For families on the go, or anyone who frequently needs to transport multiple passengers, a vehicle with third-row seating is an absolute necessity. Toyota, known for its reliability, durability, and innovative designs, offers several models that provide this invaluable feature. Navigating the options can be tricky, so let’s delve into the specific Toyota vehicles that boast a third row, exploring their characteristics, target audiences, and what sets them apart.
The Toyota Highlander: A Popular Mid-Size Choice
The Toyota Highlander is arguably the most recognizable and popular Toyota SUV with third-row seating. It occupies the mid-size SUV segment and is a perennial favorite for families seeking a blend of comfort, practicality, and fuel efficiency. The Highlander has consistently ranked high in safety tests and owner satisfaction surveys, solidifying its reputation as a dependable choice.
Highlander’s Interior Space and Comfort
The Highlander’s third row, while not as spacious as that of larger SUVs, is generally considered adequate for children and smaller adults on shorter trips. The second-row seats often slide and recline, allowing for some flexibility in allocating legroom between the second and third rows. Higher trim levels often include features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof, enhancing the overall comfort experience for all passengers.
Engine Options and Performance
The Highlander typically offers a choice between a traditional gasoline engine and a hybrid powertrain. The gasoline engine provides ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The hybrid option, on the other hand, prioritizes fuel efficiency, making it an attractive choice for environmentally conscious buyers and those looking to save money at the pump. All-wheel drive is usually available as an option, providing enhanced traction in inclement weather conditions.
Trim Levels and Features
The Highlander is offered in a range of trim levels, each with its own set of features and price point. Lower trims typically include essential features like a touchscreen infotainment system, rearview camera, and basic safety technologies. Higher trims add features like premium audio systems, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and more luxurious interior appointments.
The Toyota Grand Highlander: Stepping Up in Size
The Toyota Grand Highlander is a newer addition to the Toyota lineup, and it’s specifically designed to address the needs of buyers who require more space than the standard Highlander offers. It is positioned as a larger, more family-friendly alternative.
A Roomier Third Row and Cargo Area
The Grand Highlander’s key advantage over the standard Highlander is its significantly larger third row and increased cargo capacity. The third row is genuinely usable for adults, making it a more comfortable option for families with older children or those who frequently travel with multiple adult passengers. The larger cargo area behind the third row provides ample space for luggage, groceries, or sporting equipment.
Engine Options and Performance
Like the standard Highlander, the Grand Highlander typically offers a selection of engine options, including gasoline and hybrid powertrains. The engine choices are generally geared towards providing a balance of power and fuel efficiency. All-wheel drive is available on most trim levels, enhancing its capability in various driving conditions.
Interior Features and Technology
The Grand Highlander boasts a modern and well-appointed interior. Depending on the trim level, you can expect features like a large touchscreen display, wireless smartphone integration, a premium sound system, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. The focus is on providing a comfortable and connected experience for all occupants.
The Toyota Sequoia: A Full-Size SUV Powerhouse
The Toyota Sequoia is Toyota’s full-size SUV offering, designed for those who need maximum passenger and cargo space, as well as robust towing capability. It is a capable and powerful vehicle that can handle demanding tasks.
Spacious Interior and Towing Capacity
The Sequoia’s third row is exceptionally spacious, comfortably accommodating adults even on long journeys. With all seats in place, the Sequoia still offers a generous amount of cargo space. Furthermore, the Sequoia is known for its impressive towing capacity, making it an ideal choice for families who frequently tow boats, trailers, or other recreational vehicles.
Engine Options and Performance
The Sequoia is typically powered by a robust engine, providing ample power for hauling passengers, cargo, and trailers. Four-wheel drive is often available, enhancing its off-road capability and providing added traction in challenging driving conditions.
Features and Luxury
The Sequoia is available in various trim levels, ranging from practical to luxurious. Higher trims often include features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, a premium audio system, and advanced driver-assistance technologies. The Sequoia is designed to provide a comfortable and refined driving experience, even when tackling tough jobs.
