Spacious Three-Row SUV Options to Look Out for When Shopping Used

October 13th, 2023 by

Red 2023 Chevy Traverse RS driving through a tunnel.

Three-row SUVs are the ultimate hauler, typically providing flexible cabin space that can be split between passengers and cargo. Plus, with ever-evolving infotainment technologies and driver assistance features, three-row SUVs become a triple threat of comfort, convenience, and capability. You are likely to find one of these triple hitters at your local used car dealership near Colonie, especially if you choose to shop with the DePaula Auto Group and one of our dedicated dealerships.

We understand the importance of finding a vehicle that hits the mark, and luckily, there are several fantastic options that knock it out of the park. From sleek and sophisticated to rugged and sporty, there are an assortment of fantastic, spacious, and well-equipped SUVs just waiting to drive it home. These used options are everything you could want without submitting to that new car price tag.

The Chevy Traverse

The Traverse was redesigned in 2018, saying goodbye to its older minivan-like appearance and saying hello to a new gym body that added beefy undertones without compromising on spacious luxury. To accompany its new looks, the 2018 received a more impressive drivetrain, swapping out a six-speed for a nine-speed and bulking up the V6’s output. Whether you choose a Traverse with front-wheel or all-wheel drive, you’ll be guaranteed great performance and a smooth ride.

Three rows provide ample seating and, depending on configuration, can seat up to eight occupants in total. Unlike some vehicles, the Traverse makes good on its promise of spacious comfort, with a back seat designed for adults and not exclusively for younger passengers. In the event that cargo hauling is on the agenda, both the rear row and the middle row fold down to open up the Traverse. The rear bench seat offers a power-folding perk, making stowing the row easy and quick. Its split bench feature even allows for customized cargo use, letting you split up cargo space usage.

Despite being a “used” model, the 2018 model comes well-equipped with features like heated outboard seating, power-adjustable seats with lumbar, a multi-zone climate control and even remote start. Features like heated seats and remote start are especially ideal for living in an area like Colonie, which can experience drastic weather, including snow. Warming up on a winter evening or pre-heating your vehicle can be exactly what you need to tackle New York winters. Other options, like Wi-Fi capability, are added as you move up model years, but for a pre-owned option that comes loaded and well-priced, we recommend checking out the 2018 or 2019 model years. Of course, as a Chevy, you will be hard-pressed to find one you don’t like.

White 2021 Chevy Suburban driving down a winding road.

The Chevy Suburban

Another Chevy that slides into the home plate is the Chevy Suburban, an SUV with cavernous space, loads of capability, and a long history of charm. The Suburban is an oldy but goody and has been linked to the Chevy name for some time now. This is another three-row SUV, but older models like the 2017 max out occupant capacity at seven with the third row or six if you opt for a more luxury Captain’s Chair option for select occupants. Choosing a model in the 2019 range will greatly increase occupancy, with select options providing roomy space for nine.

For cargo, the Suburban provides a pretty impressive amount of space, with the only downside involving the laborious removal of the rear row in order to capitalize on said space. Leaving the third row in doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some creative space-saving perks, though. With a few changes to model year and package options, Suburban drivers can opt for a cargo management system and other helpful upgrades. Despite the size, the Suburban drives small, which is a major bonus when living in such a high-population area like Colonie. Enjoying the roomy drive without feeling like you are steering a barge through crowded streets is something a New Yorker can definitely appreciate.

The Suburban can easily go from lean and mean to luxury comfort, depending on the trim option. A plain but sturdy interior gets replaced with opulent options as you move up the trim rungs, but no matter what, you will enjoy loads of space and the Suburban’s brute strength. This beast of an SUV has the added bonus of offering towing, hauling, and potentially off-roading abilities, depending on the configuration. Features like all-wheel drive and a rearview camera offer unique opportunities to use the Suburban for more, while select packages like the Max Trailering Package add extras to get the job done.

The Ford Expedition

What would seem like a sibling twice-removed, the Ford Expedition offers quite similar features to the Chevy Suburban. One of the main differences between the competitors is Ford’s double entry with the Expedition and the Expedition Max. The Max closer resembles the Suburban’s size, while the Expedition “plain” comes in a bit smaller.

Exchangeable seating lets you go for an eight-seater or drop it to seven if you opt for more roomy seating choices. The Ford drives a bit closer to its size, but special features create a very serene interior that makes your Expedition a home on wheels. Noise cancellation and acoustic glass work provide you with your own tranquil getaway when navigating the bustling streets of NY. A suite of convenience features might have you creating an excuse or two that gets you behind the wheel and on the road.

Depending on model year and trim, a part-time all-wheel drive system lets you experience the benefits of both. Front-wheel drive allows you to maneuver with nimble control when needed, and all-wheel drive can kick in when the road turns slippery with rain or ice. The adaptability of the Expedition and the Expedition Max is a great bonus for life in or around the big city. Plus, with the impressive towing capacity, you can use the Ford SUV to load up for a weekend getaway without worrying if it can handle it.

Silver 2022 Mazda CX-9 driving through a forest.

The Mazda CX-9

There are more brands than just Chevy and Ford out there, and Mazda shows up to prove it. The Mazda CX-9 is another great three-row SUV option that takes a turn more into the minivan department but is able to pull it off quite nicely. Although it is a three-row entry, it doesn’t offer as much space as the other options on this list. However, that’s not to say the Mazda is lacking in other areas.

The Mazda is a great choice for sleek, sophisticated driving with comfortable seating and plenty of creature comforts. Technically a CUV, the CX-9 is a great family vehicle that will keep everyone happy. Classy and refined interior finishes add to the Mazda’s appeal and are enhanced with luxury extras like heated seats in the front and rear, a heated steering wheel, and loads of infotainment options.

It won’t tow your trailer or haul a clown car worth of people, but it will treat its occupants to luxury and comfort. Plus, thanks to some changes in the 2016 model year, the Mazda offers improved fuel efficiency for these older models, another serious bonus to consider. Polished interior and exterior options can be found in the 2016 models and up, with more and more features added with each model year.

Three-Rows of Comfort, Convenience, and Space

There are so many entries in the SUV and CUV market, but not all are created equal. Additionally, SUVs can range quite dramatically in size, capability, and more. Determining what your needs are is the first step in figuring out what features and vehicle is best for you. From the robust Suburban to the cozy CX-9, the options are abundant and ready to navigate you through Colonie and beyond. Visit one of our DePaula dealerships today, and we’ll help you get behind the wheel of a great pre-owned model that is sure to add value to your daily drive around Colonie.