Three-row SUVs are no longer just about squeezing in an extra kid or two. In 2025, they’re built to handle everything—family road trips, daily commutes, and even a little weekend adventure—with comfort, power, and tech to match. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right one isn’t exactly simple.

To help narrow it down, we’re lining up 10 of the best three-row family haulers hitting the market in 2025. Some lean sporty, some play it extra safe, and a few are redefining what a big SUV can be.

1. 2025 Kia Telluride

The Telluride continues to be a top pick for families, and 2025 brings small but smart updates. Powered by a 3.8L V6 making 291 horsepower, it’s smooth and confident whether you’re cruising the highway or towing a trailer.

Inside, it feels like it punches above its price range with a 12.3-inch digital display, available Nappa leather seating, and optional second-row captain’s chairs. The suspension leans more comfortable than sporty, which is exactly what most buyers want. Plus, it offers one of the best third-row experiences without stepping into full-size SUV territory.

2. 2025 Honda Pilot

Honda gave the Pilot a full redesign recently, and for 2025 it refines the formula with more tech and better interior quality. The standard 3.5L V6 churns out 285 horsepower, mated to a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission.

Inside, there’s real versatility—eight-passenger seating standard, or you can opt for second-row captain’s chairs in higher trims. Cargo space is among the best in the class, and the Pilot TrailSport version even brings light off-road capability without sacrificing daily comfort.

3. 2025 Mazda CX-90

The CX-90 is Mazda’s move upmarket, and it shows. Built on a new rear-wheel-drive-biased platform, it offers sharper handling than you’d expect from a big family SUV. Power comes from either a turbocharged inline-six or a plug-in hybrid option.

Inside, the cabin is upscale with available leather, real wood trim, and a minimalist layout that feels genuinely premium. Three rows are standard, and while the third row is tighter than some, the overall driving dynamics make it a compelling choice for families who still want something a little sportier.

4. 2025 Hyundai Palisade

The Hyundai Palisade continues to be one of the smartest buys in the segment. For 2025, it sticks with a 3.8L V6 putting out 291 hp paired with an 8-speed automatic. All-wheel drive is optional, and towing capacity is a respectable 5,000 pounds.

Inside, the Palisade feels more luxury SUV than family shuttle. It comes loaded with features like ventilated second-row seats, dual 12.3-inch screens, and available quilted leather. Plus, Hyundai’s warranty remains one of the best in the business, making it a practical long-term investment.

5. 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander

The Grand Highlander stretches the familiar Highlander formula, offering more space for adults in the third row and additional cargo room behind it. Three powertrains are available: a 2.4L turbo-four, a hybrid, and a 362-hp Hybrid Max performance model.

Toyota packed the Grand Highlander with thoughtful features like a configurable second row, an intuitive multimedia system, and a long list of standard safety tech. It’s not the flashiest option, but for families needing space and reliability, it checks a lot of boxes without trying too hard.

6. 2025 Chevrolet Traverse

The Traverse gets a full redesign for 2025, and it finally looks as tough as it is useful. It’s powered by a new 2.5L turbo-four making 315 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic and optional all-wheel drive.

Inside, it’s all about space—seating for up to eight and one of the biggest cargo areas in the class. A huge 17.7-inch touchscreen dominates the dash, and active safety features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control now come standard. It’s a smart move forward for Chevy’s big family hauler.

7. 2025 Ford Explorer

The Explorer stays familiar for 2025, but that’s not a bad thing. You’ll find strong turbocharged engine options like the 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder and the powerful 3.0L twin-turbo V6 available in higher trims.

Ford keeps the driving dynamics sharp with rear-wheel drive architecture underneath, offering better handling balance than many front-drive rivals. Inside, the Explorer brings a wide range of trims—from practical family hauler to near-luxury Platinum models—so there’s something for nearly every budget and taste.

8. 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

For families who want real off-road ability without sacrificing comfort, the Grand Cherokee L is still one of the best options out there. It offers a choice between a 3.6L V6 or a 5.7L HEMI V8, plus multiple four-wheel-drive systems.

Inside, the Grand Cherokee L feels premium with quilted leather options, real wood trim, and an available McIntosh premium audio system. The third row is roomy enough for adults, and Jeep’s off-road modes mean you can venture well beyond the pavement if you want to.

9. 2025 Subaru Ascent

The Ascent is Subaru’s largest vehicle, and it sticks to the brand’s greatest hits: all-wheel drive standard, ruggedness baked in, and lots of family-friendly touches. It runs a turbocharged 2.4L flat-four making 260 hp and can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

Inside, you’ll find lots of USB ports, available heated second- and third-row seats, and a big panoramic sunroof option. Safety tech like Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist system comes standard, and its reputation for reliability makes it a safe pick for families that put serious miles on their SUV.

10. 2025 Volkswagen Atlas

The Atlas stays true to its strengths for 2025: big interior space, easy-to-use controls, and clean, restrained styling. It comes with a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder making 269 hp, paired to an 8-speed automatic, with optional 4Motion all-wheel drive.

Inside, the Atlas focuses on practicality: a wide center console, real third-row space for adults, and a big cargo hold behind the seats. The 2025 update sharpens the tech with a new infotainment system and digital cockpit, giving it just enough modern polish without complicating the experience.

*Created with AI assistance and editor review.