Ultimate 4x4 SUVs With 3rd Row Seating for 2025

The ideal mix of robust off-road performance and practical family features lives on in 2025. 4×4 SUVs with third-row seats continue to dominate the market. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast conquering off-road trails or a parent driving the kids to school, these SUVs offer the space, power, and versatility for every trip.

Buyers look for many traits when they shop for a 4×4 SUV. Confidence on rough grounds is the off-road capability, and passenger comfort is necessary for long trips. Towing capacity is vital for buyers hauling boats, trailers, or campers. Modern SUVs come loaded with the latest technology, ranging from advanced driver-assist features to fully developed infotainment systems.

The 4×4 SUV lineup for 2025 boasts improvements in performance, safety, and fuel efficiency. Automakers pair hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains with bigger and more powerful engines to boost fuel efficiency without giving up power. More capable suspension systems and smart all-wheel-drive tech make going off-road easy. As families have moved more toward wanting comfort on the road, the 3-row SUV has become the most popular choice, and these three-rowers are now more spacious and refined than ever, as long as going to the end of the line is your ultimate goal.

Key Factors to Consider in a 4×4 SUV with 3rd Row Seating

There is a unique 4×4 SUV option with three rows of seats. The JX must blend off-road ability, passenger accommodations, performance, and modern technology.

Off-Road Capabilities: A 4WD system is a must for off-roading flexibility and high-ground clearance for obstacle clearance. The SUV’s ability to cope with steep inclines is emphasized, and departure, approach, and traction control provide grip in slippery conditions.
Seating & Cargo Space: Generous third-row seating is essential for families or big groups, and there should be plenty of legroom and headroom for comfort. There should also be ample cargo volume behind the third row for luggage, groceries, or adventure equipment.
Powertrain & Performance: Choose from V6, V8, turbocharged four-cylinder, or hybrid engines; horsepower and torque affect acceleration and towing. Even the smoothest-shifting transmission (automatic or manual) improves driving dynamics.
Towing Capacity & Payload: Usually, 5,000+ lbs. is crucial for hauling a trailer, boat, or camper. Payload capacity refers to the amount of gear an SUV can carry without negatively impacting its performance.
Fuel Economy & Hybrids: Most new 4×4 SUVs have hybrid or plug-in hybrid versions that offer more mpg without sacrificing power.
Technology and Safety: High-tech features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring help keep us safe. Infotainment systems featuring wireless connectivity, premium audio, and navigation elevate the driving experience.

An ideal 4×4 SUV must deliver thrills for outdoor enthusiasts, comfortably accommodate passengers, and integrate the latest technology.

Must Check: Top 10 SUVs That Can Tow 5000 lbs

#1. 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser

Engine: 2.4L turbocharged hybrid i-FORCE MAX (326 hp, 465 lb-ft torque)
Drivetrain: Full-time 4WD with a locking center differential
Ground Clearance: 8.7 inches
Towing Capacity: 6,000 lbs
Seating Capacity: 7 passengers
Technology: 12.3-inch touchscreen, Toyota Safety Sense 3.0

The Toyota Land Cruiser revives classic off-road prowess as a more modern machine. Its 2.4L turbocharged hybrid i-FORCE MAX engine produces an impressive output of 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. A full-time 4WD system with a locking center differential improves traction on rugged terrain. Around 8.7 inches of ground clearance and a towing capacity of up to 6,000 lbs also make it a capable adventure and utility platform.

It has room for up to seven passengers and includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen centerpiece in its tech-forward interior. With Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 providing more peace of mind, the Land Cruiser is a rugged but sophisticated family SUV for everyone, from soccer to surf to trail-side.

