Best 3rd Row SUV

Some consumers feel that if you are going to get an SUV, why not ensure you get all the space you need. For that reason, considering the best 3rd row SUV list can help you determine which one might be the best for your needs.

Keep in mind that although many manufacturers boast they offer a third row seating option, these are often smaller seating areas that can only accommodate kids. This may be perfect for what you need, but you should be aware of this potential problem.

Toyota Sequoia

A dark horse in the running, the newly redesigned 2012 Toyota Sequoia may actually be a the lead of the pack for a best 3rd row SUV. First of all, the fuel economy is actually the best in the large SUV class with 14 miles per gallon in the city driving class and 20 for highway miles. The Toyota also beat out the competition by scoring against the top competitors in this division but has a lower price tag than several of them.

Starting at around $40, 930, the 2012 Toyota Sequoia is a roomy option to consider. The standard model comes with a 4.6 liter, V8 310 horsepower engine. You also get a 6 speed, electronically controlled automatic transmission and rear wheel drive.

Mazda CX-9

Another top ranking SUV that offers third row seating is the Mazda CX-9, which has room for seven passengers. Many like the Mazda for its sporty design and ability to maneuver even the most narrow and curvy roadways with confidence. What you get with the CX-9 is a fuel efficiency of 17 miles per gallon for city roads and 24 for open highway roads on the front wheel drive version. With the all wheel drive model, you get 16 for city and 22 for highways.

The Mazda CX-9 also comes with a 273 horsepower 3.7 liter V6 engine. This comes standard with 6 speed automatic transmission. That is combined with fair pricing, good safety features and rave reviews from some of the top organizations and magazines in the auto industry to date.

Kia Sorento

Kia has really been finally making a name for itself and beginning to really grow into a name in the car industry that has gained a great deal of respect, as of late. The Sorento is Kia’s contribution to the third row seating SUV market. It is stylish by design and affordable for those who have to work with a budget. Some also prefer it because of the roomy third row seating and the long warranty when compared with the industry standard.

On the other hand, some reviews say the third row is only “acceptable” and that the ride quality may not be as good as some other SUVs around. There is also some debate about whether the estimated miles per gallon match up with what actual driving seems to indicate the fuel efficiency is. On the standard version, the Sorento supposedly gets 20 miles per gallon in the city and 26 when it comes to highway driving. The engine in this Kia SUV is a 276 horsepower 3.5 liter V6.

Acura MDX

For those who want more luxury when it comes to their SUV with third row seating capabilities, the Acura MDX is an excellent choice. This SUV is known mostly for its power, handling and smooth V6 engine, aside from being luxurious. The interior is also a consumer favorite because of its spaciousness and ability to be practically noise free. The Acura is also considered to be reliable and includes some top of the line safety features.

The downside for those who want a third row is that this one can be more difficult to manage than other SUVs in this category. Also the fuel economy for the Acura is below some of the competition. The EPA Fuel Economy rating for the MDX is 16 for city, 21 for highway and 18 for combined driving. In addition, drivers complained about having poor rear visibility and that the control panel can be confusing with so many buttons to figure out. You do, however, get a 300 horsepower 3.7 liter V6 engine with the MDX, which means plenty of power.

Making Sense of It All

There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to SUVs with a third row option. Much of it depends on the budget you are working with when it comes to making your decision. Look for one of the best 3rd row SUV choices that also have good safety features and ratings and you can find the perfect match for your vehicle needs.

No related posts.