Types of Third Row Access
There is so much to consider when purchasing a new car especially for a growing family. If you are in the market for a 3 Row SUV, you will want to consider who is getting in the third row, how are they accessing the third row and what should the set up be in the second row to allow easy access to the third row. After touring most 3 Row SUVs I’ve narrowed third row access into 4 main types, Magic Slide, Tilt and Slide, Fold and Flip and Car Seat Tilt. In this article, I break down each type of third row access and offer a list of vehicles with each type.
Magic Slide
The Magic Slide is found in the Honda Odyssey. When the middle seat is removed the outboard seat can be pushed into the middle position offering easy access to the third row.
Honda Odyssey (if middle seat is removed)
Tilt & Slide
The “tilt and slide” is the most common type of third row access. This works when the second row is on tracks. Once the button/lever is activated the seat will fold halfway and slide forward allowing you to access the third row.
Tilt and Slide shown with this 2022 Kia Telluride.
Here is a list of the 3 Row SUVs with the Tilt and Slide
Honda Odyssey (if middle seat is installed)
Mercedes Benz GLS
Tesla Model X
Tesla Model Y
Fold & Flip
The next type of third row access I’m calling the “Fold and Flip”. The seat folds in half completely and then flips up offering an aisle way to get to the third row.
Fold and Flip shown with the 2021 GMC Yukon
Here is a list of the 3 Row SUVs with Fold and Flip.
GMC Yukon
Infiniti QX80
Car Seat Friendly Tilt
Everyone knows I am a HUGE fan of the Car Seat Tilt for third row access. This feature that allows you to access the third row easily by tilting the second row seat forward while a car seat is installed using latch
Once the lever/button is activated the base of the seat will tilt forward while keeping the back in its original position.
Car Seat Tilt shown with the 2022 VW Atlas.
Here is a list of the 3 Row SUVs with Car Seat Tilt.
