Best Used 3-Row SUVs Under $25,000 in 2027 (Ranked)
Curated by Kory White · Fractional CRO, CRO Syndicate
Best Used 3-Row SUVs Under $25,000 in 2027 (Ranked)
Shopping for a three-row SUV with a hard $25,000 ceiling in 2027 means hunting the used market, where depreciation does the heavy lifting for you. The good news: a $25K budget now buys a well-equipped, low-to-moderate-mileage second-row-captain or bench-seat family hauler that was a $40,000-plus vehicle when new.
We weighted this ranking on proven reliability, real third-row usability, safety scores, total cost of ownership, and how far the dollar stretches at typical mileage. Buyers here are families, carpool drivers, and road-trippers who need seven or eight seats without a new-car payment.
Below are ten genuinely good picks, ranked.
Direct Answer
The best overall used 3-row SUV under $25,000 in 2027 is the 2019-2021 Toyota Highlander at roughly $24,000 for a clean mid-mileage XLE, thanks to bulletproof reliability and strong resale. The best value is the 2018-2020 Kia Sorento at about $18,500, offering three rows, a long warranty, and excellent equipment for the money.
Always pull a vehicle history report and budget for a pre-purchase inspection before buying.
How We Ranked
- Reliability — A used family hauler must survive years of school runs without surprise repair bills; we leaned on long-term dependability data.
- Third-row usability — Seats that only fit toddlers do not count as real three-row capacity, so we judged legroom and access.
- Safety scores — IIHS and NHTSA ratings matter most when the cabin is full of kids.
- Total cost of ownership — Fuel economy, insurance, and parts pricing separate a bargain from a money pit.
- Value at the price — How much SUV, equipment, and remaining warranty $25,000 actually buys in 2027.
1. 2019-2021 Toyota Highlander 🏆 BEST OVERALL
The Highlander wins because nothing in this class blends reliability, comfort, and resale value as completely. A 2019 XLE with around 60,000 miles lands near $24,000, and the 3.5L V6 paired with an eight-speed automatic returns roughly 24 mpg combined while towing up to 5,000 lbs.
The 2020-2021 redesign sits a touch above budget, so the late third-generation cars are the sweet spot.
Reliability is the headline: Toyota's V6 and transmission are famously durable, and owners routinely pass 200,000 miles. The third row is best for kids or short adult trips, but the second-row captain's chairs and standard Toyota Safety Sense make it a superb family vehicle. Watch for worn brakes and tires from heavy commuter use.
- Price: ~$24,000
- Pros: Outstanding reliability, strong resale, smooth V6, top safety scores
- Cons: Tight third row, costs more than rivals
Verdict: The safest long-term bet in the segment.
2. 2018-2020 Kia Sorento 💎 BEST VALUE
The Sorento delivers the most SUV per dollar. A loaded 2019 EX V6 with around 55,000 miles sells near $18,500, leaving room in the budget. Its 3.3L V6 makes 290 hp, and remaining powertrain coverage from Kia's original 10-year/100,000-mile warranty may transfer or at least reassure on the engine.
The Sorento is technically a compact-midsize crossover, so the third row is snug and best reserved for occasional use, but the equipment level is generous: heated seats, Apple CarPlay, and a quality cabin. Check for any recall completion and listen for early-model transmission hesitation.
- Price: ~$18,500
- Pros: Low price, strong warranty, V6 power, well-equipped
- Cons: Smallest third row here, occasional-use rear seat
Verdict: The budget winner that still feels premium.
3. 2018-2020 Honda Pilot
The Pilot is the practical family choice with one of the roomiest third rows in the class. A 2018 EX-L with about 65,000 miles runs near $23,500. The 3.5L V6 and available all-wheel drive make it a confident hauler, and eight-passenger seating is genuinely usable.
Honda's reliability is strong, though the nine-speed automatic on Touring trims drew complaints for rough shifts; the six-speed lower trims are smoother and cheaper. Interior space and cargo room are class-leading, making this the pick for larger families.
- Price: ~$23,500
- Pros: Spacious third row, big cargo hold, strong resale
- Cons: Nine-speed auto quirks, bland styling
Verdict: Buy the six-speed trims for the best experience.
4. 2017-2019 Mazda CX-9
The CX-9 is the driver's choice. A 2018 Touring with roughly 60,000 miles sits near $22,000, and its 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder makes 227 hp on regular fuel (250 on premium) with surprising fuel economy near 23 mpg combined.
The cabin punches above its price with soft-touch materials and a quiet ride. The trade-off is a tighter third row and smaller cargo area than the Pilot. Reliability is solid; verify the turbo runs clean and check for any oil consumption.
- Price: ~$22,000
- Pros: Premium interior, fun to drive, good mpg
- Cons: Cramped third row, less cargo space
Verdict: Best for buyers who value style and driving feel.
5. 2016-2019 Toyota 4Runner
For genuine off-road capability, the 4Runner with the optional third-row seat is unmatched at this price. A 2017 SR5 with the seat and around 80,000 miles lands near $24,500. The 4.0L V6 and body-on-frame build are nearly indestructible.
It is thirsty at roughly 18 mpg and the ride is trucky, but few vehicles hold value or survive abuse like a 4Runner. The third row is small and the only weak point is fuel cost. Confirm the third row is actually fitted, as it was optional.
- Price: ~$24,500
- Pros: Legendary durability, off-road ability, top resale
- Cons: Poor mpg, small third row, dated interior
Verdict: The trail-ready outlier that lasts forever.
6. 2018-2020 Volkswagen Atlas
The Atlas offers the biggest third row of any vehicle here. A 2018 SE with around 65,000 miles runs near $23,000, and adults fit comfortably in all three rows, a rare claim in this class.
