What Is The Best Luxury SUV With Third-Row Seating?

If you are shopping for a new family-friendly vehicle that has plenty of space but doesn't compromise on cargo availability, you might ask, "What is the best three-row SUV?" Don't worry – we're here to help you answer this question! After reviewing the following candidates, stop by Volvo Cars Tampa for a test drive of what we think will be the likely winner: the Volvo XC90.

Volvo XC90

The new 2025 Volvo XC90 for sale was recently revamped. Gone are the gasoline-only powertrains. Instead, this three-row vehicle comes standard with mild hybrid technology. The B5 configuration involves a four-cylinder direct injection turbo engine and a battery that makes 247 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. The B6 is supercharged to 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Both options come with AWD and don't require the vehicle to be charged. Instead, regenerative braking recharges the battery.

There are three Volvo XC90 trims for 2025: the Core, Plus, and Ultra, and this lineup starts out strong. It has a laminated panoramic roof, a four-zone climate control system, heated front seats, Pilot Assist, Lane-Keeping Assistance, Oncoming Lane Mitigation, and more.

Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid

This vehicle is also notable for coming in a plug-in hybrid version, the Volvo XC90 PHEV. This version does need to be charged occasionally, but it has a 455-horsepower output, an EPA-estimated 58 MPGe (Combined),¹ and a 32-mile all-electric range.¹

Its trim levels echo the ones from the standard Volvo XC90, with the Ultimate trim taking luxury to another level with ventilated front seats, a Harman Kardon® premium sound system, and a Graphical Head-Up display, among other amenities. To learn more about the 2025 Volvo XC90 PHEV for sale, stop by our dealership today.

INFINITI QX80

The new INFINITI QX80 offers up to 101 cubic feet of cargo space, which can be useful for those planning to move their teen into a college dorm. However, if you don't see yourself doing regular hauling of this sort, its 211.2 inches can make this vehicle a bit more unwieldy to park than other SUVs on this list.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 arrives in four configurations: Pure, Luxe, Sensory, and Autograph. The Pure and Luxe trims offer the choice of 2WD or 4WD, while the Sensory and Autograph Trims are strictly 4WD models. This is a powerful vehicle, capable of producing up to 450 horsepower. However, its power and size can come at the cost of its fuel economy. Its most fuel-efficient version gets an EPA-estimated 16/20/18 MPG (City/Highway/Combined) from its V-6 engine.²

Cadillac Escalade

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade is another powerful contender for those looking for a full-size luxury SUV with three rows. It also comes with an ESV form to offer even more cargo room, and it can produce up to 420 horsepower from its 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 engine, which also lends it a hefty towing capacity. However, like the previous entry, this can cost you fuel efficiency. The new Escalade produces an EPA-estimated 14/18 MPG (City/Highway)³ with this engine and AWD.

While this vehicle contains many luxuries, including heated front seats, the Cadillac Smart System suite, and an impressive audio system, its base trim is tens of thousands more than the comparable Volvo XC90.

Discovery

The new Discovery is a seven-seat family SUV and is an excellent choice for those interested in off-roading. Its entry-level trim offers heated front seats and a three-zone climate control system. Cargo room behind the third row is very small – 6.07 cubic feet.

However, you can increase this to more than 70.52 cubic feet if you fold the second- and third-row seats down. It can even tow up to 8,200 pounds when properly equipped. Like the Volvo XC90, this vehicle can come with mild hybrid technology, However, it does not have a plug-in hybrid version.

Acura MDX

The new MDX from Acura is a luxury SUV for sale that offers seating for up to seven passengers. You will have the choice of a 290-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine or a 355-horsepower, 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 engine. This option is one of the more competitively priced. However, the price will go up as you ascend its ladder of six trim levels in search of particular luxuries. When it comes to fuel economy, the new Acura MDX Type S delivers an EPA-estimated 17/21 MPG (City/Highway)⁴ to its drivers.

