18) 2020 Cadillac Escalade
U.S. News Overall Score: 6.6/10 | $75,195
The Cadillac Escalade uses one of the oldest platforms on this list, having been without a redesign since 2015. The Escalade’s third row is pretty tight, and the infotainment system is a bit complicated, though it does include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. What makes the Escalade popular is its truck underpinnings and standard V8 power. When properly equipped, the Escalade can tow up to 8,300 pounds. The long-wheelbase Escalade L has a more spacious third row, but towing drops to 8,100 pounds.
17) 2020 Lexus LX
U.S. News Overall Score: 7.0/10 | $86,380
The Lexus LX is basically a more luxurious version of the Toyota Land Cruiser. However, the LX suffers from the Land Cruiser’s ponderous handling, poor fuel economy and small rear seat (not to mention poor cargo specs). Luckily, the LX enjoys the same positive traits as the Land Cruiser, such as standard V8 power and incredible off-road chops.
16) 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser
U.S. News Overall Score: 7.0/10 | $85,415
With the exception of some unsavory dealers price-gouging the new Toyota Supra, the Toyota Land Cruiser is the most expensive new Toyota you can buy. Unfortunately, that high price gets you cramped third-row seats, cumbersome handling, and poor fuel economy. On the plus side, the Land Cruiser offers standard V8 power, a long list of standard features, good reliability, and phenomenal off-roading abilities.
15) 2019 Infiniti QX80
U.S. News Overall Score: 7.0/10 | $65,500
The Infiniti QX80 shows its age with poor fuel economy and a distinct lack of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility. What the QX80 does offer is ample cargo space, plenty of power, and a refined ride. Infiniti also added more active safety aids as standard features for 2019, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection.
14) 2019 Lincoln MKT
U.S. News Overall Score: 7.1/10 | $49,500
The Lincoln MKT is a bit of an odd duck, but it is not without its charms. It has plenty of cargo space, standard all-wheel drive, an easy-to-use infotainment system, and a potent base engine: A twin-turbocharged V6 that produces 365 horsepower. Perhaps these features can make up for the poor fuel economy and dull handling, but that’s for you to decide.
13) 2020 Volvo XC90
U.S. News Overall Score: 7.6/10 | $48,350
The Volvo XC90’s base engine delivers so-so performance, and the ride is jittery when equipped with the larger wheels. This means there is a performance/comfort sweet spot for most shoppers in the middle of the lineup. Once you find your ideal combination, you’ll be rewarded with one of the nicest cabins in the class, with first-rate materials and a fabulous design. The XC90 also has plenty of cabin space and a long list of standard safety features.
12) 2020 Infiniti QX60
U.S. News Overall Score: 7.6/10 | $44,350
The Infiniti QX60 has wonky infotainment controls and some cheap-looking cabin materials, but makes up for it (somewhat) with a reasonable base price, a robust standard V6 engine, and solid cargo room. While the third row is a bit tight on legroom, the sliding second-row seats make it easy to get in and out.
11) 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid
U.S. News Overall Score: 7.7/10 | $52,900
The Acura MDX Hybrid proves that fuel efficiency does not have to negate sporty driving dynamics. The MDX Hybrid is quick and handles quite well for a three-row SUV. On the flip side, the MDX Hybrid lags in the reliability department, and the cabin is not as upscale as some competitors.
10) 2020 BMW X7
U.S. News Overall Score: 7.8/10 | $73,900
The BMW X7 is a relative newcomer to the three-row luxury SUV segment. If you can get over its rather massive grille, the X7 provides a smooth ride, powerful engine options, and a high-end cabin that’s outfitted with plenty of standard tech and safety features. For 2020, BMW adds the 523-horsepower M50i, if you feel you need for “M” performance in your three-row ute.
9) 2020 Acura MDX
U.S. News Overall Score: 7.9/10 | $44,400
We’ve already seen the hybrid, but even the traditional MDX is a great vehicle. The 2020 Acura MDX comes standard with a V6 engine that makes 290 horsepower and provides robust acceleration. The MDX also provides solid fuel economy estimates and confident handling characteristics. The MDX does come up short on predicted reliability, and cabin quality isn’t great compared to some of its rivals.
8) 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS
U.S. News Overall Score: 8.0/10 | $75,200
If the BMW X7 seemed appealing, but you’re more of a Mercedes-Benz fan, the GLS has you covered. This big Benz has a lineup of potent engines, and the ride is well-balanced and composed. True to Mercedes-Benz form, perhaps the most critical attribute of the GLS is its lavish and roomy cabin. The third row is fine for adults, but it’s best suited for shorter trips. Its 84.7 cubic feet of cargo space is about average for the class.
7) 2019 Tesla Model X
U.S. News Overall Score: 8.1/10 | $82,000
In the proper trim, the Tesla Model X can out-accelerate some legit sports cars and supercars. In addition, the low placement of the batteries give the Model X favorable driving dynamics and sporty handling. The lack of a traditional engine also frees up plenty of space, enhancing cargo capacity and rear legroom. The Model X also has a futuristic interior and Tesla’s innovative Falcon rear doors.