#2. 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

Engine Options: 3.6L V6 (293 hp), 5.7L V8 (357 hp)
Drivetrain: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, or Quadra-Drive II 4WD
Ground Clearance: Up to 10.9 inches (with air suspension)
Towing Capacity: 6,200-7,200 lbs
Seating Capacity: 6-7 passengers
Technology: Uconnect 5 system, Night Vision Camera

Explicitly designed to marry rugged off-road capability with upscale features and luxury appointments, the 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is a great family and adventure-seeking vehicle. It offers two truly potent engine options, including a 3.6L V6 that delivers 293 horsepower and a 5.7L V8 rated at 357 horsepower, mated to an array of advanced 4WD systems, including Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II.

The Grand Cherokee L is no slouch for the rough stuff, with air suspension providing up to 10.9 inches of ground clearance. The expedition comfortably seats six to seven passengers, touting a towing capacity of 6,200 to 7,200 pounds. Inside, it features the latest technology, including a Uconnect 5 infotainment system and an available Night Vision Camera that helps the drivers stay safe and comfortable while driving.

#3. 2025 Land Rover Defender 130

Engine Options: 3.0L Mild Hybrid I6 (395 hp)
Drivetrain: Permanent 4WD with Terrain Response System
Ground Clearance: 11.5 inches
Towing Capacity: 8,200 lbs
Seating Capacity: 8 passengers
Technology: Pivi Pro infotainment, 3D Surround Camera

The Land Rover Defender 130 is a serious off-road SUV dressed for a night out or a day in town. It combines a 3.0-liter mild-hybrid inline-six engine producing 395 horsepower with all-wheel drive for an outstanding balance of speed and efficiency. Its standard four-wheel-drive system with Terrain Response takes traction to the next level over various terrains.

The Defender 130, its 11.5 inches of ground clearance, and its 8,200-pound towing capacity were tow and trail-worthy right out of the box. The inside comfortably seats up to eight passengers, which is excellent for families or group travel. On every journey, high-tech features such as the intuitive Pivi Pro infotainment system and a 3D Surround Camera heighten convenience, safety, and connectivity.

#4. 2025 Ford Expedition Timberline

Engine: 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (440 hp, 510 lb-ft torque)
Drivetrain: Intelligent 4WD with Terrain Management System
Ground Clearance: 10.6 inches
Towing Capacity: 9,300 lbs
Seating Capacity: 7-8 passengers
Technology: SYNC 4, Ford Co-Pilot360

The Ford Expedition Timberline has off-road chops and comfort in spades. It carries a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 under the hood, 440 hp, and 510 lb-ft of torque. Combined with an intelligent 4WD system and Ford’s Terrain Management System, no slouch is on rough ground. It boasts 10.6 inches of ground clearance for profound off-road ability and a 9,300-pound tow rating to move your gear around.

The Expedition Timberline also has a capable but roomy interior with a cushy cabin that seats as many as eight passengers. On the tech side, it comes equipped with Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment system and Blue Oval’s advanced Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, which helps make every drive more convenient and connected while also working to keep drivers safe.

#5. 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71

Engine Options: 5.3L V8 (355 hp) or 6.2L V8 (420 hp)
Drivetrain: Autotrac 4WD with selectable drive modes
Ground Clearance: 10 inches
Towing Capacity: 8,400 lbs
Seating Capacity: 7-8 passengers
Technology: Google Built-in, 12.6-inch Rear Entertainment

The Chevrolet Tahoe Z7 is ideal for adventurous families; the Tahoe combines rugged off-road performance with passenger-friendly comfort and cargo capacity. It has two V8 engine options — a 355 hp 5.3L and 420 hp 6.2L. It has an Autotrac 4WD system with multiple selectable drive modes and boasts a full 10 inches of ground clearance, which means it can be taken off-road with actual capability.

It has a stout towing capacity of up to 8,400 pounds and is ready for pulling trailers, boats, etc. The Tahoe Z71 accommodates 7 to 8 inside, so it’s perfect for those with large families or if you like to travel with a group. Next-gen features include Google Built-in and a 12.6-inch rear entertainment system that keeps passengers connected and entertained on the road.

