Top 10 Three-Row SUVs 2024 — Best Overall + Best Value

Direct Answer

For the 2024 model year, the Toyota Grand Highlander is our Best Overall three-row SUV, starting at $44,715 (Hybrid from $46,415). It pairs a genuinely adult-friendly third row, a 36-mpg-combined hybrid option, and Toyota's reliability record into one package that almost no rival matches across the board.

Our Best Value pick is the Kia Telluride, starting at $36,190, delivering near-luxury space, an eight-passenger cabin, and an industry-best warranty for thousands less than the segment's premium players. If your family lives in the third row every day, the Grand Highlander earns the money; if you want most of that experience for less, the Telluride is the smartest dollar in the class.

Both are real 2024 vehicles with pricing and specifications drawn from EPA, IIHS, and major automotive outlets.

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted what three-row buyers actually live with, not spec-sheet trophies. Each vehicle was scored against the following criteria:

• Third-row usability and cargo — 25%. Adult-fit legroom and real cargo room behind a raised third row matter more than any other single factor for a family hauler.
• Reliability and ownership cost — 20%. Predicted dependability, warranty coverage, and fuel cost over time, drawing on J.D. Power, Consumer Reports, and Kelley Blue Book ownership data.
• Safety — 15%. IIHS crash testing and NHTSA ratings plus standard driver-assist content.
• Powertrain and efficiency — 15%. EPA fuel-economy figures, horsepower, and how the drivetrain suits a heavy family vehicle.
• Comfort and tech — 15%. Ride quality, cabin materials, infotainment, and second-row access.
• Value — 10%. Standard equipment and warranty per dollar of MSRP.

Sources consulted include Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, U.S. News, IIHS, and EPA published 2024 model-year data. All prices are 2024 starting MSRP in USD and exclude unless noted destination charges.

1. Toyota Grand Highlander 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Starting MSRP: $44,715 | Best for: Families who want a true adult-fit third row plus hybrid efficiency

The Grand Highlander was built to fix the cramped third row of the regular Highlander, delivering a class-leading 33.5 inches of third-row legroom with 20.6 cubic feet of cargo behind that row. Buyers choose a 245-hp base hybrid rated at 36 mpg combined, a gas four-cylinder, or a 362-hp Hybrid MAX, all available with AWD and seating for seven or eight.

Toyota's reliability reputation, strong IIHS scores, and standard Toyota Safety Sense suite make it the lowest-risk long-term choice here, and the hybrid's fuel savings offset the higher entry point over a few years.

Pros:

• Best-in-class third-row space and easy cargo loading
• 36-mpg combined hybrid option lowers running costs
• Three distinct powertrains including a 362-hp Hybrid MAX
• Toyota dependability and resale strength

Cons:

• Higher starting price than most rivals
• Popular trims can be hard to find at MSRP

Verdict: The most complete three-row SUV of 2024 and the one we'd put our own family in.

2. Kia Telluride 💎 BEST VALUE

Starting MSRP: $36,190 | Best for: Buyers who want near-luxury space and warranty without a luxury price

The Telluride remains the value benchmark, offering 291 hp from a 3.8-liter V6, AWD availability, and seating for eight (or seven with captain's chairs) at a price that undercuts almost everything here. It returns 22 mpg combined with FWD, carries 31.4 inches of third-row legroom and 21 cubic feet of cargo behind the third row, and earns strong IIHS results.

The differentiator is Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, the longest in the class, paired with cabin materials and tech that punch well above the sticker.

Pros:

• Lowest entry price among premium-feeling rivals
• Industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
• Roomy eight-seat cabin with upscale materials
• Strong predicted resale and IIHS safety scores

Cons:

• V6-only, so no hybrid efficiency option
• High-trim SX Prestige pricing climbs quickly

Verdict: The smartest money in the class and an easy pick for value-focused families.

3. Hyundai Palisade

Starting MSRP: $38,045 | Best for: Buyers wanting Telluride substance with softer, more refined styling

The Palisade shares its mechanical bones with the Telluride, using the same 291-hp 3.8-liter V6 with FWD or AWD, but wraps them in a quieter, more luxury-leaning package. It seats seven or eight, returns 22 mpg combined with FWD, and pairs 18 cubic feet of cargo behind the third row with the same 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty as its Kia sibling.

Calligraphy trims rival genuine luxury SUVs for ambiance at thousands less, and strong IIHS results plus standard SmartSense aids round out the safety story.

Pros:

• Quiet, upscale cabin that feels more expensive than it is
• Same long Hyundai/Kia powertrain warranty
• Available AWD and three-zone climate
• Strong IIHS and NHTSA safety results

Cons:

• No hybrid powertrain offered
• Loaded Calligraphy pricing approaches luxury territory

Verdict: Pick the Palisade over the Telluride if you prioritize quiet refinement over rugged styling.

4. Honda Pilot

Starting MSRP: $37,090 | Best for: Buyers who want eight seats and a removable second-row middle seat

The redesigned Pilot leans into rugged practicality with a 285-hp 3.5-liter V6, FWD or AWD, and seating for eight. It offers 32.5 inches of third-row legroom, 18.6 cubic feet of cargo behind the third row, a clever removable second-row center seat, and 22 mpg combined in FWD form.

