Upcoming Midsize 3-row SUVs from the Chicago Auto Show
We’ve reviewed a number of 3-row crossover SUVs in the last year or so. Coming soon we will also be reviewing the Mazda CX-9 and, hopefully, the Ford Explorer with inflatable seatbelts as well as the Dodge Durango. Those models are already on showroom floors, but there are a couple more that should appear later in 2012. The refreshed 2013 Ford Flex and the all-new 2013 Nissan Pathfinder.
The Flex gets some new styling, new power rear seating options and an active collision avoidance system in top trim levels.
The Pathfinder switches from a truck-based chassis to a unibody crossover SUV. It touts more interior space than its predecessor and a tilt-forward second row seat that allows access to the third row without uninstalling a child safety seat.
We hope to review both of these new models later this year!
In other news, the GMC Acadia Denali gets a refresh this fall for 2013. Said to be included is a front seat middle airbag that deploys between the driver and front seat passenger.
Finally, according to Ford reps at the auto show, the 3-row Ford C-Max Grand will not be coming to the USA in the near future. Instead, I was told that only the 5-passenger C-Max Energi hybrid line will debut this fall. Sad news for those looking for an alternative to the fuel-efficient Mazda5. Also, in minivan news, it sounds like there will not be a new Kia Sedona for 2013 as some had expected. All the other minivans are recently refreshed or re-designed, so don’t expect much on the minivan front for 2013!
Reader Comments
Thanks for the info. The Acadia looks promising, but it probably can’t compare with the 23mpg city I get in my Mazda 5. Then again, I could probably fit more than a Maclaren and three bags of groceries in the back.
Very disappointed about the Grand C. Any idea if it is coming in the future?
Can’t wait to see your take on the Durango. I just bought one and overall I am happy with it, except for the 3rd row’s stiff buckles which have made me come to the conclusion after several attempts that my Nautilus is incompatible back there. I do however have no problem with fitting three across in the 2nd row.