Which acuras have the 3rd row?
Only the Acura MDX currently offers a true third-row seat in the brand's lineup. The RDX and other Acura models are two-row vehicles, and no Acura sedan or sports car includes a third row. This article explains which Acura models have a third row, how it works, and what buyers should know.
Current lineup: which Acuras have a third row
Below is a quick rundown of the current Acura lineup and its seating configurations with respect to a third row.
- MDX — 3rd-row seating is standard for 7-passenger configurations; a 6-passenger setup is available with second-row captain's chairs. The 3rd row folds flat for cargo when not in use.
Conclusion: In today's lineup, the MDX is the only Acura SUV that offers a genuine third-row seating option.
Insights on the MDX third-row experience
Seat configurations and passenger capacity
The MDX can be configured for seven passengers using a 3-row layout: a 2nd-row bench (three seats) plus a 3-seat 3rd row, or a 6-passenger setup with 2nd-row captain's chairs and a 3-seat third row. The bench option allows easier entry to the back row for adults in the middle section, while captain's chairs prioritize front-row access and rear-seat comfort.
Practical space and cargo considerations
In practice, the MDX's third row is best used for children or occasional adult trips on shorter drives. The 3rd row folds flat to expand cargo space, giving significant versatility for grocery runs, luggage, or gear when 7 occupants are not needed.
Historical context and what to expect
Historically, Acura's lineup has not included a third row in other models. The MDX has long served as Acura's flagship family SUV with three-row seating, while the RDX remains a two-row compact crossover. For sedan or sports models, there is no 3-row option in the current lineup. If Acura expands its lineup in the future, it could revisit a larger 3-row offering, but there are no official announcements as of now.
Summary
In summary, the Acura MDX is the sole current Acura model that offers a third-row seating arrangement, with flexible configurations to balance passenger comfort and cargo space. Other Acura SUVs stay 2-row, while sedans and performance models do not include a third row. Buyers prioritizing a third row should focus on the MDX and consider the seating configuration that best suits their needs.
Which is bigger, RDX or MDX?
The Acura MDX is significantly bigger than the Acura RDX, as the MDX is a midsize SUV with three rows of seating, while the RDX is a compact SUV with two rows. The MDX has more length, width, height, and passenger volume, while the RDX is more compact and agile.
| Feature | Acura MDX | Acura RDX |
|---|---|---|
| Size Category | Midsize SUV | Compact SUV |
| Seating Capacity | Up to 7 | Up to 5 |
| Rows of Seating | 3 | 2 |
| Length | 198.4 inches | 187.4 inches |
| Width | 78.7 inches | 74.8 inches |
| Height | 67.9 inches | 65.7 inches |
| Passenger Volume | 139.1 cubic feet | 104 cubic feet |
| Max Cargo Volume | 95 cubic feet | 79.8 cubic feet |
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Which Acura is a 7 seater?
The Acura MDX is the only Acura model with 7 seats, as it is the brand's only three-row SUV. All current Acura MDX trims are equipped with seating for up to seven passengers, which can be configured to include two captain's chairs in the second row for enhanced access to the third row.
- Seating configuration: The standard seating capacity is seven, but the second-row middle seat can be removed to create captain's chairs, which accommodates six passengers but provides easier access to the third row.
- Model: The MDX is the only Acura model to offer a third row of seating.
- Other models: All other Acura SUVs, sedans, and sports cars have a maximum of five seats or fewer.
What's bigger, MDX or Pilot?
The Honda Pilot is slightly longer than the Acura MDX, while the Acura MDX is slightly wider. The Honda Pilot has a maximum cargo capacity of 113.7 cubic feet; the Acura MDX has a maximum cargo volume of 95 cubic feet behind its first-row seats.
Do any acuras have 3rd row seating?
Currently, the 2025 Acura MDX release in the spring of 2024 showcased the only modern model manufactured by Acura with third-row seating.
