If you’re a family of five or more, finding an SUV that can fit three car seats can be a challenge. Here are the top picks that balance safety, space, and affordability.
Best SUVs for Three Car Seats
When it comes to finding the perfect SUV for families with multiple young children, space and accessibility are top priorities. As a parent, you want to ensure that your little ones are comfortable, safe, and happy during car rides. But let’s be real – fitting three car seats in a row can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best SUVs for three car seats, focusing on models that offer ample room, easy installation, and seamless access.
Spacious Interiors for Comfort
Imagine your little ones squirming around in their car seats, fighting for elbow room, and complaining about lack of leg space. It’s a nightmare, right? A spacious interior can make all the difference. Look for SUVs with wide seats, ample legroom, and sliding second-row seats to create a comfortable environment for your tiny passengers. Some models even offer adjustable seats, allowing you to customize the space according to your children’s needs. For instance, the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Highlander offer generous legroom, making them ideal for families with multiple car seats.
Easy Installation and Access
We’ve all been there – struggling to install a car seat, sweating, and muttering under our breath. It’s frustrating, especially when you have multiple seats to install. That’s why easy installation and access are essential features to consider. Look for SUVs with wide doors, low step-in heights, and convenient LATCH connectors. These features can save you time, energy, and sanity. The Chevrolet Traverse, for example, offers a hands-free power liftgate and smart slide second-row seats, making it a breeze to install and access car seats. With these features, you can focus on more important things – like getting your kids to their next adventure on time!
Top Safety Features for Families
When it comes to choosing an SUV for your family, safety is likely at the top of your priority list. After all, you want to ensure that your loved ones are well-protected in the event of an accident. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to navigate the various safety features available. That’s why we’ve taken a closer look at the top safety features that families should prioritize when buying an SUV.
Multiple Airbags and Crash Test Ratings
One of the most critical safety features in any vehicle is the presence of multiple airbags. These lifesaving devices can greatly reduce the risk of injury or death in the event of a collision. Look for an SUV with a comprehensive airbag system that includes front, side, and curtain airbags, as well as knee airbags for added protection. But airbags are just one piece of the puzzle. You should also examine a vehicle’s crash test ratings, which provide a clear indication of its ability to withstand the forces of a crash. Top-rated SUVs will typically have a 5-star overall safety rating from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Rearview Camera and Blind Spot Monitoring
Two other essential safety features that families should look for in an SUV are a rearview camera and blind spot monitoring. A rearview camera provides a clear view of what’s behind the vehicle, reducing the risk of accidents when reversing. This is especially important for families with young children, who may be more prone to darting out behind the vehicle. Blind spot monitoring, on the other hand, alerts the driver to vehicles in the blind spot, helping to prevent collisions when changing lanes. These features may seem like niceties, but they can make a significant difference in terms of safety on the road. By prioritizing SUVs with these features, you can have greater peace of mind when driving your family around.
SUV Models with Ample cargo Space
When it comes to SUVs for families with three car seats, cargo space is a crucial consideration. After all, who doesn’t need room for strollers, diaper bags, sports equipment, and all the other essentials that come with family life? The good news is that there are several SUV models that offer ample cargo space, making them perfect for families on-the-go.
Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander Capacity
The Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander are two popular SUVs that offer generous cargo space. The Pilot boasts a cargo capacity of 16.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and a whopping 83.9 cubic feet with both rows folded flat. The Highlander isn’t far behind, with 13.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 42.3 cubic feet behind the second row, and 83.7 cubic feet with both rows folded flat. These dimensions make them ideal for families who need to haul a lot of gear.
Subaru Ascent and Chevrolet Traverse Cargo Area
The Subaru Ascent and Chevrolet Traverse are two other SUVs that offer impressive cargo capacity. The Ascent has a cargo capacity of 17.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 47.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 86.5 cubic feet with both rows folded flat. The Traverse offers 23 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.8 cubic feet behind the second row, and a massive 98.2 cubic feet with both rows folded flat. With these SUVs, you’ll have more than enough room for all your family’s belongings, making them perfect for road trips, sports practices, and daily errands.
Key Considerations for Three Car Seats
When searching for the perfect SUV to accommodate three car seats, there are several key factors to consider beyond just the number of seats. As a parent, you want to ensure that your little ones are comfortable, safe, and happy during those long road trips. But what often gets overlooked are the intricacies of installing and using multiple car seats in an SUV. Let’s dive into the essential considerations to keep in mind.
Seat Width and Legroom for Comfort
Imagine being stuck in a confined space for hours on end – not exactly the most enjoyable experience, right? The same applies to our little ones. Insufficient seat width and legroom can lead to crankiness, discomfort, and even affect their ability to nap. When selecting an SUV, look for models with generous seat width and legroom to ensure your children have ample space to relax and stretch out. A good rule of thumb is to opt for SUVs with at least 36 inches of legroom in the second row and 32 inches in the third row. This will provide a comfortable fit for most car seats and allow your kids to sit comfortably.
ISOFIX Mounts and LATCH Compatibility
Installing car seats can be a daunting task, especially when dealing with multiple seats. That’s why ISOFIX mounts and LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) compatibility are crucial features to look for in an SUV. These systems simplify the installation process, reducing the risk of incorrect installation and providing an additional layer of safety. Be sure to check that the SUV you’re considering has ISOFIX mounts and is compatible with your car seats’ LATCH system. This will save you time and hassle, while also giving you peace of mind knowing your little ones are safely secured.
Budget-Friendly Options for Families
Finding an SUV that fits your family’s needs and budget can be a daunting task. After all, you want to ensure your loved ones are safe and comfortable on the road without breaking the bank. The good news is that you don’t have to sacrifice safety or space for affordability. In this section, we’ll explore budget-friendly options that tick all the right boxes.
Affordable SUVs with Good Safety Ratings
When it comes to safety, you can’t put a price on peace of mind. Fortunately, many affordable SUVs offer impressive safety features without the hefty price tag. Take the Hyundai Tucson, for instance, which boasts a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and starts at around $24,000. The Ford Escape is another option, with a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a starting price of under $26,000.
Lower-Priced Models with Spacious Interiors
Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you have to compromise on space. Many budget-friendly SUVs offer surprisingly spacious interiors, perfect for families with multiple car seats or plenty of gear. The Kia Sorento, for example, has a generous cargo area of up to 73 cubic feet and starts at around $27,000. The Nissan Rogue is another great option, with up to 70 cubic feet of cargo space and a starting price of under $26,000. With these models, you can enjoy the roominess you need without breaking the bank.