The three-row SUV is a popular choice among Iowa families. From carrying more friends and family to hauling additional sports gear and road trip luggage, vehicles with third row seat options offer the space and versatility needed to keep up with the demands of modern Iowa family life. For this reason, many families looking for a new vehicle want to know which SUVs have third row seating. Fortunately for Ames, IA, families, Ford makes several popular SUVs with third-row seats. Below, we are going to look at the different Ford SUVs with third-row seating, so that our neighbors in Central Iowa can decide which model in Ford's diverse lineup is best for them.

Looking for a specific Ford SUV with third row seating? Check out our list below, and view our inventory of three-row SUVs at Ames Ford Lincoln. And while three-row Ford SUVs offer plenty of upscale comfort, especially in higher-trim model offerings, remember to check out Lincoln’s Aviator and Navigator if you are looking for a super-luxury three-row SUV. Contact us for details.

2023 Ford Explorer:
The Icon of the Lineup

Central Iowa residents shopping for an SUV or crossover with a third row of seating should have the Ford Explorer at the top of the list. The Explorer has long been the standard-bearer of the three-row SUV class. Though it has been redesigned several times, most recently in 2020, the Explorer has maintained much of its iconic capabilities and style. In its modern form, the Explorer offers more power, efficiency, and interior comfort than ever before.

The 2023 Ford Explorer is perfect for Ames, Iowa families who want a large, comfortable interior, three rows of seating and exceptional towing abilities. Eight trim levels allow customizable add-ons and a wide choice of exciting features. Specialty variants, such as the off-road optimized Timberline and the performance-oriented Explorer ST, provide even more choices to Iowa families.

The spacious three-row configuration of the Explorer is easy to use for both passengers and cargo. The second row moves out of the way with the push of a button to grant easy access to the rear-most seats. Switching between people and cargo is even easier with the available power-folding third row seats, which allow for a smooth transition between child carrying and luggage lugging.

Three engine options are available across the Explorer lineup. Base, Explorer XLT, ST-Line, Timberline and Limited models come standard with a 2.3-liter inline-four engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The Limited and Platinum trims offer an available mild hybrid setup, with a 3.3-liter V6 partnering with an electric motor to make 318 horsepower. Explorer ST, King Ranch, and Platinum models otherwise use a 3-liter V6 generating 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, making them far more powerful than rivals such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee L and the Chevrolet Traverse.

These three engine choices power the Ford Explorer to new heights of performance. With the proper configuration and packages, the 5,600-pound towing capacity of the Explorer lets the SUV out-pull rivals such as the Traverse. And inside the Explorer itself, the cargo hold stretches from 18.2 cubic feet of volume with the third row raised to an entire 84.6 cubic feet of space with both rows of rear seats lowered. This means that the Ford Explorer gives the entire family more space for their needs than vehicles such as the Grand Cherokee L do.

The Explorer also boasts the brains to match its brawn. Six drive modes allow the Explorer to fine-tune its performance to meet conditions on or off road. Rear-wheel drive is standard, though an additional seventh Deep Snow/Sand drive mode is available on four-wheel drive models. Apple and Android connectivity, a wireless hotspot and a rear-seat entertainment system are available throughout the Explorer model lineup. Higher-trim vehicles offer a 10.1-inch vertically oriented touchscreen to control these and other key infotainment functions.

The Ford Explorer knows how to care for its passengers with a broad spectrum of advanced safety technology standard on the vehicle. Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking come standard on the Explorer. Other safety features which are standard on the 2023 Ford Explorer but not on all competitors include lane keeping assist, rear cross traffic alert and blind spot monitoring.

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2023 Ford Expedition:
The Ultimate Three-Row Family SUV

Des Moines families seeking superior power and interior space should also have the Ford Expedition on their shortlist. Unlike its Explorer sibling, the Expedition is a true body-on-frame SUV, with extra capability for towing and off-road adventure compared to its crossover counterparts.

The Expedition is built for performance from the bottom up. Its strong engine and body-on-frame construction let the Expedition easily outwork its competitors. When properly equipped, the vehicle’s 9,300 pound towing and 1,750 pound payload capacities give it more heft than many other entrants in its class. And while rear-wheel drive is standard, features such as seven standard and available drive modes and an innovative 4x4 system make the Expedition more versatile and exciting than ever before.