Lincoln Navigator

The 2025 Lincoln Navigator is a new luxury SUV for sale that offers seating for seven or eight across three rows of seating. For 2025, Navigator buyers can choose between the following trim configurations: the Reserve, the Reserve with Jet Appearance Package, and the Lincoln Black Label Navigator. Each trim is also available in a truly massive L version, measuring 221.9 inches in length. While its 3.5-liter V6 engine is impressive – able to put out 440 horsepower – not everyone is a fan of this vehicle's heavy weight or high price tag.

Audi Q7

This contender for the best three-row SUV can go from 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. It offers a little less cargo volume than the competition, with a maximum of 69.9 cubic feet.⁵ It comes with standard Cross-Traffic Assist and other driver-assistance tools belonging to the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus system.

However, many people prefer the top-of-the-line trim, the Prestige, for its adaptive air suspension and Head-Up Display. Still, when it comes to the Volvo XC90 vs Audi Q7, the Volvo SUV is a clear winner.

Mercedes GLS 450

The new Mercedes-Benz GLS luxury SUV is a vehicle that offers a lot of extras. For example, you can add on items like ventilated and massaging seats, heated second-row seats, heated cup holders, and five-zone climate control. However, these accessories and features can quickly rack up the price on your final purchase.

Additionally, while there are many benefits to such personalization of your SUV, it may take several months to receive your vehicle, whereas other SUVs are more likely to come with their luxury amenities built into one of their trims currently available on dealership lots to test drive.

Lexus GX

Choose from six trims and eight exterior colors when you pick the 2025 Lexus GX 460 for sale. This off-road-capable vehicle can tow up to 9,096 pounds when properly equipped and features a 3.4-liter twin turbo V-6 engine that makes 349 horsepower. Its cargo room maxes out at 76.9 cubic feet, and the EPA-estimated fuel economy is 15/21 MPG (City/Highway).⁶

Jeep Wagoneer

The 2025 Wagoneer is a three-row sport utility vehicle that comes in four trims, each of which is available with either a 4x2 or 4x4 drivetrain and can be turned into the larger L version. This range of options means that this vehicle comes at a range of prices, so you will need to find the balance between the cost you want to pay and the amenities that are important to you. If you are into towing, this can be a tempting vehicle, as it can tow up to 10,00 pounds when properly equipped. However, this set of wheels requires plenty of fuel to utilize its strength.

Why We Love the Volvo XC90 Above All

Every family is different and, therefore, has different priorities, but we think that the 2025 Volvo XC90 is the best three-row SUV of the bunch. While it offers you three rows of seating to open up family road trips to more people or help you drive your kid and their friends to the big game, it doesn't exceed 200 inches the way some of these other vehicles do, making parallel parking or tight traffic more manageable. Its trio of powertrains was designed around your real life, so while it might not offer as much horsepower as other options, you will still get fast 0 to 60 times, and most of all, it's fuel-efficient, saving you money at the pump.

To take home the best luxury SUV with a third row, get in touch with our dealership to ask about how to Volvo XC90 lease today.

Benefits of Luxury SUVs With a Third Row

When shopping for your next luxury SUV, you might be weighing the pros and cons of third-row seating. For many drivers, the third row is unnecessary, but for families with two or more kids, having a third row can be essential. Chances are if you're searching the internet for the best three-row luxury SUV, it's because you need the passenger room and cargo space a luxury SUV provides.

To help you with your new car search, let's look at some common questions drivers have when shopping for the best three-row luxury SUV to meet their needs:

• Can car seats fit in the third row?
• Can adults fit in the third row?
• Does the third row have climate control?
• Does the third row have collapsible headrests?

When you climb into a new 2025 Volvo XC90, you'll be glad to know that this vehicle features the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) safety system for car seats in the second row and outboard seats. The rear center seat, however, does not have ISOFIX/LATCH lower tether anchors, and you should consult the installation instructions from your child seat manufacturer on how to safely secure the child seat in the third row.

