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For families shopping a three-row SUV, the usability of the third row is the ultimate deciding factor. Based on a rigorous comparison of four popular 2018 models—the Volkswagen Atlas, Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander—the Volkswagen Atlas emerges as the overall winner for its superior access, car-seat compatibility, and storage solutions. However, the Chevrolet Traverse poses a strong challenge, particularly in passenger comfort and device charging.
When evaluating a third row, families should consider more than just the presence of extra seats. Key factors include the ease of entry and exit, the comfort provided for adult-sized passengers, the availability of climate controls and charging ports, and how well it accommodates child safety seats. A truly functional third row transforms an SUV from a occasional people-hauler into a practical daily family vehicle.
Easy third-row access is critical, especially when installing child seats or for daily use. The physical dimensions of an SUV play a significant role. The Atlas and Traverse, with their longer wheelbases (117.3 and 120.9 inches, respectively), naturally create more space between the door pillar and the second-row seat compared to the Pilot (111 inches) and Highlander (109.8 inches).
All four SUVs have second-row seats that slide forward. However, the Atlas and Traverse offer a superior system where the seat also tilts upward, creating a much wider passage. This is a major advantage when a forward-facing child-safety seat is installed in the second row. It's important to note that the Traverse's tilting function is only available on the passenger side.
Winner: Volkswagen Atlas. Its combination of a long wheelbase and a second row that both slides and tilts on both sides provides the most effortless access.
Third-row comfort is measured by seat cushion support, legroom, headroom, and thoughtful design details. The larger Atlas and Traverse provide significantly more overall room than the Pilot, with the Highlander's third row feeling more suited for occasional, short trips.
In terms of seat comfort and legroom for an adult, the Atlas and Traverse were nearly tied, with the Pilot close behind. The Highlander ranked lowest, with a seat cushion that places passengers' knees too high. The Pilot offered the best headroom, while the Atlas and Traverse had adequate headroom thanks to their squared-off rooflines.
The tiebreaker came down to head restraint design. The Traverse and Pilot use head restraints that flip down for better visibility when not in use and are comfortable when raised. The Atlas and Highlander use a "clamshell" design that must be pushed forward to fold over the seatback. In use, these can force a tall passenger's head into an uncomfortable, forward-leaning position. The Atlas's larger clamshell restraints were noted to sometimes poke taller occupants in the back.
Winner: Chevrolet Traverse. It edges out the Atlas due to its more comfortable and better-designed head restraints, making a significant difference on longer journeys.
A dark, confined third row can feel claustrophobic. Modern SUVs often have high beltlines, reducing window space. The Atlas and Pilot improve the experience with an additional fixed window panel behind the rear doors, creating a more open feel.
The availability of overhead light is also crucial. The Atlas features a large panoramic moonroof that floods the second and third rows with light. The Traverse offers a second moonroof panel over the second row. The Pilot and Highlander only have a standard moonroof over the front seats.
Winner: Volkswagen Atlas. Its panoramic moonroof and extra glass areas make the third row feel the most open and airy.
Ease of car seat installation is a non-negotiable safety and convenience feature for families. Using its proprietary Car Seat Check, an independent team graded each SUV's third row. The grading scale runs from A (best) to F (worst).
The Volkswagen Atlas earned straight A's for third-row access and for fitting both a forward-facing convertible seat and a booster seat, landing it a spot on the Car Seat Check Honor Roll. The Honda Pilot also performed well, earning A's for its Latch anchors (the only vehicle in this group to have them in the third row) and convertible seat fit. The Traverse received lower marks, with a C for booster seat fit, indicating it "needs work."
Winner: Volkswagen Atlas. Its top-tier ratings make it the safest and most convenient choice for parents.
Passengers in the back need places to stow their belongings and keep devices charged.
Storage Winner: Volkswagen Atlas. Power Winner: Chevrolet Traverse.
Based on our assessment experience, the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas provides the most well-rounded and family-friendly third row. It won the most categories in this test, including crucial areas like access and car-seat compatibility. It is the top recommendation for families for whom the third row is a primary concern.
However, the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse is a very close second and may be the better choice for families who prioritize long-trip comfort for older children and teenagers, thanks to its superior seats and unbeatable charging capabilities.
When making your decision, prioritize the features that align with your family's specific needs:
