I essentially regretted my minivan almost immediately. Sure it’s super convenient but it’s not sexy. So, I surveyed 900+ moms to ask them what they decided to buy instead of a minivan. The results were narrowed down to give you lots of minivan alternatives.
Table of Contents
Minivan Alternatives aka 3rd Row SUVs
Here’s what they either bought instead or traded from a minivan into.
Although many of the moms mentioned the Nissan Rogue, I only included vehicles with a third row or at least an optional third row. I figure if you need a car the size of a minivan it indicates you need more than five seats. All the cars on this list have 7 or 8 seats. These vehicle suggestions are in no particular order other than the first two minivan alternatives. The top two suggestions were each mentioned more than the others.
Honda Pilot
It’s unbelievably comfortable, the seats reconfigure easily. Plus, it’s loaded with a ton of features.
For moms with full hands, there is a hands-free power tailgate. It’s got all the tech most would want like a touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter 280-horsepower V6 engine combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission and it is available in all-wheel-drive. Most importantly the Honda Sensing safety and driver-assistance features are standard on all trim levels and include a collision mitigation system with forward-collision warning, road departure mitigation, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Read our 2025 Honda Pilot TrailSport review.
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is well-appointed SUV. They have quite a few versions including a hybrid. Here’s a look at the XSE version.
Toyota 2021 Highlander XSE
3.5L V6 engine; 8 speed automatic
Sport-tuned suspension and AWD dynamic torque vectoring
Bold styling with mesh front grill, twin-tip exhaust, and 20″ wheels, and 2-tone red and black seats.
3-door smart key system with push-button start
Power liftgate
8-inch touch screen with JBL speakers
Seating for 7; SofTex-Trimmed seats, heated power front seats • 3-zone climate control
Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 2.5+), a suite of active safety systems.
MSRP starting at: $43,355 MSR as Equipped: $46,526 MPG: city 20/hwy 27/ combine 23
Fun Fact: You can fit two kayaks on top of the Highlander.
Volvo XC 90
It was no surprise to me that the Volvo XC90 made the list. If I could afford it, this is the minivan alternative I would buy. I got to test it one year at the Texas Truck Rodeo and it was fabulous.
One mom said, “I feel so secure when my teens ask to take the car out after dark. It’s literally like a tank!”.
I like the way the seats are built they kind of hug your body. It seats 7, is AWD, and it’s a hybrid.
This is an expensive SUV and the starting price is $64,750 MSRP.
Volkswagen Atlas: Best Minivan Alternative if you need a lot of space
TheVolkswagen Atlas SUV is another one of my personal favorites. It has one of the most spacious third-rows available and can comfortably sit an adult. How do I know this? I was put back in the third row of an Atlas on a press trip once. I was irritated for a minute and then realized it was no big deal because of all of the space.
Base-Price Range: $32,575-$48,245
Available in a 3.6L V-6 (276 hp, 266 lb-ft)
Fuel Economy 16 city/ 23 hwy/ 21 combined
Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds
Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorrento is laid out well and the price is more reasonable than some of the others. We spent a week in this vehicle a few years ago and we enjoyed it thoroughly. It’s extremely comfortable and well-outfitted if you get the higher trim levels. These start out at $29,390 but the base model is too basic for almost everyone. You will definitely have to go up at least one trim level.
Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent is the largest SUV Subaru makes so if you need that third row and want a Subaru, it’s this one. It only comes only in AWD which is handy.
The Ascent has comfortable seats, it’s good-looking, and you can get a Harman Kardon stereo in it.
It provides a smooth ride, yet precise handling. The third-row seat is tight.
Mazda’s three-row SUV has been put onto the Top Safety Pick + list meaning it’s super safe. It is outfitted with Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE system which includes advanced smart city brake support with pedestrian detection, smart brake assist with collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist, high-beam headlight assist, an adaptive front lighting system, and traffic-sign recognition.
One mom said it was, “Sporty and zippy with three rows of seating.”
Hyundai is just knocking it out of the park lately and that includes the Palisade. It’s one of the more reasonably priced SUVs which makes it automatically a favorite among Moms. Both the second row and third row have optional captain chairs and are operated at the push of a button and fold flat. Check current Palisade options and prices.
One of the most popular SUVS of all time is the Jeep Grand Cherokee so it’s no surprise that so many moms recommended it now that it’s got a third-row option bumping it up to six seats. It’s got 4wd off-road capability in a nicer-looking package.
Prices start out at $36,995
Towing capacity is6,200 lbs
19 city and 26 highway MPG.
Nissan Pathfinder
My own mother loved her Nissan so I was not surprised to see this one make the list. The Pathfinder is roomy and the second row was designed with some seat-folding tech that makes accessing the third row a little easier.
