It can be difficult to choose the right option when it comes to third-row SUVs. There are many things to consider, including load size, maintenance, and overall price. Car and Driver has ranked all of the best third-row midsize SUVs of 2022 from best to worst. Here are the three best third-row midsize SUVs according to Car and Driver and their most endearing qualities.
1. kia telluride
The Kia Telluride sits at the top of the list with a standard 3.8-liter V6 engine rated at 291 hp and starting at $34,015. An eight-speed automatic transmission with optional AWD is also included.
At 21 cubic feet, cargo space behind the third-row seats is the second largest behind the Chevy Traverse’s 23 cubic feet. The 46 cubic feet of space behind the second-row seats is pretty impressive, too, though quite a few competitors match it.
One of the main reasons the Telluride stands out is its handling. Big, bulky cars are not well known for their composure on the road. Nevertheless, car and driver He notes that it drives better than it should, with the interior and exterior feeling sleek and high-end.
The fact that the smallest screen is 10.3 inches and that you get tons of standard features even in the base trim allows buyers to feel like they’re getting a little more value for their money. Lastly, the Kia SUV can tow a whopping 5,000 pounds and even comes with a 10-year warranty.
2.Hyundai Palisade
The second-place Hyundai Palisade should come as no surprise, given that it’s built on a similar platform to the Telluride. It also uses the same powertrain and suspension. Styling is where the two differ slightly. The Palisade can’t quite match the Telluride’s interior and exterior aesthetics, but it does a great job of trying to catch up.
It’s worth noting that the Pallisade starts slightly lower than the Telluride at $33,860, and the only thing it’s missing is 3 cubic feet of space behind the third-row seats.
The quality of the interior materials is particularly impressive and not what you normally get in this price range. It also follows in the Telluride’s footsteps, offering features like a premium headliner and ventilated second-row seats at low cost.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L
The Grand Cherokee L is the only American-made third-row SUV in Car and Driver’s top five rankings, sitting between the Palisade and the Kia Sorento. Its powertrain configuration includes either a 3.6-liter V6 or a 5.7-liter V8. The first can produce 293 hp, according to edmundswhile the V8 can produce 357 hp.
These engines come with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and buyers can choose between RWD and 4WD.
Among its advantages is a smoother ride thanks to an extended wheelbase, 15 inches longer than the previous model. Also, both engine options feel powerful, with a sound that’s also remarkable.
The SUV comes with 10.3 inches of ground clearance, which is plenty for adventures or going off-road. This is in addition to the 7,200 lb. towing capacity available with the V8, the highest in its class.
Also, where manufacturers of third-row SUVs often struggle to provide legroom and headroom for adults in the third row, it’s different for the Grand Cherokee L. Even the tallest people can sit comfortably.
At an MSRP of $40,570, the Jeep may be a bit pricey for some, but it offers the features and performance to justify the cost.
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