Best 4×4 And AWD SUVs With 3rd-Row Seating

Demand for all-utility SUVs continues to grow, with an emphasis on combining off-road and/or winter performance with ample space for everyone inside. From families to outdoor enthusiasts, it’s easier than you might think to find a 4×4 or all-wheel-drive SUV with third-row seating that benefits your adventures, no matter how big or small. With these special SUVs, you don’t have to compromise on capability or comfort, making it an ideal pick for those who are brave at heart. Ultimately, the best 4×4 or AWD SUV with third-row seating will depend on your personal wants and needs. Whether that’s spaciousness, luxury, or overall fuel efficiency, you have options. Let’s look at ten of the best 4×4 SUVs with 3rd row seating that meet your desire to help you get on the road with a newfound sense of style.

1 Volvo XC90 Recharge

2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge

Base MSRP

$71,900

Engine

2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Plug-in Hybrid

Horsepower

455 hp

Fuel Economy

27 MPG/58 MPGe

The first luxury brand on this list, the Volvo XC90 Recharge blends sustainable luxury with its well-regarded Scandinavian design. This is highlighted by its plug-in hybrid powertrain that delivers impressive performance while offering a significant all-electric driving range, making it a compelling choice for those seeking to reduce their carbon footprint. Inside, the minimalist interior features premium materials and ergonomic seating. The cabin is designed to omit outside noise, thus leaving riders with a smooth and composed driving experience, even on rougher roads.

Drivers also have plenty to appreciate with Volvo’s commitment to providing advanced safety features. These include its semi-autonomous driving system, Pilot Assist, to handle steering, acceleration, and braking in certain conditions. While pricier than Kia, Hyundai, or Toyota 4×4 SUVs, the Volvo is a worthy consideration for those with higher budgets.

2 Volvo XC90

2024 Volvo XC90

Base MSRP

$56,600

Engine

2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas

Horsepower

247 hp

Fuel Economy

22/27 MPG

The non-hybrid Volvo XC90 shares many of the same qualities as its PHEV sibling. Just like the Recharge, the XC90 adheres to Volvo’s classic design, with an emphasis on interior craftsmanship and supportive seats across three rows of seating. This includes an optional massaging function for front-seat drivers, a notable addition when trekking across the country with family. Just like the Recharge, the XC90 is also built with a quiet cabin in mind, and it maintains the same sturdy and stable reputation to act as an all-around safe 4×4 SUV with three-row seating.

You can also expect to find several other features in the XC90, like the available crystal gear shifter for an added touch of elegance. Paired with its air suspension system, drivers experience a smooth and comfortable ride, further enhancing the ease of coming and going from any destination.

3 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

Base MSRP

$49,945

Engine

2.5L Inline-4 Plug-in Hybrid

Horsepower

323 hp

Torque

369 lb-ft

Another PHEV variant on our list, the Mazda CX-90 stands out with a dynamic driving experince from the start, with its engaging handling and responsive steering for on-the-go ease of driving. The standard i-Activ AWD system provides excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions, while the Mi-Drive system allows drivers to customize the driving experience with different modes. The third row, while not as spacious as some competitors on this list, is still comfortable for smaller adults or children.

Plus, its PHEV powertrain delivers impressive fuel economy and an all-electric driving range, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and longer journeys alike. Whether you’re seeking a fun-to-drive SUV with a premium feel or a practical family hauler with impressive fuel economy, the CX-90 PHEV is a compelling option.

4 Tesla Model X Plaid

The Tesla Model X Plaid delivers blistering acceleration and agile handling, particularly impressive with its ability to reach 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds. If you’re willing to spend this much on a AWD SUV with three-row seating, the Falcon Wing door may be what sells you, with its easy access to rear seats and its eye-catching design and functionality. Once inside, the tech-forward cabin is orchestrated by Tesla’s well-known touchscreen system, with settings to manage everything from climate control to entertainment to pedal adjustments. Those in the third row also have surprisingly spacious room to move around, with ample legroom and headroom to boot.

Beyond its performance and tech-savvy features, the Model X Plaid offers a range of over 300 miles on a single charge, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and longer road trips. The Supercharger network provides fast and convenient charging options, and the Autopilot driver assistance system can handle steering, acceleration, and braking on highways, reducing driver fatigue and enhancing safety.

5 Lincoln Navigator L

The Lincoln Navigator L offers a spacious cabin filled with premium materials and a commanding presence on the road. Its extended-length L model provides even more legroom in the third row, making it one of the most comfortable options for larger families. Plus, the upper L model trims include executive-level comfort features like 30-way Perfect Position seats, massaging functions, and a rear-seat entertainment system that elevate the experience.

Under the hood, a twin-turbocharged V6 engine delivers ample power, while the available heavy-duty towing package allows you to haul up to 8,700 pounds. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or towing a boat to the lake, the Navigator L does it with effortless style and grace.

