Top 15 three-row mid-size SUVs for 2019

There are not many segments in the car industry that are such competitive as the class of mid-size three-row SUVs. You can hear often that these are actually perfectly sized SUV. It looks a bit challenging to make such vehicles that will keep the strength and space of full-size SUVs but save some weight and dimensions. Also, many drivers found these vehicles perfect for everyday use. These are mostly crossovers, so they are comfortable, with car-like driving characteristics. Moreover, most of them offer such high level of comfort, comparable even with premium sedans. Still, a practicality is probably the biggest trump of these models. Easy to use, with great cargo capacity and plenty of space for rear passengers, three-row SUVs are usually the first choice of big families. Considering all this, it is not wondering that pretty much every renowned carmaker has a vehicle of this type in his offer.

2019 Ford Flex

Almost ten years after initial launch, this model remains one of the unique crossovers around. Originally introduced in 2008, it hasn’t changed much. There was one update in 2013. It included various body updates, but the base shape remained unchanged. The 2019 Ford Flex will continue in the same way. The old boxy SUV is still pretty attractive, thanks to its unique look. Besides attractive styling, it is also very practical. There is plenty of space inside, while the third row is a standard feature. Performances are on a high level too. The base model comes with the older-generation V6 which is good for 287 horses and 254 pound-feet of torque. If you are for some more power, this is a new EcoBoost V6 with 365 horses and 350 pound-feet of torque. Unfortunately, it seems that Ford doesn’t plan a redesign, so this could easily be the last year model.

2019 VW Tiguan Allspace

Although a compact crossover, this particular version takes place on our list thanks to the third-row feature. The famous SUV is in production since 2007. The original model was in production for a full decade. Along with the base second-generation model, the company introduced a new, stretched version. It debuts as a 2018-year model. Considering its recent arrival, it is hard to expect bigger changes for the 2019 VW Tiguan Allspace. Compared to the base two-row model, it comes with around 3-inch longer wheelbase. Still, this third row can hardly provide enough space for adult passengers. Still, this is a great addition for large families. In all other aspects, this model is pretty much the same. There are some minor differences, but the overall design is practically the same, both outside and inside.

2019 Toyota 4Runner

The iconic SUV is a great alternative to today’s market overflowed with modern unibody crossovers. Unlike others, this model comes in a traditional body-on-frame manner, offering outstanding off-road performances. It is far more capable compared to the competition, although some dose of comforts needed to be sacrificed. The current generation is present since 2009 and it looks like we will have to wait for another few years for a complete redesign. Still, this doesn’t mean that we won’t see novelties for 2019 Toyota 4Runner. The company prepares a new off-road version called TRD Pro. It will include various mechanical modifications, including new suspension components, which will make this SUV even more capable. Expect to see several visual modifications as well, which will emphasize vehicles tough off-road character.

2019 Nissan Pathfinder

Unlike 4Runner, this model moved away from body-on-frame to modern unibody platform five years ago. The current generation of this, now crossover is present since 2013. After five years of production, the company prepares a mid-cycle refresh. The test model has been spotted on the road and it seems that there are some significant visual changes to come. Of course, the front end will suffer most but other areas could come with changes as well. Besides visual updates, some interior novelties are likely to come. We should see some tweaks on the dashboard, as well as a longer list of standard features, including some of latest technologies. On the other side, mechanical aspect of the car will remain the same, including engines. There’s a familiar 3.5-liter V6 as in the base model, while the hybrid version is available as well.

2019 GMC Acadia

The 2019 GMC Acadia will represent the third model year of the current second generation. This crossover came two years, which indicates that we are not going to see bigger changes next year. The base design will remain unchanged, both in terms of styling and interior design. On the other side, some minor tweaks are quite possible. We could see some exterior colors in the offer, as well as new interior color schemes. Also, expect some minor changes when it comes to standard features. Each trim should receive few new standard features. On the other side, don’t expect changes under the hood. This crossover comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, while more potent V6 is available on higher trims.

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe

This model will be among most interesting three-row crossovers of the year. The reason is simple. The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe is coming completely new. After six years of production, the current model is going to be replaced with the completely new one. The fourth generation is about to come with plenty of novelties. Expect all those things usual for redesigns. A completely new look is one of them. The test mule is on the road for some and although with camouflage, it is obvious that there’s a new styling to come. Expect significant changes on the inside as well. When it comes to the powertrain, we expect that V6 unit will continue. Of course, expect some tweaks that will provide more power, better economy, and overall efficiency.

 

2019 Honda Pilot

 The 2019 Honda Pilot will continue to be among class leaders for sure. Everything is pretty much clear about this crossover. Excellent quality, versatility, and reliability are some of the model’s main characteristics. The current generation is present for about three years. So, some updates for the next year are possible. Although the base design is probably going to remain the same, new details are always welcome. An updated list of standard equipment is one of the possible novelties. Also, there is a completely new, hybrid version to come. This model will feature pretty much the same design, except the powertrain. Expect to see a familiar hybrid system from the iconic Accord, characterized by amazing fuel economy and good performances. We expect its arrival this fall.

