Best SUVs 3rd Row seating offers the ideal solution for growing families who need more space without sacrificing comfort or style. Choosing the right vehicle for your family goes beyond just cargo capacity — it’s about finding a car that accommodates seating, safety, and everyday convenience. SUVs with 3rd row seating provide ample room for 6–8 passengers, making them perfect for carpooling, road trips, or hauling gear to weekend sports.
In this guide, we break down the best 3rd row SUV models for 2025 — from midsize crossovers with fold-flat flexibility to full-size powerhouses built for towing and all-day comfort. Whether you’re seeking fuel efficiency, luxury, or budget-friendly reliability, this list will help you find the right fit.
👉 Want more shopping tips? Be sure to read our full SUV buyer’s guide for 2025 to explore different sizes, fuel types, and tech features.
🛠️ Bonus: We’ve included quick links to check real-time prices on Edmunds
Best Overall SUVs 3rd Row for Families in 2025
These are the highest-rated 3-row SUVs for most families — offering the best balance of price, comfort, features, and passenger space.
🏆 1. Kia Telluride – Best All-Around 3rd-Row SUV
- Our Rating: 9/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Seats: 7 or 8
- Price Range: $54,000–$76,000
- Why It Stands Out: Stylish design, upscale interior, excellent value
- 3rd Row Comfort: Surprisingly adult-friendly, with ample head and legroom
- Tech & Safety: Standard with adaptive cruise, blind-spot monitoring, and wireless CarPlay
🛒 Check real-time deals: Kia Telluride on Edmunds
🔋 2. Toyota Highlander Hybrid – Most Efficient 3rd-Row Option
- Our Rating: 9/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Seats: Up to 8
- Why It Stands Out: Excellent fuel economy (up to 36 MPG combined) + Toyota reliability
- 3rd Row Comfort: Smaller, best suited for kids or short trips
- Tech & Safety: Toyota Safety Sense, large touchscreen, optional AWD
🚙 3. Hyundai Palisade – Luxury Feel Without the Premium Price
- Our Rating: 8.5/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Seats: 7 or 8
- Why It Stands Out: High-end materials, available Nappa leather, excellent warranty
- 3rd Row Comfort: Roomy for a midsize, with power-folding seats
- Tech & Safety: 12.3-inch digital display, USB ports in all rows, advanced driver aids
Best SUVs 3rd Row by Category
Not all 3rd-row SUVs serve the same purpose. Some prioritize fuel efficiency, others focus on towing, luxury, or budget-friendliness. Below are the best options in each key category to help you find what fits your family, lifestyle, and budget.
🚐 Full-Size SUV with 3rd Row: Chevrolet Tahoe
- Our Rating: 9/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Seats: Up to 8
- Why It Stands Out: Massive interior, strong V8 performance, excellent towing
- 3rd Row Comfort: Plenty of space for adults — even in the third row
- Cargo: One of the largest in its class even with all seats up
- Tech & Safety: Wireless Apple CarPlay, optional Super Cruise hands-free driving
🔁 Compare it with our Best Full-Size SUVs for 2025 to see how it stacks up in power, comfort, and cargo space.
💎 Luxury SUV with 3rd Row: Volvo XC90
- Our Rating: 8/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Seats: 6 or 7
- Why It Stands Out: Scandinavian design, plug-in hybrid option, premium safety
- 3rd Row Comfort: Best for kids, but leather-trimmed and easily accessible
- Tech & Safety: Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving, Google-based infotainment
🔗 Learn more: Volvo XC90 on Volvo USA
💰 Best Budget 3rd-Row SUV: Volkswagen Atlas
- Our Rating: 8.5/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Seats: 7
- Why It Stands Out: Big interior, competitive pricing, spacious 3rd row
- Starting Price: Under $40,000 for most trims
- Cargo: Up to 96.8 cubic feet with rear seats down
- Tech & Safety: Standard with digital cockpit, multiple USB-C ports, and IQ.DRIVE safety suite
🛒 View pricing: VW Atlas on TrueCar
🔋 Best Hybrid SUV with 3rd Row: Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
- Our Rating: 9/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Seats: Up to 8
- Why It Stands Out: New for 2024–2025, larger than regular Highlander, up to 34 MPG
- 3rd Row Comfort: Much more spacious than the standard Highlander
- Tech & Safety: 12.3-inch display, Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, panoramic sunroof available
🛒 Learn more: Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid at Toyota.com
🌿 Best Electric SUV with 3rd Row: Rivian R1S
- Our Rating: 8/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Seats: 7
- Why It Stands Out: Adventure-ready EV with serious off-road capability
- Range: Up to 321 miles (dual-motor Max Pack)
- 3rd Row Comfort: Functional and surprisingly roomy for an EV
- Tech & Safety: Over-the-air updates, vegan leather, panoramic roof, and off-road drive modes
⚡ Explore specs: Rivian R1S Official Site
📎 Pro Tip: Not sure whether to go electric, hybrid, or gas? Read our full Electric vs. Hybrid SUVs Explained guide to find the right fit.
