Smallest car, van, SUV or whatever with third row seating

Sizable budget, but not quite large enough for a Merceces-Benz E-Class wagon, or I'd suggest that.

I assume you want luxury features given the amount, so the new Nissan Rogue is out. Can't get a third row with leather. Rearward visibility also isn't the best.

The Kia Sorento might fit what you're looking for, as it's also shorter than most crossovers with three rows.

The related Hyundai Santa Fe is larger and roomier than the Sorento, but drives even more like a car. Could be a good fit.

The new 2014 Acura MDX probably drives the best of the bunch, but could push the limits of your budget. It's also having a glitchy first model year (minor electrical stuff, mostly).

Among vans, Mazda offers the Mazda5 (odd styling, not best mpg, but great vehicle otherwise) and Ford has the new Transit Connect (compact cargo van dressed up for passenger use, very roomy). The latter should drive somewhat like a Ford Focus or Ford Escape, since they're all related.

Back on crossovers, Mazda also offers the CX-9, but it's pretty large.