Another reason why the new Volvo XC90 should be at the top of any list of best three-row SUV models is that it offers comfortable seating for adults across all three rows. When you're loading up for your next family road trip, any adult in the backseat will have plenty of legroom, shoulder room, and headroom.

Additionally, four-zone climate control can ensure that everyone in your family is comfortable, as it allows those in the back who like it cooler to adjust their AC accordingly while those in the front stay toasty or vice versa.

During your tour of the new Volvo XC90, be sure to have a seat in the third row and see how it feels. You can adjust the collapsible headrests to your desired level, set the climate control, and experience what your passengers will experience to ensure it meets your standards. When the third-row headrests are not in use, they can be collapsed to avoid blocking the driver's view out the rear window.

Want to see how the Volvo XC90 does against other rivals? Our assessment of the Volvo XC90 vs. Toyota Highlander once again highlights the Volvo model's superiority as the best three-row SUV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which luxury SUV has the most cargo space?

If you are purely looking for a lot of cargo room, a Cadillac Escalade ESV should likely be one of your top options. However, it's rare to use 140 cubic feet of cargo room regularly. The Volvo XC90 delivers 85.7 cubic feet of cargo space, which is more than the Lexus GX 460, Audi Q7,⁵ Discovery, and the Mercedes GLS.

What luxury SUVs have third-row seating?

There are several luxury SUVs with three rows, including the Cadillac Escalade, Mercedes GLS, Acura MDX, Audi Q7, Discovery, Lincoln Navigator, and more. However, we think you will especially like the Volvo XC90 and the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid. Both offer fantastic fuel economy in addition to comfortable seating in all three rows, a well-equipped cabin, and flexible cargo room.

Which three-row luxury SUV has the best gas mileage?

When you are looking for a three-row luxury SUV with great fuel economy, check out the Volvo XC90. This seven-passenger SUV with three rows produces an EPA-estimated 23/30 MPG (City/Highway).⁷ It also comes as a PHEV. When you want to spend more time driving and less time stopping for gas, climb into the new Volvo XC90.

What's the best luxury SUV with third-row seating?

Your search for a luxury SUV with third-row seating can end here because the Volvo XC90 is a fantastic choice. It offers a well-equipped cabin even from the base trim, and by the time you hit the Ultra trim, you will find luxuries like a Harman Kardon® premium sound system and a Graphical Head-Up display. Enjoy great cargo room and excellent fuel economy as well.

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¹Estimated range according to the EPA driving cycles. The actual range achieved under real conditions varies depending on driving behavior, driving conditions, how you maintain your vehicle, battery and other external factors. Visit fueleconomy.gov for further information.

²2025 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions – use for comparison only.

³Based on EPA city estimate 14 MPG for 4WD and fuel tank capacity. Your range may be less. Based on EPA highway estimate 18 for 4WD and fuel tank capacity. Your range may be less.

⁴Based on 2025 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.

⁵This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.edmunds.com/audi/q7/2025/features-specs/.

⁶EPA-estimated 15 city/ 21 hwy/ 17 comb MPG rating for 2025 Lexus GX 550 Premium. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.

⁷EPA estimated range is 23 MPG city/30 MPG highway/26 MPG combined (B5 AWD). Your actual range will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. See https://www.fueleconomy.gov/

⁸All figures are EPA estimates. Actual mileage may vary.

⁹Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov.

¹⁰20 city/26 highway/22 combined city/hwy MPG (2025 Audi Premium 45 TFSI® quattro® tiptronic®). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors including your driving habits and vehicle condition.

¹¹EPA-estimated fuel economy. Compare the estimated MPG to the estimated MPG of other vehicles. You may get different mileage depending on how fast you drive, weather conditions and trip length. Your actual highway mileage will probably be less than the highway estimate.

¹²EPA-estimated 16 city MPG with 3.0-liter I-6 and eight-speed automatic. Actual mileage may vary. EPA-estimated 23 hwy MPG with 3.0-liter I-6 and eight-speed automatic. Actual mileage may vary.