Which Mercedes SUV has 3 rows? (Quick answer)
Four Mercedes SUVs offer a third row for 2026: the GLB, GLE, GLS and EQS SUV. Only the GLS comes with three rows as standard. It is also the only Mercedes 3-row SUV where adults sit comfortably in the back, with 34.6 inches of third-row legroom.
Here is the Mercedes 3-row SUV lineup at a glance:
- GLB: compact, optional third row, from $43,800
- GLE: midsize, optional third row, from $62,250
- GLS: full-size, standard third row, from $90,250
- EQS SUV: full-size electric, optional third row, from $91,100
So yes, Mercedes does make a 3-row SUV. In fact, it makes four. However, the third rows are very different, and choosing the wrong one is an expensive mistake.
Why the third row matters more than the badge
Most buyers shop a Mercedes 3-row SUV on price first. That is understandable, because the gap between the cheapest and dearest model is nearly $50,000. Yet the real difference is who can actually sit in the third row, and how much luggage fits behind it.
For example, the GLB and GLE third rows are built mainly for children. They work for school runs and short trips. On the other hand, the GLS third row is a full-width, adult-friendly seat that you can use every day.
Cargo space follows the same pattern. With all three rows in use, the GLS still holds 17.4 cubic feet of luggage. By contrast, the GLE has almost no usable space behind its optional third row. That is why this guide ranks every Mercedes 3-row SUV by how well the third row works in real life, not just by price.
Mercedes 3-row SUV comparison table
The table compares every Mercedes 3-row SUV side by side. Prices are US starting MSRPs in USD.
| Model | Third row | Max seats | Third-row legroom | Cargo behind 3rd row | Max cargo | Starting MSRP (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GLB | Optional | 7 | 29.1 in | Very limited | — | $43,800 |
| GLE | Optional | 7 | Child-sized | Almost none | 74.9 cu ft | $62,250 |
| GLS | Standard | 7 (6 with captain’s chairs) | 34.6 in | 17.4 cu ft | 84.7 cu ft | $90,250 |
| EQS SUV | Optional | 7 | Fits up to about 5 ft 6 in | Small | 74 cu ft | $91,100* |
*Includes destination. Other prices exclude destination of about $1,250–$1,350.
The takeaway is simple. If adults will ride in the third row, the GLS is the only Mercedes 3-row SUV built for it. If the third row is for kids, the GLB and GLE save you tens of thousands of dollars.
Every Mercedes 3-row SUV, ranked
We ranked each model by how usable its third row is, from best to most compromised.
1. Mercedes-Benz GLS: the best Mercedes 3-row SUV
The GLS is the only Mercedes SUV with a third row as standard, and it is the best Mercedes 3-row SUV by a clear margin. It starts at $90,250 for the GLS 450. You can choose seven seats, or six with second-row captain’s chairs that create a walk-through aisle to the back.
The third row is the key selling point. It offers 34.6 inches of legroom and 38.9 inches of headroom, so teens and most adults fit without complaint. In addition, the second row power-adjusts and reclines, which makes getting into the back easier. Climate vents also reach all three rows.
Cargo space is just as strong. There are 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 42.7 cubic feet with it folded, and 84.7 cubic feet with every seat down. The third row folds at the touch of a button, although it takes a few seconds.
Every GLS comes with AIRMATIC air suspension, 4MATIC all-wheel drive and a 7,700-pound towing rating. The range runs from the GLS 450 (375 hp) to the V8 GLS 580 (510 hp, from $116,150) and the AMG GLS 63 (603 hp, from $151,050).
- Pros: genuine adult third row, best cargo space, standard air suspension, strong towing
- Cons: high price, large size for city parking, third-row entry still takes some effort
Best for: families who fill all three rows regularly, especially with teens or adults.
2. Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV: the electric 3-row option
The EQS SUV is the only electric Mercedes 3-row SUV. It starts at $91,100 including destination, after a $15,300 price cut for 2026. Five seats are standard, and a third row is optional for a total of seven.
