch almost $70,000 with its new Denali Ultimate trim, a budget buster for this segment.
#2: Toyota Grand Highlander
The Toyota Grand Highlander is unsurprisingly one of the grandest and hottest new options in this segment! Toyota developed this new product to score well in all categories, and that is exactly what it did, as its sales are quickly increasing year over year. From having a diverse powertrain set, responsive tech, class-leading space, and good availability of luxury features, this Grand Highlander dresses to impress. While a well-rounded option, the Grand Highlander is lacking in terms of cabin luxury, which is somethings its competitors, and this year’s winner, outdo it in.
#1: Hyundai Palisade
After the success of the first-generation Palisade, Hyundai knew their had their work cut out for them. And following our extensive testing, we can confidently say their hard work paid off! The new Hyundai Palisade really put its best foot forward, offering an ultra-luxurious cabin experience combined with continued V6 refinement and new Hybrid efficiency this year. While its styling isn’t everyone’s piece of cake, especially on lower trims, the Palisade cabin is still a segment leader, offering best in class materials and luxury. Especially in the third row, available with power sliding, reclining, and heating, every seat in the house is comfortable in this option. Hopefully Hyundai continues to improve upon their overall reliability, which will add even further to this well-rounded, segment winning SUV for 2026.
Our “Do Not Buy” Option for 2026: Dodge Durango
While the Dodge Durango might be the right pick for a certain V8 craving buyer, this outdated Durango fails to capture the heart of the midsize three-row segment. While we hope Dodge updates this platform soon to integrate newer tech, more space, and better value, the Durango’s cabin definitely takes you to a different decade. While third row is surprisingly good, the Durango’s age and lack of luxury makes it our lowest scoring option this year.
Scoring Chart
We understand that buyers value different categories, which is why the chart below is a great tool to check out! This chart allows you to sort this competitive segment by category, to help choose your personal winner. If top tier reliability is your most important trait, then this tool can help you find the best!
| LUXURY | POWERTRAIN | DRIVE EXPERIENCE | REAR SEATS | 3RD ROW | CARGO SPACE | TECHNOLOGY | ACTIVE SAFETY FEATURES | RELIABILITY & RESALE | VALUE UNDER $50,000 | TOTAL (out of 50) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Palisade | 5 | 4.5 | 3.5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4.5 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 41.5 |
| Toyota Grand Highlander | 3.5 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 40.5 |
| GMC Acadia | 4.5 | 2.5 | 2.5 | 3.5 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 3.5 | 2.5 | 38 |
| Chevy Traverse | 2 | 2.5 | 2.5 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 4.5 | 5 | 4.5 | 3 | 37 |
| Mazda CX-90 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 2.5 | 2 | 2.5 | 4 | 3 | 4.5 | 36.5 |
| Honda Pilot | 3 | 3 | 3.5 | 4 | 3.5 | 4 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.5 | 3 | 36 |
| Hyundai Santa Fe | 4.5 | 3.5 | 3 | 4.5 | 2.5 | 2.5 | 4.5 | 4 | 2 | 5 | 36 |
| Kia Telluride | 4.5 | 3 | 3 | 4.5 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 3.5 | 4 | 35.5 |
| Kia Sorento | 4 | 4 | 2.5 | 4 | 2.5 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 3.5 | 5 | 35.5 |
| Ford Explorer | 3.5 | 4 | 3.5 | 3 | 3 | 3.5 | 3.5 | 4.5 | 3 | 2.5 | 34 |
| Toyota Highlander | 3 | 3.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 1.5 | 3.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 5 | 3.5 | 33 |
| Volkswagen Atlas | 4 | 2.5 | 2.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 5 | 2.5 | 4 | 0.5 | 4 | 31.5 |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee L | 3.5 | 3.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 2.5 | 3.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 1 | 3 | 30 |
| Nissan Pathfinder | 3.5 | 3 | 3 | 2.5 | 2 | 2.5 | 3.5 | 3 | 2 | 3.5 | 28.5 |
| Subaru Ascent | 2.5 | 1 | 2.5 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 1.5 | 3 | 4.5 | 5 | 27 |
| Dodge Durango | 1.5 | 3.5 | 3.5 | 2.5 | 3.5 | 3.5 | 1.5 | 1 | 2 | 2.5 | 25 |
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 leans towards the sporty and luxurious Mazda CX-90, and Mason would choose the value packed and all-new Hyundai Palisade. But, Josh would opt for the new Honda Pilot, as he’s happy to see the tech added to this practical V6 option. 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 2026! 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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