12 Three-Row SUVs Ranked By Real-World Cost Per Mile

Owning a three-row SUV can be an expensive game. Once you have gotten over the generally higher starting prices for some three-row models, you then have to think about depreciation, gas bills, maintenance costs, and insurance. Some sticker prices might look good for what you want, but actual ownership costs over the years and per mile driven can tell a different story, and knowing how much it will actually cost you once you’ve got it home is arguably more important.

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We have compared the real-life ownership costs for ten three-row SUVs, based on driving 15,000 miles a year over five years, using information from sources like Edmunds, CarEdge, and Kelley Blue Book. These are the most popular three-row SUVs in the U.S., what they will cost you to own over five years, and how much they will cost you to own per mile in depreciation, insurance, fuel costs, maintenance, and interest.

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UPDATE: 2026/06/18

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This list has been updated to include two more entries.

1

Toyota Grand Highlander

Average Five-Year Cost Range: $47,873 – $72,333 | Average Cost Per Mile Range: $0.53 – $0.96

There are lots of reasons to make a Grand Highlander your next family vehicle; it is relatively well-priced from build, it is Toyota-grade reliable, you get up to 97.5 cubic feet of storage inside, and the seats can be configured to prioritize passenger space or cargo space. Starting prices for the 2026 Grand Highlander are relatively low at $41,860, and it is available in ten grades as both gas-engined and hybrid models. They are as follows.

Toyota

Toyota has a solid reputation for dependability and depreciation, and while depreciation rates fluctuate depending on what kind of driving you are doing, how well you maintain your vehicle, and where in the country you live (as goes for every model on this list), CarEdge says the Grand Highlander has an “A” value rating, and will only lose just over $15,500 to depreciation over five years. That equates to approximately $3,100 on average over the first five years. CarEdge has also provided the following average five-year costs.

If you opt for the more expensive Hybrid or Hybrid MAX models, you can tow up to 5,000 pounds. However, the base models can only tow up to 3,500 pounds. There is a trade-off in going for the more affordable option. All models get Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 as standard, and you get a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and three-year/36,000-mile comprehensive warranty, so you are fairly well covered over the first few years of ownership.

2

Subaru Ascent

Average Five-Year Cost Range: $49,767 – $65,683 | Average Cost Per Mile Range: $0.55 – $0.88

Subaru

Based on living near zip code 58067, Edmunds says the true cost to own a base-model 2026 Subaru Ascent over five years is $49,767. If you live in a busier area, for example, in the 77494 zip code in Texas, it will cost you around $52,809 over the same time. This is based on generally higher maintenance costs, higher insurance costs, and slightly more depreciation, so it is clear that the average costs for owning three-row SUVs depend very highly on where you live.

The new Subaru Ascent has a starting price range of between $40,795 and $51,995. You get either seven or eight seats, depending on whether you opt for second-row captain’s chairs or stick with the bench seat. What makes the Ascent an appealing-looking family SUV is that it is built relatively well for the dirt.

Subaru

Symmetrical AWD, Hill Descent Control, Trailer Stability Control, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance are standard fare. There is only one engine option available this year: a 260-horsepower/277-pound-foot turbocharged boxer. You can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, and it comes with a 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty from new, while FuelEconomy.gov estimates that it will cost you between $2,850 and $2,950 for gas.

Of course, if you spend most of your time lugging your family around trails or towing, the average fuel consumption of between 21 and 22 combined mpg is going to decrease, but at least you have the option. Based on living in the 77494 zip code, the average costs to own a new Ascent base model are as follows.

3

Volkswagen Atlas

Average Five-Year Cost Range: $46,701 – $70,426 | Average Cost Per Mile Range: $0.62 – $0.94

Volkswagen

As one of the most refined family SUVs, the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas combines sporty looks, oodles of legroom (41.7 inches front/37.6 inches second row/33.7 inches third row), and a 2.0-liter TSI turbo-four that kicks out 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. FWD is standard fare, but you can opt for 4MOTION AWD as well, which means you can tow up to 5,000 pounds and tackle wet-weather driving with more ease.

Starting prices for the 2026 Atlas are reasonable at $39,310, and top-end prices are still comparable to other three-row family SUVs, at $54,630 before any extras. However, CarEdge says that for an SUV of its standing, it only has an ownership value rating of “C-“. This is most notably due to the $24,640 that it loses in value over five years.

Volkswagen

This depreciation is an average, and depending on where you live, this will fluctuate. For example, Edmunds says it will cost you $60,659 to own a VW Atlas for five years if you live in the 92210 (Indian Wells, CA) zip code, while it will cost you just $48,791 if you live in the 77001 (Houston, TX) zip code. Based on living in 77001, the average five-year costs are as follows.

