Best 3-Row SUVs in Eastern North Carolina: Top Family SUVs for 2027
If you're looking for the best 3-row SUV in Eastern North Carolina, you have more choices than ever for the 2027 model year.
Today's three-row SUVs are no longer simply large family vehicles. The newest models combine comfortable seating, advanced technology, impressive cargo space, available all-wheel drive, strong towing capability, and increasingly efficient hybrid powertrains.
For families in Goldsboro, Clayton, Kinston, Greenville, New Bern, Jacksonville, Wilson, and surrounding Eastern North Carolina communities, choosing the right three-row SUV means finding the right balance of passenger space, fuel economy, comfort, safety, technology, capability, and value.
Among the leading choices for 2027 are the Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Toyota Grand Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Volkswagen Atlas.
So which one is the best?
For many families, the 2027 Hyundai Palisade deserves to be at the top of the list because it combines a spacious and comfortable interior with advanced technology, available hybrid power, available HTRAC AWD, and strong overall value.
Here's what you should know before choosing your next three-row SUV.
What Is the Best 3-Row SUV for 2027?
There isn't one SUV that is perfect for every family.
The best three-row SUV depends on what matters most to you.
If you prioritize:
- Overall family comfort: Hyundai Palisade
- Sporty styling and performance: Kia Telluride
- Maximum cargo and passenger practicality: Toyota Grand Highlander
- Traditional family-friendly SUV design: Honda Pilot
- Sporty driving dynamics: Ford Explorer
- Large interior and cargo capacity: Volkswagen Atlas
The 2027 Hyundai Palisade stands out because it doesn't focus on just one category. It provides a well-rounded combination of comfort, technology, capability, passenger space, and efficiency.
In fact, Edmunds currently ranks the Palisade at the top of its midsize three-row SUV recommendations, praising its roomy interior, smooth ride, technology, and available hybrid powertrain.
Top 3-Row SUVs for 2027
1. 2027 Hyundai Palisade
Best overall 3-row SUV for families
The Hyundai Palisade is one of the strongest all-around choices for families who want a three-row SUV without moving into a full-size vehicle.
The 2027 Palisade offers a choice between a traditional gas-powered V6 and a hybrid powertrain.
The gas-powered Palisade produces 287 horsepower, while the Palisade Hybrid produces 329 horsepower combined.
The Palisade can also accommodate up to eight passengers, depending on configuration, and offers available HTRAC All-Wheel Drive.
For families who take frequent road trips, the Palisade also provides up to 86.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo space and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped with the gas powertrain.
Why consider the Palisade?
- Available hybrid powertrain
- 329 horsepower hybrid system
- Available HTRAC AWD
- Up to eight-passenger seating
- Up to 86.7 cubic feet of cargo space
- Up to 5,000 pounds of gas-model towing capacity
- Premium interior options
- Advanced driver-assistance technology
- Multiple trim levels
- Strong warranty coverage
The Palisade is particularly appealing to families who want a vehicle that feels comfortable and upscale during daily driving but still has the capability needed for vacations, sports equipment, camping gear, and weekend adventures.
2. 2027 Kia Telluride
Best alternative to the Palisade
The Kia Telluride is perhaps the most direct competitor to the Palisade.
For 2027, the Telluride has been redesigned and offers both gas and hybrid powertrains.
The gas Telluride uses a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 274 horsepower.
The Telluride Hybrid produces 329 horsepower, matching the Palisade Hybrid.
The Telluride also offers available all-wheel drive and up to eight-passenger seating depending on configuration.
One advantage of the Telluride is its cargo capacity. Kia's redesigned model offers a maximum of roughly 88 cubic feet of cargo space, giving it a slight advantage over the Palisade in maximum cargo volume.
The Telluride is an excellent choice for families who prefer its styling, interior design, driving characteristics, or available equipment.
Palisade vs. Telluride
The two SUVs are closely related competitors, so shoppers should compare them carefully.
The Palisade offers more horsepower from its standard gas engine, while the hybrid versions of both SUVs produce 329 horsepower.
The Telluride offers slightly more maximum cargo capacity.
