Does The QX60 Have A 3rd Row? | Third Row Deep Dive

Yes, the Infiniti QX60 is designed as a three-row mid-size luxury SUV, offering seating for up to seven passengers.

When you’re looking for a vehicle that can handle family duty without sacrificing comfort or a bit of luxury, the seating arrangement is often the first thing on your mind. Many folks ask me about the Infiniti QX60 and its capacity for more than just a couple of passengers.

Let’s pull back the curtain and really dig into what that third row means for daily driving, road trips, and everything in between.

The QX60’s Seating Configuration: A Closer Look

The Infiniti QX60 consistently offers a three-row seating setup across its generations. This isn’t an optional extra you have to hunt for; it’s a fundamental part of the vehicle’s design and purpose.

Typically, this means a 2-3-2 arrangement:

• First Row: Two front bucket seats for the driver and front passenger.
• Second Row: A three-person bench seat, or in some configurations and trims, two captain’s chairs.
• Third Row: A two-person bench seat.

The second-row bench is often a 60/40 split-folding design, providing flexibility for cargo and passenger access. Opting for second-row captain’s chairs (available on newer models) reduces total seating to six but significantly improves third-row access and second-row comfort.

This standard configuration makes the QX60 a strong contender for those needing to transport more than five people regularly. It positions it squarely against other mid-size luxury SUVs focused on family utility.

Does The QX60 Have A 3rd Row? Unpacking the Practicality

Having a third row in an SUV like the QX60 is a game-changer for many households. It transforms the vehicle from a standard five-seater into a versatile people-mover.

This extra capacity is perfect for:

• Car-pooling for school or sports.
• Family road trips with grandparents or extra kids.
• Unexpected guests or friends needing a ride.
• Spreading out passengers for more individual space on longer journeys.

The QX60’s design often incorporates what’s called “theater-style” seating. This means each successive row is slightly higher than the one in front of it. This design choice helps third-row passengers get a better view forward, reducing that “cooped-up” feeling.

While the third row is standard, its usability varies based on passenger size and trip length. It’s often best suited for children or smaller adults, especially for longer drives. For shorter trips around town, it can comfortably accommodate a wider range of passengers.

Accessing the Third Row: Clever Engineering

Getting into and out of the third row can be a real headache in some SUVs. Infiniti has put some thought into making this process as smooth as possible in the QX60.

A standout feature is the second-row seat’s ability to tilt and slide forward, even with a child seat installed in the second row. This is a huge advantage for parents.

Here’s how it generally works:

1. A lever or button is located on the second-row seatback or side.
2. Activating it allows the seat to tilt and slide forward.
3. This creates a wider pathway to the third row without removing a forward-facing child seat.

This clever design avoids the common struggle of uninstalling and reinstalling child seats just to let someone into the back. It saves time and effort, making daily routines much simpler.

For those models with second-row captain’s chairs, access is even easier. A permanent aisle between the two seats provides a direct route to the third row, which is a big plus for frequent third-row users.

Second-Row Access Mechanisms

Seating Type	Third-Row Access
Second-Row Bench	Tilt and slide mechanism (often child-seat friendly)
Second-Row Captain’s Chairs	Permanent center aisle

The ease of access is a significant factor in how often that third row will actually get used. Infiniti clearly designed the QX60 with real-world family needs in mind.

Comfort and Space: What to Expect Back There

Let’s be realistic: a third row in a mid-size SUV is rarely as spacious as a living room couch. However, the QX60 aims to provide a usable and comfortable experience, especially for its intended passengers.

Key dimensions to consider for the third row include:

• Legroom: Adequate for children and average-sized adults on shorter trips. For taller adults, it might feel a bit snug on longer journeys.
• Headroom: Generally good, thanks to the QX60’s relatively tall roofline and theater-style seating.
• Shoulder Room: Comfortable for two, but three would be a squeeze.

Infiniti often includes amenities for third-row passengers to enhance comfort. These can include:

• Dedicated air vents for climate control.
• Cup holders and small storage bins.
• USB charging ports in newer models.

When it comes to child seats, the third row usually has LATCH anchors for at least one child seat. Always check the specific owner’s manual for your QX60 model year to confirm LATCH positions and installation guidelines. NHTSA guidelines consistently emphasize proper child seat installation for safety.

While it won’t feel like a limousine, the QX60’s third row is designed to be a functional and reasonably comfortable space for its passengers, particularly younger ones.

