3-Row SUV Buying Guide: How to Choose for Your Family
The short answer: start with how many people you carry and how often the third row is used, then compare third-row space and access, cargo room behind the third row, towing needs and the drive system. A smaller 3-row crossover suits occasional extra passengers; a larger SUV suits regular full loads and towing.
What to Compare
| Factor | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Third-row space | Sit in it yourself; legroom varies widely and some are best for children |
| Access | How easily the second row slides or tilts to let people in |
| Cargo | Space behind the third row and with it folded |
| Towing | Rated capacity for the exact configuration, if you tow |
| Drive system | Front-wheel, rear-wheel, all-wheel or four-wheel drive; see AWD vs 4WD |
| Car-seat fit | Check LATCH anchors and how car seats fit across rows |
3-Row Options at Dial
Three-row SUVs sold across Dial Auto Group include the Chevrolet Traverse, Tahoe and Suburban at Dial Chevy of Chicago, the Nissan Pathfinder and Armada at Dial Nissan of Chicago, the INFINITI QX60 and QX80 at INFINITI of Chicago, and the Dodge Durango at Dial Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Chicago. The Chrysler Pacifica minivan, also at Dial Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Chicago, is another way to carry seven or more. Availability and trims vary by model year; confirm what is in stock.
SUV or Minivan?
Sliding doors, low floors and easy third-row access make minivans very practical for families with young children. SUVs offer more ground clearance, available towing and a different look.
Next Steps
Browse SUVs across Dial Auto Group, then search new or used inventory. Test drive more than one with your whole family.
Keep Researching
Shop at the Right Dial Location
Dial Auto Group has five Chicago dealerships. Each brand is sold at specific stores, so start with the store that carries the vehicle you want.
| Dealership | Brands | Address | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dial Chevy of Chicago | Chevrolet | 6603 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60636 | New | Used |
| Dial Nissan of Chicago | Nissan | 7410 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60636 | New | Used |
| INFINITI of Chicago | INFINITI | 2711 S State St, Chicago, IL 60616 | New | Used |
| Dial Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Chicago | Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram | 7340 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60636 | New | Used |
| Jeep of Chicago | Jeep | 5950 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60659 | New | Used |
See all Dial Auto Group locations or search new and used inventory across the group.
Last reviewed October 2026 by Dial Auto Group. This guide is general information, not financial or legal advice. Vehicle features, availability and pricing vary by model and dealership; confirm details with the store.
Related guides: Compact vs Midsize SUV, Used SUV Buying Guide.