Both offer available AWD, three rows, hybrid powertrains, and strong towing capability.
For a more detailed comparison, see our guide:
2027 Hyundai Palisade vs. Kia Telluride: Which 3-Row SUV Is Better?
3. Toyota Grand Highlander
Best for maximum passenger and cargo practicality
The Toyota Grand Highlander is another excellent choice for families who need substantial interior space.
One of its biggest advantages is its roomy third row and generous cargo area.
Toyota also offers hybrid versions of the Grand Highlander, making it an attractive option for drivers who want improved fuel economy without giving up three-row practicality.
The Grand Highlander is especially worth considering if your priorities include:
- Large cargo capacity
- Third-row passenger room
- Hybrid efficiency
- Family road trips
- Long-term practicality
The trade-off is that the Grand Highlander can become considerably more expensive as you move into higher trims and more highly equipped versions.
4. Honda Pilot
Best traditional family SUV
The Honda Pilot continues to be a popular choice for families who want a traditional three-row SUV.
The Pilot offers seating for up to eight people in certain configurations, available all-wheel drive, strong passenger space, and a comfortable ride.
It is particularly appealing to shoppers who prefer Honda's familiar approach to family vehicles.
The Pilot's strengths include:
- Comfortable seating
- Flexible interior
- Available AWD
- Strong family-oriented design
- Good third-row usability
- Traditional V6 power
One major difference compared with the Palisade and Telluride is the availability of hybrid power. The Pilot does not currently offer a hybrid powertrain.
5. Ford Explorer
Best for sporty driving
If you want a three-row SUV that feels more athletic behind the wheel, the Ford Explorer deserves consideration.
The Explorer offers multiple powertrains, including a performance-oriented ST model.
Its strengths include:
- Strong acceleration
- Sporty handling
- Available AWD
- Advanced technology
- Available hands-free driving technology
- Multiple trim levels
The trade-off is passenger and cargo space.
Recent comparisons have noted that the Explorer's third row is less spacious than some competitors, including the Palisade and Telluride.
For a family that prioritizes driving performance over maximum passenger comfort, however, the Explorer can be a compelling choice.
6. Volkswagen Atlas
Best for a huge-feeling interior
The Volkswagen Atlas is another three-row SUV worth considering if passenger and cargo space are high on your priority list.
The Atlas provides a spacious cabin with adult-friendly seating in all three rows and substantial cargo capacity.
It also offers a comfortable ride and a generous list of standard features.
The biggest drawback for shoppers who prioritize efficiency is that the Atlas does not offer a hybrid powertrain.
That makes the Palisade, Telluride, and Grand Highlander particularly interesting alternatives for families who spend a lot of time commuting or taking long road trips.
Best 3-Row SUV for Families
When you're buying a family SUV, horsepower and styling are only part of the equation.
You should also consider how easy the SUV is to live with every day.
Third-row comfort
Will your children be comfortable in the third row?
Can an adult sit back there when necessary?
Can you easily access the third row without folding the entire second row?
These questions matter much more after you own the vehicle than they do during a five-minute test drive.
The Palisade is particularly strong in this area. Recent testing has praised its roomy interior and comfortable seating throughout the cabin.
Cargo space
Consider what you normally carry.
If you have children, you may need room for:
- Strollers
- Sports equipment
- Groceries
- Luggage
- Backpacks
- Camping equipment
- Beach gear
- Coolers
- Pets
A three-row SUV should provide useful cargo space even when all three rows are being used.
Fuel economy
If you're driving a family SUV every day, fuel economy can have a significant effect on ownership costs.
That's one reason the newest hybrid three-row SUVs are so appealing.
The 2027 Palisade Hybrid, Telluride Hybrid, and Grand Highlander Hybrid give shoppers alternatives to traditional gas-powered SUVs.
Edmunds specifically recommends the Palisade Hybrid as an attractive choice for shoppers who can justify the additional upfront cost, citing its fuel economy and performance.
Best 3-Row Hybrid SUV for 2027
Hybrid technology is one of the biggest developments in the three-row SUV market.
