For families and individuals needing extra passenger and cargo space, the quest for the perfect three-row vehicle is often a top priority. Traditionally, this meant opting for gas-guzzling SUVs or minivans. However, the electric vehicle (EV) revolution is changing the game, offering a growing selection of three-row EVs that combine spaciousness with zero-emission driving. If you’ve been waiting for electric options beyond the Tesla Model X (and its fluctuating price tag), 2024 is proving to be a pivotal year. The market is now brimming with diverse 3-row electric vehicles, ranging from relatively affordable to ultra-luxurious, ensuring there’s an option for nearly every need and budget.
Here’s a detailed look at the best 3 Row Evs available now or arriving soon, providing a comprehensive guide for your electric family vehicle search.
Rivian R1S: The Adventure-Ready Electric SUV
The Rivian R1S stands out as the ideal 3 row EV for those with a spirit of adventure. This all-wheel-drive electric SUV is engineered to tackle challenging terrains, from rocky trails to sandy dunes. Its impressive capabilities were even showcased at the rigorous 2023 Rebelle Rally.
Boasting a range of up to 400 miles, the Rivian R1S provides ample range for reaching remote destinations. Rivian has also strategically established a charging network at national parks and popular outdoor spots, making it convenient to recharge during your adventures.
While the Rivian R1S comes standard with three rows, it’s worth noting that the third row might be best suited for smaller passengers or cargo. Although offering 33 inches of legroom, the space is more comfortable for children or medium-sized adults on shorter trips. The second-row seats are adjustable, allowing for some flexibility in legroom distribution. With a starting price around $78,000, the Rivian R1S is a premium choice for adventurous families seeking a capable and rugged 3 row electric SUV.
Kia EV9: The Family-Focused and Feature-Rich 3 Row EV
The Kia EV9 is a brand-new entry into the 3 row EV market, specifically designed with families in mind. This spacious SUV prioritizes passenger comfort, featuring a generously sized third row and adjustable second-row seats to maximize legroom for everyone. For enhanced relaxation, the EV9 offers optional “relaxation” seats in the front and second rows, complete with extendable leg rests.
The Kia EV9 showcases a futuristic design and is packed with Kia’s latest technology. Highlights include a redesigned multimedia system, true one-pedal driving capability, an estimated range of approximately 280 miles, and rapid DC fast-charging, allowing for a 10% to 80% charge in just about 25 minutes.
Kia has strategically positioned the EV9 with competitive pricing. Starting at around $55,000 and topping out under $80,000, the EV9 is designed to qualify for federal tax incentives once production commences at Kia’s Georgia plant. To maintain this attractive price point, Kia offers a variety of optional features as post-purchase add-ons, including streaming music services, a torque-boosting power upgrade, remote parking assistance, and customizable headlight designs. This approach makes the Kia EV9 a compelling and value-driven 3 row electric SUV for families.
Mercedes-Benz EQB: The Compact and Luxurious 3 Row Electric SUV
Often considered a hidden gem in the 3 row electric SUV segment, the Mercedes-Benz EQB offers a blend of compact size, relative affordability, and Mercedes-Benz luxury. The EQB boasts a design-focused interior, featuring a sleek flat-screen multimedia system, comfortable seating, and signature turbine-style air vents. It is available in both two-row and three-row configurations, with the third row being a $1,250 option. While captain’s chairs are not offered in the second row, the bench seating is adjustable to enhance passenger comfort.
With a range of up to 245 miles and a starting price of $52,750, the Mercedes-Benz EQB provides an accessible entry point into the luxury 3 row EV market. Available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations, buyers can tailor the EQB to their specific needs. True to the Mercedes-Benz brand, the EQB delivers a luxurious, responsive, and agile driving experience. The MBUX multimedia system with voice activation, simply activated by saying “Hey Mercedes,” adds another layer of sophistication and convenience. The EQB is an excellent choice for those seeking a premium yet compact 3 row electric SUV.
Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV: The Pinnacle of Electric Luxury and Innovation
The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV represents the ultimate in electric luxury SUVs, pushing the boundaries of technology and design. Packed with some of the most advanced and futuristic features in the industry, the EQS SUV caters to those seeking unparalleled opulence. Notable features include the optional hyper-screen dashboard spanning the entire width, incorporating a passenger screen for entertainment and navigation, customizable ambient lighting that reacts to music and navigation prompts, and augmented reality navigation overlays.
Offering over 300 miles of range and available in both all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive configurations, the EQS SUV provides both performance and efficiency. However, with a starting price of $125,000, it sits firmly in the high-end luxury segment. The optional third row in the EQS SUV is more of an occasional convenience rather than a primary seating area, reflecting the focus on ultimate luxury for the first and second rows. Similar to the EQB, second-row captain’s chairs are not available, requiring third-row passengers to access their seats past the bench. Despite the third row’s space limitations, the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV delivers an undeniably pampering experience for all occupants, setting a new standard for luxury 3 row EVs.
