Hybrid SUV With 3rd Row | The Best 5 Top Picks
Are you looking for a family-friendly vehicle that can fit everyone and everything comfortably while being eco-friendly and fuel-efficient? If so, consider a hybrid SUV with 3rd row seats.
A hybrid vehicle combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor, reducing gas consumption and emissions.
But how do you find the best, most reliable hybrid SUV with third-row seating for your family?
There are numerous aspects to consider, such as size, space, comfort, convenience, safety, technology, performance, efficiency, reliability, and value.
You must also compare different models and brands of hybrid SUVs with 3rd-row seating to find the one that meets your needs and preferences.
In this guide, we will analyze the best hybrids with 3rd-row seating available in the market, comparing their features and performance to help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
Pros And Cons of Hybrid Vehicles
Like with everything in life, there is always good and evil, LOL
Let me give you some ideas on why to buy a hybrid and why not to buy a hybrid model.
Pros:
- They have better fuel efficiency than conventional vehicles, which means they use less gas and save you money on fuel costs.
- They produce lower emissions than conventional vehicles, making them more environmentally friendly and reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas effects.
- They have a smooth and quiet driving experience, especially when running on electric power only.
- They have more power and torque than conventional vehicles, especially when combining gasoline and electric engine.
- They can use regular gas stations and do not need to be plugged in (except for plug-in hybrids).
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, hybrid vehicles can save drivers up to 30% on fuel costs compared to conventional vehicles.
Cons:
- They are more expensive than conventional vehicles regarding upfront and maintenance costs (especially for the battery and the electric components).
- They have less cargo and passenger space than conventional vehicles due to the battery and the electric components taking up some room.
- They still produce some emissions and dependence on fossil fuels unless they run on renewable electricity sources (such as solar or wind power).
- They have a limited electric-only range (except for plug-in hybrids), so they may not be suitable for long-distance driving or areas with no gas stations nearby.
- They have a complex system that may be harder to repair or diagnose in case of problems.
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Toyota Highlander Hybrid
The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a three-row SUV that offers storage space, reliability, and fuel efficiency.
It seats up to eight people and has a hybrid system with a gas engine and two electric motors. The towing capacity of a Toyota Highlander Hybrid is 3,500 lbs.
This is lower than the gas models, which can tow up to 5,000 lbs with the available towing package. It gets up to 35 mpg on average and has many features, such as:
- Second-row seats that can be captain’s chairs or a bench
- LED fog lights
- A safety system that detects pedestrians and vehicles
- A cruise control system that adjusts speed automatically
- A 12.3-inch touchscreen with an audio system, four USB ports, Android Auto, and a backup camera
- remote engine start
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid SUV with 3rd row starts at $40,220 and has five trim levels: LE, XLE, Limited, Platinum, and Bronze Edition. The Bronze Edition has bronze-colored accents and a unique interior.
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Ford Explorer Hybrid
The Ford Explorer Hybrid is another popular choice among SUVs with 3rd-row seating.
A midsize SUV that combines a 3.3-liter V6 engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and an electric motor with a 1.5-kWh battery pack. It has a total output of 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque.
It also has a road trip-ready range and can tow up to 5,000 lbs when equipped with the Class IV Trailer Tow Package.
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The rear-wheel-drive Ford Explorer Hybrid Limited boasts an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 28 MPG combined. In comparison, the four-wheel-drive model offers 25 MPG combined.
Notable features of the Ford Explorer Hybrid include:
- Auto start-stop technology.
- A lane-keeping system.
- Rear parking sensors.
- A rear seatbelt reminder.
The luxurious interior includes leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, second-row captain’s chairs, or a second-row bench, depending on your preference.
The Ford Explorer Hybrid Limited and Platinum are 2 trims available
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Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring
The luxury brand – Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring it’s a three-row hybrid SUV that combines luxury and performance. It has a 3.0-liter V6 engine and an electric motor that produces 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque.
The towing capacity of a Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring is 5,600 pounds.
It gets 23 MPG combined and has many features, such as:
- Adaptive suspension, alloy wheels, roof rails, and a panoramic sunroof
- Premium leather upholstery, second-row captain’s chairs, wireless charging pad, and 14-speaker audio system
- Blind-spot monitor, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision system with electronically controlled brakes for automatic emergency braking
The Aviator Grand Touring comes in two trims: Limited and Black Label. The Black Label has exclusive interior themes and member services.
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Lexus RX Hybrid
The Lexus RX Hybrid is a luxury SUV with two rows of seating (third-row seats option discontinued for 2023) that delivers a smooth and refined driving experience. Lexus RX has a 3.5-liter V6 engine and two electric motors that produce 308 horsepower.
The towing capacity of a Lexus RX hybrid is 3,500 pounds across all configurations.
It gets 29 MPG city and 28 MPG highway on all-wheel-drive models and has many features such as:
- LED headlights, rear parking sensors, a power liftgate, and second-row captain’s chairs or bench
- Leather upholstery, 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and nine-speaker audio system
- Lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
Kia Sorento Hybrid
The Kia Sorento Hybrid is a newcomer to the hybrid SUVs with the 3rd-row seating market, offering excellent gas mileage and a stylish design.
Powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, the Sorento Hybrid delivers 227 horsepower.
With an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 37 MPG combined, the Sorento Hybrid is one of the most fuel-efficient options in the three-row hybrid category.
Some of the standout features of the Kia vehicle include LED headlights, alloy wheels, and a power liftgate.
Inside, you will find comfortable seating for up to six passengers, with second-row captain’s chairs and a third-row bench. Additional features include:
- A wireless charging pad.
- An eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
- Compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
The Sorento Hybrid also offers advanced safety features like forward-collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, radar cruise control, a rearview camera with dynamic guidelines, and highway driving assistance.
| Model | Horsepower | MPGe | Seating Capacity | Cargo Space (cu.ft.) | Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Sorento Hybrid | 227 | 37 | 6 | 75.5 | 2.000 |
| Ford Explorer Hybrid | 318 | 28 | 7 | 87.8 | 5.000 |
| Toyota Highlander Hybrid | 243 | 35 | 84.3 | 3.500 | |
| Lexus RX450h L | 308 | 29 | 7 | 58.5 | 3.500 |
| Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring | 494 | 23 | 7 | 77.7 | 6.700 |
| Volvo XC90 Recharge | 455 | 66 | 7 | 65.5 | 5.000 |
| BMW X5 xDrive45e | 394 | 50 | 5 | N/A | 5.952 |
Top Hybrid SUV with 3rd Row Seating: Runner-ups
While we have covered some of the best hybrid SUVs with 3rd-row seating, there are a few other options worth mentioning.
These runner-ups may be less popular or offer the same features as the top choices. However, they still provide excellent alternatives for those seeking a hybrid vehicle with third-row seating.
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Volvo XC90 Recharge
The Volvo XC90 Recharge is a plug-in hybrid with third-row seating that combines style, luxury, and fuel efficiency.
Powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder motor and an electric engine, the XC90 Recharge offers a combined output of 400 horsepower.
With an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 MPG combined and an electric-only range of up to 18 miles, this plug-in hybrid SUV is perfect for those who want to decrease their carbon footprint without compromising on space or luxury.
The towing capacity of a Volvo XC90 Recharge is 5,000 pounds.
The Volvo XC90 Recharge features include LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate.
The interior boasts Nappa leather upholstery, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
The XC90 Recharge also has advanced safety elements, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree surround-view camera.
BMW X5 xDrive45e
The 2023 BMW X5 xDrive45e is a plug-in hybrid SUV with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine and an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 389 horsepower.
It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 MPG combined and an electric-only range of up to 30 miles. It has adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate.
The interior offers leather upholstery, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
The X5 xDrive45e also has advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a blind-spot monitor.
What hybrid SUVs have a third row?
Some hybrid SUVs with a third row are the Toyota Sequoia, Toyota Highlander, Lexus RX, Ford Explorer, Acura MDX, Volvo XC90 Recharge, Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, and Mercedes-Benz GLS 580e. They can fit six to eight people and use less gas than regular SUVs.
Is there a plug-in hybrid with a third row?
Yes, some plug-in hybrid SUVs with a third row are the Volvo XC90 Recharge, Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Mercedes-Benz GLS 580e, BMW X5 xDrive45e, and Audi Q7 TFSI e. They can seat six to seven people and run on both gas and electric power.
Are there any large hybrid SUVs?
Some large hybrid SUVs are the Toyota Sequoia, Ford Expedition Hybrid, Land Rover Range Rover Sport PHEV, Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid, Volvo XC90 Recharge, Lexus RX 450h, Acura MDX Sport Hybrid, and DS 7 Crossback E-Tense – not available in the US yet. They have spacious interiors, powerful hybrid engines, and impressive towing capabilities.
What is the top 2023 SUV hybrid 3rd-row seating?
One of the best options is the Kia Sorento Hybrid. It has a roomy and comfy interior, a smooth and efficient hybrid engine, and many features and safety tech.
How do hybrid SUVs compare to electric SUVs?
Hybrid SUVs use gas and electric power, while electric SUVs use only battery power. Hybrid has a longer range and easier refueling but more emissions and maintenance costs. Electric SUVs have lower operating costs and environmental impact but limited charging options and higher upfront costs. Both are more fuel-efficient than gas-only SUVs.
Conclusion
Choosing the best hybrid SUVs with third-row seating depends on your needs, budget, and preferences. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Ford Explorer Hybrid are great options for those seeking reliability and great MPG in a non-luxury segment.
The Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring and Lexus RX Hybrid offer a more luxurious experience with advanced features and refined performance.
Lastly, the Kia Sorento Hybrid is an excellent choice for those looking for a stylish, fuel-efficient newcomer to the market.
According to multiple sources like Edmunds.com and Caranddriver.com, around best hybrid SUV with a third-row seats is Toyota Highlander.
What are the most important features you look for in a hybrid SUV with a third row of seating? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
