Three-row midsize SUVs dominate in cargo space
The love affair between Americans and SUVs continues, and automakers are striving to deliver models that balance interior space and price. Three-row midsize SUVs tend to dominate the conversation, with some offering just shy of 100 cu ft. of cargo space and seating for the whole family – and then some. If you’re hunting for a new midsize SUV with room for the whole family and all their cargo, make sure to check out these models.
Toyota
5. 2025 Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot hasn’t received many updates since the new generation launched back in 2023. All models seat up to eight passengers across three-row seating, although the EX-L model can be had with captain’s chairs that reduce the passenger count to seven. The Pilot offers up to 18.6 cu ft. of space in the dedicated cargo area and 48.5 cu ft. behind the second row. Folding down both rear rows opens up a rather vast 87 cu ft. of cargo space.
Honda
For 2025, Honda axed the LX trim from the lineup, making the Sport model the entry-level model. Priced from $40,200, all 2025 Honda Pilot models come powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 285 horsepower. When equipped with all-wheel drive, the reliable family hauler can tow up to 5,000 lbs.
4. 2025 Toyota 4Runner
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is in a rather unique position compared to the other entries on this list. While the other four models come with three rows of seating, the 4Runner can be had with two- or three-row seating. When equipped with two rows, the 4Runner offers up to 90.2 cu ft. of cargo space with both rows folded down. With both rows in their upright position, the Japanese SUV boasts a 48.4-cu ft. dedicated cargo area. If you opt for a third row, cargo space drops to 84.4, 44.8, and 12.1 cu ft. behind the first, second, and third rows, respectively.
Toyota
The 2025 model year marked the entry of the sixth-generation Toyota 4Runner. It shares a base with the Tacoma midsize pickup and retains its rugged styling. Priced from $41,270, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner comes powered by a 278-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. If up to 90.2 cu ft. of cargo space isn’t enough, the 4Runner can also tow up to 6,000 lbs. when properly equipped.
3. 2025 Kia Telluride
The 2025 Kia Telluride tends to stand out from the crowd, with a rather low price, a third row fit for adults, and a long list of standard equipment. On top of it all, you can pack the Telluride with plenty of cargo as well. The midsize SUV tops out at 87 cu ft. of cargo space behind the first row, as well as 46 cu ft. and 21 cu ft. of cargo space behind the second and third rows, respectively. Like many other SUVs in its class, the Kia Telluride can tow up to 5,000 lbs. when equipped with a tow hitch.
Kia
After receiving very minor updates for the 2024 model year, the Kia Telluride returns with no changes on the docket for 2025. Priced from $36,390, it manages to undercut nearly every other three-row midsize SUV on the market. The Korean SUV can seat up to seven or eight passengers, depending on the model. Regardless of trim level, the Telluride includes plenty of standard equipment, including some rather unique features. Quiet mode, for example, limits audio to the first-row seats, allowing second- and third-row passengers to sleep on the road.
2. 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander
The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander features three-row seating with space for up to eight passengers. It’s a fairly tech-savvy SUV when it comes to infotainment, with standard equipment that includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. While the Grand Highlander offers plenty of room for passengers, it comes with ample cargo space as well. The dedicated cargo area offers 20.6 cu ft., and there’s 57.9 cu ft. behind the second row. Folding down both rear rows increases total cargo space to 97.5 cu ft.
Toyota
Priced from $41,360, the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander brings no notable changes to the nameplate. The three-row SUV continues to come stock with a 265-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The Grand Highlander is also available in hybrid form. Regardless of powertrain, the midsize SUV can tow up to 5,000 lbs. when properly equipped.
1. 2026 Chevrolet Traverse
Priced from $40,800, the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse sits atop the pyramid with a best-in-class 98 cu ft. of cargo space behind the first-row seats. With the second-row seats in their upright position, Chevy’s midsize SUV boasts 56.6 cu ft. of cargo space. With all seats occupied, the Traverse features 22.9 cu ft. of space in the dedicated cargo area. Note, however, that only the base LT model seats up to eight passengers when optioned with the second-row bench seat. All other models offer seating for seven.
Chevrolet
While there’s a Traverse model for every type of driver, the Buick Enclave offers a more premium setup with similar cargo dimensions. Available from $46,200, the 2026 Buick Enclave features seating for seven passengers and up to 97.5, 57.1, and 22.9 cu ft. of cargo space behind the first, second, and third rows, respectively. Both the Enclave and Traverse come powered by the same 328-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine and can tow up to 5,000 lbs. with the right equipment.
Final thoughts
When it comes to interior space, it’s hard to beat the value that three-row midsize SUVs bring to the market. With models like the Chevy Traverse and Toyota Grand Highlander pushing triple-digit cargo space dimensions, SUVs continue to dominate the conversation. Not only that, but their sub-$45,000 entry points make them an attractive choice, especially once you take passenger space and standard equipment into the equation.