Characteristics of Affordable SUVs With 3 Rows
Even affordable 3-row SUVs are part of a niche segment that is also considered one of the most delicate balancing acts in the automotive market.
- They must have plenty of passenger space
- They are comparatively affordable for the segment
- They shouldn’t completely abandon the idea of a practical trunk
- They need to be reliable enough to last years without too much hassle
What to Consider When Buying the Cheapest 7-seater SUV
Vehicles of this size make for tricky new purchases, as even a cheap SUV with a 3rd row is expensive. Thus, you need to be certain that you’re getting what you need, or you may want to consider other options.
Pros
- Loads of interior space
- Decently powerful engine options
- Safe and comfortable driving experience
- Lower price than high-end seven-seaters
Cons
- Cost more than your average sedan or wagon
- Third-row seats are often cramped
- Lackluster performance
FAQs
What is the most affordable 3-row SUV?
While most 3-row SUV models cost $40k upwards, the cheapest 7-seater SUV sells for just $30,000. This is the Kia Sorento, while the hybrid variant adds $5k to the bill. This is around as much as the Hyundai Palisade or Kia Telluride cost.
Which cheap 7-seater SUV is the most spacious?
Even the best three-row SUVs often suffer from cramped rear seats, but both the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade can comfortably fit adults in the back. The fact that these are some of the most affordable 3-row SUVs is a big bonus.
Do affordable SUVs with 3 rows get good mileage?
For the most part, the answer is no. However, the best affordable 3-row SUV for fuel economy is the Kia Sorento Hybrid, which achieves 39/35 mpg city/highway. Non-hybrids don’t easily break the 30 mpg mark.
How reliable are the cheapest SUVs with a 3rd row?
Quite a few SUVs in the US earn top marks for reliability, even in the cheap SUVs with a 3rd row segment. Automakers like Kia, Toyota, and Hyundai all have solid reputations in this regard.