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Shopping cars within 250 mi of your nearest EchoPark.
14001 Karlov Ave
Crestwood, IL 60445
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Published October 01, 2026
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The best SUV for a family balances real third-row space, strong safety ratings, and manageable running costs. That's why models like the Toyota Highlander, Kia Telluride, Honda Pilot, and Chevrolet Traverse are worth a close look on the used market. These SUVs seat six to eight people and keep usable cargo room even with the third row up.
The right choice depends on how often you'll use that third row, how much cargo space you want to keep, and whether gas mileage or towing matters more to you.
Three-row models generally cost more than two-row SUVs of the same size, so seating comes down to budget, too. This guide breaks down used 3-row and 7-seater options by size, budget, and use, so you can narrow the search before you start browsing. It also covers what to look for at each price point and how to buy with confidence, since families tend to keep an SUV for years.
The table below compares standout used 3-row family SUVs by seating, price range, and what makes each one worth a look.
| Model | Typical Used Price Range | Seating | Fuel Economy (combined) | Standout Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander | Mid-range | 7-8 | Strong for the class, hybrid available | Reliability and resale value |
| Kia Telluride | Mid to upper range | 7-8 | Average for the class | Interior space and standard features |
| Honda Pilot | Mid-range | 7-8 | Average for the class | Cabin room and easy third-row access |
| Chevrolet Traverse | Mid-range | 7-8 | Average for the class | Cargo space behind the third row |
| Kia Sorento | Lower to mid-range | 6-7 | Above average, hybrid available | Value in a smaller footprint |
| Toyota Sequoia | Upper range | 7-8 | Below average | Towing capacity and off-road trims |
It depends on how many people ride in the third row regularly and how much cargo room you need with all seats up. A midsize 3-row SUV like the Highlander or Pilot fits most families comfortably for daily use. A full-size SUV like the Sequoia makes more sense if you haul gear often, tow a trailer, or need adult-sized third-row seating.
Smaller 3-row crossovers like the Kia Sorento trade some interior room for better gas mileage and easier parking. Only need the third row sometimes, for carpools or visiting relatives? This size works well.
Midsize 3-row SUVs balance seating, cargo space, and price well, which makes them a good fit for many families.
The Toyota Highlander pairs a roomy second row with a third row that works for kids and smaller adults. Toyota's reliability reputation, backed by consistently strong ratings from Consumer Reports, makes it a popular used pick. Hybrid trims from this generation add real gas savings without giving up cargo room.
It fits families who want a dependable daily driver that can still handle road trips. Deciding between Toyota SUVs? Our Highlander vs. 4Runner guide compares the two.
The Kia Telluride has interior space that feels closer to a full-size SUV than a midsize one, with a flat-folding third row and a wide cargo area. It has earned strong marks from J.D. Power for initial quality. Standard tech across trims means even base models come well equipped.
It suits families who want three-row comfort without stepping up to full-size pricing.
The Honda Pilot has an easy-access third row and wide door openings, which makes it simple to load kids and gear into. Cargo space behind the third row is generous for the segment, and the cabin puts practicality over flash.
It works well for families who value function over features.
The Chevrolet Traverse offers generous cargo room behind the third row. That matters when you need seating and storage at the same time.
It fits buyers who lean more toward hauling capacity than off-road capability.
Need a third row sometimes but not every day? A smaller 3-row crossover can deliver better gas mileage and easier parking without giving up the option of extra seats.
The Kia Sorento fits a third row into a smaller footprint than most midsize competitors. That makes it easier to park and drive daily while keeping room for extra passengers. Hybrid trims improve gas mileage further, which helps offset the smaller third-row space.
It suits families who want SUV flexibility without midsize size and price.
Full-size SUVs make sense for families who need adult-comfortable third-row seating, maximum cargo room, or real towing strength for trailers, boats, or campers.
The Toyota Sequoia's truck-style body-on-frame build gives it higher towing capacity than car-based 3-row SUVs, along with parts built for heavier use. Gas mileage is the tradeoff, but families who tow regularly often find the capability worth it.
It fits buyers who split time between family duty and truck-like tasks.
Look for standard forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a rearview camera. These features cover common family driving moments, like highway merging and backing out of driveways with kids nearby. Many 3-row SUVs from 2020 and later include them as standard equipment, which widens your options without pushing you into a higher trim.
Check a specific vehicle's safety ratings from IIHS or NHTSA before buying. Ratings can vary by model year and configuration, so they tell you more than trim-level marketing alone. Third-row visibility and blind-spot coverage are worth checking in person, since these vary more between models than most other safety features.
Used 3-row SUV prices vary widely by model year, mileage, and trim. Smaller crossovers like the Sorento typically run less than full-size options like the Sequoia. Set a budget range before shopping instead of a single target price. That makes it easier to compare trims and model years without getting locked into one vehicle.
Financing terms and interest rates also shape what fits your monthly budget. Working within a budget? EchoPark can help before you shop. Get a trade-in offer on your current car to lower what you finance,1 or apply for financing online so you can shop by realistic payment range instead of sticker price alone.
EchoPark cars are listed with no-haggle transparent pricing that's typically up to $3,000 less than the competition.
Qualifying vehicles also pass through a 190-point quality inspection and road test before they're offered for sale. The inspection covers the road test itself, plus the exterior, interior, underhood, tires and wheels, brakes, and underbody and electrical systems.
Each listing includes a full vehicle history report, so you can see a vehicle's background before you visit.
When you find a family SUV that fits, your Experience Guide will walk you through a test drive and explain your options and costs upfront.
If a family SUV doesn't work out once you get it home, EchoPark's 7-day Happiness Guarantee lets you return it within 7 days or 250 miles, whichever comes first, for a refund of the purchase price.2
Start by browsing used 3-row SUVs to compare current inventory by model, mileage, and price, or visit a nearby EchoPark Experience Center to test drive a few options in person.
A midsize 3-row SUV like the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot works well for a family of five. The third row adds flexibility for extra passengers while the second row and cargo area stay comfortable for daily use.
Yes, a smaller 3-row crossover like the Kia Sorento can be worth it even for occasional use. It adds seating flexibility without the size and gas mileage tradeoffs of a full-size SUV. Families who rarely fill the third row often prefer this size for easier daily driving.
It depends on the model, model year, and mileage. Smaller crossovers generally cost less than full-size options with more towing capacity and cargo room. Set a budget range and check current inventory for a more accurate picture than a single average figure.
A crossover SUV, like the Kia Sorento, is built on a car-based platform and puts gas mileage and easy handling first. A full-size SUV, like the Toyota Sequoia, uses truck-style body-on-frame construction for higher towing capacity and durability. Full-size SUVs also typically offer more third-row space for adults.
The Toyota Highlander has a strong reliability track record according to Consumer Reports, and the Kia Telluride has earned high marks from J.D. Power for initial quality. Reliability can vary between generations, so check the data for the exact model year before buying.
Yes, you can test drive a family SUV at an EchoPark Experience Center before you buy. You can browse inventory and apply for financing online ahead of time, then finish the test drive and paperwork in store.
No, third-row comfort for adults varies a lot by model. Full-size SUVs like the Toyota Sequoia offer more legroom than smaller crossovers. If adult seating in the third row matters, sit in that row during your test drive instead of relying on published specs alone.
1 Offer is valid for 7 days or 500 miles, whichever comes first. Get an extra $500 when you sell your car to EchoPark within 48 hours of receiving your offer. Car must be in the same condition as when the offer was made.
2 Return the vehicle to EchoPark in the same condition within 7 days or 250 miles, whichever comes first, for a refund of the purchase price.