For 2027, shoppers can compare hybrid options such as:
- Hyundai Palisade Hybrid
- Kia Telluride Hybrid
- Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
The 2027 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid produces 329 horsepower combined and is rated at up to 34 MPG combined on applicable FWD configurations.
That combination is significant because you don't have to sacrifice performance simply to improve fuel economy.
The Palisade Hybrid is particularly attractive for families who regularly drive long distances around Eastern North Carolina.
Best 3-Row SUV for Road Trips
Eastern North Carolina families have plenty of reasons to take long road trips.
Whether you're heading toward the coast, traveling to the mountains, visiting family, or taking a longer trip out of state, a comfortable three-row SUV can make a big difference.
For road trips, look for:
- Comfortable first-row seats
- Comfortable second-row seating
- A usable third row
- Large cargo capacity
- Multiple charging ports
- Good infotainment
- Quiet highway ride
- Strong fuel economy
- Available AWD
- Driver-assistance technology
The Palisade checks many of these boxes, which is one reason it performs so well in family-oriented comparisons.
Best 3-Row SUV for Eastern North Carolina
So what makes a three-row SUV particularly useful in Eastern North Carolina?
The answer is versatility.
Drivers throughout the region deal with everything from daily commuting to highway travel, family transportation, coastal trips, rural roads, and changing weather conditions.
An SUV such as the Palisade offers the flexibility to handle all of those situations.
For Goldsboro families
A three-row SUV can provide the passenger space needed for growing families while still being manageable for everyday driving.
For Clayton commuters
Fuel economy becomes particularly important for drivers who spend significant time commuting.
The Palisade Hybrid gives commuters another option.
For Kinston and Greenville families
Cargo space and passenger flexibility can be important for families balancing work, school, activities, and weekend travel.
For New Bern and Jacksonville drivers
A comfortable three-row SUV can be useful for both daily driving and longer trips.
For Wilson-area families
The Palisade's combination of passenger space, technology, and available AWD makes it a versatile choice for everyday family transportation.
2027 3-Row SUV Comparison
| SUV | Best For | Hybrid Available? | AWD Available? | Max Seating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Palisade | Overall family use | Yes | Yes | Up to 8 |
| Kia Telluride | Style & versatility | Yes | Yes | Up to 8 |
| Toyota Grand Highlander | Cargo & passenger space | Yes | Yes | Up to 8 |
| Honda Pilot | Traditional family SUV | No | Yes | Up to 8 |
| Ford Explorer | Sporty performance | No | Yes | Up to 7 |
| Volkswagen Atlas | Large interior | No | Yes | Up to 7 |
Actual seating, powertrains, equipment, fuel economy, and drivetrain availability vary by trim and configuration.
What Should You Look for in a 3-Row SUV?
Before buying a three-row SUV, ask yourself these questions:
How often will I use the third row?
If the third row will be used every day, prioritize third-row comfort and accessibility.
If it's primarily for occasional passengers, cargo flexibility may be more important.
Do I need AWD?
If you regularly drive in challenging weather or simply prefer additional traction, consider an AWD configuration.
Do I need a hybrid?
If you drive a lot of miles each year, calculate how much fuel you could potentially save with a hybrid.
Do I tow?
If you tow a boat, trailer, or recreational equipment, pay attention to the exact towing capacity of the trim and drivetrain you're considering.
How long do I plan to keep the SUV?
A vehicle that seems slightly more expensive initially may provide better value if it has the features, warranty coverage, efficiency, and capability you need for years to come.
Is the Hyundai Palisade the Best 3-Row SUV for 2027?
For many families, it could be.
The Palisade combines many of the qualities shoppers want in one vehicle:
Space: Up to eight-passenger seating and flexible cargo capacity.
Power: 287-horsepower V6 or 329-horsepower hybrid.
Efficiency: Available hybrid powertrain.
Capability: Available HTRAC AWD and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity on gas models when properly equipped.
Technology: Advanced infotainment, connectivity, charging, and driver-assistance features.
Comfort: A quiet, premium-feeling cabin designed around family transportation.
