After researching manufacturer specifications, published safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, and aggregated owner feedback from thousands of reviews, we compared the best 3 row crossover SUVs on the market. Our evaluation focuses on passenger space, cargo flexibility, fuel economy, and reliability to help you choose the right model for your family.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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Honda Pilot Top Pick 3.5L V6, 280 hp, 8-speed automatic, 19 combined mpg |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Kia Telluride Best Value 3.8L V6, 291 hp, 8-speed automatic, 20 combined mpg |
8.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Toyota Highlander Hybrid Best Fuel Economy 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid, 243 hp, CVT, 36 combined mpg |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Mazda CX-9 Best Handling 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder, 250 hp, 6-speed automatic, 23 combined mpg |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Chevrolet Traverse Most Cargo Space 3.6L V6, 310 hp, 9-speed automatic, 20 combined mpg |
8.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Hyundai Palisade Luxury Feel 3.8L V6, 291 hp, 8-speed automatic, 20 combined mpg |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Volkswagen Atlas Best Third Row 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder, 235 hp, 8-speed automatic, 22 combined mpg |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Honda Pilot: Top Pick
We researched the Honda Pilot and found it consistently ranks among the most family-friendly 3 row crossovers. Based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, the Pilot offers one of the roomiest third rows in its class, accommodating adults on shorter trips. The standard Honda Sensing suite provides robust safety features, contributing to top safety scores from IIHS. The 3.5L V6 delivers adequate power and returns an EPA-estimated 19 mpg combined, which is average for the segment.
However, the infotainment interface lacks the crisp graphics and responsiveness of newer competitors, and the fuel economy trails some rivals with turbocharged engines. If you prioritize a proven, spacious, and reliable family hauler with strong resale value, the Pilot is a solid choice. But if you want the latest tech or better efficiency, consider alternatives.
- Spacious third row with easy access via one-touch sliding second row
- Standard Honda Sensing safety suite includes collision mitigation and lane keeping assist
- Available 8-passenger seating with removable second-row middle seat
Pros: Class-leading third-row legroom for adults; Smooth and refined V6 powertrain; Excellent predicted reliability ratings
Cons: Infotainment system feels dated compared to rivals
2. Kia Telluride: Best Value
In our evaluation, the Kia Telluride stands out for its excellent value proposition. Based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, the Telluride offers a luxurious cabin with high-quality materials, rivaling more expensive competitors. The standard dual-screen setup is intuitive and sharp, and the third row is genuinely usable for adults on shorter journeys. The 3.8L V6 provides smooth acceleration, and the ride is composed for a large crossover.
However, the Telluride’s fuel economy is only average, and some owners have noted occasional transmission clunkiness at low speeds. Additionally, the Telluride’s popularity means dealerships often add markups. If you want a feature-rich, comfortable 3 row crossover with a class-leading warranty, the Telluride is an excellent pick. But if you need better fuel economy or a more engaging driving experience, look elsewhere.
- Upscale interior with premium materials and dual 12.3-inch screens
- Third row available with USB ports and cup holders for all passengers
- Strong warranty: 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage
Pros: Exceptional value for features and refinement; User-friendly infotainment with physical controls; Generous cargo space behind third row
Cons: Some owners report transmission hesitation at low speeds
3. Toyota Highlander Hybrid: Best Fuel Economy
We researched the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and found it to be the fuel economy champion among 3 row crossovers. Based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, the hybrid powertrain returns an impressive 36 mpg combined, significantly reducing fuel costs. The cabin is well-built and quiet, and the standard safety suite is comprehensive. The Highlander Hybrid also boasts excellent predicted reliability and strong resale value.
However, the third row is best reserved for children or small adults, and the CVT can drone under hard acceleration. The infotainment system, while improved, lags behind rivals in responsiveness. If you prioritize fuel savings and long-term dependability, the Highlander Hybrid is a top choice. But if you need a roomier third row or more power, consider the Honda Pilot or Kia Telluride.
- Exceptional fuel economy for a 3 row crossover at 36 mpg combined
- Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ standard with pedestrian detection and lane tracing
- Available with a second-row bench seat for 8-passenger capacity
Pros: Best-in-class fuel economy; Strong resale value and Toyota reliability; Smooth and quiet hybrid powertrain in city driving
Cons: Third row is tight for adults
4. Mazda CX-9: Best Handling
In our evaluation, the Mazda CX-9 stands out as the driver’s choice among 3 row crossovers. Based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, the CX-9 offers sharp steering and composed handling that make it fun to drive. The turbocharged 2.5L engine provides ample power, and the cabin is beautifully appointed with high-quality materials. Fuel economy is respectable at 23 mpg combined.
However, the third row is one of the tightest in its class, suitable only for children or small adults. Cargo space behind the third row is also limited. The infotainment system, while improved, requires using a rotary controller that some find cumbersome. If you want a sporty crossover that doesn’t sacrifice style, the CX-9 is a great pick. But if you need maximum passenger and cargo capacity, look elsewhere.