The base 2.0L turbo four is adequate; the 3.6L V6 is the better buy for towing and confidence. Reliability is mid-pack, so prioritize a clean maintenance record and check the infotainment and electronics carefully. The remaining VW transferable warranty is a plus on early cars.
- Price: ~$23,000
- Pros: Adult-friendly third row, huge cargo space, roomy cabin
- Cons: Average reliability, soft fuel economy on V6
Verdict: The space champion for true seven-passenger duty.
7. 2017-2019 GMC Acadia
The Acadia redesign for 2017 trimmed size and weight, improving efficiency. A 2018 SLE-2 with about 70,000 miles sells near $20,000, making it a value play with upscale GMC trim.
The 3.6L V6 is strong, though some owners report transmission and electrical gremlins, so a thorough inspection is essential. The third row suits kids well, and the Denali trims, if found in budget, add real luxury. Confirm the timing chain and transmission service history.
- Price: ~$20,000
- Pros: Upscale feel, good value, decent mpg
- Cons: Reliability spotty, smaller than rivals
Verdict: A handsome bargain if the service records check out.
8. 2017-2019 Subaru Ascent
The Ascent, launched for 2019, brings standard all-wheel drive and Subaru's strong safety reputation. A 2019 base or Premium with around 55,000 miles lands near $24,000, near the top of budget but worth it for snow-belt buyers.
The 2.4L turbo four and EyeSight driver assistance are highlights. The CVT is the main watch item; verify it shifts smoothly and check for any oil-consumption history common to some Subaru engines. Cabin space and ground clearance are excellent.
- Price: ~$24,000
- Pros: Standard AWD, top safety, roomy and rugged
- Cons: CVT concerns, only one model year available used
Verdict: The all-weather pick for cold climates.
9. 2016-2019 Ford Explorer
The Explorer is plentiful and cheap on the used market. A 2017 XLT with about 75,000 miles runs near $19,500, and the available 3.5L EcoBoost V6 delivers strong towing up to 5,000 lbs.
Reliability is average, with reported issues around the 2.3L EcoBoost turbo and some water-leak complaints, so inspect carefully. Cabin space is good and the ride is comfortable. The wide supply means you can be picky and negotiate hard on price.
- Price: ~$19,500
- Pros: Plentiful and affordable, strong towing, comfortable
- Cons: Average reliability, known turbo and leak issues
Verdict: A high-value buy if you inspect thoroughly.
10. 2017-2019 Dodge Durango
The Durango brings rear-wheel-drive muscle and the best towing here. A 2017 SXT with the 3.6L V6 and around 75,000 miles sells near $21,000, and it tows up to 6,200 lbs with the V6, far more with the available HEMI.
The third row is decent and the cabin feels rugged. Fuel economy is the weak spot at roughly 21 mpg on the V6. Reliability is reasonable for the segment; check the eight-speed automatic and cooling system, and confirm any recall work is complete.
- Price: ~$21,000
- Pros: Strong towing, rugged feel, good third row
- Cons: Thirsty, dated tech on base trims
Verdict: The towing-focused pick with real character.
How to Choose
What to Look For
- History report and inspection: Always run a Carfax or AutoCheck and pay for an independent pre-purchase inspection; it is the cheapest insurance you can buy.
- Mileage versus price: A 60,000-mile Highlander at $24K can be a better buy than a 90,000-mile rival at $20K once future repairs are priced in.
- Recall and service records: Confirm timing-chain, transmission, and recall work, especially on the Acadia, Explorer, and Atlas.
- Third-row reality: Sit in the back yourself; if you need adult space, the Atlas and Pilot lead, while crossovers like the Sorento are kids-only.
FAQ
What is the most reliable used 3-row SUV under $25,000? The Toyota Highlander leads on long-term dependability, with the Honda Pilot a close second. Both routinely surpass 200,000 miles with basic maintenance, which is why they command higher used prices than rivals.
Can I get a true 8-passenger SUV for this budget? Yes. The Honda Pilot, Volkswagen Atlas, and Dodge Durango all offer eight-passenger bench-seat configurations within $25,000, while many trims swap to seven-seat captain's chairs in the second row.
Which pick has the most usable third row for adults? The Volkswagen Atlas has the roomiest third row here, with genuine adult legroom, followed by the Honda Pilot. Crossovers such as the Sorento and CX-9 have third rows better suited to children.
How many miles is too many for these SUVs? For a Toyota or Honda, 100,000-plus miles with good records is still safe. For models with spottier reliability like the Acadia or Explorer, aim under 80,000 miles and insist on a clean service history and inspection.
Bottom Line
For the best mix of reliability, safety, and resale, the 2019-2021 Toyota Highlander at about $24,000 is the overall winner. If stretching the dollar matters most, the 2018-2020 Kia Sorento near $18,500 is the value champion. Match the rest of the list to your priority, whether that is third-row space, towing, or all-weather traction, and inspect before you buy.
Sources
- Edmunds — used pricing and long-term reliability reviews
- Kelley Blue Book — used vehicle valuations and condition pricing
- IIHS — crash test and safety ratings
- NHTSA — recall data and safety ratings
- Consumer Reports — reliability and owner-satisfaction data
- EPA fueleconomy.gov — fuel economy ratings
- Manufacturer specifications (Toyota, Honda, Kia, Mazda, VW, GMC, Subaru, Ford, Dodge)
*Keywords: Best Used 3-Row SUVs Under $25,000 in 2027 (Ranked) — review, reviews, rating, comparison, best of 2027.*