The third row is best for kids and shorter adults, up to about 5 ft 6 in. To help access, the second row slides forward by about 11 inches. In addition, the whole second row is power-adjustable as standard, although the third row is manual.
Maximum cargo space is about 74 cubic feet. With all seven seats up, however, the luggage area is small. Inside, the cabin is one of the most high-tech Mercedes makes, and the ride is silent and smooth.
There is one major caveat. Mercedes has paused US production of the EQS SUV. As a result, buyers will find remaining stock and strong deals rather than a long future for the model.
- Pros: quiet electric power, flagship luxury, big 2026 price cut
- Cons: third row for smaller passengers, little cargo with seven seats, production paused, steep depreciation
Best for: EV buyers who need occasional extra seats.
3. Mercedes-Benz GLE: the midsize compromise
The GLE is a midsize SUV with an optional third row, starting at $62,250 for the GLE 350. It comes with five seats as standard. To get seven, you need the 3rd Row Seat Package, which adds the third-row seats, power second-row seats and two USB-C ports in the back.
The GLE third row is compact and aimed at children. Adults will find legroom and headroom tight on anything longer than a short hop. Moreover, there is almost no cargo space behind the third row when it is in use.
Fold it away, though, and the GLE makes more sense. You get 33.3 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 74.9 cubic feet in total. At 194.3 inches long, it is also easier to park than the GLS. Towing goes up to 7,700 pounds, and powertrains range from the GLE 350 to the GLE 450e plug-in hybrid and AMG models.
One tip: the third row is an option, not a trim. So check the window sticker for the 3rd Row Seat Package before you buy, because many GLEs on dealer lots are five-seaters.
- Pros: about $28,000 cheaper than a GLS, easier to park, wide powertrain choice
- Cons: kids-only third row, almost no luggage space with seven seats, third row costs extra
Best for: families of four or five who need an occasional extra two seats.
4. Mercedes-Benz GLB: the cheapest Mercedes 3-row SUV
The GLB is the cheapest Mercedes 3-row SUV, starting at $43,800. It is also the only compact Mercedes with a third row. The optional 50/50-split third row raises capacity to seven.
However, the GLB third row offers 29.1 inches of legroom and 34.8 inches of headroom. That makes it child-sized, and best kept for short trips. Behind the second row, you still get 20 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row folded, which suits most family errands.
The boxy shape helps headroom in the first two rows. For more performance, the AMG GLB 35 (302 hp) also offers three-row capability.
A new 2027 GLB is now arriving, launching first as an EV with a hybrid to follow. According to Mercedes, it can fit up to four child seats across its second and third rows. So, if you are buying soon, compare run-out 2026 deals against the new model.
- Pros: lowest price, compact size, rare third row in its class
- Cons: child-only third row, very little cargo with seven seats, 2026 model being replaced
Best for: young families on a budget who need seven seats now and then.
What about the Maybach GLS and the EQB?
The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 is not a 3-row SUV. It has no third row, so it seats five at most, with the focus on executive rear seats. Meanwhile, the electric EQB, which offered an optional third row, has been discontinued in the US. The new electric GLB replaces it.
Which Mercedes third row fits adults, kids and car seats?
The right Mercedes 3-row SUV depends on who sits in the back. Here is how each third row works for different passengers.
Adults and tall teens
Only the GLS works well. Its 34.6 inches of third-row legroom beats every other Mercedes, and the seat is full-width. As a result, adults can ride back there on long trips without misery. The EQS SUV third row suits shorter adults, but taller passengers will feel cramped.
Young children
All four models work for kids. The GLB and GLE third rows are fine for school runs, practice pick-ups and short hops. In fact, if your children are under about 10, a GLB or GLE can save you a lot of money over a GLS.
Car seats
Car seats usually go in the second row, where the LATCH anchors and space are best. The GLE second row can be adjusted to give child seats more knee clearance. Meanwhile, the new 2027 GLB can take up to four child seats across its second and third rows. Always test-fit your own seats at the dealer, because seat shapes vary a lot.