6) 2020 Lexus RX L Hybrid
U.S. News Overall Score: 8.1/10 | $50,460
The Lexus RX 450h L might be trying to do too much. As an overall vehicle, the RX is fantastic, and the hybrid drivetrain provides a serene ride and excellent gas mileage. The downside: it’s simply not very exciting to drive, and the sloping roofline yields poor cargo space. That roofline also results in a minimal headroom in the third row, which makes it impractical for adults.
5) 2020 Lexus RX L
U.S. News Overall Score: 8.1/10 | $47,300
The Lexus RX 350 L suffers from the same issues as its hybrid counterpart. Cargo space and third-row headroom are its major shortcomings. On the plus side, both vehicles get an updated infotainment system with long-overdue Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
4) 2020 BMW X5
U.S. News Overall Score: 8.4/10 | $58,900
The third-row seats on the BMW X5 are optional, and if you do select them, they are cramped. But if you only need them for ferrying around kids, the X5 is a great choice. It has plenty of cargo space, and the latest version of BMW’s iDrive infotainment system is easy to use. True to the automaker’s sporting roots, the X5 offers a lineup of potent engines and has excellent ride and handling dynamics.
3) 2019 Audi Q7
U.S. News Overall Score: 8.5/10 | $53,550
The Audi Q7 received our 2019 Best Luxury 3-Row SUV for Families award, and it’s easy to see why. It has comfortable, supportive seats, a lavish interior, athletic handling, and a powerful optional V6 engine. Other vehicles might have more third-row space, but the Q7 is the total package.
2) 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE
U.S. News Overall Score: 8.7/10 | $53,700
The Mercedes-Benz GLE has been completely redesigned for 2020. The new cabin is luxurious and airy, with an artful aesthetic and the latest in-car technology. There are multiple powertrain options available, all of which offer plenty of acceleration and capability. No matter which trim you select, the GLE offers a refined ride and confident handling. The MBUX infotainment system can be a bit distracting at first and has a learning curve, but once you practice with it a bit the MBUX is a pretty capable system.
1) 2020 Lincoln Navigator
U.S. News Overall Score: 8.8/10 | $75,825
The Lincoln Navigator proves that a truck-based design doesn’t need to feel stiff or dated. The 450-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6 is the same one used by the Ford F-150 Raptor. The cabin is very fashionable and modern, with an infotainment screen that rises from the dash like a tablet device. A coddling ride and massive cargo capacity round out the Navigator’s all-around excellent scorecard.
More Shopping Tools From U.S. News & World Report
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We rank and review nearly every vehicle available using data from hundreds of independent reviews written by America’s top automotive journalists. Whether you’re looking to buy or lease, our financing deals and lease deals pages can help you make an informed decision.
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The 18 Best 3-Row Luxury SUVs for 2020
- 18) 2020 Cadillac Escalade: U.S. News Overall Score: 6.6/10 | $75,195
- 17) 2020 Lexus LX: U.S. News Overall Score: 7.0/10 | $86,380
- 16) 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser: U.S. News Overall Score: 7.0/10 | $85,415
- 15) 2019 Infiniti QX80: U.S. News Overall Score: 7.0/10 | $65,500
- 14) 2019 Lincoln MKT: U.S. News Overall Score: 7.1/10 | $49,500
- 13) 2020 Volvo XC90: U.S. News Overall Score: 7.6/10 | $48,350
- 12) 2020 Infiniti QX60: U.S. News Overall Score: 7.6/10 | $44,350
- 11) 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid: U.S. News Overall Score: 7.7/10 | $52,900
- 10) 2020 BMW X7: U.S. News Overall Score: 7.8/10 | $73,900
- 9) 2020 Acura MDX: U.S. News Overall Score: 7.9/10 | $44,400
- 8) 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS: U.S. News Overall Score: 8.0/10 | $75,200
- 7) 2019 Tesla Model X: U.S. News Overall Score: 8.1/10 | $82,000
- 6) 2020 Lexus RX L Hybrid: U.S. News Overall Score: 8.1/10 | $50,460
- 5) 2020 Lexus RX L: U.S. News Overall Score: 8.1/10 | $47,300
- 4) 2020 BMW X5: U.S. News Overall Score: 8.4/10 | $58,900
- 3) 2019 Audi Q7: U.S. News Overall Score: 8.5/10 | $53,550
- 2) 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE: U.S. News Overall Score: 8.7/10 | $53,700
- 1) 2020 Lincoln Navigator: U.S. News Overall Score: 8.8/10 | $75,825
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The Best in Luxury, Without Compromising on Space or Capability
Sometimes, quality-vs-quantity is an “either/or” concept. Luckily, that’s not the case when it comes to three-row luxury SUVs. These vehicles are tailor-made for folks who need plenty of seating and cargo space, but don’t want to sacrifice the luxury brand name to get it.
U.S. News & World Report has compiled and ranked all of the three-row luxury SUVs on the market today. Some of these vehicles have not been completely evaluated yet, and so they will not be included on this list. Be sure to check back often to see where vehicles like the Cadillac XT6, Land Rover Discovery, Range Rover Sport, Lexus GX, and Lincoln Aviator will rank once they are scored.
Since some of these vehicles have similar scores, we used their base MSRP to help determine who ranks higher.
Now, read on to see our best ranked and reviewed luxury three-row SUVs.