2019 Chevrolet Traverse

After the last-year redesign, 2019 Chevrolet Traverse is about to continue in the same way. The last-year redesign has brought some significant improvements. First of all, there’s a new styling, which makes this crossover far more attractive compared to the previous generation. With a new truck-like appearance, it looks far more capable. Besides new exterior design, this crossover gets new cabin look too. Finally, there is a completely new chassis, which provides better dynamics and overall driving experience. Despite this will be the second year model of the new generation, there is still a chance to see some big novelties. More precisely, 2019 Chevrolet Traverse is about to get a new 2.0-liter turbo inline-four engine. Of course, a familiar V6 will continue to be standard choice.

2019 Buick Enclave

Just like its close relative Chevy Traverse, this model also came completely new last year. It also gets a new, stretched version of C1 architecture. Unlike its twin, this model comes in a little bit more premium manner. Still, mechanics are completely the same, including a new 9-speed automatic transmission. A turbo inline-four engine should find its place under 2019 Buick Enclave’s hood too. In all other aspects, we don’t expect changes. This crossover will continue with the same design, but few minor updates in terms of standard equipment are possible. Also, we could see few new color options, as well as new interior color schemes. Expect its arrival in usual time. This means late in the year and without bigger changes in price.

2019 Mazda CX-9

All models from this manufacturer offer an amazing value for the money. This one is not an exception. With its gorgeous look, excellent quality and reliable SkyActive engines, this crossover is easily one of the best crossovers in the class. The current generation is present for about two years. It came in 2016, which indicates that it is still early for some bigger changes. Most likely, 2019 Mazda CX-9 will continue in the same way, without design changes. Still, this doesn’t mean that there is no space for improvement. Like every year, new standard equipment will come. This probably won’t include some core changes in terms of trim organization, but few new features for each trim level are always welcome.

 

2019 Toyota Highlander

Unlike 4Runner, this model is a crossover. It is designed for all those who don’t need such capable SUV, who prefer comfort over performances. So, the 2019 Toyota Highlander will continue to deliver the same. Speaking of potential changes, we must mention that this model has already received a mid-cycle update two years ago. For this occasion, we saw various modifications, both inside and outside. Also, the company already works on the next-generation model, which should come in about two years. Considering all this, it is easy to make a conclusion that the 2019 Highlander will continue in the same way. We will see a recently-updated version of the V6 engine, as well as hybrid powertrain in the offer. Once again, small updates like new colors and standard equipment are pretty much for sure.

 

2019 Kia Sorento

Times when Korean cars were just a cheap alternative were passed. This model is now one of the most-competitive crossovers in the class. Characterized by the excellent balance between price and quality, it offers a more attractive design compared to its relative from Hyundai. The current generation is present since 2014. For the next year, the company prepares a mid-cycle update. For this occasion, we are about to see many changes. The 2019 Kia Sorento won’t feature just cosmetic changes. Besides more attractive styling, there are some changes under the hood. While engine lineup remains the same, there’s a new 8-speed automatic transmission in the offer. Also, there is a whole bunch of new standard features to come. Many of them will be in terms of safety. Things like a forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control will be standard features in the 2019 Sorento.

2019 Ford Explorer

This model is one of many SUVs that switched to a unibody platform. Now a full-size crossover, this model offers a pretty versatile design, which balances between performances and comfort. The current generation is pretty old. It came in 2011 and receiver two updates so far. The second one came just recently, for the 2018-year model. It includes various exterior tweaks which make this crossover prettier. Considering this recent update, the 2019 Ford Explorer will most likely come without more important changes. A complete redesign is close, so there is no need for further improvements of the current model. There are three engines in the offer. The base model comes with an old but reliable V6, but EcoBoost units are a far better choice. This especially refers to the new 2.3-liter unit, which delivers around 280 horses.

2019 VW Atlas

 This is a very fresh model from the famous German manufacturer. It came last year as a 2018-year model. Even from the first look, it is easy to realize that company doesn’t have ambitions outside North America with this model. Its rugged look perfectly fits the taste of American drive. Still, it is a crossover, which stands between Tiguan and Touareg. Considering its recent launch, it is hard to expect some changes already for the second year of production. Still, few tweaks in terms of equipment and new colors are quite possible. The 2019 VW Atlas will come with two engines in the offer. A base 2.0-liter turbo inline-four is good for about 235 horses. Still, most drivers will probably prefer a naturally-aspirated V6, which delivers 276 horsepower. Both engines come with a new 8-speed automatic transmission.

2019 Dodge Durango

Despite its age, 2019 Dodge Durango will continue to be one of the most competitive mid-size crossovers on the market. The current generation is present since 2011 and despite few updates, we haven’t seen more important changes so far. Latest reports suggest some visual changes to 2019 Durango, which will make him more competitive for next few years. Also, expect more standard equipment for the next year. Speaking of engines, things will remain the same. Base models use a familiar Pentastar V6 engine, which is good for about 290 horses. Still, a 5.7-liter unit is a much better choice. This engine delivers around 360 horsepower.

Finally, there is a hi-performance SRT version, which features a 6.4-liter engine with a max power of 475 horses. A new 8-speed automatic transmission is now available through the whole range.