Characteristics of 3-Row SUVs With The Best Gas Mileage
These cars are already designed with a specific purpose in mind, and adding another filter serves to limit the specific qualities that are inherent to such focused vehicles further. Here’s what you can expect when shopping for the best gas mileage in SUVs with a 3rd row:
- They are large and spacious inside
- They boast comfortable ride quality and good road manners
- They come equipped with top-tier safety and driver-assistance tech
- They have better fuel economy than your average 3-row SUV
What to Consider When Buying the Most Fuel-efficient 3-row SUVs
Seven- and eight-passenger SUV models are becoming increasingly popular in the US, as their practicality is undeniable. But not many people need that much space or that many seats, so it is worth considering whether one of these 3-row SUVs with the best mileage is a good choice over a wagon or slightly smaller SUV.
Pros
- Plenty of space for people and stuff
- Long list of standard features
- Relatively easy to drive despite their size
- Superior expected safety ratings
- Multiple drivetrain configurations on offer
Cons
- Powertrains can feel weak for such large cars
- Fuel economy is still mediocre compared to smaller vehicles
- Generally higher starting price tag
FAQs
Which SUV with 3rd-row seating has the best gas mileage?
Unsurprisingly, it is a hybrid that earns the title of the top SUV with a third-row SUV and the best gas mileage. Both the Kia Sorento and Toyota Highlander hybrids manage 35 mpg on the highway, but the former is a little more efficient, with 39 mpg in the city.
How much does the most fuel-efficient 3-row 7-seater SUV cost?
Prices in this segment can range quite wildly from affordable mainstream models to high-end premium cars. The regular Kia Sorento starts at around $30,000, while the hybrid adds $5k. The Volvo XC90 Recharge, however, sells for no less than $70,000.
Can any of the SUVs with the best mileage seat 8 passengers?
While there are a few 8-seaters out there, none fall into this particular category. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade get 20/26 mpg and 19/27 mpg, respectively, so they can’t match the 30+ mpg of the Sorento and Highlander hybrids that only seat 7.
Are the 3-row SUVs with the best gas mileage reliable?
With automakers like Kia and Toyota featuring highly on the list, you can expect very high reliability expectations. However, turbocharged four-cylinder engines are quite common, and they aren’t the most dependable blocks.