Volvo EX90: Scandinavian Elegance and Family-Focused Design in a 3 Row EV
Volvo’s new design direction, previewed in the EX30, is further refined in the Volvo EX90, a sophisticated and family-oriented 3 row electric SUV. The interior emphasizes minimalism and sustainability, featuring a large central screen controlling most vehicle functions and utilizing renewable and recycled materials for upholstery and surfaces. The infotainment system is powered by Google, offering seamless voice-activated assistance through “Hey Google.”
The Volvo EX90 draws inspiration from the popular XC90, offering seating for six or seven passengers, a spacious third row, and a refined cabin with calming color palettes, a panoramic sunroof, and thoughtful amenities throughout.
Priced starting around $76,000, the Volvo EX90 prioritizes performance and range. Volvo has consistently engineered its EVs to offer greater power and range than competitors, and the EX90 is expected to continue this trend, with an estimated range exceeding 350 miles and a robust 402 horsepower output. Anticipated to arrive at dealerships in mid-2024, the Volvo EX90 promises to be a compelling and luxurious 3 row electric SUV option.
Cadillac Escalade IQ: Bold Innovation and American Luxury Electrified
The Cadillac Escalade IQ embodies American luxury and cutting-edge innovation in a 3 row electric SUV format. GM, Cadillac’s parent company, is committed to pushing the boundaries of EV technology, focusing on battery performance and groundbreaking features. Borrowing innovations from the Hummer EV, the Escalade IQ is expected to incorporate features like “crab walk” angled driving, a torque-boosting “Watts to Freedom” mode for rapid acceleration, and the hands-free Super Cruise highway driving system.
The Cadillac Escalade IQ is anticipated to offer a spacious third row, advanced front and rear seat technology and entertainment systems, and the signature plush Cadillac interior comforts. Furthermore, it aims for a class-leading driving range of up to 450 miles. As expected for a vehicle of this caliber, the Escalade IQ will command a premium price, starting at $130,000, reflecting its position as a flagship luxury 3 row EV.
Hyundai Ioniq 7: Anticipated Value and Innovation in a 3 Row Electric SUV
While details are still emerging, the Hyundai Ioniq 7 is highly anticipated to bring many of the desirable features of the Kia EV9 to the Hyundai brand. Expected to offer fast charging capabilities, a 300+ mile range, and a flexible and innovative interior, the Ioniq 7 aims to provide ample head and legroom for all passengers. It will likely incorporate Hyundai’s distinctive “pixel” design elements, prominent in the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 models.
Hyundai has indicated a market debut in 2024, with spy shots of test vehicles suggesting its imminent arrival. Pricing is projected to start around $55,000, positioning the Hyundai Ioniq 7 as a potentially strong value proposition in the 3 row electric SUV market.
Lucid Gravity: Luxury, Space, and Performance Redefined in a 3 Row Electric SUV
The Lucid Gravity, the long-awaited luxury SUV from Lucid Motors, promises to deliver exceptional space, luxury, and performance in a 3 row electric SUV package. Each row of seating is designed with premium upholstery, convenience features, and generous head and legroom. Lucid is known for its innovative approach to vehicle design, and the Gravity, designed in California and manufactured in Arizona, is expected to uphold this reputation.
Previewed at the LA Auto Show, the Lucid Gravity impressed with its spacious interior, ample storage, premium materials, and cutting-edge technology. As production nears, Lucid plans to showcase display models at retail locations, allowing potential buyers to experience the Gravity’s interior and technology firsthand. Pricing for the Lucid Gravity is expected to start around $80,000, placing it in the luxury segment of the 3 row EV market.
Volkswagen ID Buzz: The Iconic Electric Van with 3 Rows and Retro Charm
While technically not an SUV, the Volkswagen ID Buzz is poised to be a highly impactful and iconic 3 row electric vehicle. Representing the long-awaited revival of the classic VW Bus, the ID Buzz has generated considerable excitement.
The long-wheelbase, three-row version of the 2025 VW ID Buzz stands out with its retro-inspired design, expansive interior, and exceptionally spacious third row, comfortably accommodating even taller adults. It also offers a substantial cargo area with a flexible shelf for added versatility. Volkswagen positions the ID Buzz as a van, not a minivan, emphasizing its unique character.
The ID Buzz is projected to offer a range of up to 300 miles, ample horsepower, and available all-wheel drive with a dual-motor configuration. Expected to turn heads both in neighborhoods and on highways, the VW ID Buzz is an appealing and practical 3 row electric vehicle option, especially for those seeking a blend of nostalgia and modern EV technology.
The Time to Consider a 3 Row EV is Now
With electric car sales currently experiencing a slowdown, now might be an opportune moment to consider purchasing or leasing a 3 row EV. While typically carrying a higher price tag due to their size and seating capacity, manufacturers may be more inclined to offer incentives in the current market. Leasing can be particularly advantageous, as lessors may be eligible for savings not directly available to consumers purchasing outright. The expanding selection of 3 row EVs ensures that families can now enjoy the benefits of electric driving – reduced running costs and a quieter, smoother ride – without compromising on space and practicality. Embrace the electric future and bypass those gas stations with a spacious and eco-friendly 3 row EV.
