Yes, you can fit three car seats in a Kia Sportage, but it is challenging and depends heavily on the specific car seat models and the vehicle's trim level. The key limitation is the Sportage’s width. While it has three sets of lower LATCH anchors (the metal bars in the seat crease for installing car seats), the two outboard sets are spaced such that installing three bulky seats side-by-side is a very tight squeeze.
The most critical factor is the car seat dimensions. Narrow-profile car seats are not just a recommendation; they are a necessity for this to work. Models like the Diono Radian 3R or Clek Foonf are designed to be narrower to facilitate three-across installations. You will also need to use the vehicle's seat belt for at least one installation, as the center lower LATCH anchor is often a single, non-standardized hook that may not be rated for use with the two outboard anchors simultaneously in all model years—always check your owner's manual.
Here’s a quick comparison of key interior dimensions for the latest generation Sportage against a key competitor known for family space:
| Dimension | Kia Sportage (2023+) | Honda CR-V (2023+) | Notes |
|---|
| Rear Shoulder Room | 55.1 inches | 55.5 inches | The Sportage is slightly narrower. |
| Rear Hip Room | 51.7 inches | 52.5 inches | Critical for car seat width. |
| Lower LATCH Sets | 3 (2 full, 1 center tether) | 3 (2 full, 1 center tether) | Both offer three tether anchors. |
| Real-World Test | Fits 3 narrow seats with effort | Fits 3 narrow seats more easily | The CR-V's boxier shape often provides more usable space. |
The best practice is to test fit your actual car seats before purchasing or committing. Bring them to the dealership. Install the most difficult seat first (usually the rear-facing infant seat) in the center using the seat belt, then work outward. Be prepared for a tight fit where the seats may touch each other, which is generally acceptable as long as each is independently secure and doesn't rely on the other for stability. For families that do this regularly, a larger SUV like a Telluride or a minivan would be a more comfortable long-term solution.
