11 Cheapest 3-Row SUVs to Buy in 2026 Without Breaking the Bank
Looking for a three-row SUV in 2026 but don’t want to burn a hole in your pocket? Here are 11 of the most affordable seven-seat SUVs on the market offering practicality, space, and family-ready versatility at prices far below the typical SUV range. Great for first-time SUV buyers, budget-conscious families, or anyone who values value over flash.
Mitsubishi Outlander
Man, the Outlander sneaks in as the cheapest three-row game in town, kicking off around $29,000 for 2026 models with that optional third row. It’s got seven seats, surprisingly roomy cargo for the size, and a hybrid option that’s super quiet on electric kinda like your whispery neighbor who never complains. Uh, the base engine’s a bit sleepy, third row’s tight for adults, but honestly for hauling kids or occasional extras on a budget, it’s a no-brainer steal compared to bigger stuff.
Volkswagen Tiguan
The Tiguan’s right there at about $29,000 base with a standard third row, which is wild for a VW that feels kinda premium inside. Posh cabin, smooth ride, tons of cargo space it’s like they took a fancy hatchback and stretched it for passengers. Engine’s meh, not super peppy, and infotainment can distract ya, but if you want European vibes without luxury bucks, this one’s a sneaky good pick, especially for city families.
Kia Sorento
Sorento starts at roughly $32,000 for 2026, standard third row, and it’s got all these powertrains—gas, hybrid, plug-in like, pick your fuel sip or speed. Roomy up front, tons of features stock, fuel economy that’s impressive if you go hybrid, but cargo’s snug with all seats up and base motor’s underwhelming. Still, Kia’s warranty is forever-long, so yeah, it’s that reliable friend who doesn’t cost an arm.
Kia Telluride
Telluride’s sneaking under $37,000 base now? Wait, yeah around $36,500 for 2026, and it’s the one everyone obsesses over comfy seats, cushy ride, chic inside like it’s pricier. Gas mileage ain’t great, but space for the whole crew and standard goodies make it feel upscale. I mean, it’s basically the gold standard for value in three-rows, no cap.
Hyundai Santa Fe
Santa Fe’s at like $34,500 to start for the 2026, boxy redesign that’s got adventure looks but on-road manners, hybrid option pushing 30-plus mpg combined. Spacious even though it’s “smaller,” turbo engine’s punchy, and that warranty again Hyundai’s killing it. Third row’s usable, not ginormous, but for the price? Chef’s kiss, honestly.
Hyundai Palisade
Palisade hits around $37,000 base, roomy third row for adults, upscale cabin that punches above its weight, loaded with features. No hybrid sucks a bit, handling’s not sporty, but comfort and space? Perfect for big families who want fancy without Lexus money. It’s like the Santa Fe’s richer sibling.
Nissan Pathfinder
Pathfinder’s about $37,500 starting, solid 6,000-pound tow rating, relaxed ride, roomy everywhere with upscale tech inside. Engines get the job done, but rivals feel sportier still, if you’re trailering boats or whatever, this one’s a workhorse without drama. Pretty intuitive screens too, you know?
Mazda CX-90
CX-90 around $38,000 base with standard AWD, handles like a dream sporty yet comfy and that interior’s handsome as hell. Third row’s snug, cargo less than some, but if driving fun matters in a three-row? This is it, not just a barge. Plug-in hybrid options too, fancy.
Subaru Ascent
Ascent’s $39,000-ish, standard AWD for snow warriors, vast cabin, tows 5,000 pounds easy, tons of standard gear. Handling’s bland, cabin noisier than luxe rivals, but Subaru reliability in bad weather? Can’t beat it for outdoorsy types. Flannel shirt approved.
Ford Explorer
Explorer starts at $40,000 base, quick accel, stable on roads, huge cargo up to 85 cubes, driver aids galore. Fuel economy lags, rows two and three tighter than some, but if you want American muscle in SUV form? Solid, especially with V6 upgrades.
Chevrolet Traverse
Traverse caps it at about $40,600, massive cargo like 97 cubes, giant 17-inch screen, feature packed for families. Rear view’s iffy, pricier than some, but space is king here feels like a living room on wheels. Turbo four’s fine, not V6 glory, but practical AF.