The Explorer is basically the best-selling SUV of all time. (Even I used to have one of these.) The new versions are built on an all-new rear-wheel-drive flexible architecture for an improved ride, handling, and capability. The standard engine is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder unit producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Again if you get a new one there’s better safety on them, the Co-Pilot360. This includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, post-impact braking, and a rearview camera with a lens washer. The lens washer is a lifesaver when driving through dirty snow.
Moms love the push buttons for 2nd and 3rd row that bring them up or down. Plus, the 3rd row stows completely flat. When the 2nd row folds it is level with the 3rd row to make it all flat!
Kia Telluride is built in America and it has 3rd-row seats that go flat. The middle seats can be a bench or captain’s chairs. It’s a gorgeous car and very affordable. There’s been a waitlist to get one of these for a while now thanks to the value: tons of features versus the price.
Moms seem to really appreciate the Telluride price ($33,415-$43,715) and the features.
One mom with teens said, “Never would have thought to be driving a Cadillac, but it has everything we need. Space for future college trips, plenty of room with a movable reclining second row. And USABLE with ample leg-room third row.”
The XT6 is a 3-row luxury SUV with the option of having captain’s chairs on the second row. It’s so safe it’s on the Top Safety Pick+ list. The XT6 has a distinct look thanks to its great big grille flanked and headlights of your choice. Safety features include forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, front, and rear park assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera with remote wash. The price starts out at $48,595.
GMC Acadia
The GMC Acadia is the luxury version of the Chevrolet Traverse, in that they both share GM’s C1 platform. It’s fairly spacious and great for hauling cargo thanks to the fold-flat second-row seats. It can go from zero to 60 mph in 7 seconds making it ideal for those moms with a lead foot. It has a 3rd-row option available.
Lincoln Navigator has an optional 30-way adjustable, massaging front seat which several moms highly recommended. Moms also love being able to use the phones as keys. The new models have more standard safety tech, a 20-speaker Revel audio system, and a powered 3rd now.
I almost didn’t include this one because it’s what my ex drives and he is a douche bag, but since most people that drive them are not, here ya go! Many moms recommended the Ford Expedition and these are the reasons why. The third row is easy to deal with thanks to a power push button. It has a remote start, a massive sunroof, removable seats, and lots of extra space.
Ford Expedition has a powerful twin-turbo EcoBoost V-6 and an easy-to-use infotainment interface.
Prices start at $49,625
Towing capacity of 5,900 to 6,000 lbs
Acura MDX
The Acura MDX starts out at $47,200 and as a 3rd row. It can seat six and if needed seat seven, all the rows go flat as well. It has a large back area for those that need a lot of space. It has a V6 engine and gets decent gas mileage, 19 city / 26 highway.
Dodge Durango: Best Minivan Alternative if You’d Rather be in a Sports Car
The Dodge Durango is a fantastic choice if you want a powerful SUV. It comes in several trim levels including two with intense power. The middle row is your choice of a bench or captain chairs. I recommend getting the captain chairs.
I recently got time in the new 2021 Hellcat version. Here it is:
The 2021 Durango SRT Hellcat
The Durango SRT Hellcat features the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® V-8 with 710 horsepower and 645 lb.-ft. of torque.
0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds
NHRA-certified quarter-mile time of 11.5 seconds • Top speed of 180 mph
2021 Durango has an updated aggressive exterior, new front fascia, LED low/high headlamps, signature LED daytime running lamps (DRL), grille, and rear spoiler.
Performance-inspired interior features a new driver-oriented cockpit, including a new instrument panel, wrapped and accent-stitched mid bolster and console, upgraded door panels, and the all-new five-times-faster Uconnect 5, with the largest-in-class 10.1-inch touchscreen.
MPG: 12 city/17 hwy/13 combine
Fun Fact: No SUV in the world can tow more or carry more with a faster quarter-mile time than the Durango SRT Hellcat.
MSRP starting at: $80,995 – MSR as pictured: $90,315. The other versions are much, much cheaper. This is the most expensive one they make.
Volkswagen Tiguan
The newer Volkswagen Tiguans have a FWD version with a 3rd row. This is perfect for families that occasionally need a third row. The 3rd row is tight and basically just for kids, but it’s better than not having one when you need one!
23 mpg in city driving, 30 mpg on the highway -great lumbar support
Touchscreen with Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™
8” digital cockpit where you can see car status, navigation, driving data, phone information, driver assistance features, and more.
Fender Premium Audio system
4 drive modes: Normal, Sport, Eco, and Individual
Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance) Front Assist (Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring), Active Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop & Go, Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System), and Emergency Assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency).