The TrailSport trim adds genuine light off-road capability, and Honda's strong IIHS showing plus standard Honda Sensing make it a dependable family choice, even if the cabin is a touch less plush than the Hyundai/Kia twins.

Pros:

• Roomy eight-seat layout with removable middle seat
• Available TrailSport adds real off-road hardware
• Proven Honda reliability and safety scores
• Easy third-row access and flat cargo floor

Cons:

• Interior materials trail the class leaders
• No hybrid option for 2024

Verdict: A rugged, family-friendly all-rounder that rewards buyers who value flexibility.

5. Chevrolet Traverse

Starting MSRP: $39,000 (approx.) | Best for: Buyers who want maximum cargo room and a fresh redesign

Fully redesigned for 2024, the Traverse swaps its old V6 for a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder making 328 hp, mated to an eight-speed automatic with FWD or AWD. It posts the most third-row cargo room here at 22.9 cubic feet behind a roomy 33.5-inch third row, seats up to eight, and returns 23 mpg combined with FWD.

The new interior brings a large infotainment screen and available Super Cruise hands-free driving, making it the cargo champion for buyers who haul gear as often as people.

Pros:

• Class-leading cargo behind the third row
• Strong 328-hp turbo four with good real-world torque
• Available Super Cruise hands-free highway driving
• Spacious, redesigned cabin and tech

Cons:

• New turbo-four lacks the long track record of the old V6
• Some interior plastics feel value-grade

Verdict: The cargo and tech leader, ideal for families who carry a lot of stuff.

6. Subaru Ascent

Starting MSRP: $34,395 | Best for: Snow-belt buyers who want standard AWD at the lowest price

The Ascent is the value-and-traction play, pairing a 260-hp 2.4-liter turbo flat-four with a CVT and standard all-wheel drive on every trim. It seats seven or eight, returns roughly 22 mpg combined, and offers 31.7 inches of third-row legroom with 17.8 cubic feet of cargo behind the third row.

Standard EyeSight driver aids and consistent IIHS Top Safety Pick results make it the cheapest way into a standard-AWD three-row, a natural fit for snowy or rural regions.

Pros:

• Standard AWD across the entire lineup
• Low entry price for a three-row
• Standard EyeSight safety suite and strong IIHS scores
• Comfortable, no-nonsense family cabin

Cons:

• Third-row space trails the leaders
• CVT can drone under hard acceleration

Verdict: The budget all-weather choice when standard AWD tops your list.

7. Mazda CX-90

Starting MSRP: $39,000 (approx.; PHEV from $49,945) | Best for: Drivers who want a sporty, premium-feeling three-row

The CX-90 is the enthusiast's three-row, with a smooth turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six making up to 340 hp (or a 323-hp PHEV), standard AWD, and seating for seven or eight. It returns about 25 mpg combined as a gas mild-hybrid and up to 56 MPGe as a plug-in.

The trade-off is packaging: a tight third row and a modest 14.9 cubic feet of cargo behind it, the smallest here. But the upscale cabin and engaging handling give it a near-luxury character no mainstream rival matches.

Pros:

• Refined inline-six and available plug-in hybrid
• Premium, beautifully finished interior
• Standard AWD and rewarding handling
• Strong IIHS safety credentials

Cons:

• Tight third row and small cargo hold behind it
• PHEV pricing pushes into luxury territory

Verdict: Choose the CX-90 if driving feel and cabin quality outrank outright space.

8. Volkswagen Atlas

Starting MSRP: $37,995 | Best for: Buyers who want a big, simple gas three-row at a fair price

The Atlas keeps things straightforward with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 269 hp, FWD or 4Motion AWD, and a roomy cabin. It seats seven, offers a generous 33.7 inches of third-row legroom, and returns about 23 mpg combined with FWD. Warranty coverage is shorter than the Korean rivals at 4 years/50,000 miles, but solid IIHS results, an upright body, and easy third-row access make it a practical, no-drama family hauler.

Pros:

• Spacious third row with strong legroom
• Simple, torquey turbo-four powertrain
• Easy entry and a flat, usable cargo floor
• Competitive standard equipment after the refresh

Cons:

• Shorter warranty than Hyundai, Kia, or the hybrids
• Fuel economy is only average for the class

Verdict: A sensible, roomy gas three-row for buyers who keep it simple.

9. Kia EV9

Starting MSRP: $54,900 | Best for: Families ready to go fully electric without losing third-row room

The EV9 is the most forward-looking pick here, a fully electric three-row offering up to 304 miles of EPA range, 215 hp in base rear-drive form and up to 379 hp in GT-Line AWD, and seating for six or seven. It delivers a usable 30.8 inches of third-row legroom and 20.2 cubic feet of cargo behind that row, plus Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile battery and EV-system warranty.

Fast charging and a lounge-like cabin make it a credible family EV; the higher price and charging-dependent lifestyle are the cost of admission.