- Sporty handling and steering feedback uncommon in this segment
- Upscale interior with premium materials and available Captain's chairs
- Standard i-Activsense safety suite with adaptive cruise control
Pros: Engaging driving dynamics; Premium interior design and quality; Strong turbocharged engine with good low-end torque
Cons: Third row is cramped for adults
5. Chevrolet Traverse: Most Cargo Space
We researched the Chevrolet Traverse and found it to be the cargo king among 3 row crossovers. Based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, the Traverse offers the most cargo space in its class, with a third row that can genuinely accommodate adults. The 3.6L V6 provides ample power, and the 9-speed transmission shifts smoothly. The ride is comfortable and quiet on the highway.
However, the Traverse’s predicted reliability is below average, and some owners report issues with the infotainment system and transmission. Fuel economy is also on the lower side. The interior materials, while improved, don’t feel as premium as some rivals. If you prioritize maximum cargo and passenger space above all else, the Traverse is a strong contender. But if reliability is a top concern, consider the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander.
- Best-in-class cargo space with 98.2 cubic feet behind first row
- Third row comfortably fits adults with class-leading legroom
- Standard Chevy Safety Assist includes automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist
Pros: Massive cargo capacity; Spacious third row for adults; Strong V6 engine with smooth 9-speed transmission
Cons: Below-average predicted reliability
6. Hyundai Palisade: Luxury Feel
In our evaluation, the Hyundai Palisade offers a near-luxury experience for a mainstream price. Based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, the Palisade’s cabin is beautifully designed with high-quality materials and a quiet, comfortable ride. The standard safety suite is comprehensive, and the warranty is one of the best in the industry. The V6 engine provides adequate power, and the 8-speed transmission shifts smoothly.
However, the third row is slightly tighter than in the Kia Telluride or Chevrolet Traverse, and cargo space is merely average. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system’s responsiveness. If you want a premium-feeling crossover with a strong warranty, the Palisade is an excellent choice. But if you need maximum third-row space or better fuel economy, consider the Telluride or Highlander Hybrid.
- Upscale cabin with quilted leather and ambient lighting in higher trims
- Quiet ride with active noise cancellation
- Standard SmartSense safety suite with blind-spot view monitor
Pros: Luxurious interior at a competitive price; Smooth and quiet ride; Generous warranty coverage
Cons: Third row is less spacious than some rivals
7. Volkswagen Atlas: Best Third Row
We researched the Volkswagen Atlas and found it to be a top contender for third-row space. Based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, the Atlas offers one of the most spacious third rows in its class, with easy access via sliding second-row seats. The interior is well-built and features an intuitive infotainment system with physical knobs. The ride is composed and stable on the highway.
However, the base 2.0L turbo four-cylinder engine can feel strained when fully loaded, and the available V6 is only marginally stronger. Fuel economy is average. The Atlas also has lower safety ratings from IIHS in some tests compared to rivals. If you prioritize third-row comfort and a solid, no-nonsense design, the Atlas is a great pick. But if you need more power or better safety scores, consider the Honda Pilot or Kia Telluride.
- One of the roomiest third rows in the segment with easy access
- Available with a digital cockpit and Fender premium audio
- Standard forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring
Pros: Class-leading third-row legroom and headroom; User-friendly infotainment with physical controls; Solid build quality and composed ride
Cons: Base engine feels underpowered for the size
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for in a 3 row crossover?
When evaluating a 3 row crossover, prioritize third-row legroom and headroom, ease of access, cargo space behind the third row, safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, fuel economy, and predicted reliability. Test drive with your family to ensure comfort and consider the types of trips you’ll take.
How many people can a 3 row crossover seat?
Most 3 row crossovers seat 7 or 8 passengers, depending on whether the second row is a bench seat or captain’s chairs. Some models offer a removable middle seat in the second row for flexibility. Always check the seating configuration.
Are 3 row crossovers good for long road trips?
Yes, many 3 row crossovers are excellent for road trips due to their comfortable seating, generous cargo space, and advanced driver assistance features. Models like the Honda Pilot and Kia Telluride are particularly well-regarded for long-distance comfort.
Which 3 row crossover has the best fuel economy?
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid leads the segment with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined. Other efficient options include the Honda Pilot (19 mpg) and the Mazda CX-9 (23 mpg), but the Highlander Hybrid is the clear winner for fuel savings.
What is the safest 3 row crossover?
Based on IIHS and NHTSA ratings, the Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, and Hyundai Palisade consistently earn top safety scores. The Pilot has been an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and NHTSA 5-star overall rating. Always check the latest ratings for the model year.
Our Verdict
After our research and comparison, the Honda Pilot earns our top pick for its class-leading third-row space, excellent safety scores, and proven reliability. The Kia Telluride is our runner-up, offering exceptional value and a luxurious interior at a competitive price. Both models are strong choices for families seeking a versatile and dependable 3 row crossover.
