When seating for five just isn’t enough and you don’t want to roll around in a minivan, the 3-row SUV is a great option to consider. Having three rows allows for more passengers in comparison to a five-seater. While an SUV with 3rd-row seating is an attractive proposition for the US market, there are some drawbacks to this configuration. A three-row SUV that has an affordable price is the first choice of many families, and since some are available with diesel engine options and a 4x4 drivetrain, they serve as utilitarian transporters as well. New vehicles in this segment that have been launched between 2023 and 2024 sit even higher in the rankings as many are fuel-efficient and deliver an impressive mpg rating, and 2025 iterations promise to be even better. Top models get decent mileage out of a full tank, but most in this category won’t be overly kind to your fuel budget unless you opt for a diesel powertrain. If you can make do with less economy in terms of fuel, the value for money that is offered by a hauler like this will outweigh its thirsty habits.

What to Consider Before Buying

Pros

• Space: While the seven-seater version is usually based on the smaller model at first, the former has slightly larger dimensions to accommodate more passengers. Having room available for two extra occupants is beneficial for larger groups of people, and when the last row isn’t being utilized for passengers, the ability to fold them down allows for significantly more cargo space.
• Capability: This type of car usually has excellent capabilities. They have strong engine lineups, great towing abilities and some have a standard 4x4 drivetrain, but this is optional on most. This means that it’s not only a great choice for families, but also for those who regularly venture off the beaten track.
• Utility: Thanks to its greater stature, they offer excellent cargo-carrying capacities. This doesn’t just come in handy on long trips for luggage, but also when all of the benches are folded down, easily accommodating bigger items.

Cons

• Third-row can be often be cramped
• The additional seating cuts down on trunk space
• More expensive than smaller crossovers
• Larger and usually more difficult to maneuver

Top 3 Row SUVs

It is no surprise that a Cadillac holds first place among the best three-row SUVs - it’s one of America’s favorites. That being said, not one automaker holds on to more than one spot in the top five. Here are the best 3-row SUVs for 2024 on our roster:

FAQs

What SUV with 3 rows is most popular in the USA, currently?

The Cadillac Escalade and Kia Telluride compete very closely for this title, but the better one ultimately depends on personal preference. The Telluride is more affordable.

Who will benefit from purchasing an SUV with 3rd-row seating?

A larger family definitely benefits from more space, and even those looking for added utility are likely to find this an attractive proposition. There’s ample comfort and convenience for loading the children, their things, and the family pet.

How does a 3rd-row impact safety ratings?

It depends entirely on the individual vehicle, some that haven’t come with an extra row until recently may have fewer safety features for the last row. For the most part, SUVs with third-row seats should provide additional airbags and protection elements, so be sure to check for that.