As the the North American automotive market continues trending away from sedans and into crossovers and SUV’s, a hot new segment is also on the rise: the 3-row family hauler!

Although practical, mini vans just aren’t cool. And while nothing’s more functional for transporting a family in a brand new Honda Odyssey - automakers are doing a very good job bridging the functionality gap in some new 3-row SUV’s. Many mid-size crossovers now offer a third row, but the segment most interesting is the full size group. This includes mini-van killers such as the VW Atlas, the Chevy Traverse, the all new Kia Telluride, and the soon-to-be Hyundai Palisade. They offer exciting styling, luxurious interiors, practical second and third row seating, modern driver and safety tech, and reasonably good fuel mileage. And most importantly, you don’t get picked on for driving one! I’d venture to say they’re even pretty cool.

So if you’re in the market for a family friendly vehicle but hesitate to settle down reluctantly with today’s mini van, head out and test drive some of the larger 3-row SUV’s available today. You might just be surprised!