For families needing extra passenger and cargo space, the quest for the perfect vehicle often leads to three-row SUVs or minivans. The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) has now expanded these options beyond traditional gasoline cars. If you’re seeking an eco-friendly, spacious ride and have found Tesla Model X pricing prohibitive, or simply desire more variety, 2024 marks a turning point. A diverse range of three-row EVs are entering the market, from relatively budget-friendly to ultra-luxurious, offering something for every need and preference.
Here’s a guide to the best 3-row EVs available now or coming soon, perfect for hauling kids, sports equipment, and everything in between.
Rivian R1S: The Adventure-Ready 3 Row EV
Alt text: Rivian R1S electric SUV showcasing its off-road capabilities on a rugged landscape, emphasizing its adventurous nature.
For those whose weekends are filled with outdoor pursuits, the Rivian R1S is engineered to handle it all. This all-wheel-drive 3 Row Ev is built to conquer challenging terrains, evidenced by its victory at the rigorous 2023 Rebelle Rally.
Boasting up to 400 miles of range, the Rivian R1S ensures you can reach your destination, and Rivian’s charging network at national parks and outdoor hotspots provides convenient replenishment. While technically a three-row SUV, the third row in the R1S is best suited for smaller passengers or cargo. However, the adjustable second-row seats offer flexibility to optimize legroom. Starting at $78,000, the Rivian R1S combines rugged capability with electric efficiency for adventurous families.
2024 Kia EV9: Family-Focused and Feature-Rich 3 Row Electric SUV
Alt text: The 2024 Kia EV9 electric SUV parked in a modern city environment, highlighting its futuristic design and family-oriented features.
The Kia EV9 is a brand-new, family-centric 3 row electric SUV designed with passenger comfort in mind. It features a generously sized third row and adaptable second-row seating to ensure ample legroom for all occupants. For enhanced relaxation, optional “relaxation” seats with extendable leg rests are available for the front and second rows.
The Kia EV9 distinguishes itself with a modern, futuristic aesthetic and incorporates Kia’s most advanced technology. This includes a redesigned infotainment system, true one-pedal driving, an estimated 280-mile range, and rapid DC fast-charging capabilities, replenishing the battery from 10% to 80% in just 25 minutes.
Kia has strategically priced the EV9 starting around $55,000 and capping below $80,000 to qualify for federal tax incentives upon US production commencement. Cleverly, Kia offers a range of post-purchase add-on features like streaming music, torque boost, remote parking, and customizable headlight designs, maintaining affordability while allowing personalization. The Kia EV9 presents a compelling blend of space, technology, and value in the 3 row EV segment.
Mercedes-Benz EQB: The Compact and Capable 3 Row Electric SUV
Alt text: The Mercedes-Benz EQB compact electric SUV showcasing its three-row configuration and luxurious design in an urban landscape.
Often overlooked, the Mercedes-Benz EQB is a hidden gem in the world of 3 row electric SUVs. This compact yet luxurious SUV delivers classic Mercedes-Benz design cues, including a driver-centric interior with a flat-screen multimedia system and turbine-style air vents. Available in both two and three-row configurations (the third row being a $1,250 option), the EQB prioritizes passenger comfort. While captain’s chairs are not offered, the adjustable second-row seats ensure everyone can find a comfortable position.
Offering a 245-mile range and a starting price of $52,750, the EQB is an accessible entry point to the luxury 3 row EV market. With front-wheel or all-wheel drive options, buyers can customize this agile and fun-to-drive SUV to their needs. True to the Mercedes-Benz brand, the EQB offers a luxurious experience, enhanced by the intuitive MBUX multimedia system with voice activation – simply say “Hey Mercedes” for assistance. The Mercedes-Benz EQB blends practicality and luxury in a compact 3 row EV package.
Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV: The Pinnacle of Luxury in a 3 Row Electric SUV
Alt text: Interior view of the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, emphasizing its hyper-screen dashboard, ambient lighting, and luxurious seating, highlighting its high-end features.
The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV represents the ultimate in electric luxury SUVs, pushing boundaries in technology and design. Its futuristic features include an optional hyper-screen spanning the entire dashboard with a passenger display, dynamic ambient lighting that reacts to music and navigation cues, and augmented reality navigation overlays. Mercedes-Benz has left no detail overlooked in creating a truly opulent experience.
With over 300 miles of range and available all-wheel drive, the EQS SUV, starting at $125,000, delivers both performance and luxury. While the optional third row is more of an occasional convenience due to the SUV’s design, it still provides seating for extra passengers. Like the EQB, it features a bench second row, requiring some maneuvering for third-row access. However, once seated, passengers are enveloped in the EQS SUV’s unparalleled luxury and cutting-edge technology. The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV is the definitive statement in 3 row electric luxury.