Choosing the Right Toyota Third-Row SUV
Selecting the right Toyota SUV with third-row seating depends on your specific needs and priorities. Consider the following factors when making your decision:
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Passenger Capacity: How many passengers do you typically need to transport? If you regularly carry adults in the third row, the Grand Highlander or Sequoia may be better choices than the standard Highlander.
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Cargo Space: How much cargo space do you require, both with the third row up and folded down? The Sequoia offers the most cargo space, followed by the Grand Highlander, and then the standard Highlander.
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Budget: The Highlander is generally the most affordable option, followed by the Grand Highlander, and then the Sequoia.
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Fuel Efficiency: The Highlander Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient option, followed by the Grand Highlander Hybrid (if available), and then the gasoline-powered models.
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Towing Capacity: If you plan to tow frequently, the Sequoia is the clear winner, offering the highest towing capacity.
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Driving Style: Consider where and how you will primarily be driving. The Highlander is easier to maneuver in urban environments, while the Sequoia is better suited for highway driving and towing.
Beyond SUVs: Other Toyota Options with Third-Row Seating
While SUVs are the most common choice for third-row seating, Toyota also offers a minivan option: the Sienna.
Toyota Sienna: The Minivan Alternative
The Toyota Sienna is a minivan that offers a spacious and versatile interior, making it an excellent choice for families. All Sienna models come standard with third-row seating, providing ample space for passengers and cargo.
Sienna’s Advantages
The Sienna’s sliding doors make it easy to access the second and third rows, especially in tight parking spaces. The low floor height makes it easier for children and elderly passengers to get in and out of the vehicle. The Sienna also offers a smooth and comfortable ride, making it ideal for long road trips.
Hybrid Powertrain and Fuel Efficiency
The Sienna is exclusively offered with a hybrid powertrain, making it one of the most fuel-efficient minivans on the market. This can result in significant savings at the pump over the long term.
Key Features to Consider in a Third-Row Toyota
Beyond the specific models, consider these key features when shopping for a Toyota with third-row seating:
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Ease of Access: How easy is it to access the third row? Some models have a one-touch system that folds and slides the second-row seats forward, while others require more manual effort.
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Third-Row Comfort: Is the third row comfortable for adults? Consider factors like legroom, headroom, and seat cushioning.
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Safety Features: Does the vehicle have safety features that extend to the third-row passengers, such as side curtain airbags?
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Infotainment System: Does the infotainment system offer features that can keep third-row passengers entertained, such as rear-seat entertainment systems?
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Storage Space: Is there adequate storage space for third-row passengers, such as cupholders, storage pockets, and USB ports?
Toyota’s Commitment to Safety
Toyota places a high priority on safety, and all of its vehicles with third-row seating come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. These features typically include:
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Toyota Safety Sense (TSS): A suite of advanced driver-assistance systems that includes features like pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, and dynamic radar cruise control.
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Star Safety System: A suite of six advanced safety technologies that includes vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock brake system, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and smart stop technology.
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Airbags: A comprehensive airbag system that includes front airbags, side airbags, and side curtain airbags that extend to all three rows of seating.
Maintenance and Reliability
Toyota is renowned for its reliability and low maintenance costs. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections, can help ensure that your Toyota SUV with third-row seating lasts for many years to come. Toyota also offers a comprehensive warranty program that provides peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Toyota with third-row seating requires careful consideration of your individual needs and priorities. The Highlander, Grand Highlander, and Sequoia each offer a unique blend of space, performance, and features. The Sienna minivan provides an alternative option with its spacious interior and hybrid powertrain. By carefully evaluating your needs and comparing the various models and trim levels, you can find the perfect Toyota to accommodate your growing family or passenger-hauling requirements. Remember to test drive your preferred models and compare them side-by-side to make an informed decision. Consider long-term ownership costs such as insurance and fuel costs in addition to purchase price. With its reputation for reliability and overall quality, a Toyota SUV with third-row seating is a solid option for families seeking versatility, safety, and peace of mind.
Which Toyota SUVs currently offer third-row seating?
