π Best Family Cars with 3rd Row Seating in 2025
If youβve got a growing family or simply need more space for carpooling, road trips, or hauling sports gear, a vehicle with third-row seating is essential. But not all 3-row vehicles are created equal β some offer better safety, comfort, tech, or value than others. In this guide, weβll compare the best family cars with 3rd row seats in 2025, including SUVs and minivans, to help you choose the perfect ride for your needs and budget.
β What to Look for in a 3rd-Row Family Car
- Spacious and accessible third row
- Strong safety ratings
- Easy-to-use infotainment and rear climate controls
- Fuel efficiency or hybrid options
- Advanced driver-assist features
- Sufficient cargo room behind 3rd row
π Top 6 Best Family Cars with 3rd Row (2025 Picks)
Model | Type | Starting Price | Seats | MPG (Combined) | Key Strengths |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Toyota Grand Highlander | SUV | ~$44,000 | 7β8 | 27β36 (Hybrid) | Massive interior, hybrid option, safe |
Kia Telluride | SUV | ~$37,000 | 7β8 | 21β23 | Lux feel, excellent value, roomy 3rd row |
Honda Pilot | SUV | ~$39,000 | 7β8 | 22β23 | Smooth ride, versatile, kid-friendly tech |
Hyundai Palisade | SUV | ~$38,000 | 7β8 | 21β23 | Premium interior, lots of features |
Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid | Minivan | ~$52,000 | 7 | 30+ (Hybrid) | Plug-in hybrid, sliding doors, massive space |
Chevrolet Traverse | SUV | ~$38,000 | 7β8 | 21β23 | Wide third row, great cargo capacity |
π In-Depth Model Comparison
1. Toyota Grand Highlander (2025)
- Why Families Love It: The all-new Grand Highlander offers more legroom than the regular Highlander β especially in the third row β plus a hybrid powertrain that gets up to 36 MPG.
- Pros: Adult-friendly 3rd row, advanced safety features standard, hybrid efficiency
- Cons: Higher price point on fully loaded trims
2. Kia Telluride (2025)
- Why Families Love It: Still one of the most beloved midsize SUVs, the Telluride combines luxury touches with everyday practicality.
- Pros: Upscale cabin, roomy 3rd row, user-friendly tech
- Cons: No hybrid option
3. Honda Pilot (2025)
- Why Families Love It: A solid all-arounder, the Pilot is easy to drive, super safe, and designed with families in mind.
- Pros: CabinTalk™ intercom system, versatile seating, wide doors
- Cons: Styling is more conservative than rivals
4. Hyundai Palisade (2025)
- Why Families Love It: The Palisade feels like a luxury SUV at a non-luxury price, with heated 3rd-row seats available.
- Pros: Premium interior, strong V6, smart rear climate controls
- Cons: Slightly less cargo space than others
5. Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid (2025)
- Why Families Love It: Itβs the only plug-in hybrid minivan in the U.S., offering electric driving and family-first flexibility.
- Pros: 30+ electric-only miles, sliding rear doors, built-in vacuum
- Cons: Higher starting price, limited all-wheel drive availability on hybrid
6. Chevrolet Traverse (2025)
- Why Families Love It: If you want serious space, the Traverse has one of the roomiest third rows in its class.
- Pros: Wide-opening doors, large cargo capacity even with 3rd row up
- Cons: Interior materials are more basic than Hyundai/Kia
π¨βπ©βπ§βπ¦ Which Is Best for Your Family?
- Best for Large Families: Toyota Grand Highlander or Chevrolet Traverse
- Best Value: Kia Telluride
- Most Comfortable Third Row: Hyundai Palisade
- Best for Urban Families: Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid (easy parking, EV-friendly)
- Best for Long Trips: Honda Pilot (smooth ride + smart tech)
π‘οΈ Must-Have Family Features
Donβt forget to look for:
- Rear-seat entertainment system
- Built-in sunshades
- Hands-free power liftgate
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Tri-zone climate control
Final Thoughts: Room for Everyone and Everything
The best family car with 3rd row seating in 2025 depends on your lifestyle, budget, and space needs. Whether you prefer the all-around excellence of the Kia Telluride, the fuel savings of the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid, or the practicality of a minivan like the Pacifica, todayβs options are smarter, safer, and more family-ready than ever.
Explore

Family Cars of 2025: The Best Picks for Safety, Space, and Style

Best Hybrid Cars 2025: Top Picks for Fuel Efficiency and Value

Used Cars Under $10,000 Near Me: Best SUV Options for Budget Buyers in 2025

π Best Cars for Seniors in 2025: Safe, Comfortable & Easy to Drive

π Best Commuter Cars for 2025: Fuel-Efficient, Reliable & Comfortable Rides

β½ Fuel Efficient Cars 2025: Save Money & Go Green

Electric Cars in 2025: The Future of Sustainable Driving and Innovative Technology

2025 Hybrid Cars: The Future of Eco-Friendly Driving and What to Expect