Question Crossovers with 3 kids in second row

U

Unregistered

Guest
Hi,

I have two kids in forward facing carseats and we are looking to buy a cross-over vehicle (something like the Honda CRV, Toyota RAV4, VW Tiguan, etc.) that can fit two carseats and a booster seat (for friends) across the second row. Currently we have two True Fits and an Air Protect but I'm open to buying narrower carseats/booster seats to accommodate a smaller second row (e.g. Radian Diono and Harmony backless booster). My question.... which cross-overs in this class/size catagory safely fit 2 carseats and 1 booster across the back row? Any help would be appreciated.
 
ADS

SafeDad

CPSDarren - Admin
Staff member
Compact SUVs are basically compact cars in terms of 2nd row 3-across potential. You can do it, but it requires very careful selection and placement. Perhaps the main issue you will face will be crossover of seatbelts/LATCH, especially if that poses a problem for your booster child to buckle themselves.

I have a Highlander as well, and while it's bigger than the compact SUVs, it is one of the smaller midsize models and has some issues with compatibility in the center seat in the second row. The Highlander is basically configured as 2 captains chairs and a handly stowable center seat which is great for a narrow booster or child in a seatbelt, but not as great for other carseats. Three across is still possible, but only slighly easier than most compact SUVs. For that reason, our third child usually rides in the third row, which is very handy.

If you are looking for something easier to do 3-across, a wider model with a 2nd row bench seat is the way to go. For example, the Honda Pilot is one of the best crossovers in terms of 2nd row seating and 3-across potential.
 

emntheboys

New member
I would scratch the Rav-4. We recently had a thread about it's car seat un-friendliness. The overlapping seatbelts don't work very well for 3 across.
 

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