In the search for environmentally friendly vehicles that also seat a large number of passengers, several auto manufacturers have created Crossovers with third row seating. Below is a list of 4 vehicles that meet this criteria.
The first vehicle being reviewed here is also the least expensive of the group, the Dodge Journey and it starts at just under $21K for the SE model. It comes as standard with a 4 cylinder engine and a 4 speed automatic transmission giving you 19-25 MPG. Interior features include a 6 speaker multimedia system that plays CDs, DVDs and MP3 disks with voice commands and an audio input for your MP3 player. The Journey has keyless entry and power windows as standard as well as tire pressure monitoring which is a nice safety addition for a vehicle targeted for family use.
Chevrolet Traverse
The second of the group of crossovers with third row seating that we are reviewing is actually the most expensive of the group, the Chevrolet Traverse starts just under $30K and for the extra money you get a V6 engine and a 6 speed automatic transmission over the Journey although that does cost you a little in economy. Interior features are similar to that of the Journey, although it does add OnStar and XM radio. Convenience features on the Traverse match those supplied by the Journey, but adds power adjustable mirrors to the mix.
The Toyota Highlander is the next in this group, and models start at just over $27K. The lower cost drops us back to a 4 cylinder engine, although larger in capacity than the one in the Journey, but remains the 6 speed transmission to give between 20 and 25 MPG. As is standard for this group it comes equipped with a 6 speaker entertainment system, keyless entry and power windows. The third row seating in the Highlander also features a 50/50 split so you do not need to make the choice between storage space and seating if all of the third row is not required.
The final entry in the group is the Toyota RAV4, and was listed in a recent survey as having the highest sales for the previous month of all crossovers with third row seating in the US market. The RAV4 starts at just under $22K almost matching the Journey for the lowest priced vehicle in the group.
It also matches the Journey with its 4 cylinder engine and 4 speed transmission but has it beat on fuel efficiency offering 22-28 MPG. Once again 6 speaker entertainment system, keyless entry and power windows are standard, but the 50/50 split third row seating offered on the Highlander is now a cost extra option.
Overall, there are some excellent choices if you are deciding between crossovers with third row seating, and with similar equipment, greater fuel efficiency and legendary Toyota reliability you can see why the RAV4 is the sales leader of the group.