Hey there, fellow car enthusiasts! Are you in the market for the best 2023 SUV with 3rd-row seating? If you've got a growing family, regularly carpool, or just love having extra space, a 3-row SUV can be a lifesaver. But with so many options out there, finding the perfect one can feel overwhelming. Don't worry, guys – I've done the research for you! Let's dive into some of the top contenders for 2023, considering factors like space, comfort, features, and overall value.

Why Choose a 3-Row SUV?

Before we jump into specific models, let's quickly cover why a 3-row SUV might be the right choice for you. The most obvious reason is, of course, extra seating. Whether you're shuttling kids to soccer practice, taking the whole crew on a road trip, or just want to be prepared for unexpected passengers, having that third row can be a game-changer. Beyond seating, 3-row SUVs typically offer generous cargo space, even with all the seats in use. This is a huge plus for families who need to haul groceries, sports equipment, luggage, and all the other stuff that comes with daily life. Many 3-row SUVs also come packed with family-friendly features like entertainment systems, multiple USB ports, and advanced safety technologies. These features can make long journeys more enjoyable and give you peace of mind on the road. Finally, a 3-row SUV can be a versatile choice. When you don't need the extra seating, you can fold down the third row to create even more cargo space. This flexibility makes a 3-row SUV a practical option for a wide range of needs.

Top 3-Row SUVs of 2023

Okay, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some of the top 3-row SUVs you should be considering in 2023:

1. Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride consistently ranks among the best 3-row SUVs, and for good reason. It offers a winning combination of spaciousness, features, and value. The Telluride's interior is surprisingly upscale, with comfortable seating in all three rows. Even adults can comfortably sit in the third row for shorter trips. Kia packs the Telluride with a ton of standard features, including a user-friendly infotainment system, a suite of advanced safety technologies, and stylish exterior design. The Telluride boasts a powerful V6 engine that provides ample acceleration for everyday driving and highway merging. While it's not the most fuel-efficient option in the segment, the Telluride's overall value is hard to beat. It comes with an industry-leading warranty, giving you extra peace of mind. If you're looking for a well-rounded 3-row SUV that won't break the bank, the Kia Telluride should definitely be on your list. The Telluride has a bold and boxy exterior design that sets it apart from other SUVs. The interior is well-appointed with high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout. The infotainment system is easy to navigate and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Telluride also offers a wide range of driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

2. Hyundai Palisade

The Hyundai Palisade is essentially the Telluride's cousin, sharing many of the same underpinnings and features. However, the Palisade has its own distinct styling and personality. The Palisade offers a more luxurious feel than the Telluride, with a more refined interior design and available features like quilted leather seats and a panoramic sunroof. Like the Telluride, the Palisade offers plenty of space for passengers and cargo. It also comes standard with a V6 engine and a long list of features. Where the Palisade stands out is its smoother ride quality and quieter cabin. It's a great choice for families who prioritize comfort on long trips. The Palisade is also known for its excellent safety ratings, making it a top pick for families with young children. Hyundai's warranty is also one of the best in the business. The Palisade has a distinctive front-end design with a large grille and split headlights. The interior is elegant and well-designed, with plenty of soft-touch materials. The Palisade also offers a variety of advanced technology features, such as a digital instrument cluster and a head-up display. The Palisade is a great option for families who want a luxurious and comfortable 3-row SUV.

3. Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot is a perennial favorite in the 3-row SUV segment. It's known for its reliability, practicality, and family-friendly features. The Pilot offers a spacious interior with comfortable seating for up to eight passengers. The third row is more suitable for children or smaller adults, but it's still usable for shorter trips. Honda's reputation for reliability is a major selling point for the Pilot. It's a vehicle that's built to last, which can save you money on maintenance and repairs down the road. The Pilot also offers a smooth and comfortable ride, making it a great choice for long trips. Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety technologies, comes standard on all Pilot models. While the Pilot's styling may not be as flashy as some of its competitors, it's a practical and dependable choice for families. The Pilot has a more traditional SUV design with a boxy shape and a prominent grille. The interior is functional and well-organized, with plenty of storage compartments. The Pilot also offers a variety of convenience features, such as a power liftgate and a rear entertainment system. The Pilot is a great option for families who want a reliable and practical 3-row SUV.

4. Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is another excellent choice in the 3-row SUV segment. It offers a blend of comfort, fuel efficiency, and reliability. The Highlander's interior is well-appointed with comfortable seating and a user-friendly infotainment system. The third row is a bit cramped compared to some of its competitors, but it's still usable for children or smaller adults. Toyota is known for its reliable vehicles, and the Highlander is no exception. It's a vehicle that's built to last, which can save you money on maintenance and repairs in the long run. The Highlander also offers a hybrid option, which provides excellent fuel economy for a 3-row SUV. Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of advanced safety technologies, comes standard on all Highlander models. The Highlander is a great option for families who want a reliable and fuel-efficient 3-row SUV. The Highlander has a sleek and stylish exterior design with a sporty front end. The interior is comfortable and well-equipped, with plenty of features. The Highlander also offers a variety of options, such as a panoramic sunroof and a JBL premium audio system. The Highlander is a great option for families who want a stylish and practical 3-row SUV.

5. Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer is a popular choice for families who need a versatile and capable SUV. It offers a spacious interior, a powerful engine, and available four-wheel drive. The Explorer's interior is comfortable and well-equipped, with plenty of features. The third row is more spacious than some of its competitors, making it suitable for adults on shorter trips. The Explorer offers a variety of engine options, including a powerful EcoBoost engine that provides plenty of acceleration. It's also available with four-wheel drive, making it a capable choice for off-road adventures. The Explorer has a more rugged and aggressive design than some of its competitors. The interior is comfortable and well-equipped, with plenty of features. The Explorer also offers a variety of options, such as a panoramic sunroof and a premium audio system. The Explorer is a great option for families who want a versatile and capable 3-row SUV. The Explorer has been redesigned in recent years, giving it a more modern and stylish look. The interior is also more refined, with higher-quality materials and a more user-friendly layout. The Explorer also offers a variety of advanced technology features, such as a large touchscreen display and a 360-degree camera system. The Explorer is a great option for families who want a stylish and technologically advanced 3-row SUV.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a 3-Row SUV

Choosing the right 3-row SUV depends on your individual needs and priorities. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Space: How much space do you need for passengers and cargo? Consider the size of your family and the amount of stuff you typically haul.
• Comfort: How important is ride quality and interior comfort? If you take long trips frequently, you'll want an SUV with comfortable seats and a smooth ride.
• Features: What features are important to you? Do you need a rear entertainment system, a panoramic sunroof, or advanced safety technologies?
• Fuel Efficiency: How important is fuel economy? If you drive a lot, you'll want an SUV that gets good gas mileage.
• Budget: How much are you willing to spend? 3-row SUVs can range in price from affordable to luxurious.
• Safety Ratings: Check the safety ratings from organizations like the NHTSA and IIHS to ensure the SUV has good crash test scores.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best 2023 SUV with 3rd-row seating requires careful consideration of your needs and priorities. The models discussed above represent some of the top contenders in the market, each offering a unique blend of features, space, and value. I hope this guide has been helpful in narrowing down your options and making the decision-making process a little easier. Remember to test drive a few different models before making your final choice to ensure it's the right fit for you and your family. Happy car shopping, and good luck finding the perfect 3-row SUV!