4

Kia Telluride

Average Five-Year Cost Range: $49,337 – $71,225 | Average Cost Per Mile Range: $0.66 – $0.95

Kia

Kia didn’t release a 2026 model of their three-row family SUV, but we can still buy 2025 Telluride models, and we are all hotly anticipating the release of the 2027 Telluride. Average used prices for a 2025 Kia Telluride range from $36,500 for the base-level LX to $53,000 for the top-tier SX-Prestige X-Pro.

All models have impressive legroom over all three rows, with the front row getting 41.4 inches, 42.4 inches in the second row, and 31.4 inches in the third row, while 87 cubic feet of storage space makes it large enough for most family events and camping trips.

Kia

Alongside the roomy build, as we find with a lot of modern Asian SUVs, the ’25 Telluride is very reliable. It gets a J.D. Power reliability rating of 85 out of 100, and iSeeCars rates it 7.7 out of 10 for value retention. Based on living in the New York zip code 07310 (Jersey City), Edmunds has provided the average five-year costs for a Telluride.

5

Mitsubishi Outlander

Average Five-Year Cost: $51,771 | Average Cost Per Mile: $0.69

Mitsubishi

The Mitsubishi Outlander has been around the block, entering the market in the early 2000s and keeping pace with trends along the way. For 2026, the Outlander gets a glow-up inside and out, with the exterior sharpening up a tad without losing its rugged edge. A redesigned cabin brings premium aspects, like soft-touch materials and a sleeker design layout than the outgoing model year.

Under the hood, the Outlander gets a new 1.5-liter turbo mild-hybrid inline-four that kicks out 177 horsepower with a towing cap of 2,000 pounds. The PHEV is still on the menu, and consists of a 2.4-liter inline-four that produces 248 combined horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, though that added power doesn’t boost towing, as it drops to 1,500 pounds max.

Mitsubishi

Interior-wise, the Outlander took a big leap in 2026 with a more premium approach, similar to what Mazda is doing. The most noteworthy aspect of the cabin is the three-row layout — a rare feature in the compact space. As such, the third row is a cramped affair, and is most suitable for small passengers. The 2026 Outlander starts at $29,995 for the FWD gas-only model, which is incredible compared to other three-row rivals. Those wanting the PHEV will have to pony up a significant premium, as the 2026 PHEV starts at $43,245.

6

Honda Pilot

Average Five-Year Cost Range: $52,728 – $73,855 | Average Cost Per Mile Range: $0.70 – $0.98

Honda

It is reported that Ohio is one of the cheapest states to own a car in the U.S., based on insurance premiums, repair costs, and gas prices. Cambridge, OH (43725) is one of the cheapest places to insure and maintain a car. Based on the 2026 Honda Pilot Sport, which has an MSRP of $42,395, it will cost you around $53,000 over five years.

Unlike some of its competitors, the new Honda Pilot is only available with one engine option: a 3.5-liter V6 good for 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel models can achieve approximately 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while AWD models get the same in the city but 25 mpg on the highway.

Honda

While the Pilot’s sticker price and average price per mile are appealing, value for money also comes from what you can do with it and what warranty you get from Honda. The maximum tow rating is 5,000 pounds when you opt for AWD, which, of course, raises the starting price, but you do get a decent warranty suite at build, which includes a three-year/36,000-mile Basic Limited Warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty.

That puts it in-line with the new Grand Highlander. However, starting prices are higher, and depending on where you live, it will cost you more to own over five years. Edmunds has provided the five-year cost breakdown of owning a new Honda Pilot base model, based on living in zip code 43725.

7

Kia Sorento

Average Five-Year Cost: $53,355 | Average Cost Per Mile: $0.71

Kia

The 2026 Kia Sorento starts at $32,190, with eight trims to choose from, giving buyers a healthy list of options to choose from. The base engine is a 2.5-liter naturally spirated four-cylinder that kicks out 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. Kia offers a turbocharged version of the base engine that ups power to 281 with 311 pound-feet of torque on tap. Unlike many of its rivals, the Sorento sends power through an eight-speed automatic transmission to either the front wheels or all four (you get an eight-speed DCT on turbo models). A Hybrid option is also available, which consists of a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid mill that kicks out a respectable 227 horsepower combined, and sends power through a six-speed auto; the hybrid model achieves an EPA-estimated 34 MPG combined.

Like most all vehicles coming from Korea in 2026, the cabin is sleek minimalist with a focus on tech and convenience. Upper trims offer premium materials and advanced features, though even the base model comes well-equipped, featuring a 12.3-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple and Android, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a loaded safety suite. In terms of cabin space, you get 12.6 cubic feet with all three rows in place, though it opens up to 75.5 cubic feet when all seats are folded.

