Last Updated on March 17, 2023 by Victor A
The Toyota RAV4 was first introduced in Japan, back in 1994, and arrived in the US in 1996, and since then, it has undergone several generational changes, like the addition and the removal of the RAV4 third-row seating option.
However, it wasn’t until the third generation (2006-2012) of this popular SUV that we got a RAV4 third-row seating option.
Today, the current 2023 Toyota RAV4 offers two-row seating and a maximum passenger capacity of five. If you want a RAV4 third-row seat option you will have to look at past models.
Here are the RAV4 model years that had third-row seating:
2006-2012 Toyota RAV4: The third-row seat was available as an option on the Limited and Sport trims. Although, the third-row seat was only available on the V6 engine model due to the weight of the engine.
2013-2018 Toyota RAV4: Toyota discontinued the third-row seat in the fourth-generation RAV4 and was not available on any trim level.
2019-2023 Toyota RAV4: The RAV4 doesn’t offer an optional third-row seat in the current generation. Instead, the RAV4 Hybrid, which was introduced in 2019, offered an optional hybrid powertrain. However, even on the RAV4 Hybrid, there was no option for a third-row seat.
If you are specifically looking for a RAV4 with a third-row seat, your best bet would be to search for a used 2006-2012 model or a new RAV4 Hybrid.
Frequently Asked Questions About RAV4’s Third-Row Seat
Q: Does the RAV4 have a 3rd row?
A: Yes, but forget about the newest model years, as mentioned above you will have to look at the 2006-2012 versions, however not all the trims came with this option, so there aren’t lots of old RAV4 models with this spec.
Q: How many people can the 2006-2012 RAV4’s third-row seat accommodate?
A: Toyota designed the The RAV4’s third-row seat to accommodate two passengers. In total seven passengers. However, the third-row seat is not suitable for adults and is best suited for children or small adults.
Q: Can the third-row seat be removed?
A: Yes, you can remove the third-row seat in the RAV4 to increase cargo space. However, removing the third-row seat is not a quick or easy process and requires some effort.
Q: Does the RAV4 with a third-row seat have enough legroom?
A: The SUV has limited legroom in the third-row seats, and it may not be comfortable for taller passengers. However, it should be sufficient for short trips or children.
Q: How’s the cargo space in the RAV4 with a third-row seat?
A: When you remove the third-row seat, the cargo space of the RAV4 increases significantly, but with the third-row seat in place, it limits the cargo space.
Q: Is the RAV4 with a third-row seat a good family car?
A: The RAV4 with a third-row seat can be a good family car if you have small children or need extra seating for occasional use. However, if you have a larger family or plan to use the third-row seat frequently, you may want to consider a larger SUV.
Q: How many passengers could the third-row seat RAV4 fit?
A: The RAV4 had seating for 7 passengers since you could fit two in the front row, three in the second row., and two in the third row.
Conclusion – RAV4 third-row seating models exist
The Toyota RAV4 had third-row seating available as an option in the 2006-2012 model years and on the RAV4 Hybrid XLE, XSE, and Limited trims. This is the RAV4 seating for 7 option models that you’re looking for.
The RAV4 is a practical and versatile SUV that has been a popular choice among car buyers for many years. If you are specifically looking for a RAV4 with a third-row seat, your options are limited to the 2006-2012 models.
The third-row seat is best suited for children or small adults and may not be comfortable for longer journeys. Additionally, the third-row seat limits cargo space, but it can be removed to create more storage room.
Overall, the Toyota RAV4 with a third-row seat can be a great option for those who need occasional extra seating and want the practicality and reliability of a compact SUV.
If you are looking for an SUV with a third-row seat, you may want to check out the new Kia EV9 which is an electric SUV that offers a third row of seating.