Cargo Capacity: Balancing Passengers and Gear

The presence of a third row directly impacts cargo space. This is a fundamental trade-off in any three-row vehicle. When the third row is in use, cargo capacity behind it is naturally reduced.

However, the QX60 offers flexibility. The third-row seats typically fold flat into the floor, creating a much larger, usable cargo area when you don’t need the extra passenger space. This flat-folding capability is crucial for hauling larger items.

Consider these scenarios:

• Third Row Up: Enough space for groceries, a few backpacks, or small luggage. Think of it as comparable to a compact sedan’s trunk.
• Third Row Down: A substantial increase in cargo volume, suitable for strollers, multiple suitcases, or large shopping trips.
• Both Second and Third Rows Down: Transforms the QX60 into a true cargo hauler, rivaling some smaller cargo vans in terms of volume. This setup is perfect for moving furniture or making big store runs.

The ability to easily reconfigure the seating and cargo areas makes the QX60 highly adaptable. It means you don’t have to choose between passenger capacity and cargo space; you can have both, just not always at the same time.

QX60 Cargo Volume (Illustrative)

Seating Configuration	Approximate Cargo Volume
All Rows Up (7 passengers)	Limited (e.g., 14-16 cubic feet)
Third Row Folded (5 passengers)	Generous (e.g., 40-45 cubic feet)
All Rear Rows Folded (2 passengers)	Maximum (e.g., 75-80+ cubic feet)

These numbers are illustrative; actual figures vary by model year and specific trim. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for precise measurements. The key takeaway is the significant increase in utility when the third row is folded away.

Third-Row Safety Features and Considerations

Safety is always a top priority, especially when carrying precious cargo in the back. The QX60 is designed with a suite of safety features that extend to its third-row passengers.

Key safety elements for the third row typically include:

• Side Curtain Airbags: These airbags usually extend all the way back to cover the third-row windows, offering head protection in side-impact collisions. This is a critical feature for any three-row vehicle.
• Three-Point Seatbelts: Every seating position in the QX60, including both third-row spots, is equipped with a three-point seatbelt. This provides proper restraint for all occupants.
• LATCH Anchors: As mentioned, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) points are usually present in the third row, allowing for secure installation of compatible child safety seats.
• Rear Occupant Alert: Newer QX60 models often include a system that reminds the driver to check the rear seats before exiting the vehicle. This is a simple yet effective feature to prevent leaving children or pets behind.

The vehicle’s overall structural integrity, designed to meet federal safety standards, also contributes to third-row occupant protection. Infiniti vehicles undergo rigorous testing to ensure they perform well in various crash scenarios.

When loading up the third row, ensure all passengers are properly buckled. Always use the appropriate child safety seats for younger occupants, following the manufacturer’s instructions and local regulations. A quick check of tire pressure and fluid levels before a trip with a full load is always a good practice, as vehicle dynamics change with more weight.

Does The QX60 Have A 3rd Row? — FAQs

Is the QX60’s third row suitable for adults?

The QX60’s third row can accommodate adults for shorter trips, but it’s generally best suited for children or smaller adults over longer distances. Legroom and shoulder room are more restricted than in the first two rows. For maximum comfort, consider it a versatile space for occasional adult use.

Can you install child seats in the third row of the QX60?

Yes, the QX60 typically includes LATCH anchors in at least one of the third-row seating positions. Always consult your specific model year’s owner’s manual to confirm the exact LATCH locations and proper installation instructions. Ensure the child seat fits securely and is installed correctly according to its manufacturer’s guidelines.

How easy is it to access the third row in the QX60?

Accessing the third row in the QX60 is made easier by its second-row seat design. Many QX60 models feature a tilt-and-slide mechanism for the second row that can operate even with a forward-facing child seat installed. This clever engineering creates a wider path, simplifying entry and exit for third-row passengers.

What happens to cargo space when the third row is in use?

When the QX60’s third row is in use, the cargo space behind it is significantly reduced. You’ll have enough room for groceries, small bags, or a few backpacks. For larger items like strollers or multiple suitcases, you’ll need to fold down the third row to expand the cargo area.

Are there any comfort features for third-row passengers in the QX60?

Infiniti often includes comfort and convenience features for third-row passengers in the QX60. These can include dedicated air vents for climate control, cup holders, and sometimes USB charging ports. These amenities help make the third-row experience more pleasant, especially for younger occupants on longer drives.