Comparison List + Buying Tips
When choosing the best 3rd-row SUV for your family, it helps to compare key features, pricing, and overall value. Here’s a quick breakdown to make your decision easier:
🚙 Best SUVs with 3rd Row – Comparison List
2025 Chevrolet Tahoe
- Seats: 7–8
- Fuel Type: Gasoline / Diesel
- Price Range: $54,000–$76,000
- 3rd Row Comfort: Spacious for adults
- Best For: Towing, large families
- Our Rating: 9/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
- Seats: 7–8
- Fuel Type: Hybrid
- Price Range: $47,000–$55,000
- 3rd Row Comfort: Comfortable for adults
- Best For: Eco-friendly, family trips
- Our Rating: 9/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2025 Kia Telluride
- Seats: 7–8
- Fuel Type: Gasoline
- Price Range: $39,000–$53,000
- 3rd Row Comfort: Surprisingly spacious for adults
- Best For: All-around family value
- Our Rating: 9/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2025 Volvo XC90
- Seats: 6–7
- Fuel Type: Hybrid / Gasoline
- Price Range: $56,000–$75,000
- 3rd Row Comfort: Best suited for kids
- Best For: Luxury, safety, design
- Our Rating: 8/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
2025 Volkswagen Atlas
- Seats: 7
- Fuel Type: Gasoline
- Price Range: $35,000–$50,000
- 3rd Row Comfort: Roomy for kids and adults
- Best For: Budget-friendly, family trips
- Our Rating: 8.5/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
2025 Hyundai Palisade
- Seats: 7–8
- Fuel Type: Gasoline
- Price Range: $41,000–$54,000
- 3rd Row Comfort: Comfortable for both kids and adults
- Best For: Comfort, premium feel, tech features
- Our Rating: 8.5/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
2025 Rivian R1S
- Seats: 7
- Fuel Type: Electric (EV)
- Price Range: $78,000–$91,000
- 3rd Row Comfort: Good for short trips
- Best For: Off-road, EV enthusiasts
- Our Rating: 8/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🔑 Buying Tips for the Best 3rd-Row SUV
- Family Size & Comfort: If you have a larger family or need to transport adults frequently, go for full-size SUVs like the Chevy Tahoe. Midsize models like the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid are perfect for smaller families needing an efficient, spacious vehicle.
- Fuel Efficiency: Hybrid options, such as the Volvo XC90, offer great fuel economy without sacrificing space, while electric options like the Rivian R1S offer zero emissions with solid range.
- Towing & Performance: For those who need towing power, full-size SUVs with V8 engines, like the Chevy Tahoe, deliver the best performance. Midsize models, like the VW Atlas, can handle lighter loads while providing ample space for passengers.
- Budget Considerations: If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly 3rd-row SUV, the Volkswagen Atlas offers spacious seating at a more affordable price, making it ideal for those who need three rows but don’t want to break the bank.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Answer: The 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe is one of the top choices for large families. With spacious seating for up to 8 passengers, ample cargo space, and strong towing capabilities, it’s ideal for long trips, hauling gear, and accommodating growing families.
Answer: Yes! The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid offers comfortable 3rd-row seating for adults, making it a great option for families who need a blend of eco-friendliness and space. It also provides excellent fuel efficiency for a 3-row SUV.
Answer: The 2025 Kia Telluride stands out for its exceptional value, spaciousness, and overall family-friendly design. It’s one of the most comfortable 3rd-row SUVs, with premium features, a smooth ride, and an affordable price range, making it a great all-around family vehicle.
Answer: The 2025 Volvo XC90 is a luxury SUV that offers a combination of safety, elegant design, and innovative technology. While its 3rd-row seats are best suited for children or shorter trips, it excels in comfort, materials, and performance. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a premium family SUV.
Answer: Absolutely! The 2025 Hyundai Palisade is praised for its luxurious interior, user-friendly tech features, and spacious 3rd-row seating that comfortably fits both adults and kids. It’s a fantastic option for families who prioritize comfort and technology at a reasonable price point.
Answer: The 2025 Rivian R1S is a unique option in the 3rd-row SUV market, offering an electric alternative for eco-conscious families. While it provides seating for 7 and delivers excellent off-road capability, the 3rd-row seating is better suited for shorter trips due to its limited space for adults.
Answer: The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas offers great value for families on a budget. With a starting price of around $35,000, it’s one of the more affordable options in the 3rd-row SUV category. It provides roomy 3rd-row seating, making it ideal for families who need space without breaking the bank.
Answer: If you’re looking for an off-road-capable 3rd-row SUV, the 2025 Rivian R1S is your best bet. With its all-electric powertrain and off-road prowess, it’s an excellent choice for families who love adventure without sacrificing 3rd-row seating comfort.
Looking for the Best SUVs 2025 but not sure which one fits your lifestyle? This ultimate guide walks you through everything you need to know—from size and fuel efficiency to tech features and budget. Whether you need space for the family or power for weekend adventures, we’ll help you find the perfect SUV for your needs.
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