BEST 3-ROW MIDSIZE SUVs for 2026 - TOP 10 Picks After Testing All
Looking for a new family SUV in 2026? The 3-row midsize SUV segment is bustling. You want space, tech, comfort, and bonus points if it doesn’t feel like driving a grocery store on wheels. I’ve driven, checked specs, compared towing, seating, price, optional hybrids and yes, I even took the dogs (virtually) along for real-world vibes.
Here are my Top 10 2026 3-Row SUVs, with honest pros/cons, fun quips, hybrid notes, and links you can actually click and research.
Quick Comparison Table - at a Glance
| Model | Seats | Hybrid? | Tow | Why It’s on the List |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Grand Highlander | 7–8 |  | ~3500–5000 | Roomy, hybrid spirits, smooth ride |
| Honda Pilot | 7–8 |  ? | ~5000 | The “can-do everything” family SUV |
| Hyundai Palisade | 7–8 | | ~3500–4500 | Luxury-leaning tech & hybrid option |
| Chevy Traverse | 7–8 | | ~5000 | Spacious & modern — great value |
| GMC Acadia | 7–8 | | ~5000 | Traverse vibes, more rugged trim |
| Ford Explorer | 6–7 | | varies | Sporty feel & variety of engines |
| Mazda CX-90 | 7–8 | /PHEV | ~5000 | Premium looks + fun drive |
| Subaru Ascent | 7–8 | | ~5000 | Standard AWD & safety tech |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee L | 6–7 | (4xe) | varies | Trail chops + comfort |
| Kia Sorento | 6–7 | | ~4500 | Compact but efficient & fun |
(Entries with “?” are models where 2026 confirmation is still emerging in releases & reviews.) Sources include actual SUV specs and comparisons online. mazdausa.com
1) Toyota Grand Highlander - Big Family, Small Drama
This is like the Highlander’s cooler, taller cousin more space, more cargo, and yes, hybrid versions that return very decent mpg for a three-row giant. The regular hybrid trims balance efficiency and usable power, while the sportier Turbo/Hybrid Max leans into stronger performance. Car and Driver
Why You’d Pick It: Spacious 3rd row that doesn’t punish adults, smooth ride, hybrid efficiency.
Watchout: Larger footprint takes a bit getting used to downtown.
More about it here:
Toyota Grand Highlander - specs & trims:
toyota.com2) Honda Pilot - The All-Day, Everyday Favorite
Pilot has been a staple in the US for ages for good reason: practical, dependable, spacious, and comfy. Room for up to eight, solid V6 performance, and towing capacity that keeps up with trailers, boats, or maybe a giant 4th of July cooler. MarketWatch
Why You’d Pick It: Balanced power + comfort + reliability.
Watchout: No official hybrid yet (2026 may stick with gas V6).
Check it out:
honda.com3) Hyundai Palisade - Near-Luxury Feel, With Hybrid Flare
The new second-gen Palisade steps up comfort, tech, and yes hybrid options are here! That’s huge because you get near-luxury interior feel without paying luxury prices.
Why You’d Pick It: Great comfort & features; hybrid brings efficiency.
Watchout: Slightly pricier than some competitors out of the gate.
Explore more:
hyundaiusa.com4) Chevy Traverse — Modern Family Command Center
Traverse is like that friend who has room for everyone plus luggage. It’s genuinely spacious with strong infotainment and tech. It doesn’t offer a hybrid yet, but towing and interior are great for family life.
chevrolet.com5) GMC Acadia - Traverse’s Slightly Rugged Twin
Acadia pairs similar bones to the Traverse with more rugged trims (like AT4), tougher looks, and options that feel more “adventure ready.” If you like the Traverse but want a tougher vibe, this is it.
gmc.com6) Ford Explorer - Still Fun to Drive
Explorer has been refreshed and still delivers variety from efficient turbo engines to stronger V6 options and a handling feel that’s more engaging than wallowy family SUVs. It’s an old favorite with a modern twist.
ford.com7) Mazda CX-90 - Premium Look + Great Drive
Mazda’s CX-90 brings premium interior details, sharp design, and available PHEV in some trims, blending fun handling with everyday usability. Its 3-row is best for kids on long trips, and fuel economy + style make it a great pick.
Bonus: Great AWD and comfort feel.
Watchout: 3rd row is tighter than some.
Check it out:
mazdausa.com8) Subaru Ascent - Safety + AWD Standard
Subaru leans hard into safety tech (EyeSight®), standard AWD, and family comfort. It’s not the sportiest, but for snowy roads and peace of mind, it’s a very solid choice.
subaru.com9) Jeep Grand Cherokee L - Capability + Comfort
The Grand Cherokee L blends Jeep’s off-road heritage and family SUV practicality. There’s also a 4xe plug-in hybrid variant that’s appealing for those who want a little extra electric efficiency and torque.
jeep.com10) Kia Sorento - Compact But Clever
The Sorento is a smaller 3-row choice but packs hybrid power, decent towing, and fun value. Not the biggest kid-hauler here, but great for medium-sized families or as a daily driver with extra space when needed.
kia.com/usQuick Picks (TL;DR)
Best Overall Family SUV: Honda Pilot
Most Spacious Hybrid Choice: Toyota Grand Highlander
Best Value + Features: Hyundai Palisade
Most Fun to Drive: Mazda CX-90
Weather + Confidence Pick: Subaru Ascent
Final Thoughts
2026’s 3-row SUV scene has something for every family and lifestyle from hybrid efficiency to adventure capability. Hybrid options like the Grand Highlander, Palisade, Mazda PHEV/4xe trims, and Sorento keep fuel costs in check, while others focus on space, towing, and everyday flexibility.