Kia

JD Power grants the 2026 Sorento family an average quality and reliability score of 74/100, with a solid 85/100 for resale value. CarEdge places its five-year cost to own around $53,355, which is more than some of its three-row rivals, like the Mazda CX-90, Chevy Traverse, and Ford Explorer.

8

Mazda CX-90

Average Five-Year Cost Range: $58,338 – $69,748 | Average Cost Per Mile Range: $0.78 – $0.93

Mazda

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 is the family SUV market’s answer to affordable luxury and comfort. Starting prices are reasonable at $39,300 for the base trim and top-end prices at $57,570, while three engine options mean you get a good choice of power. A 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six good for 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque is standard; a 3.3-liter HO inline-six that kicks out 340 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque is an option, and PHEV CX-90 models come equipped with a 323-horsepower/369-pound-foot inline-four paired with a 68-kW battery pack and 17.8-kWh battery. FuelEconomy.gov estimates that it will cost you between $2,100 and $3,100 for gas a year, thanks to a combined mpg rating of between 25 and 26 (56 MPGE for the PHEV models).

Mazda

All new CX-90 models get the rear-biased i-ACTIV AWD system from build, and while it is good for shoring up footing on wet roads and giving you a pleasant ride, we wouldn’t suggest taking it too deep into the mud. The aim of the game here is comfort and on-road presence.

This is also apparent with the amount of space you get inside. There is 141.6 cubic feet of passenger volume inside, and the two front rows get a lot of space (the third row may be a little cramped for taller people). Up front, you get 41.7 inches of legroom; in the second row, 39.4 inches, and in the third row, 30.4 inches. Kelley Blue Book CX-90 five-year cost-to-own estimates are as follows.

While some of the more affordable-per-mile family SUVs are built for more all-around usability (think the Ascent and Pilot TrailSport), the new CX-90 is made to make you think you are paying less for a near-luxury, with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Alexa Built-In, and a decent standard-fit eight-speaker audio rig. The IIHS has also awarded the CX-90 a Top Safety Pick+ award. This is where family value-for-money lies with the CX-90.

9

Hyundai Palisade

Average Five-Year Cost Range: $60,802 – $69,276 | Average Cost Per Mile Range: $0.81 – $0.92

Hyundai

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade marks the first model year of the refreshed look. It has a price range of $39,435 to $54,560 for the ICE models and $44,160 to $56,780 for the hybrid models. The Palisade Calligraphy, like the CX-90, is the definition of bang for your buck in the premium three-row market. From build, the Palisade gets a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 287-horsepower V6 under the hood, eight seats, and available heated and ventilated front and second-row seats.

The 2026 Palisade also marks the first model year to be available with a hybrid powertrain, consisting of a turbo inline-four mated to an electric motor, with a combined output of 329 horses. It is estimated to be able to achieve approximately 34 combined mpg, so it is very efficient for something of its size.

TopSpeed | Michael Frank

The drawback of the hybrid Palisade is that it is only rated to tow up to 4,000 pounds. So, if you value being able to drag a sizable amount with you for family getaways, another three-row SUV with a higher tow rating may be the answer. To make up for it, though, you do get a decent amount of space inside; the Palisade has a passenger volume of 161.9 cubic feet and can carry 86.7 cubic feet of stuff around. Edmunds doesn’t have a five-year breakdown, but based on the highest estimate over five years ($69,276), Kelley Blue Book has offered the following cost breakdown.

10

Jeep Grand Cherokee L

Average Five-Year Cost Range: $61,794 – $74,242 | Average Cost Per Mile Range: $0.82 – $0.99

Jeep

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is available from $40,920 for the base-trim Laredo to $62,600 for the three-row Summit. The Cherokee L is a family-friendly SUV, but you do have to opt for a third row for an extra cost. To make up for it, you do get an awful amount of off-road prowess in the shape of Sele-Terrain Traction Management, available Quadra-Trac 4×4 systems, and available Quadra-Lift Air Suspension.

You also get a maximum towing capacity of 6,200 pounds, generous legroom over all three rows (41.3 inches front/39.4 inches second row/30.3 inches third row), and a maximum cargo capacity of 84.6 cubic feet. It can be adventure-ready and family-ready from the off.

Jeep

While the towing is exceptional and there is enough space inside for trips away, it is worth noting that the low-end five-year estimates are higher than most other three-row family SUVs. This is evened out by a not-terrible high-end estimate (by CarEdge), but some cost areas can cost you dear, especially depreciation and maintenance. One of the most expensive states to own a vehicle in the U.S. is Nevada, and below are average five-year costs based on owning a base-trim Grand Cherokee L and living in zip code 89149 (Northwest Las Vegas, NV).