Need an electric SUV with room for the whole crew? You’re not alone. In 2025, more drivers than ever are asking one question: “Which electric SUV actually fits my family?” Not just on paper — for real.
Third-row EVs are finally rolling in, but they’re not all created equal. Some have legit space. Some cram in a tiny seat just to check the box. Others look good until you load them up with kids, bags, and a cooler — then watch your range tank.
So we did the legwork. Here’s the real deal on the best 3-row electric SUVs you can buy in 2025, and a few 2026 models worth waiting for.
Why This Matters
Three-row SUVs used to be gas-guzzlers. Big, heavy, thirsty. But families needed the space — so they lived with it.
Now? With EVs offering low running costs and instant torque, a roomy electric SUV should be the ideal upgrade.
But not every automaker has nailed it. Some EVs add a third row that’s barely usable. Others sacrifice range when loaded. And charging speed can make or break your road trip sanity.
This guide breaks down what actually works — space, cargo, charging, range, and value — for families, road-trippers, and drivers who need more than five seats.
We considered:
- How usable the third row actually is
- Cargo space behind that row
- Real-world range with passengers
- Charging speeds on road trips
- Interior comfort and flexibility
- Ownership costs and incentives
1. 2025 Kia EV9
The One Everyone’s Talking About — and for Good Reason
- Range: 230 to 304 miles (RWD Long Range)
- Charging: 10–80% in ~24 minutes (800V fast charging)
- Seating: Up to 7 (available 2nd-row captain’s chairs)
- Cargo (behind 3rd row): 20.2 cu ft
- Price: Starts ~$56,000 before incentives
What we like: This is the first 3-row EV that doesn’t feel like a compromise. Full-size SUV presence, modern looks, and legit third-row space. Adults can actually sit back there. The flat floor helps, and the cabin is wide enough that three across in the second row isn’t a stretch. The 12.3-inch dual screens are easy to use, and the materials feel upscale.
What to watch: Base Light RWD trim is affordable but has a shorter range. Dual-motor AWD models (GT-Line) are quicker but more expensive. Real-world range with seven passengers and luggage? Expect closer to 220–250 miles, especially if you’re using climate control and hitting highway speeds.
Verdict: If you need a real 3-row electric family hauler right now, this is it. The EV9 is the new benchmark.
2. 2025 Rivian R1S
For Adventure-Focused Families Who Hate Minivans
- Range: 260 to 400+ miles (Standard, Large, Max battery options)
- Charging: Up to 220 kW
- Seating: 7
- Cargo (behind 3rd row): 17.6 cu ft
- Price: From $74,900
What we like: The R1S is rugged, quick, and built for real off-road use. It has air suspension, adjustable ride height, and optional quad-motor AWD. Inside? Spacious and clean, with premium materials and a third row that doesn’t feel like a bolt-on. Camping mode, built-in flashlight, and hidden gear tunnel scream utility.
What to watch: It’s pricey. The Max Pack adds range — but also pushes the price close to $90K. Also, Rivian’s charging network is expanding, but it’s still small compared to Tesla or Electrify America. Software updates are improving but still less mature than Tesla’s.
Verdict: Not the best pick for budget-conscious families, but for those who want luxury, capability, and third-row seating in one EV — it delivers.
3. 2025 Tesla Model X
Still the Fastest — But Showing Its Age
- Range: 335 miles (Long Range)
- Charging: Up to 250 kW (Supercharger access)
- Seating: 6 or 7
- Cargo (behind 3rd row): ~12.6 cu ft
- Price: Starts ~$79,990
What we like: Acceleration is insane. Autopilot tech is polished. Access to Tesla’s Supercharger network is still a big advantage. Third row is small, but works for kids. The second-row captain’s chairs are stylish and comfortable. Frunk adds a bit more storage up front.
What to watch: It’s expensive. The third row is cramped for teens or adults. And the gullwing-style doors (Falcon Wings) look cool but aren’t always practical in tight garages. Interior styling is minimalist to a fault — not everyone loves the yoke steering.
Verdict: If you’re in a Tesla ecosystem already and want a tech-forward SUV with three rows, the Model X still holds up. But you’re paying more for speed and style than actual utility.
4. 2025 VinFast VF 9
Wildcard Entry from Vietnam
- Range: Up to 330 miles
- Charging: 10–70% in ~30 minutes
- Seating: 6 or 7
- Cargo (behind 3rd row): ~15.0 cu ft
- Price: $59,000–$69,000
What we like: The VF 9 is surprisingly well-equipped. It offers a massive cabin, panoramic roof, advanced driver assist, and sharp styling. Vietnamese automaker VinFast has made big moves in the U.S. and is aiming for affordability. Leather seating, built-in massage, and a heads-up display show promise.
What to watch: Unproven resale value. Charging speed is slower than rivals. Mixed reviews on infotainment and fit-and-finish. The company is still new to the U.S. market, and dealer support is growing. Battery leasing programs have created confusion for some buyers.
Verdict: Interesting option for buyers who want something different — but proceed with caution if you’re planning to keep it long-term or resale matters.
5. 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 (Coming Soon)
Worth Waiting For? Very Likely.
- Expected Range: 300+ miles
- Charging: Likely 800V fast charging (like EV6 and EV9)
- Seating: Likely 6 or 7
- ETA: Late 2025 or early 2026
- Price: Estimated ~$55,000–$65,000
Why it matters: Built on the same E-GMP platform as the EV9 but positioned differently. Expect sleek design, smart interior packaging, and efficient powertrains. Hyundai’s EVs have strong real-world range and charging performance. Expect bold design language, lots of tech, and an interior with clever storage solutions.
Verdict: If you don’t need a 3-row SUV today, this could be worth the wait. Hyundai knows how to build high-value EVs — and this one could undercut the EV9 in price or features.
6. 2026 Toyota bZ Large SUV (In Development)
Toyota’s 3-Row EV Flagship Is Finally Coming
- Expected Range: ~250–300 miles
- Seating: 7
- Charging: Unknown
- ETA: 2026
- Platform: Joint venture with Subaru
Toyota’s EV strategy has been slow, but that’s changing. A full-size 3-row electric SUV is on the way, and they’re aiming for range, safety, and long-term reliability — no surprise there. Not much else is confirmed, but it’s coming.
Expect an ultra-reliable powertrain, simplified user experience, and a competitive price to undercut luxury rivals.
What We Think
Right now, your best bet is the Kia EV9. It checks every box: real space, solid range, fast charging, good pricing, and availability. It doesn’t just look like a three-row SUV — it acts like one. And you can get one this year.
The Rivian R1S is a killer adventure vehicle, but it’s expensive. Great for outdoorsy families with the budget to match.
The Tesla Model X still wins on speed and tech, but it’s not as family-focused or practical for the money. The EV9 offers 90% of the usability for 70% of the cost.
VinFast’s VF 9 is the wildcard. Looks good on paper. Still needs to prove itself.
The Ioniq 9 and Toyota’s upcoming model? If you’re not in a hurry, they could be worth waiting for. But we’d watch range, price, and space closely.
Bottom line: don’t just look at how many seats it claims to have. Check the real legroom. Test that charging speed. Load up the family and see what kind of range drop you actually get.
And as always — we’ll keep driving them, testing them, and telling you what the ads leave out. Stay tuned to BidForAutos.com for honest reviews, detailed comparisons, and real-world EV advice that cuts through the noise.
