Sport utility vehicles with third-row seating are becoming more popular for those with growing families and people who lead active lifestyles.
Table of Contents
In this article, we’ll explain more about which Kia Sorentos offer third-row seating and some other similar-sized SUVs that also feature a third row.
The Sorento is actually one of the cheapest in class.
What Kia Sorentos Have Third-Row Seating?
All new Kia Sorento models that are newer than 2020 comes standard with third-row seating. Every Sorento trim can accommodate up to seven people when the third row is utilized. Before 2020, you have to check each model as only some of the versions can be configured with third-row seating.
Here we’ll dive into exactly which models are available with the optional third-row seats.
Let’s take a look at the progression of the third row in Kia Sorentos.
Also, here’s a full list of hybrid SUVs with 3rd-rows.
2015
The third generation of Kia Sorentos, released in 2015, started offering 3rd-row seating in a 5- or 7-seat configuration.
The seating configuration was dependent on the engine. The Kia Sorento LX trim – which comes with a 5-seat configuration – has a 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder gasoline engine.
Meanwhile, the following trims come equipped with a 3.3-liter V6 gasoline engine and a 7-seat configuration:
- the Kia Sorento LX V6,
- the Kia Sorento EX V6,
- the Kia Sorento SX V6,
- and the Kia Sorento SX Limited V6.
2016
In 2016, the Kia Sorento SX Limited and Kia Sorento EX were equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine.
These two trims offered a 5-seat configuration, while the other models featured a 7-seat layout.
2017 and 2018
The Kia Sorento had seven trims in 2017 and 2018.
Four trims come with a third row:
- the Kia Sorento LX V6,
- the Kia Sorento EX V6,
- the Kia Sorento SX V6,
- and the Kia Sorento SX Limited V6.
All four trims are equipped with a 3.3-liter V6 engine and a 7-seat configuration.
Three trims came with two rows of seats:
- the Kia Sorento L,
- the Kia Sorento LX,
- and the Kia Sorento EX .
2019
In 2019, Kia discontinued one trim and added two more for a total of eight. Six of the eight trims featured third rows:
- the Kia Sorento EX Sport V6
- and the Kia Sorento S V6.
- the Kia Sorento LX V6,
- the Kia Sorento EX V6,
- the Kia Sorento SX V6,
- and the Kia Sorento SX Limited V6.
2020
The Kia Sorento SX and Kia Sorento EX Sport V6 were discontinued in 2020, giving the Kia Sorento six trims.
2020 was the first year that all of the Kia Sorento models came standard with 3rd-row seating.
2021
Some of the Kia Sorento trims were discontinued in 2021. However, two hybrid trims were introduced to give the KIA Sorento seven trims total.
All seven models come with standard 3rd-row seating.
The Kia Sorento S and the Kia Sorento LX have seating for seven people, while the other trims have six seats.
2022
Kia increased the number of trims for the Sorento to 12 in 2022.
The Kia Sorento S, the Kia Sorento LX, and the Sorento X-Line S have seven seats, while the other nine trims come equipped with three rows of six seats.
What Similar Mid-size SUV Offers 3rd Row Seating?
With the rise in popularity of 3rd-row seating among mid-size SUVs, the Kia Sorento has plenty of competition.
Other mid-size sport utility vehicles that offer 3rd-row seating include:
Toyota Highlander
With a modern design and spacious cabin, the Toyota Highlander can seat up to eight with its 3rd-row seating.
Of the 11 trims available, The Highlander L, the Highlander LE, the Highlander XLE, the Highlander Hybrid LE, and the Highlander XLE offer a 3rd-row seating capacity of up to eight passengers.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Six of the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s trims have optional 3rd-row seating:
- the Laredo,
- the Altitude,
- the Limited,
- the Overland,
- the Summit,
- and the Summit Reserve.
The Overland is available only in 2-row seating.
Jeep Wrangler
Although Jeep Wrangler doesn’t currently have a 3rd-row model, Jeep’s Overlook concept from the 2021 SEMA Show imagined what a third-row Wrangler would look like – and it has many Jeep enthusiasts hoping production might begin in the near future.
Ford Explorer
All but one of the 2022 Ford Explorer trims come with 3rd-row seating for seven people.
The only exception is the 2023 Explorer Timberline, which comes with three rows with six seats.
Subaru Outback
Unfortunately, the Subaru Outback has no trims with 3rd-row seating as of yet.
Honda Pilot
All seven Honda Pilot trims come with a third row that can seat seven or eight people, depending on whether the configuration uses captain’s chairs for the second row.
Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner offers eight trims, three of which come with an available 3rd-row seating with seven seats – the SR5, the SR5 Premium, and the Limited.
How Much Does It Cost to Upgrade to 3rd Row Seating?
In certain vehicles, such as the Kia Sorento, 3rd-row seating is standard, so you don’t have to pay additional fees for an upgrade.
In other models such as the Toyota 4Runner and the Toyota Highlander, 3rd-row seating is optional.
Note, however, that several Kia Sorentos have issues with noisy AC. Check our list here of problems with the Kia Sorentos.
Can You Install Extra Seats Yourself?
Although there are some companies that produce aftermarket 3rd-row seats for vehicles, it’s not generally recommended to buy them.
It’s highly questionable whether a 3rd-row seat can even be installed in a vehicle designed for two rows. Also, a makeshift third row can also create potential safety issues if it’s not installed correctly.
What Mid-size SUV Has the Most Seating?
If you have a large family or you need a mid-size SUV that can hold a lot of people, you’re in luck.
There are several mid-sized SUVs that can hold eight people.
They include:
- Toyota Highlander
- Hyundai Palisade
- Kia Telluride
- Subaru Accent
- Nissan Pathfinder
- Chevrolet Traverse
- Honda Pilot
Conclusion
Fortunately, if you’re looking to upgrade to a mid-size SUV with third-row seating, there are many great options available on the market.
Before you choose a make and model, be sure to do your research. Also, you should know that Kia Sorentos have been known to last long. This makes them ideal for people looking for a good stable SUV.
Find out which models have the highest safety ratings, and overall ratings and are within your budget.

