what car can get 3 child seats in the back

[LeElliana]

Yes, several vehicles can comfortably fit three child seats across the second row. The key is a wide rear bench with minimal intrusion from wheel arches and relatively flat seat contours. The most reliable choices are minivans and full-size SUVs, while some mid-size SUVs and even a few three-row vehicles with specific second-row configurations also work.

The critical measurement is the hip-room width in the second row. You generally need at least 59-60 inches of hip room to have a realistic chance of installing three seats side-by-side. It's also highly recommended to use narrow-profile child seats, as standard seats will likely not fit.

Here is a comparison of popular models known for their wide second rows:

Vehicle Model	Vehicle Type	2nd Row Hip Room (inches)	Key Feature for Car Seats
Honda Odyssey	Minivan	63.9	"Magic Slide" seats slide side-to-side for easier access.
Chevrolet Suburban	Full-Size SUV	63.5	Massive interior space with a nearly flat bench.
Toyota Highlander	Mid-Size SUV	58.7	A bench seat is an option (not standard) on most trims.
Kia Telluride	Mid-Size SUV	58.3	Often praised for its family-friendly interior design.
Chrysler Pacifica	Minivan	61.1	Stow 'n Go seats can create more flat space.

Practical tips for success: Always measure your specific child seats and check the vehicle's LATCH anchor configuration. Some cars have dedicated anchors for three seats, but many require using the seatbelt for the middle installation. Before you buy, conduct a "carseat test." Bring your actual seats to the dealership and try installing them. This is the only way to be 100% certain they will fit correctly and securely. Vehicles with captain's chairs in the second row typically cannot fit three seats unless you utilize the third row, which adds complexity for daily loading and unloading.

[OMariana]

We went through this last year. The answer is a minivan, full stop. Our Honda Odyssey fits three across no problem. Forget most SUVs with those fancy captain's chairs—you need a full bench. The trick is to get slim car seats. We use Diono Radian 3RX models because they're narrow. Just go to the dealership with your seats and try it. It's the only way to know for sure. Trust me, it saves a lot of headaches.

[MaliaDella]

Look for models that offer a bench seat in the second row, not captain's chairs. Many mid-size SUVs like the Toyota Highlander or Hyundai Palisade have a bench as an option, but you often have to spec it out. The hip-room measurement on the spec sheet is your best friend; aim for 59 inches or more. Also, check if the LATCH system has three sets of anchors. Frequently, the middle seat requires a seatbelt installation.

[DiAlice]

As a parent who's done this, it's less about the car brand and more about the seat design. You need narrow "three-across" car seats. Brands like Diono or Clek are made specifically for this. Then, focus on vehicles with flat seatbacks. Big bumps from cupholders or contoured seats make it impossible. A minivan or a large SUV like a Chevrolet Tahoe with a bench seat is your best bet for a stress-free installation every time.

[AshlynLee]

From a safety perspective, the goal is a secure, non-compromised installation for all three seats. This requires a vehicle with a nearly flat rear seat and ample width. Minivans are consistently the top performers here. When installing, ensure each seat is independently tight; you shouldn't be able to move it more than an inch side-to-side at the belt path. Using the seatbelt for the center seat installation is often safer and more effective than trying to use overlapping LATCH anchors, which is frequently not permitted by the vehicle manufacturer. Always consult both your car seat and vehicle manuals.