All Expedition models derive their power from the same 3.5-liter V6 engine, tuned to three different variants. In its Limited trim configuration, the Expedition improves on its base 380-horsepower output, making 400 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. By opting for the Stealth Performance package on the Limited or choosing the Timberline trim, Iowa Ford customers can drive an Expedition producing a full 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque.

Of course, the interior of the Expedition is designed with the same dedication and care as taken towards fine-tuning the capabilities of the vehicle. Every driver of a Ford Expedition can enjoy an expansive cabin with ample storage. The roomy dimensions of the Expedition provide space for eight adults to sit comfortably in the rear seats. If desired, drivers can opt to swap the second row bench with a refined set of captain’s chairs for a luxurious seven-seat assembly. And the modern Expedition offers passengers large windows for comfortable riding and a distinctly upscale design, especially on higher trims.

At Ames Ford Lincoln, we believe in selling great family vehicles with the capabilities and technology to keep Iowa families safe on the road. The Expedition offers the perfect mix of standard and available features to boost the safety of Iowa drivers and their passengers. Available features such as evasive steering assist and a lane keeping system help drivers navigate the road ahead. Available Reverse Brake Assist comes in handy when backing out of a driveway or in parking lots, applying the brakes when needed to keep the vehicle clean and free of everyday bumper damage.

For Central Iowa families who frequently venture into the outdoors, or who need to tow a large trailer or boat, the Ford Expedition is a truly impressive SUV. And with an extra row providing comfortable seating for eight adults, the Expedition excels as a family hauler and road-tripper. It is no wonder the Expedition has remained so popular with Ames, IA families, many of whom return to the model when their lease is up.

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Ford SUV Advantages

Why is a three-row Ford SUV the best choice for the modern Iowa driver? The Ford Explorer and Expedition lineups offer plenty of options for the track, the trails or the pavement. From inline-four to V6 to hybrid, the three-row Ford SUV model lineup has an engine for most every situation.

The various trim levels and packages on Ford SUVs provide the standard and optional equipment Iowa families need to tackle many different jobs. Ford’s Co-Pilot360™ technology, included on both the Explorer and Expedition, houses many of the most modern standard and available safety features in the industry such as pre-collision assist and adaptive cruise control. Boasting an innovative terrain management system with up to seven drive modes, the Explorer and Expedition can fine-tune their performance to give Iowa drivers the freedom to go their own way.

The new vehicle warranties on the Explorer and Expedition are as good as, or better than, the coverage offered by competitors. Drivers enjoy three years or 36,000 miles of general warranty coverage, and at Ames Ford Lincoln, we provide further peace of mind with a seven-day money back guarantee. Also, if you do change your mind later, we offer a 30-day exchange, allowing customers to swap out their vehicle with any new car or truck at our dealership. Contact us for details.

Find Three-Row Ford SUVs Near You at Ames Ford Lincoln

If you have been shopping for a three-row SUV with superior cargo space, a high tow capacity and plenty of standard safety features, the Ford vehicle lineup has you covered. Three-row SUVs are all the rage with Iowa families, and Ford offers two masterful offerings in the Expedition and the Ford Explorer. 3rd-row equipped SUVs have the capability, flexibility and space which Iowa families depend on, and many Ames-area families agree that the Ford lineup has the best in the business.

And the best thing about shopping locally for your three-row SUV in Ames, IA, is that you can test drive all these vehicles in the same place. Ford's lineup of SUVs with a 3rd row is second to none, so contact us today to set up your test drive. You can view our inventory of each model above, as well as apply for financing, view specials, and contact us directly.

With a wide variety of models on offer, Ames Ford Lincoln has the perfect three-row Ford SUV for you. Whether looking at the iconic Ford Explorer, the capable Ford Expedition, or the luxury Aviator and Navigator SUV offerings from Lincoln, today’s Des Moines-area drivers need search no further than the choices available on the dealership lot at Ames Ford Lincoln.

Best of all, shopping locally for your three-row SUV in Ames, IA, means that you can test drive all these vehicles in the same place. Ford's three-row SUV lineup is second to none, so contact us today to set up your test drive. At Ames Ford Lincoln, you can view our comprehensive inventory of new, used and certified pre-owned offerings. You can also apply for financing and view our specials. And when your ride needs maintenance or repair, our service professionals stand ready to provide the knowledge and skills required to keep your Ford running better for longer. Visit us at 123 Airport Rd. in Ames, IA, or call us at (515) 233-1913 to learn how you can find your new ride at Ames Ford Lincoln of Ames, IA.