It's also worth noting that current expert testing has placed the Palisade among the leaders of the midsize three-row SUV segment. Edmunds currently ranks it first among its top midsize three-row SUV picks, while a recent Car and Driver comparison included the Palisade Hybrid, Telluride Hybrid, Grand Highlander Hybrid, Explorer, Pilot, Atlas, and other leading competitors.
Where Can I Buy the Best 3-Row SUV in Eastern North Carolina?
If you've decided that a three-row SUV is right for your family, the next step is to compare the vehicles in person.
Deacon Jones Hyundai in Goldsboro, North Carolina, is conveniently located for shoppers throughout Eastern North Carolina.
Our dealership serves customers from:
- Goldsboro
- Clayton
- Kinston
- Greenville
- New Bern
- Jacksonville
- Wilson
- And surrounding communities
You can compare Palisade trim levels, explore gas and hybrid options, evaluate available features, discuss financing, and take a test drive.
Deacon Jones Hyundai is located in Goldsboro and offers new Hyundai vehicles, pre-owned vehicles, financing, and an on-site service operation.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best 3-Row SUVs
What is the best 3-row SUV for 2027?
The best three-row SUV depends on your needs, but the Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Toyota Grand Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Volkswagen Atlas are among the leading choices. Current Edmunds rankings place the Palisade at the top of its midsize three-row SUV recommendations.
What is the best 3-row SUV for families?
The Hyundai Palisade is an excellent choice for families because of its comfortable three-row interior, available hybrid powertrain, available AWD, flexible seating, cargo space, and advanced technology.
What is the best 3-row hybrid SUV?
The Hyundai Palisade Hybrid, Kia Telluride Hybrid, and Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid are three of the leading options to consider. The best choice depends on your priorities for fuel economy, space, performance, features, and price.
Which 3-row SUV has the most cargo space?
Cargo capacity varies by configuration, but the Toyota Grand Highlander, Volkswagen Atlas, Kia Telluride, and Hyundai Palisade all provide substantial cargo space. If maximum cargo volume is your primary concern, compare the exact configurations you're considering.
What is the best 3-row SUV for road trips?
The best road-trip SUV is one that combines comfortable seating, cargo space, fuel economy, technology, and a smooth ride. The Hyundai Palisade is particularly well suited to road trips because of its spacious cabin, comfortable seating, available hybrid powertrain, and available AWD.
Is the Hyundai Palisade better than the Kia Telluride?
Both are excellent three-row SUVs. The Palisade offers more horsepower from its standard gas engine, while the Telluride offers a slightly larger maximum cargo area. Both offer hybrid powertrains and available AWD. Your best choice depends on which vehicle's features, design, pricing, and driving experience you prefer.
Is the Hyundai Palisade good for families in North Carolina?
Yes. The Palisade's three-row seating, cargo flexibility, available AWD, available hybrid powertrain, and comfortable interior make it a strong option for families throughout North Carolina.
Where should I shop for a Hyundai Palisade in Eastern NC?
Families searching for a new Hyundai Palisade in Eastern North Carolina can visit Deacon Jones Hyundai in Goldsboro. The dealership serves Goldsboro, Clayton, Kinston, Greenville, New Bern, Jacksonville, Wilson, and surrounding areas.
Final Verdict: Which 3-Row SUV Should You Buy?
The right SUV depends on your family.
If you want maximum cargo space, look closely at the Toyota Grand Highlander or Volkswagen Atlas.
If you want sporty performance, consider the Ford Explorer.
If you want a traditional family SUV, the Honda Pilot deserves a test drive.
If you like bold styling and a sporty personality, consider the Kia Telluride.
But if you want an SUV that combines comfort, technology, passenger space, available hybrid efficiency, available AWD, strong towing capability, and overall family versatility, the 2027 Hyundai Palisade should be near the top of your list.
And the best way to determine whether it's right for you is simple:
Get behind the wheel.
Visit Deacon Jones Hyundai in Goldsboro, NC, and experience the 2027 Hyundai Palisade for yourself.
Vehicle specifications, pricing, fuel economy, availability, and features may vary by trim, drivetrain, options, and production changes. Verify current specifications and pricing with your local Hyundai dealer.
