Looking for vehicles with a 3rd row? Explore SUVs, crossovers, and minivans that offer spacious interiors and flexible seating for large families or groups. | PrivateAuto (2024)

•

Towing capacity: with the Expedition able to tow 9,300 lbs and other full-size 3-row SUVs not far behind, you get way more pull than most minivans or crossovers deliver.

•

Cargo flexibility: while not as roomy as a minivan or van, many 3-row SUVs have tons of cargo space with the rear seats folded.

•

Off-road capability: higher ground clearance and AWD make these SUVs better offroad than minivans—or most crossovers.

•

Fuel efficiency: if miles per gallon is your top concern, look into a 3-row crossover.

•

Maneuverability: most of these SUVs are big. If you drive downtown and don’t like tight parking, stick with a crossover.

•

Cost: if you’re looking for the cheapest 3-row vehicle, get a crossover. 3-row SUVs come in a wide range of prices, with the lowest (e.g., Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade) on par with a minivan, and the most expensive costing well into the six-figure range.

•

Comfort: some SUVs, especially truck-based models, offer a stiffer ride than car-based crossovers or minivans.

•

Fuel efficiency: if MPG is your priority, 3-row crossovers outperform SUVs and minivans. Many models average 20-25 mpg in city driving, with some hybrids pushing that even higher.

•

Maneuverability: built on car platforms, these vehicles are easier to handle in urban environments. If you frequently navigate tight city streets or crowded parking lots, a crossover might be your best bet.

•

Comfort: most crossovers provide a smoother, more car-like ride than truck-based SUVs. If smooth drives are important to you, crossovers will deliver.

•

Towing capacity: while better than sedans, most crossovers can't match the towing prowess of SUVs. If you regularly tow heavy loads, you might need to step up to a full-size SUV.

•

Off-road capability: most crossovers have AWD and do well in light offroad conditions, but can't stand up to heavier offroading like the Jeep Wrangler,

•

Cargo space: while spacious, crossovers typically offer less maximum cargo volume than minivans, vans or full-size SUVs.

•

Passenger capacity: the third row in many crossovers is tighter than in full-size SUVs or minivans. If you frequently carry adults in all three rows, you might want to look at larger options.

•

Interior space: minivans reign supreme in the passenger and cargo room category. With easily removable or stowable seats, they offer more flexible cargo options than most SUVs or crossovers.

•

Ease of access: sliding doors and low step-in height make getting in and out a breeze, especially when wrangling kids or loading car seats. If you're frequently loading and unloading passengers, you can’t beat a minivan for convenience.

•

Fuel efficiency: while not as efficient as some crossovers, minivans generally offer better fuel economy than full-size SUVs. Many models average 19-22 mpg in city driving.

•

Comfort features: minivans often come loaded with family-oriented amenities such as built-in vacuums, rear-seat entertainment systems, and configurable seating arrangements.

•

Styling: if you're after a "cool" factor, minivans often fall short in the public eye. For some, this is a deal-breaker.

•

Towing capacity: while better than most sedans, minivans typically can't match the towing capabilities of SUVs.

•

Off-road capability: minivans are designed for paved roads. If your adventures frequently take you off the beaten path, an SUV or crossover might be a better fit.

•

All-wheel drive: while some minivans offer AWD, it's not as common as in SUVs and crossovers. If you need AWD for winter driving, your minivan options may be limited.

•

Passenger capacity: full-size vans are the champions. Many models can seat up to 15 passengers, far surpassing the capacity of SUVs, crossovers, and minivans.

•

Cargo space: even with 4 rows of seats, full-size vans offer substantial cargo room. Remove the fourth row, and you've got a cavernous space.

•

Towing capacity: many full-size vans can tow 10,000 pounds or more.

•

Customization: these vans often come in different roof heights and lengths to accommodate different needs for cargo and passengers.

•

Maneuverability: they’re large and clunky for maneuvering and parking.

•

Fuel efficiency: most full-size vans are worse gas hogs than minivans, crossovers, or even many large SUVs.

•

Driving experience: you’ll feel like you’re driving…a full-size van.