Luggage with every seat in use
This is where many families get caught out. With all seven seats in use, only the GLS has real luggage space, at 17.4 cubic feet. That fits a week of groceries or a few carry-on bags. By contrast, the GLE and GLB have very little room behind the third row, so road trips with seven people need a roof box.
How the GLS compares with rival 3-row luxury SUVs
The GLS stacks up well against its closest rivals. Compared with the BMW X7, it offers more third-row legroom (34.6 vs 33.4 inches) and more cargo behind the third row (17.4 vs 12.8 cubic feet). It also beats the Lexus LX on luggage space behind the third row, which is just 11 cubic feet in the Lexus.
In other words, if you want the most practical German 3-row luxury SUV, the GLS is the benchmark. However, rivals such as the X7 may suit buyers who prefer a sportier drive.
Best Mercedes 3-row SUV for your needs
Use this quick guide to match each Mercedes 3-row SUV to your situation.
| Your situation | Best pick | Starting MSRP (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Adults in the third row | GLS 450 | $90,250 |
| Cheapest 7-seater | GLB | $43,800 |
| Kids only, midsize budget | GLE 350 with 3rd Row Seat Package | $62,250 + package |
| Electric with 7 seats | EQS SUV | $91,100* |
| Fast 7-seater | AMG GLS 63 | $151,050 |
| Easier access to the third row | GLS with captain’s chairs (6 seats) | $90,250 + option |
*Includes destination.
Buying tips for a Mercedes 3-row SUV
A few simple checks will save you money and stop you buying the wrong car.
- Check for the third-row package. On the GLB, GLE and EQS SUV, the third row is optional. Many vehicles on dealer lots are five-seaters, so confirm it on the window sticker.
- Sit in the third row yourself. Climb in and out, then sit there for five minutes. This quickly shows whether the space works for your family.
- Test-fit car seats. Bring your own child seats to the dealer, and try them in the positions you will actually use.
- Load your real luggage. Bring a stroller, sports bags or suitcases. Then check what fits with all seats up.
- Budget for options. Starting prices rarely include the packages most buyers want. For example, a GLE with the third-row package often lists well above its $62,250 starting price.
- Ask about run-out deals. The 2026 GLB and the EQS SUV are both near the end of their runs, so discounts can be strong.
- Consider captain’s chairs. On the GLS, the six-seat layout makes third-row access easier, especially with child seats in the second row.
Mercedes 3-row SUV FAQ
Which Mercedes SUV has 3 rows?
Four Mercedes SUVs have a third row for 2026: the GLB, GLE, GLS and EQS SUV. The GLS has it as standard, while it is optional on the other three.
Does Mercedes make a 3-row SUV?
Yes. Mercedes makes four 3-row SUVs. The GLS is the main one, with a standard third row that fits adults.
What is the cheapest Mercedes 3-row SUV?
The GLB is the cheapest Mercedes 3-row SUV, starting at $43,800. Its optional third row is best suited to children.
Does the Mercedes GLE have a third row?
Yes, but only as an option. You need the 3rd Row Seat Package, which raises seating to seven. The third row is sized for kids.
Does the Mercedes GLC have a third row?
No. The GLC seats five only. For a third row, step up to the GLE or down to the GLB.
Which Mercedes 3-row SUV is best for adults?
The GLS is best for adults, with 34.6 inches of third-row legroom. No other Mercedes third row comes close.
Is there an electric Mercedes 3-row SUV?
Yes. The EQS SUV offers an optional third row for seven seats. However, US production has been paused, so availability is limited to remaining stock.
Does the Maybach GLS have a third row?
No. The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 seats five at most and focuses on luxury rear seats instead.
How much cargo space does the GLS have behind the third row?
The GLS has 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row. That grows to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 84.7 cubic feet with all rear seats down.
Final verdict: which Mercedes 3-row SUV should you buy?
For most families, the GLS is the best Mercedes 3-row SUV, because it is the only one where adults fit in the third row and luggage still fits behind it. If your third-row passengers are young kids, the GLE or GLB will do the job for much less money. Finally, EV buyers should look at the EQS SUV, but act soon while discounted stock lasts. Prices are correct as of October 2026, so confirm current offers with your local dealer.