By
DAN FRIO of Edmunds
Size, space and utility have made the three-row SUV a mainstay of American family life. But with more than dozen mainstream models on the market, choosing one can feel daunting. Thankfully, Edmunds has tested them all and identified the five best midsize three-row SUVs. From the top-ranked Hyundai Palisade and its Kia Telluride sibling to the sporty Ford Explorer and the vast cabins of the Toyota Grand Highlander and Volkswagen Atlas, these are today’s top picks for driving your tribe. All of the following prices include destination fees.Hyundai PalisadeThe Hyundai Palisade tops Edmunds’ midsize three-row rankings. Its quiet, roomy interior gives everyone — even third-row passengers — ample room to spread out. An exceptionally smooth ride makes it ideal both for long highway travel and short local hops on typical city roads. The Palisade’s user-friendly tech, such as wireless smartphone connections and USB ports in all three rows, ensures the driver and passengers stay connected and entertained.
Maximum cargo capacity falls short of some rivals, but clever small-item storage throughout the cabin takes up the slack. Although one of the pricier picks in the class, the Palisade comes with generous features, high-end materials, and an industry-leading warranty. Edmunds also recommends getting the hybrid version if your budget allows. It gets up to an EPA-estimated 34 mpg in combined city/highway driving, and is quicker than the regular Palisade to boot. 2026 Palisade starting price: $41,035; hybrid version: $45,760
