Which 3-Row SUV Won the 2020 Challenge for Family Use?

The 2020 Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride emerged as the top-ranked three-row SUVs in a rigorous seven-vehicle comparison, outperforming rivals on comfort, technology, and overall value.

For families seeking a minivan alternative, the modern three-row SUV has become the default choice. But with so many options, choosing the best one is a significant challenge. To help, we conducted a comprehensive 2020 3-Row SUV Challenge, pitting seven popular models against each other in 19 key categories—from drivability and fuel economy to interior space and technology. The results reveal a clear hierarchy, with newcomers from Hyundai and Kia surpassing established competitors.

How Did We Determine the Best 3-Row SUV?

Our testing methodology was designed to simulate real-world family use. A team of three automotive experts evaluated each vehicle as equipped, factoring in their as-tested price. The 19 scoring categories covered both objective measurements (like cargo space and fuel economy) and subjective assessments (like ride comfort and user interface intuitiveness). All vehicles featured all-wheel drive (AWD) and a pair of second-row captain’s chairs, creating a standardized seven-seat configuration (except for the six-seat Ford Explorer).

The final ranking, from highest to lowest score, is:

1. 2020 Hyundai Palisade Limited AWD
2. 2020 Kia Telluride SX AWD
3. 2019 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium 4Motion
4. 2020 Ford Explorer Limited 4WD
5. 2020 Subaru Ascent Touring
6. 2020 Chevrolet Traverse AWD High Country
7. 2020 Honda Pilot AWD Elite

What Were the Key Strengths and Weaknesses of Each SUV?

Here is a detailed breakdown of how each contender performed, highlighting what matters most to families.

7. 2020 Honda Pilot AWD Elite

• The Verdict: A comfortable and easygoing last-place finisher. While still recommendable, its age shows in outdated technology and surpassed interior quality.
• As-Tested Price: $49,215
• Powertrain: 280-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine; nine-speed automatic transmission.
• Key Strengths: Excellent outward visibility, prolific in-cabin storage, and competitive observed fuel economy of 23.6 mpg.
• Key Weaknesses: The frustrating Display Audio touchscreen was a major drawback. Its driver-assistance features are less robust than competitors', and the cabin can get boomy over rough pavement.

6. 2020 Chevrolet Traverse AWD High Country

• The Verdict: Offers massive cargo space and a comfortable ride but disappoints on value, handling, and interior quality given its high price.
• As-Tested Price: $54,395
• Powertrain: 310-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6; nine-speed automatic.
• Key Strengths: Class-leading cargo capability, a well-damped ride, and spacious third-row seats comfortable for adults.
• Key Weaknesses: Rated last for value, with notable feature omissions. Its handling is ponderous with considerable body roll, and it achieved the worst observed fuel economy in the test at 21.0 mpg.

5. 2020 Subaru Ascent Touring

• The Verdict: A decent vehicle in isolation, but its unrefined powertrain, snug interior, and budget-feeling cabin don't stand up well against the competition.
• As-Tested Price: $46,055
• Powertrain: 260-horsepower, 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine; continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
• Key Strengths: Excellent standard safety features (tied for first), good outward visibility, and the lowest price in the test.
• Key Weaknesses: The turbocharged four-cylinder and CVT combination was judged the worst powertrain, characterized by jumpy throttle response and unpleasant engine noise. The third row is tight for adults.

4. 2020 Ford Explorer Limited 4WD

• The Verdict: A sporty driver's SUV with superb handling, but this came at the cost of cramped and uncomfortable seating in all three rows.
• As-Tested Price: $54,420
• Powertrain: 300-horsepower, 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder; 10-speed automatic transmission.
• Key Strengths: The best handling and braking feel in the group. The turbocharged engine provides punchy acceleration.
• Key Weaknesses: Uncomfortable seats across all rows, with the third row being particularly compromised. It tied for last in child-seat accommodation and visibility, and was criticized for its high price relative to its perceived quality.

3. 2019 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium 4Motion

• The Verdict: The previous champion retains its crown for passenger space, offering the best third row in the segment, but its interior quality is starting to show its age.
• As-Tested Price: $50,320
• Powertrain: 276-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6; eight-speed automatic.
• Key Strengths: Unmatched third-row legroom and comfort, making it the best for regularly transporting adults in the back. also boasts a spacious second row and simple, user-friendly controls.
• Key Weaknesses: Interior materials feel dated compared to newer rivals, and its V-6 engine can feel underpowered, contributing to a below-average observed 21.5 mpg.

2. 2020 Kia Telluride SX AWD

• The Verdict: A near-perfect blend of premium style, confident driving manners, and practical family features that makes it a top contender.
• As-Tested Price: $48,355 (est.)
• Powertrain: 291-horsepower, 3.8-liter V-6; eight-speed automatic.
• Key Strengths: Award-winning, rugged exterior styling. Achieved the best observed fuel economy in the test at 24.5 mpg. Offers a quiet, comfortable cabin and a long list of standard safety tech.
• Key Weaknesses: Some judges found its steering feel a bit numb compared to the sportier Ford Explorer.

1. 2020 Hyundai Palisade Limited AWD

• The Verdict: The 2020 champion excels by offering a luxurious, thoughtfully designed interior, superior user-friendly technology, and a smooth, comfortable ride.
• As-Tested Price: $48,595 (est.)
• Powertrain: 291-horsepower, 3.8-liter V-6; eight-speed automatic.
• Key Strengths: A best-in-class interior with upscale materials and intuitive controls. The infotainment system is a standout for its ease of use. It offers excellent seating comfort and clever storage solutions throughout the cabin.
• Key Weaknesses: Its polarizing exterior styling may not appeal to all buyers.

What Should You Prioritize When Choosing a 3-Row SUV?

Based on our assessment experience, your choice should align with your family's primary needs.

• For the best all-around experience: The Hyundai Palisade is the benchmark, offering a premium feel, easy-to-use tech, and great comfort.
• For bold style and efficiency: The Kia Telluride provides a more rugged aesthetic and top-tier fuel economy.
• If you regularly use the third row: The Volkswagen Atlas is unmatched for space and comfort in the very back.
• If driving enjoyment is your top priority: The Ford Explorer delivers sport-sedan-like handling, but be prepared to compromise on passenger comfort.
• For a budget-conscious choice: The Subaru Ascent offers a strong suite of standard safety features at a lower entry price.

Ultimately, the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride set a new standard for the three-row SUV segment. Their combination of refinement, technology, and value proves that newcomers can decisively outperform legacy nameplates.