The electric vehicle market is rapidly expanding, offering more options for families seeking spacious and versatile transportation. For 2025, consumers looking for three-row electric SUVs and vans will find an increasing number of compelling choices that blend comfort, long-range capabilities, and advanced technology.
Navigating the Growing Electric SUV Market
Identifying the best electric vehicles with three-row seating can be a challenge, given the evolving landscape. InsideEVs editors, with extensive experience testing the latest electric models, have compiled a list of top contenders for 2025. This guide focuses on vehicles that excel in providing ample space for passengers and cargo, robust range for road trips, and innovative features.
When evaluating these electric SUVs and vans, factors such as price, battery size, charging speed, and overall performance are considered. Incentives, including federal tax credits and regional programs, can significantly impact the final purchase price, making electric vehicles more accessible. The federal EV tax credit of up to $7,500 can be claimed as an upfront discount, and leased EVs may also benefit from manufacturer-passed-on savings.
Best All-Around: Hyundai Ioniq 9
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 emerges as a strong contender for families prioritizing space and range. Built on the same E-GMP platform as the Kia EV9, it offers distinct advantages, particularly in its battery capacity and charging technology.
Starting at $60,555, the Ioniq 9 features a standard 110.3 kWh battery pack. The rear-wheel-drive model boasts an impressive EPA-estimated range of 335 miles. While the base model’s 215 horsepower may be modest for its size, higher-performance options are available. The SE version, priced at $64,365, offers 303 horsepower with dual motors and a range of 320 miles. The top-tier Limited trim, at $72,850, delivers 422 horsepower and a 311-mile range, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in a swift 4.9 seconds.
A key advantage of the Ioniq 9 is its inclusion of a North American Charging System (NACS) port and its 800-volt E-GMP architecture. This allows for exceptionally fast charging, with the battery pack reaching peak rates of approximately 235 kW. The vehicle can achieve a 10% to 80% charge in just 24 minutes, thanks to its rapid and consistent charging curve. This combination of long-range capability, fast charging, and seating for up to seven people makes the Ioniq 9 a highly competent electric SUV.
Best Budget 3-Row: Kia EV9
The Kia EV9 stands out as the most affordable electric vehicle offering practical third-row seating. While the Mercedes EQB is less expensive, its third row is generally more suited for children. The 2026 EV9 Light RWD begins at $56,495, with potential manufacturer incentives bringing the effective price closer to $50,000.
Even in its base configuration, the EV9 is well-equipped. Standard features include a power liftgate, tri-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. The vehicle also comes with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and automatic lane changes.
Similar to the Ioniq 9, the EV9’s base model produces 215 horsepower, which is adequate for its substantial weight. An all-wheel-drive option is available, adding approximately $9,000 to the price.
The EV9 benefits from an advanced 800-volt battery system with efficient thermal management, enabling a rapid 10% to 80% charge in just 24 minutes. The Light Long Range variant achieves an impressive efficiency of 3.0 miles per kilowatt-hour, a notable feat for a vehicle of its size. All 2026 EV9 models are equipped with an NACS port.
Best Performance 3-Row: Lucid Gravity
The Lucid Gravity is engineered for exceptional performance, efficiency, and range, setting a high bar for premium electric SUVs. Available in two trims, the Grand Touring and the Dream Edition, the Gravity aims to deliver an unparalleled driving experience.
The Grand Touring 3-row variant starts at $98,550 and features a substantial 123 kWh battery pack, providing an EPA-estimated range of 450 miles. This makes it one of the longest-range electric SUVs available.
Performance is a key highlight, with the Gravity’s dual-motor setup producing a formidable 828 horsepower. This enables a breathtaking 0-to-60 mph acceleration time of 3.4 seconds. Equipped with standard adjustable air suspension, the Gravity offers agile handling that defies its large SUV stature. Senior editor Tim Levin of InsideEVs noted, “the Gravity ‘felt far more agile and surefooted than a big SUV has any right to.'”
Beyond its performance, the Gravity excels in practicality. In its three-row configuration, it offers up to 115 cubic feet of cargo space, surpassing competitors like the Rivian R1S. Despite weighing 6,048 pounds, it is significantly lighter than some rivals, such as the 9,134-pound Cadillac Escalade IQ. The Gravity’s overall balance of power, range, handling, and cargo capacity positions it as a leader in the premium three-row electric SUV segment.
Best Premium 3-Row: Rivian R1S
The Rivian R1S, a full-size electric SUV, has seen significant improvements since its introduction in 2022, though its price has also increased. The current entry-level R1S starts at $78,885, featuring a smaller battery and a dual-motor configuration compared to earlier models.
However, the 2025 and 2026 model years benefit from Rivian’s Gen 2 platform. This updated architecture includes enhanced autonomous driving capabilities, such as hands-free highway driving and automated lane changes through its Enhanced Highway Assist system. The platform also incorporates upgraded cameras for improved visibility.
The base R1S is equipped with a 92.5 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery, providing an estimated range of 258 miles with standard all-season tires. This model is capable of accepting up to 220 kilowatts via a DC fast charger and includes an NACS charge port.
Best 3-Row Van: Volkswagen ID. Buzz
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz brings a unique blend of retro design and modern electric innovation, establishing itself as the sole electric minivan available in the United States. Its distinctive styling, including optional two-tone paint, makes it a standout choice.
The ID. Buzz Pro S is priced starting at $61,545. The rear-wheel-drive version features a 282-horsepower motor and an 86 kWh usable battery pack, offering an EPA-rated range of 234 miles. An all-wheel-drive variant is also available, producing 335 horsepower and achieving an estimated range of 231 miles.
Standard features on the ID. Buzz Pro S include power-operated side doors, Park Assist Plus, IQ.Drive (adaptive cruise control and lane centering), wireless Apple CarPlay, and front seats with ventilation and massage functions.
The ID. Buzz supports a peak DC fast charging rate of 200 kilowatts. Volkswagen states that the electric van can charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 26 minutes, a respectable time for a 400V system. Buyers also receive 500 kWh of complimentary charging on Electrify America, along with a three-year trial of the network’s discounted ‘Plus’ plan.
Best Used 3-Row: Tesla Model X
The Tesla Model X, first introduced in 2015, remains Tesla’s most spacious offering with three-row seating options (5, 6, or 7 seats). Its distinctive Falcon Wing doors provide convenient access to the third row.
Given its long market presence, a significant number of used Model X vehicles are available. Online listings show numerous examples priced under $25,000. However, potential buyers should be aware of reliability concerns, including premature wear of half-shafts and issues with the door hinge mechanisms.
Tesla offers certified pre-owned Model X vehicles for under $35,000, which include an extended warranty to mitigate repair cost risks. Newer models, such as the pre-refresh 2020 Long Range variants, can be found around the $30,000 mark, offering 534 horsepower and an estimated range of 325 miles. The 2020 Performance models, starting slightly above $35,000, boast 778 horsepower and a 2.9-second 0-to-60 mph time.