When it comes to family-friendly vehicles, Toyota’s lineup of 3-row SUVs offers some of the best options on the market. Combining spacious interiors, advanced safety features, and dependable performance, these SUVs are designed to meet the needs of larger families or those who frequently carry passengers and cargo. This article explores Toyota’s 3-row SUV offerings, highlighting their key features, benefits, and what makes each model stand out.
1. Toyota Highlander
Overview: The Toyota Highlander is a versatile 3-row SUV that balances comfort, technology, and efficiency. It is a popular choice among families for its blend of spaciousness and advanced features.
Key Features:
- Seating: The Highlander comfortably seats up to eight passengers with an optional second-row bench seat, or seven with available captain’s chairs.
- Powertrain: Equipped with a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower, or an optional hybrid powertrain combining a 3.5-liter V6 with an electric motor for a total of 243 horsepower.
- Technology: Includes a 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Higher trims offer a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen and premium audio systems.
- Safety: Comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and more.
Pros:
- Smooth and comfortable ride.
- Strong safety features and a high reliability rating.
- Optional hybrid model for better fuel efficiency.
Cons:
- Third-row seating can be tight for adults.
- Limited cargo space behind the third row.
2. Toyota Sequoia
Overview: The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV that offers robust towing capabilities and an expansive interior, making it ideal for those who need maximum space and strength.
Key Features:
- Seating: Seats up to eight passengers with a spacious third row and ample legroom throughout.
- Powertrain: Powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine generating 381 horsepower, which provides excellent towing capacity.
- Technology: Features a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offer a larger screen and premium audio options.
- Safety: Equipped with Toyota Safety Sense-P, including features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control.
Pros:
- Generous cargo space and towing capacity.
- Robust engine performance.
- Roomy and comfortable interior.
Cons:
- Fuel economy is lower compared to some competitors.
- Outdated interior design and technology compared to newer rivals.
3. Toyota Land Cruiser
Overview: The Toyota Land Cruiser is a luxury full-size SUV known for its off-road capabilities and upscale features. While it’s larger and pricier, it provides a premium experience with exceptional performance.
Key Features:
- Seating: Seats up to eight passengers with high-quality leather upholstery and heated/ventilated seats.
- Powertrain: Equipped with a 5.7-liter V8 engine delivering 381 horsepower, paired with a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system.
- Technology: Includes a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offer advanced driver assistance features and premium audio systems.
- Safety: Comes with Toyota Safety Sense-P and additional features such as a surround-view camera system and front and rear parking sensors.
Pros:
- Exceptional off-road capabilities.
- Luxurious and well-appointed interior.
- Strong engine performance and reliability.
Cons:
- Higher price point.
- Lower fuel efficiency.
- Larger size may be cumbersome for city driving.
4. Toyota Venza
Overview: Though technically a mid-size crossover, the Toyota Venza deserves mention for those considering a 3-row SUV with a more compact footprint. It combines style and utility with hybrid efficiency.
Key Features:
- Seating: While the Venza typically seats five, it offers a spacious and upscale interior with ample legroom and cargo space.
- Powertrain: Features a hybrid powertrain combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower.
- Technology: Comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an optional panoramic sunroof.
- Safety: Includes Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 with features like adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and automatic high beams.
Pros:
- Stylish and fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain.
- High-quality interior materials and design.
- Advanced technology and safety features.
Cons:
- Limited third-row seating and cargo space compared to larger models.
- Less powerful engine compared to other Toyota 3-row SUVs.
Conclusion
Toyota’s 3-row SUVs cater to a range of needs, from the versatile Highlander to the rugged Sequoia and the luxurious Land Cruiser. Whether you’re looking for a practical family hauler, a powerful towing vehicle, or an off-road luxury SUV, Toyota offers a model to fit your lifestyle. Each SUV provides a unique blend of features and benefits, ensuring that there is a Toyota 3-row SUV for every type of driver.
Choosing the right model depends on your priorities, whether they be space, performance, technology, or off-road capability. With Toyota’s reputation for reliability and innovation, any of these SUVs will be a solid choice for expanding your family adventures.