Volvo EX90: Scandinavian Elegance Meets 3 Row EV Practicality
Alt text: Volvo Cars Head of Design Robin Page presenting the Volvo EX90, highlighting its Scandinavian design and innovative features.
Volvo’s new design direction, previewed in the EX30, is fully realized in the Volvo EX90. A central large screen controls most vehicle functions, while sustainable materials like renewable and recycled upholstery define the interior. The Google-powered multimedia system includes “Hey Google” voice assistance for seamless connectivity.
Echoing the popular Volvo XC90, the EX90 offers six or seven-passenger configurations, a spacious third row, and a refined cabin with calming colors, a panoramic sunroof, and thoughtful amenities throughout.
Priced from approximately $76,000, the Volvo EX90 emphasizes powertrain excellence. Volvo aims to deliver superior power and range compared to competitors, with the EX90 estimated to achieve over 350 miles of range and 402 horsepower. Arriving in dealerships in mid-2024, the Volvo EX90 blends Scandinavian design, practicality, and strong EV performance in a compelling 3 row package.
Cadillac Escalade IQ: Innovative Luxury in a 3 Row Electric SUV
Alt text: The Cadillac Escalade IQ electric SUV showcased in a studio, emphasizing its bold design, spaciousness, and innovative features.
The Cadillac Escalade IQ takes 3 row electric SUV luxury to a new level with its focus on innovation and advanced features. GM, Cadillac’s parent company, is committed to pushing EV technology forward. Features seen in the Hummer EV, like Crab Walk diagonal driving, Watts to Freedom launch control for rapid acceleration, and Super Cruise hands-free highway driving, are expected in the Escalade IQ and beyond.
The Cadillac Escalade IQ promises a roomy third row, advanced front and rear seat entertainment and technology, signature Cadillac comfort, and an impressive driving range of up to 450 miles. Luxury of this caliber comes at a premium, with a starting price of $130,000. The Cadillac Escalade IQ is poised to be a leader in innovative, luxurious 3 row EVs.
Hyundai Ioniq 7: The Anticipated Value-Packed 3 Row Electric SUV
Alt text: The Hyundai Ioniq 7 concept SUV displayed at an auto show, highlighting its futuristic design and anticipated features for a family EV.
While details are still emerging, the Hyundai Ioniq 7 is expected to mirror many of the strengths of the Kia EV9, offering a compelling value proposition in the 3 row EV segment. Anticipated features include fast charging, a 300+ mile range, a flexible and spacious interior, and Hyundai’s distinctive “pixel” design language seen in the Ioniq 5 and 6.
Expected to debut in 2024, spy shots indicate the Ioniq 7 is undergoing road testing, suggesting a market launch is imminent. Pricing is projected to start around $55,000. The Hyundai Ioniq 7 is poised to be a strong contender for families seeking an affordable and well-equipped 3 row electric SUV.
Lucid Gravity: Luxury and Space Redefined in a 3 Row Electric SUV
Alt text: The Lucid Gravity electric SUV making its debut at the LA Auto Show, showcasing its spacious interior and luxurious design elements.
The Lucid Gravity, the long-awaited SUV from luxury EV brand Lucid Motors, promises to deliver exceptional space and luxury across all three rows. Lucid is known for reimagining vehicle design, and the Gravity, designed in California and built in Arizona, is no exception.
A preview at the LA Auto Show revealed a remarkably spacious interior, premium materials, and Lucid’s advanced technology. As production nears, Lucid will showcase display models in retail locations for customers to experience the Gravity firsthand. Pricing for the Lucid Gravity will start around $80,000. The Lucid Gravity aims to set a new benchmark for luxury and space in the 3 row EV market.
Volkswagen ID Buzz: The Iconic and Spacious 3 Row Electric Van
Alt text: The Volkswagen ID Buzz electric van displayed in a studio, emphasizing its retro-inspired design, spacious interior, and modern electric powertrain.
While not an SUV, the Volkswagen ID Buzz is arguably the most anticipated electric vehicle launch in years, bringing back a beloved retro design. The long-wheelbase, three-row version of the 2025 VW ID Buzz offers a fun, spacious interior with unique design details and a remarkably roomy third row, comfortably accommodating even tall adults. A large cargo area with an adjustable shelf further enhances its practicality.
Volkswagen positions the ID Buzz as a “people pod” rather than a minivan, ideal for long journeys. With an estimated 300-mile range, ample horsepower, and available all-wheel drive via a dual-motor setup, the ID Buzz is sure to turn heads.
The Electric 3 Row Vehicle Market is Heating Up
With electric vehicle sales currently adjusting, now might be an opportune time to consider a 3 row EV. While typically pricier due to their size and battery capacity, manufacturers may offer incentives. Leasing can also be an attractive option, potentially bypassing some consumer incentive restrictions. The transition to a 3 row EV offers not just space and practicality, but also the quiet luxury and environmental benefits of electric driving, making gas station stops a thing of the past.
