Best 3-Row Hybrid SUVs of 2023

These days, we really do want it all when it comes to our family cars, so a car that is both highly practical and extremely efficient is the dream. However, a hybrid SUV with a 3rd row of seats is still a big ask, since many automakers struggle to make good gasoline versions. They are often cramped, pricey, and heavy, which makes them expensive to run. Adding some electrical components may help alleviate the latter, but they take up space and can make an already hefty car difficult to drive. That being said, there are a few 3rd-row hybrid SUVs that live up to our lofty expectations.

This is a list of the best 3-row hybrid SUV models in the USA for 2023.

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2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid

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7.9

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Characteristics of Hybrid SUVs With 3rd-Row Seating

The best 3rd-row hybrid SUVs have to keep a lot of plates spinning at one time, and these are the things we look for when considering what models make the cut:

They need to have adequate space for up to seven or eight passengers
They should also have enough cargo room even with all the seats in place
They must achieve respectable mileage figures regardless of the weight and size
They need to be safe enough to entrust with your entire family
They should throw in enough standard features to keep passengers happy over long trips.

What to Consider When Buying a Three-row Hybrid SUVs

There may not be as many hybrids as there once were, now that EVs are getting more traction, and 3-row hybrid SUVs were already rare, so keep these things in mind when shopping for one in the US.

Pros

Impressive passenger and cargo capacity
Good mpg figures for their size segments
Excellent safety ratings
Decent amount of standard tech
Relatively easy to drive and live with
Some can even off-road quite well

Cons

Very expensive purchase price
All-electric range is usually quite low
Recharge times can be a hassle

FAQs

How much does the best three-row hybrid SUV cost?

Hybrids are traditionally more expensive than their gasoline-powered siblings, so you should expect the price to reflect your long-term return on investment. Looking at the models that rank most highly, the Kia Sorento Hybrid is actually quite affordable, at around $40,000. The Volvo XC90 Recharge is significantly more expensive at around $65k. Between these, you would find the Mazda CX-90 at approximately $50,000.

Which hybrid SUV with a 3rd row of seating can fit eight people comfortably?

Generally speaking, the best 3rd-row hybrid SUVs are those that are large enough to truly fit at least seven people and their stuff. Of those near the top of our overall rankings, the Volvo XC90 Recharge is the model that best accommodates 3rd-row passengers.

Which plug-in hybrid SUV with a 3rd row has the best all-electric range?

One of the chief concerns when it comes to owning a PHEV SUV with a 3rd-row is how far it can travel on a full charge and how long it takes to regain that charge. In this regard, it is the Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid that takes the cake, as it can travel almost 40 miles on a charge, which should be sufficient for most owners’ daily needs. It can also regain 80% of its capacity in under an hour with a Level 2 charger.

Are three-row hybrid SUVs reliable?

Hybridization often leads to more complex vehicles that may suffer in terms of reliability over the long run. However, the best 3rd-row hybrid SUVs often come from the most reliable brands, like Kia and Volvo. Of course, one still needs to perform a case-by-case evaluation, but for the most part, these family-focused hybrids are very dependable.