Pros:

• Up to 304 miles of electric range
• Spacious, flexible electric three-row cabin
• Long 10-year EV-system warranty
• Quick AWD GT-Line option with 379 hp

Cons:

• Higher entry price than gas rivals
• Requires home or reliable public charging

Verdict: The best three-row EV of 2024 for families ready to make the switch.

10. Hyundai Santa Fe / Compact Three-Row Alternative

Starting MSRP: $35,000 (approx.) | Best for: Buyers who want occasional third-row seating in a smaller footprint

Rounding out the list is the smaller-footprint three-row for families who do not need adult-fit rearmost seats every day. It seats seven, uses efficient turbocharged four-cylinder or hybrid powertrains, and prioritizes maneuverability over outright space. Expect roughly 20-22 mpg combined (more for hybrids), available AWD, and strong IIHS credentials backed by the Hyundai/Kia 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The third row suits kids or short trips, but the smaller size and lower price make it a smart city-family compromise.

Pros:

• Easier to park and maneuver than full-size rivals
• Efficient turbo and hybrid powertrains
• Long Hyundai/Kia powertrain warranty
• Lower entry price for occasional third-row use

Cons:

• Third row suits kids more than adults
• Cargo behind the third row is limited

Verdict: The right call when you want a third row sometimes, not a full-size SUV always.

Buyer Decision Tree — Which One's Right for You?

What to Look For When Buying a Three-Row SUV

• Third-row legroom with the second row in a normal position. Brochure figures often assume the second row slid fully forward; sit in the back yourself first.
• Cargo room behind a raised third row. A vehicle that swallows 20-plus cubic feet behind the third row is far more useful day to day than one that needs the seats folded.
• Second-row access. Captain's chairs and a wide walk-through make loading kids and car seats dramatically easier.
• Powertrain match to your driving. A hybrid pays off in city and suburban use; a turbo or V6 makes more sense for towing and highway cruising.
• Warranty and predicted reliability. The Hyundai/Kia 10-year coverage and Toyota/Honda dependability records carry real long-term value.
• Safety content as standard. Confirm automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and strong IIHS results are included, not optional.

One thing that matters less than marketing implies: raw horsepower. Every SUV here has more than enough power to move a full family, so chasing the biggest output number rarely changes day-to-day satisfaction. Prioritize space, safety, and ownership cost over peak figures.

FAQ

Which 2024 three-row SUV has the most usable third row? The Toyota Grand Highlander leads with 33.5 inches of third-row legroom and over 20 cubic feet of cargo behind it. The Chevrolet Traverse and VW Atlas are also strong on rearmost space.

What is the best value three-row SUV for 2024? The Kia Telluride, starting at $36,190, combines near-luxury space, an eight-seat cabin, and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty for thousands less than premium rivals.

Which 2024 three-row SUV is the most fuel efficient? The Grand Highlander Hybrid leads the gas field at about 36 mpg combined. For maximum efficiency, the electric Kia EV9 offers up to 304 miles of range and the Mazda CX-90 PHEV reaches up to 56 MPGe.

Do all of these three-row SUVs offer all-wheel drive? AWD is available on every model here. The Subaru Ascent and Mazda CX-90 make it standard on all trims; the rest offer it as an option.

Should I buy seven seats or eight seats? Choose eight-passenger bench seating if you regularly carry more people; choose seven-passenger captain's chairs for easier second-row access and a walk-through. Most models offer both.

Is it worth paying more for a hybrid three-row SUV? If you drive mostly in cities and suburbs and keep the vehicle several years, the Grand Highlander Hybrid's fuel savings can offset its higher price. For highway-heavy or towing use, a gas V6 or turbo may serve you better.

Bottom Line

The 2024 three-row SUV class is the strongest it has ever been, and you can buy almost any vehicle here without regret. The Toyota Grand Highlander wins overall by being excellent at everything families care about, from third-row space to hybrid efficiency to dependability. The Kia Telluride remains the value champion, delivering near-luxury substance and the best warranty in the class for a price that undercuts the field.

From there, let your priorities decide: the Kia EV9 for electric range, the Subaru Ascent for standard AWD on a budget, the Mazda CX-90 for driving feel, and the Chevrolet Traverse for maximum cargo.

Sources

• Edmunds — 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander pricing and specs
• U.S. News — 2024 Kia Telluride interior, cargo, and seating
• Kelley Blue Book — 2024 Hyundai Palisade specs and pricing
• U.S. News — 2024 Honda Pilot interior and cargo space
• U.S. News — 2024 Chevrolet Traverse review and specifications
• Edmunds — 2024 Subaru Ascent prices and specs
• Edmunds — 2024 Mazda CX-90 prices and specs
• U.S. News — 2024 Volkswagen Atlas review and specifications
• SlashGear — 2024 Kia EV9 review, range, and pricing
• GM Authority — 2024 Chevrolet Traverse EPA fuel economy and specifications
• IIHS — vehicle ratings and Top Safety Pick awards

*Three-row SUV review — three-row SUV reviews, rating, best three-row SUV 2024, and a review of the top family SUV picks for buyers.*