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Family sitting in open trunk of white SUV next to camping site
2023 Acura MDX with Advance Package SH-AWD

1. Acura MDX

CarMax owner rating

4.6

Price range*$14,998$54,998
Estimated combined MPG19 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating 

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

4 out of 5

Pros

  • Comfortable seats
  • Large cargo area
  • Handling strikes a balance between relaxed and sporty

Cons

  • The base V6 engine lacks the power of turbocharged rivals
  • The touchpad interface for the infotainment requires a steep learning curve
2021 Chevrolet Traverse LS

2. Chevrolet Traverse

CarMax owner rating

4.4

Price range*$14,998$43,998
Estimated combined MPG20 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating 

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

3.5 out of 5

Pros

  • Intuitive infotainment technology
  • Impressive acceleration
  • Spacious seating across all three rows

Cons

  • Some panel finishing feels subpar
  • Rear row design impairs visibility
2022 Honda Pilot Touring

3. Honda Pilot

CarMax owner rating

4.6

Price range*$14,599$55,998
Estimated combined MPG20 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating 

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

3.5 out of 5

Pros

  • Comfortable ride
  • The first two rows are roomy
  • Controls are easy to use

Cons

  • The third row is a bit cramped
  • Less rear storage than competitors
  • Small standard touchscreen
2022 BMW X5 M

4. BMW X5

CarMax owner rating

4.6

Price range*$23,998$77,998
Estimated combined MPG(data not available)
RepairPal reliability rating 

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

2.5 out of 5

Pros

  • Powerful acceleration from all available engines
  • Comfortable and premium-feeling cabin
  • Spacious cargo area and seating

Cons

  • Compact side mirrors and wide pillars hinder visibility
  • Limited small-item storage
  • Wide doorsills can hinder entry and exit in tight spaces
2021 Ford Explorer Platinum

5. Ford Explorer

CarMax owner rating

4.3

Price range*$13,599$55,998
Estimated combined MPG19 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating 

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

3.5 out of 5

Pros

  • Wide range of engine choices
  • Maximum tow rating of 5,600 pounds
  • Cargo space

Cons

  • Key rivals have roomier third-row seats
  • Higher trims are very pricey
  • Some humdrum cabin trim
2022 Dodge Durango SXT Plus

6. Dodge Durango

CarMax owner rating

4.5

Price range*$14,998$66,998
Estimated combined MPG13 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating 

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

3.5 out of 5

Pros

  • Strong engines
  • Three-row space
  • Great tech

Cons

  • Engines aren't mpg-focused
  • Feels large behind the wheel
  • Most driver aids are optional
2022 Volvo XC90 T5 AWD Momentum

7. Volvo XC90

CarMax owner rating

4.5

Price range*$13,998$54,998
Estimated combined MPG22 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating 

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

3.5 out of 5

Pros

  • Abundance of standard tech features
  • Precise steering
  • Three different powertrain options to choose from

Cons

  • Limited room in the third row
  • Infotainment system complicated to use
  • Noticeable wind noise at higher speeds
2017 Ford Flex Limited

8. Ford Flex

CarMax owner rating

4.6

Price range*$12,998$22,998
Estimated combined MPG17 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating 

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

3 out of 5

Pros

  • Formidable V6 engine options
  • Spacious dimensions across all three rows
  • Boxy exterior offers excellent all-round visibility
  • Flexible configurations and flat load floor are great for cargo trips

Cons

  • Lacks the interior style touches of other Ford models
  • Seating isn't especially comfortable on longer trips
  • Awkward front stack and steering wheel controls
2018 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Supercharged Dynamic

9. Land Rover Range Rover Sport

CarMax owner rating

4.4

Price range*$29,998$82,998
Estimated combined MPG21 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating 

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

2 out of 5

Pros

  • Great visibility
  • Multiple power trains available
  • Attractive and tech-heavy interior

Cons

  • Sub-par agility on the road
  • Minimal in-cabin storage
  • Distracting infotainment system
2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid EX

10. Kia Sorento

CarMax owner rating

4.4

Price range*$9,998$39,998
Estimated combined MPG(data not available)
RepairPal reliability rating 

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

4 out of 5

Pros

  • Lots of standard features
  • Spacious second row
  • Good infotainment system

Cons

  • Small third row
  • Limited cargo space with third row in use
  • Stiff ride

Ready to find your 3-row SUV?

Frequently asked questions about 3-row SUVs

A 3-row SUV is a top choice for its superior seating capacity, offering comfort and space for large families. Furthermore, they provide ample cargo space, powerful performance, and advanced safety features.

How we ranked this list

To create our "Best Of" lists, our analysts look at CarMax vehicle and sales data over a recent 6-month period, from December 2023 through May 2024. Looking back over a 6-month period allows for the highest sample size possible while also providing up-to-date pricing information. Some articles may include data points with lower sample sizes.

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2006-2020 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy.

Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov.

Range figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new and assume a full battery charge. Range will vary based on things like battery age, vehicle condition and history, driving and charging habits, accessory use, and driving conditions. Battery capacity may decrease with time and use. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

* Price excludes taxes, title, registration, and fees. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.​

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

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