Read More:

#6. 2025 GMC Yukon AT4

Engine Options: 6.2L V8 (420 hp) or 3.0L Duramax Diesel (277 hp)
Drivetrain: Active Response 4WD with electronic limited-slip differential
Ground Clearance: 10 inches
Towing Capacity: 8,400 lbs
Seating Capacity: 7-8 passengers
Technology: Super Cruise hands-free driving, 15-inch Head-Up Display

The GMC Yukon AT4 is an all-terrain-ready full-size SUV with a balance of off-road capability and highway comfort. It boasts a pair of potent engines, a 420-hp 6.2-liter V8 or a 277-hp fuel-sipping 3.0-liter Duramax Diesel. It’s made for the trail with GMC’s Active Response 4WD system, which includes an electronic limited-slip differential and 10 inches of ground clearance.

The Yukon AT4 is as capable as it is comfortable,with a maximum towing capacity of 8,400 pounds. This makes it a good choice for families on the go, with space for 7 to 8 passengers and smart, techy stuff like Super Cruise hands-free driving and a 15-inch Head-Up Display.

#7. 2025 Nissan Armada

Engine: 5.6L V8 (400 hp, 413 lb-ft torque)
Drivetrain: Intelligent 4WD with 2-speed transfer case
Ground Clearance: 9.1 inches
Towing Capacity: 8,500 lbs
Seating Capacity: 7-8 passengers
Technology: 12.3-inch touchscreen, Nissan Safety Shield 360

The Nissan Armada is a powerful combination of modern-day performance and convenience, cementing its position of choice for families and adventurers. It contains a powerful 5.6L V8 engine that produces 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with an Intelligent 4WD with a 2-speed transfer case, this full-size SUV easily tackles rough terrain. It provides a ground clearance of approximately 9.1 inches and a best-in-class tow rating of 8,500 pounds.

The inside of the Armada can fit 7 to 8 people and features an enormous 12.3-inch touchscreen. Standard safety enhancements such as Nissan Safety Shield 360 boost confidence in the 2025 Armada as both an able and safe drive.

#8. 2025 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail

Engine: 3.4L twin-turbo V6 (349 hp, 479 lb-ft torque)
Drivetrain: Full-time 4WD with Torsen limited-slip differential
Ground Clearance: 8.9 inches
Towing Capacity: 8,000 lbs
Seating Capacity: 6-7 passengers
Technology: Mark Levinson premium audio, Lexus Safety System+

The Lexus GX 550 Overtrail is a luxurious SUV with rugged good looks, designed to tackle serious off-roading. The 3.4L twin-turbo V6 in the Forerunner produces a bold 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, backed by a full-time 4WD system and Torsen limited-slip differential for superior traction over rough ground.

The GX, after all, has an 8.9-inch ground clearance and is equipped to tow as much as 8,000 lbs, allowing the GX 550 Overtrail to tackle adventure head-on. It provides seating for 6 to 7 occupants and luxury features such as the Mark Levinson premium audio system and Lexus Safety System+ with enhanced safety driver assistance. This SUV brings the ability to tackle off-road obstacles and some luxury from Lexus, making it an excellent family hauler that is capable and won’t sacrifice too much comfort.

Conclusion

The 2025 market for third-row 4×4 SUVs has something for every type of driver. In that case, the Grand Cherokee L and Toyota Land Cruiser set the tone for rugged off-road performance and proven durability. If you’re ready for a more luxurious experience, the Land Rover Defender 130 heads the class with a sumptuous cabin and silky ride. Need serious towing power? It gets solid engines and tech for trailering via the Ford Expedition Timberline and Chevrolet Tahoe Z71. Each SUV combines strength, utility, and third-row capability to be great for an adventure or just for hauling luggage out of the garage.

Looking for your perfect match? Visit your local dealer and try out these class-leading 4x4s to find the best fit for your lifestyle.

Ultimate 4×4 SUVs With 3rd Row Seating for 2025