Choosing a vehicle that meets all our needs while staying within budget is no easy task. It usually requires making sacrifices or significant compromises. Fortunately, there are now plenty of options in the midsize three-row SUV segment.
This is one of the most important segments on the market. Most vehicles in this category can carry up to seven passengers and offer enough towing capacity to easily pull a boat or travel trailer. They also provide plenty of comfort and versatility. The biggest challenge is finding a well-equipped model under the $60,000 mark, which is why I decided to put together a Top 10 on the subject today.
10 — 2026 Volkswagen Atlas – $54,317.50
The Volkswagen Atlas offers the comfort and solid driving dynamics of the Audi Q7, a model with which it shares numerous elements. This is also one of the reasons why it is among the most appealing vehicles in the segment. The fact that it ranks tenth doesn't mean much, as many would argue that it has everything it takes to be number one.
9 — 2026 GMC Acadia – $57,925
The Acadia now plays a bigger role in GMC's lineup, which is a good thing. The model is versatile and offers solid off-road capabilities.
8 — 2026 Nissan Pathfinder – $58,222
For less than $60,000, you can get the Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek, which is by far the most interesting version of the model. It offers impressive off-road capabilities, and its design certainly knows how to turn heads wherever it goes.
7 — 2026 Kia Telluride – $54,166.60
The Kia Telluride almost seems too perfect not to come with some major compromises. Yet, I looked hard for them and couldn't find any. It is stylish, enjoyable to drive, comfortable, and its level of technology is impressive, even in the entry-level version.
6 — 2026 Chevrolet Traverse – $55,025
The Chevrolet Traverse spent many years living in the shadow of its bigger brothers, the Tahoe and Suburban, but those two have simply become too expensive these days. The Traverse, meanwhile, remains relatively affordable and has plenty of great qualities. The model's latest complete redesign has also done wonders for its appearance.
5 — 2026 Ford Explorer – $49,731
The Ford Explorer is one of the first models that comes to mind when thinking about the midsize three-row SUV segment, and for good reason. You see them everywhere, especially because it is one of the preferred vehicles among emergency services. This also speaks volumes about its durability. It is also one of the few models on this list to offer a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, making it particularly appealing to camping enthusiasts.
4 — 2026 Mazda CX-90 – $49,166
The Mazda CX-90 is a relatively new model on the market, and it is already enjoying a meteoric rise in popularity. It stands out thanks to its dynamic driving experience and upscale, luxurious feel. Several versions are available below the $60,000 mark thanks to its very aggressive starting price. In fact, the model ranks among the most affordable vehicles in its segment.
3 — 2026 Honda Pilot – $58,972
The Honda Pilot has been accompanying families on their adventures for many years, and that isn't about to change. The model is rugged and very comfortable. It is a reliable vehicle that retains excellent resale value thanks to its reputation. For just under $60,000, you can get the Sport trim, which remains very appealing from a styling standpoint and offers more than decent standard equipment.
2 — 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander – $55,139
Toyota is a true benchmark across virtually every segment. The Grand Highlander is comfortable and very enjoyable to drive. Renowned for its legendary reliability, the Japanese automaker's SUV is a safe bet. You can even get a hybrid version without exceeding the $60,000 budget.
1 — 2026 Hyundai Palisade – $57,020
For less than $60,000, you can get the entry-level version of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade. However, don't assume this means you are getting a bare-bones model, because quite the opposite is true. The Korean automaker's SUV comes standard with heated seats for the first two rows, a digital instrument cluster, seating for eight, and even a heated steering wheel. The other versions exceed the $60,000 mark, but they are well worth the extra money. In my opinion, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade is the midsize three-row SUV that gives you the most for your money this year.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