Currently, Toyota offers three SUV models with available third-row seating: the Toyota Highlander, the Toyota Grand Highlander, and the Toyota Sequoia. The Highlander is a popular mid-size SUV that offers a balance of fuel efficiency and space, with third-row seating typically suitable for children or smaller adults. The Grand Highlander is a larger SUV, offering significantly more space in the third row and cargo area, making it more comfortable for adults and families with more cargo needs.
The Sequoia is Toyota’s full-size SUV, providing the most spacious third-row seating and cargo capacity of the three models. It is designed for families who need maximum passenger and cargo room, as well as the ability to tow larger loads. Choosing the right SUV depends on your specific needs and priorities regarding space, fuel efficiency, and budget.
Is the Toyota 4Runner available with a third row?
While the Toyota 4Runner is a rugged and capable SUV known for its off-road prowess, it is not typically offered with standard third-row seating. In some model years, a limited third-row option was available, but it significantly reduced cargo space and was not as spacious or comfortable as the third rows found in other Toyota SUVs.
The availability of the third-row option for the 4Runner varies by model year and trim level. If you require consistent third-row seating and prioritize passenger comfort, the Highlander, Grand Highlander, or Sequoia would be more suitable choices. Check the specifications for the specific model year of the 4Runner you are considering to confirm if it has the third-row option.
How does the third-row space in the Toyota Highlander compare to the Grand Highlander?
The third row in the Toyota Highlander is generally considered best suited for children or smaller adults. While it provides seating for up to three passengers (depending on the configuration), legroom and headroom can be limited, especially on longer trips. It’s a practical solution for occasional use or for families with younger children.
The Toyota Grand Highlander offers a significantly larger and more comfortable third row compared to the Highlander. It provides ample legroom and headroom, making it suitable for adults and teenagers. The Grand Highlander prioritizes passenger comfort and cargo space, making it a more versatile option for families who frequently use all three rows of seating.
Which Toyota SUV with a third row offers the best fuel economy?
The Toyota Highlander, particularly the hybrid version, generally offers the best fuel economy among Toyota SUVs with third-row seating. The Highlander Hybrid combines a gasoline engine with electric motors to achieve impressive fuel efficiency for its size and passenger capacity. This makes it an attractive option for buyers who prioritize fuel savings.
While the Grand Highlander and Sequoia also offer hybrid powertrain options, their larger size and greater weight typically result in lower overall fuel economy compared to the Highlander Hybrid. If fuel efficiency is a primary concern, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid stands out as the most economical choice among Toyota’s three-row SUV offerings.
What are the cargo space considerations when using the third row in these Toyota SUVs?
When the third row is in use in the Toyota Highlander, the cargo space behind it is significantly reduced. While still adequate for groceries or smaller items, it may not be sufficient for luggage or larger cargo needs. This is a common trade-off in mid-size SUVs with three rows.
The Toyota Grand Highlander and Sequoia offer considerably more cargo space behind the third row compared to the Highlander. This allows for more flexibility in carrying both passengers and cargo simultaneously. The Sequoia, being a full-size SUV, naturally provides the most generous cargo capacity even with all seats in use.
Are the third-row seats in these Toyota SUVs removable or foldable?
The third-row seats in the Toyota Highlander, Grand Highlander, and Sequoia are not designed to be easily removed. Instead, they are designed to be folded down to create a larger cargo area when additional passenger seating is not required. This allows for flexibility in configuring the interior to suit different needs.
The folding mechanism for the third-row seats varies slightly between models, but generally involves a lever or button that allows the seats to fold flat into the floor. This creates a seamless and expanded cargo space. Refer to the owner’s manual for specific instructions on folding and unfolding the third-row seats in your chosen model.
What safety features are standard or available for passengers in the third row of these Toyota SUVs?
Toyota prioritizes safety across all its vehicles, including for passengers in the third row of the Highlander, Grand Highlander, and Sequoia. Standard safety features typically include side curtain airbags that extend to the third row, providing head protection in the event of a collision. Additionally, all seating positions are equipped with seatbelts and headrests.
Advanced safety technologies, such as Toyota Safety Sense, are also often standard or available and contribute to overall occupant safety. These systems may include features like pre-collision warning, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control, which can help prevent accidents and protect passengers throughout the vehicle, including those in the third row.