6 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid

The Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid takes the spaciousness and practicality of the Grand Highlander and adds exceptional fuel efficiency. Its hybrid powertrain delivers an impressive EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined, making it an appealing choice for eco-conscious drivers who don’t want to sacrifice space or capability. The comfortable third row is identical to the non-hybrid model, ensuring ample space for passengers of all ages. Standard features like Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, a suite of driver assistance technologies, only further add to the quality of the Grand Highlander as a whole.

The Grand Highlander Hybrid offers a smooth and quiet ride, thanks in part to its hybrid powertrain and refined suspension. Like its sibling on this list, this is a quality pick at an affordable price.

7 Mazda CX-90

2024 Mazda CX-90

Base MSRP

$37,845

Engine

3.3L Turbo Inline-6 Gas

Horsepower

280-340 hp

Fuel Economy

24/28 MPG

The Mazda CX-90 rounds out our list with its stylish and sporty design, similar to its PHEV counterpart. Its sleek exterior design is complemented by a driver-focused interior with high-quality materials and comfortable seating. While the third row is best suited for children or smaller adults, the CX-90 offers a compelling combination of style, performance, and efficiency. Buyers can choose from two turbocharged six-cylinder engines (pne with 280 hp and one with 340 hp), both with mild-hybrid technology for improved fuel economy. With its engaging driving dynamics and premium features, the CX-90 appeals to those who seek a more spirited AWD SUV with 3rd row seating.

The available second-row captain’s chairs add a touch of luxury, while the panoramic sunroof creates an airy and open atmosphere, and the Mazda Connect infotainment system is easy to use with its 12.3-inch touchscreen display. Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring winding backroads, the CX-90 delivers a rewarding driving experience.

8 ​​​​​Kia Telluride

2024 Kia Telluride

Base MSRP

$36,190

Engine

3.8L V6 Gas

Horsepower

291 hp

Torque

262 lb-ft

First up, the Kia Telluride has long been a favorite among families, largely thanks in part to its spacious and well-designed third-row seating. With generous legroom and headroom, even adults can ride comfortably in the back. Available comfort features like reclining seats, sunshades, and USB ports further enhance the experience. If you prefer an AWD SUV with extra luxury features, the second-row captain’s chairs are an intriguing option. Plus, the Telluride’s practicality further shines through with its easy-access sliding second row and fold-flat third row, making it a versatile choice for both passengers and cargo. Beyond its third-row seating, the Telluride also boasts a stylish design inside and out, and a range of powerful yet efficient engine options. Its user-friendly infotainment system and comprehensive suite of safety features further solidify its position as a worthy contender with all-around great performance and practicality.

9 Toyota Grand Highlander

2024 Toyota Grand Highlander

Base MSRP

$43,070

Engine

2.4L Turbo Inline-4 Gas

Horsepower

265 hp

Torque

310 lb-ft

Fuel Economy

21/28/24 mpg (FWD) | 21/27/23 mpg (best AWD)

Toyota recognized the need for a Highlander with a more spacious interior, and the Grand Highlander is its answer. Purpose-built with an extended wheelbase, the Grand Highlander boasts more legroom and cargo space than its smaller sibling. This makes it a standout choice for those seeking a comfortable and capable 4×4 SUV with third-row seating. The 2.4L engine delivers 265 hp, but there’s a slight efficiency penalty to pay for the AWD model. The Grand Highlander caters to a wide range of modern drivers, especially with its added extras, like a panoramic sunroof, JBL sound system, and many other handy additions.

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In addition to its spaciousness, the Grand Highlander offers a smooth and refined ride, making it an ideal choice for long road trips or rugged trails. Overall, Toyota’s reputation for reliability and resale value adds to its appeal, especially with its dynamic blend of practicality and efficiency.

10 Hyundai Palisade

2024 Hyundai Palisade

Base MSRP

$36,650

Engine

3.8L V6 Gas

Horsepower

291 hp

Fuel Economy

19/26/22 mpg (FWD) | 29/24/21 mpg (AWD)

Like the Telluride, the Hyundai Palisade offers a similar level of spaciousness, overall practicality, and rugged performance. However, it sets itself apart in several ways, including a greater focus on more high-end, luxurious interior appointments. This includes materials like the quilted Nappa leather and heated and ventilated seats, to create a more sophisticated passenger experience. Additionally, family-friendly features like a conversation mirror, intercom system, and power-folding third row only add to the appeal. This pairs nicely with the Palisade’s comfortable driving mechanics, with an available HTRAC all-wheel-drive system that further adds traction and stability in any setting, rain or shine.

The Palisade offers an intriguing package for families who need plenty of space, and with its several standard and optional smart features like a large touchscreen infotainment system and advanced driver assistance systems, you’d be remiss to not try this one for yourself.

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Related

Best 3-Row SUVs Of 2024

If you need to seat six or more people, all of these three-row SUVs are up for the job.