Over the past decade, three-row crossover SUVs have essentially replaced the family station wagon. They haul kids, cargo, groceries, dogs, camping gear, and sometimes even a small trailer. For many families, one vehicle has to do everything. This is one of the most competitive and popular segments out there. To see which one comes closest to pulling it off, I spent time driving three of the most popular choices in the segment: the updated 2026 Nissan Pathfinder, (mostly new) Hyundai Palisade, and recently introduced Mazda CX-90. Each one approaches their mission differently: one focuses on rugged practicality (Nissan), one leans heavily into comfort and luxury (Hyundai), and one attempts to inject a little driving excitement into the family-SUV formula (Mazda).After spending time with all three, their personalities quickly became clear. The ContendersBefore diving into the driving impressions, here is a quick look at the basics. 2026 Nissan PathfinderBase price $38,995 3.5-liter V6284 horsepower9-speed automaticUp to 6,000 pounds towingEPA-rated at 21 MPG city and 27 MPG highway (AWD) *Rock Creek is slightly lower Hyundai Palisade$39,4353.8-liter V6287 horsepower8-speed automaticUp to 5,000 pounds towingEPA-rated at 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway (AWD) Mazda CX-90$38,8003.3-liter turbocharged inline-six280 HP (base engine) 8-speed automatic with mild hybrid systemUp to 5,000 pounds towing EPA-rated at 23 MPG city and 28 MPG highway (AWD) On paper, they all appear fairly similar. In practice, they feel completely different. I opted to omit the hybrid version, and the top tier turbo of the Mazda CX-90. This was a personal choice as I feel like the non-hybrid is more enjoyable to drive, and the power rating of the base turbo was in line with the competition. 2022-nissan-pathfinder Nissan Pathfinder: The Practical OneThe Nissan Pathfinder feels like the most traditional SUV of the group. Recently, it's been updated. Most of that is styling, and a bit of interior as well. While my favorite is the off-road-ish Rock Creek, you can get the SV FWD for $39,900 with good amenities, and that excellent V6. Pony up a few grand and you can get the lauded AWD/4WD system. It works well. While it is technically a crossover, Nissan clearly designed it with capability in mind. The updated styling is upright and slightly rugged, and trims like the Rock Creek version reinforce that outdoorsy personality, for more coin. Behind the wheel, the Pathfinder is straightforward and easy to drive. The V6 engine delivers solid acceleration and the nine-speed automatic transmission behaves predictably. It is not particularly exciting, but it feels dependable. Where the Pathfinder stands out is towing capability. With a maximum rating of about 6,000 pounds, it easily beats the others in this comparison. If your family owns a boat or a small travel trailer, that extra margin matters.Inside, the Pathfinder offers a comfortable and practical cabin. Nissan updated the technology recently with larger digital displays and improved connectivity. Still, the interior materials and design feel a bit more conservative than the others here.Rear passenger space is decent, and the third row is usable for average sized passengers, as long as they are thin. Cargo space is competitive as well. In short, the Pathfinder is the practical workhorse of this group. Hyundai Palisade: The Luxury SurpriseThe Hyundai Palisade takes a very different approach.From the moment you step inside, it feels like Hyundai aimed directly at premium SUVs that cost significantly more. The dashboard design is clean and upscale, the materials are impressive for the price point, and the overall cabin ambiance feels refined.Comfort is the Palisade’s greatest strength. The seats are excellent, the ride quality is smooth, and the suspension soaks up rough pavement with ease. Long highway drives are where this SUV really shines. Passenger space is another highlight. The second row offers plenty of legroom, and the third row is more usable than many competitors. Families with teenagers will appreciate that. The V6 engine delivers adequate performance, though it is not particularly quick. Acceleration is smooth and predictable, which fits the Palisade’s relaxed character. Technology is another area where Hyundai excels. Large screens, intuitive controls, and thoughtful driver-assistance systems make the Palisade feel modern without becoming overwhelming.Overall, the Palisade feels like the most luxurious and family-friendly vehicle in this comparison. Mazda CX-90: The Driver’s ChoiceThen there is the Mazda CX-90, which feels like it belongs in a slightly different category. Mazda clearly wanted to build a three-row SUV that enthusiasts might actually enjoy driving. The CX-90 uses a turbocharged inline-six engine, something rarely seen in this segment. That engine alone changes the experience, even in base form. Acceleration is stronger than either the Pathfinder or Palisade, and the power delivery feels smooth and refined. The steering is also more precise, and the chassis feels tighter and more responsive in corners. This is a Mazda through and through. Simply put, the CX-90 is the most fun to drive. Mazda also pushed the interior upscale. Higher trims feature genuine wood accents, Nappa leather, and a design that feels closer to a European luxury SUV than a mainstream crossover. I still feel the Palisade is more luxurious, but only by a small margin. The tradeoff is space. The CX-90’s third row is a bit tighter than the others, and cargo capacity is slightly more limited. For families that regularly fill all three rows, that could be a consideration. Still, for drivers who want a little excitement in their daily commute, the CX-90 stands out. Living With ThemAfter spending time with all three vehicles, their strengths became easy to categorize.The Pathfinder is the most capable when it comes to towing and light adventure duty. It feels rugged and dependable, even if it is not the most exciting to drive.The Palisade offers the best combination of comfort, space, and interior quality. For long family road trips, it might be the easiest one to live with.The CX-90 is the enthusiast’s option. It sacrifices a bit of space but rewards the driver with better performance and a more engaging driving experience. The VerdictChoosing a winner depends on what matters most to you.If your family needs maximum comfort and interior space, the Hyundai Palisade is the clear choice. It feels the most refined and the most accommodating for passengers.If towing capability and rugged personality are priorities, the Nissan Pathfinder makes the strongest case.But if you care about driving dynamics and want a three-row SUV that does not feel like a chore behind the wheel, the Mazda CX-90 stands apart.Each one succeeds in its own way. The good news is that families shopping in this segment now have several excellent options.