Budget-Friendly Minivan Alternatives Under $35,000
Vehicle
Starting Price
Key Features
Best For
Volkswagen Tiguan
$26,000
Best fuel economy, 8″ digital cockpit, Travel Assist
Families who occasionally need a 3rd row
Kia Sorento
$29,390
Comfortable, well-outfitted higher trims, great value
Budget-conscious families wanting quality
Volkswagen Atlas
$32,575
Most spacious 3rd row, adult-friendly back seats
Families needing maximum interior space
Subaru Ascent
$33,345
Standard AWD, Harman Kardon stereo option, smooth ride
Families in snowy climates
Nissan Pathfinder
$33,075
Roomy, easy 3rd-row access, 6,000 lb towing
Families who need towing capability
Ford Explorer
$33,470
Power 3rd row buttons, flat-folding seats, Co-Pilot360
What is the most affordable 3-row SUV alternative to a minivan?
The Volkswagen Tiguan is the most budget-friendly option with a starting price around $26,000. It offers a third row that works well for occasional use, especially for children. The Kia Sorento is another excellent value starting at $29,390, offering more standard features and a more spacious third row for slightly more money.
Which minivan alternative has the most spacious third row for adults?
The Volkswagen Atlas is renowned for having one of the most spacious third rows among midsize SUVs, comfortably accommodating adults even on longer trips. The Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator also offer exceptionally roomy third rows since they are full-size SUVs, but they come with a higher price tag and larger overall footprint.
Are there any hybrid or electric options among these minivan alternatives?
Yes, several models offer hybrid powertrains including the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, Volvo XC90 Hybrid, Ford Explorer Hybrid, and Kia Sorento Hybrid. The Kia Sorento Hybrid delivers impressive fuel economy with 37 combined MPG. These hybrid options provide better fuel efficiency while maintaining the space and utility families need, though they typically cost more upfront than their gas-only counterparts.
Which 3-row SUV is best for families who need serious towing capacity?
The Ford Expedition leads the pack with up to 9,300 pounds of towing capacity, making it ideal for hauling boats, campers, or large trailers. The Lincoln Navigator and Dodge Durango also excel with 8,700-pound capacities each. If you need substantial towing but want to stay under $40,000, the Dodge Durango base models offer exceptional value.
How does third-row access compare between these SUVs and minivans?
While minivans still reign supreme for third-row access with sliding doors, many modern SUVs have significantly improved. Models like the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade feature power-folding second-row seats activated by push buttons. The Nissan Pathfinder has innovative seat-folding technology that makes third-row access easier. Captain’s chairs in the second row, available in most of these SUVs, also create a center aisle for easier access compared to bench seats.
Which luxury minivan alternative offers the best value for the money?
The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade consistently rank as the best value luxury alternatives, offering premium features, materials, and technology at prices starting around $33,000 to $34,000. Both have earned numerous awards for delivering near-luxury experiences at mainstream prices. They include standard features that cost thousands more in competing vehicles and come with excellent warranties.
What safety features should I look for when choosing a minivan alternative?
Look for SUVs with comprehensive driver-assistance suites like Honda Sensing, Toyota Safety Sense, or Ford Co-Pilot360. Key features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. The Mazda CX-9, Cadillac XT6, and Volvo XC90 have earned Top Safety Pick+ ratings from the IIHS, representing the highest safety standards.
Can I fit three car seats across the second row in these SUVs?
This varies by model, but generally, it’s challenging to fit three car seats across in most midsize SUVs. The Volkswagen Atlas, Subaru Ascent, and Ford Expedition have wider second rows that better accommodate three-across seating. If you need to install three car seats, consider models with captain’s chairs in the second row and a third row that can accommodate a car seat, or opt for vehicles specifically designed with wider bench seats.
Which minivan alternative is best for off-road or winter driving?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers the best off-road capability with its legendary 4WD system and trail-rated options. The Subaru Ascent comes standard with all-wheel drive and Subaru’s renowned AWD technology, making it excellent for winter conditions. The Volvo XC90 also provides confident all-weather driving with its AWD system and advanced traction control, plus it feels especially stable and secure in challenging conditions.
How does cargo space in these SUVs compare to minivans?
Most minivans still offer more total cargo volume than midsize SUVs, especially behind the first row. However, full-size SUVs like the Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator provide comparable or even greater cargo space. The key difference is configuration flexibility—minivans typically have Stow ‘n Go seating or completely removable seats, while SUVs usually have folding seats that don’t quite create the same flat floor. The Volkswagen Atlas and Hyundai Palisade offer some of the best cargo space among midsize SUVs with flat-folding seats.
So there you have it, all our favorite minivan alternatives. Have you bought an SUV instead of a minivan? If so tell us what you bought and why in the comments below.
