Best Third Row SUV for Family: Top Picks for Comfort and Safety in 2025
Families looking for a spacious and reliable SUV with third-row seating have numerous options in 2025. The market offers a mix of affordable, mid-range, and luxury models, each catering to different preferences. Below, we break down the top contenders, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you choose the ideal vehicle for your needs.
Top Third-Row SUVs for Families
The following SUVs stand out for their combination of space, safety, and family-friendly features.
1. Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander remains a top choice for families due to its reliability and spacious interior. The 2025 model offers a hybrid variant, delivering excellent fuel economy without sacrificing power. With seating for up to eight, the Highlander is perfect for larger families. Standard safety features include Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which encompasses adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and pre-collision braking.
2. Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot excels in cargo space and comfort, making it a favorite among families who frequently travel. Its third-row seats are more accommodating than many competitors, and the cabin is designed with premium materials. The 2025 Pilot also includes Honda Sensing, a suite of safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
3. Chevrolet Traverse
The Chevrolet Traverse offers one of the most spacious third rows in its class, along with impressive towing capacity. Its infotainment system is user-friendly, and the available all-wheel-drive option enhances versatility. Families will appreciate the Traverse’s generous cargo room, even when all seats are in use.
4. Volvo XC90
For those seeking luxury, the Volvo XC90 combines elegance with advanced safety features. Its third row is best suited for children, but the cabin’s premium materials and minimalist design appeal to discerning buyers. The XC90 also offers a plug-in hybrid variant, ideal for eco-conscious families.
5. Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride continues to impress with its upscale interior and smooth ride. It boasts a long list of standard features, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen and wireless charging. The Telluride’s third row is comfortable for adults on shorter trips, and its safety ratings are among the best in the segment.
Comparison Table
| Model | Seating Capacity | Starting Price (USD) | Fuel Economy (MPG) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander | 8 | $38,000 | 24 city / 29 highway | Hybrid option, Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 |
| Honda Pilot | 8 | $39,000 | 20 city / 27 highway | Spacious third row, Honda Sensing |
| Chevrolet Traverse | 8 | $34,000 | 18 city / 27 highway | Large cargo space, available AWD |
| Volvo XC90 | 7 | $55,000 | 21 city / 30 highway | Luxury interior, plug-in hybrid option |
| Kia Telluride | 8 | $36,000 | 20 city / 26 highway | Upscale cabin, advanced safety tech |
Final Considerations
When selecting the best third-row SUV for your family, consider factors like seating comfort, cargo space, and safety ratings. Test-driving multiple models can help you determine which one feels right for your daily needs. Additionally, researching ownership costs, including maintenance and insurance, will ensure you make a financially sound decision.
For more information, visit the official websites of Toyota , Honda , Chevrolet , Volvo , and Kia .