One of the best things about the automotive industry today is that there seems to be a vehicle for everybody. From fast cars to safe cars and from tiny two-seaters to three-row goliaths, there truly is a vehicle out there for every need, preference, and budget. Consider the SUV market, an area of the industry that contains some of the most diverse options out there. You can find everything from subcompact to full-size models, and when scouting out used SUVs for sale, you will run across them all.
Three-row SUVs are some of the most adaptable options, offering incredible spaciousness, cargo room, and, oftentimes, luxury. When it comes to finding the perfect used SUV with three rows of seats, your options are vast and varied. Whether you’re seeking comfort, reliability, or off-road capability, there’s an SUV out there that will meet your needs, and it will do it with the ability to fit everyone in the whole crew. There are plenty of makes and models out there, but here are five to consider.
#1 – The Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer hit the scenes in 1991. Since its debut, it has been a significant player in the SUV market, evolving through multiple generations, and when we say evolving, we mean it. The Explorer has not always been what we know it as today, but its size has stayed fairly consistent. Known for its versatility and capability, the Explorer has maintained its position as a favorite among families, adventurers, and daily commuters.
Over the years, the Explorer has evolved from its boxy beginnings to a more streamlined and aerodynamic vehicle. Its bold front grille, sculpted lines, and athletic stance contribute to its commanding presence on the road. Available in an assortment of trim levels, a used Explorer can be found to suit an array of lifestyles and preferences. The Explorer comfortably seats up to seven passengers across three rows. Generous headroom and legroom ensure that even adult passengers can ride comfortably in all seating positions.
#2 – The Cadillac Escalade
Well-known for being a symbol of luxury, the Cadillac Escalade represents prestige and the epitome of American craftsmanship within the full-size SUV segment. Introduced in 1999, the Cadillac has been turning heads ever since, thanks not only to its elegance and grace but its sheer size. Blending opulence with capability while offering a spacious and refined driving experience, the Cadillac Escalade had to make it onto the list of used three-row SUVs to consider.
As a full-size SUV, the Escalade offers some pretty generous dimensions, providing ample interior space for passengers and cargo alike. Whether you oversee carpooling to and from the office or are often loading up equipment for your child’s after-school activities, the Escalade can handle it all and does it with style. Available in multiple trim levels, the Escalade has many sides to it. While it is often associated with a hefty price tag, the benefits of buying used help balance that out while still providing you with all the expected luxury.

#3 – The Chevy Traverse
The Chevrolet Traverse has carved out a niche in the three-row SUV segment since its debut, evolving over the years to become one of the most beloved SUVs on the market. The Chevrolet Traverse made its debut in 2009 as a replacement for the Trailblazer and Uplander, offering a spacious three-row SUV option in Chevrolet’s lineup. Although it hasn’t been around as long as some of the others on this list, Chevy has managed to put all of its knowledge and experience into this three-row wonder.
The Traverse is a versatile and family-friendly vehicle that combines space, comfort, and modern amenities to keep everyone happy during your day-to-day errands. Designed to accommodate up to eight passengers across three rows, the Traverse prioritizes passenger comfort and cargo flexibility, which is a bonus for drivers with large families. Some trim levels and model years offer captain’s chairs in the second row to amp up comfort and provide easy access to the third row. Although this upgrade takes the seating capacity down by one, a capacity of seven is still impressive.
With all seats in place, the Traverse provides ample cargo space for groceries, luggage, and other essentials. Folding down the rear seats expands cargo capacity, accommodating larger items or gear for outdoor adventures. With such adaptability, you can choose if you want a family hauler or a cargo carrier and change it up just as easily.
#4 – The Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 was the brand’s flagship SUV, combining stylish elements, performance features, and practical extras to make it a great all-around SUV. From the beginning, the CX-9 has managed to tread the line between luxury and affordability, making it an option for those looking to stay within a budget and enjoy a luxury ride. The CX-9 was released for the 2007 model year as Mazda’s largest SUV, with the intention of catering to families and those who want a spacious and versatile vehicle.
Exemplifying Mazda’s core values, the CX-9 perfectly blends driving pleasure with practicality and sophistication. With its stylish design, refined interior, and engaging driving dynamics, the CX-9 appeals to drivers who prioritize comfort, performance, and modern amenities in a three-row SUV. The CX-9 comfortably accommodates up to seven passengers across three rows and offers available captain’s chairs in the second row, providing flexibility.
Similar to the other models, the second and third rows can be tucked away to open up the cabin for cargo space so even large and awkward items can be transported. Taking into consideration that not all items are large and require plenty of open space, the Mazda is designed to keep things tidy and organized during day-to-day activities. Numerous storage compartments strategically placed throughout the cabin, including under-floor storage in the rear cargo area, show how much thought has gone into this family-friendly SUV.

#5 – The Chevy Suburban
The Chevy Suburban is a well-known classic of the industry and has long been synonymous with expansive size, versatility, and capability, making it a perennial favorite in the full-size SUV category. If you want to be able to comfortably transport passengers and cargo over long distances, then the Suburban is the SUV for you. The Suburban offers seating for up to nine passengers across three spacious rows, making it one of the most accommodating options on this list. Each row is designed with comfort in mind, providing ample room for all nine riders.
The Suburban is not only one of the largest SUVs here, but it is also one of the oldest, having hit the roads all the way back in the 1930s. With that age comes experience, and that experience equals greatness. The Suburban is a powerhouse in so many fields, not only providing spacious seating, ample cargo room, and loads of comfort but also performance, power, and pure style.
With its impeccable interior, advanced technology features, and robust performance capabilities, the Suburban remains a top choice for families and individuals seeking a vehicle that can comfortably accommodate large groups while offering the latest tech and extras. As Chevy continues to innovate and refine its flagship SUV, the Suburban continues to uphold its reputation as a reliable and capable vehicle for any adventure or daily job.
The Used SUV Market Is Good
Used three-row SUVs offer a compelling blend of space, versatility, and practicality, making them a popular choice among families, adventurers, and anyone needing extra seating and cargo capacity. With seating typically available for seven to eight passengers––or nine when we look at the Suburban––everyone can ride comfortably with plenty of legroom, shoulder room, and “I’m not touching them” space. Often equipped with luxury features and advanced amenities, such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, multi-zone climate control, and premium sound systems, used SUVs have it all.
From the luxury of the Escalade to the historically large-and-in-charge Suburban, used three-row SUVs are an attractive option for a wide range of drivers. It doesn’t matter if you prioritize passenger space, towing capability, or advanced features; these vehicles offer a compelling mix of it all. It is time to explore the selection of pre-owned three-row models here at our dealership and drive away in the SUV that is just right for you!


