

	May 22, 2008

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Ride Screen
Three-Row SUVs

While the third-row isn't always the best seat in an SUV, many buyers want them for occasional use. Here are five SUVs with third-row seats that get better-than-average fuel economy for the class.
May 22, 2008

Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

The fuel economy of this new GM SUV is impressive given its size and weight, but cargo space is limited. The four-wheel-drive version, which costs almost $3,000 more, has a fuel economy rating of 20 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. VIDEO¹

• Fuel economy: 21/22 city/highway

• Base price: $49,590

• Cargo space behind third row: 16.9 cubic feet
Cargo space with third row folded: 60.3 cubic feet

Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Toyota

While deceptively large, this seven-seat hybrid still feels like a reasonably sized car compared with other SUVs. During a recent long trip it logged 26 miles per gallon and was very comfortable. The third-row seat folds neatly away when not in use and the second row has limousine-style legroom.

• Fuel economy: 27/25

• Base price: $33,700

• Cargo space behind third row: 10.3 cubic feet
Cargo space with third row folded: 42.3 cubic feet

Mercedes-Benz GL320 Bluetec

Daimler

The diesel version of this large SUV goes 5 to 6 more miles on a gallon of fuel compared with the gasoline powered GL450. The diesel engine generates power at low speed and is well suited to the typical American mix of in-town and highway driving.

• Fuel economy: 18/24

• Base price: $53,400

• Cargo space behind third row: 14.3 cubic feet
Cargo space with third row folded: 43.8 cubic feet

Ford Taurus X AWD

Ford

While the upcoming Ford Flex crossover has gotten more attention, Ford's Taurus X has quietly excelled as a successor to the 1970s family station wagon. It has plenty of interior space and, if driven carefully, can outstrip its EPA fuel-economy ratings.

• Fuel economy: 15/22

• Base price: $28,880

• Cargo space behind third row: 15.8 cubic feet
Cargo space with third row folded: 47 cubic feet

Audi Q7 3.6

Audi

There seem to be more of these V6 Q7 models on the road than the V8. Even with the smaller engine, fuel economy isn't great. But a 3-liter diesel version set to arrive early next year should have highway mileage in the 25 mpg range.

• Fuel economy: 14/19

• Base price: $42,500

• Cargo space behind third row: 10.9 cubic feet
Cargo space with third row folded: 42 cubic feet

--Jonathan Welsh²

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Ride Screen Three-Row SUVs

Ride Screen
Three-Row SUVs