Actually, whether it is a 3-row SUV or a Minivan, please remember one golden rule when choosing a car: You must take the whole family with you for the test drive!
Regarding cars, my requirements for a family vehicle were initially very simple: economic and practical.
It was not until my second child was born, and my parents came to stay with us, that I realized a standard 5-seater was becoming cramped. As the kids grew older, we started planning more road trips and camping excursions. That is when I discovered that a true "family hauler" significantly impacts your quality of life.
My original plan was to buy a Minivan. However, with the explosion of 3-row electric SUVs hitting the US market in late 2025, I hesitated.
These large electric SUVs have undeniable advantages. The space is finally sufficient, and the third-row experience is no longer a penalty box. The Hyundai Ioniq 9, with its massive wheelbase, offers a "lounge-like" experience for rear passengers. The Kia EV9 uses its boxy design to ensure that even a 6-foot adult can sit comfortably in the third row. The Rivian R1S, with its updated layout, balances rugged utility with family comfort perfectly.
For a family car, ride comfort is non-negotiable. When features like "Zero Gravity Seats" and massaging functions became standard in this segment, who wouldn't want them?
The Volvo EX90 brings Scandinavian serenity to the cabin, utilizing wool blend seats that feel like a high-end living room. The Lucid Gravity takes it a step further with its "Sanctuary Mode" and incredible suspension tuning that smooths out every bump.
When I talk to other parents, everyone shares a common concern: Safety and Range Anxiety.
Safety is where SUVs often win hearts. The Volvo EX90's LiDAR system creates an invisible shield around the car, scanning for hazards hundreds of yards away. The Rivian R1S has proven its structural integrity in the toughest conditions.
As for range, the fear is largely gone. With most of these models offering over 300 miles per charge and access to the Supercharger network, a trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas or New York to Washington D.C. requires zero stress.
Finally, here are the five 3-row electric SUVs that are dominating the conversation right now. Each one is a game-changer.
↘ Kia EV9
↘ Rivian R1S
↘ Hyundai Ioniq 9
↘ Volvo EX90
↘ Lucid Gravity
