If you want maximum versatility in your vehicle, it’s hard to beat a seven-seat SUV. The Acura MDX, Kia Telluride, and Toyota Highlander are among the best-selling on the market, but they’ve got more than a few competitors that are also worth looking at.
Many of today’s three-row SUVs offer great comfort, lots of cargo space, and the latest safety equipment. Some even provide enough off-road capability to cater to intrepid summer vacation plans.
But how do you know which is right for you? Look no further than our guide to the best three-row SUVs on sale right now. Full-size SUVs from Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC are icons when it to big family SUVs, but the market has expanded to some varied options, as you’ll see below.
The Best 7-Passenger SUVs of 2025:
- 2025 Honda Pilot
- 2025 Mazda CX-90
- 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9
- 2025 Kia Telluride
- 2025 Acura MDX
- 2025 Volkswagen Atlas
- 2025 Lincoln Aviator
- 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander
- 2025 BMW X7
- 2026 Hyundai Palisade
1. 2025 Honda Pilot
CarGurus expert rating: 6 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.7 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Practical for daily living | Unimpressive fuel economy |
| Plenty of cargo space | Technology looks outdated |
| Great safety ratings | Front passenger seat lacks adjustment |
Roomy and versatile, the 2025 Honda Pilot is a three-row midsize SUV designed for families who want an easygoing daily driver with ample space. Honda keeps things straightforward with a single 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 285 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Most trims offer seating for eight, while higher trims let you remove the second-row center seat to create a more spacious seven-passenger layout. The Black Edition, highlighted here, stands out with blacked-out exterior accents and unique red interior details, adding a touch of style to its practical character. Behind the third row, you’ll find 18.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 48.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 86.5 cubic feet when both rear rows are down—plenty of room for family gear and road trips.
Inside, the Pilot focuses on thoughtful touches and comfort, with leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats (though the front passenger seat lacks height adjustment), and a cabin designed to keep everyone happy. The infotainment system may look a bit dated with its 9-inch touchscreen, but it covers the basics with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. Safety is a strong suit, with a full suite of Honda Sensing features standard, plus top crash-test ratings from IIHS and NHTSA. While rivals may offer more tech, hybrid options, or longer warranties, the Pilot’s blend of space, family-friendly features, and Honda reliability continues to make it a popular choice.
The CarGurus Verdict: "With the 2025 Pilot, Honda hasn’t messed with success. It is a roomy and practical daily driver that makes life easy, has plenty of power to effortlessly get up to speed, and is safe for transporting the people you love the most. However, it is time for Honda to offer a hybrid version." - Christian Wardlaw, 2025 Honda Pilot Review and Video
Read our full 2025 Honda Pilot review
2. 2025 Mazda CX-90
CarGurus expert rating: 6 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.8% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.7 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish design | Underwhelming base engine |
| Premium interior materials | Noisy |
| Great safety ratings | Unintuitive technology |
With the 2025 CX-90, Mazda takes a different path from the typical midsize three-row SUV, focusing on style, unique powertrains, and a premium interior. The CX-90 stands out with its turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine or available plug-in hybrid, offering up to 319 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque (or 340 hp with premium gas in the Turbo S). Mazda's elegant design and upscale materials create a cabin that feels more luxurious than you might expect for the price, even if certain controls—like the infotainment knob and climate panel—could be more user-friendly. In terms of utility, the CX-90 provides 14.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and up to 74.2 cubic feet with seats folded, which is on the smaller side for this class but still practical for most families.
On the road, the CX-90 impresses with engaging handling and a taut suspension that makes it one of the more enjoyable family SUVs to drive, especially if you appreciate a sportier feel. However, the ride can be firm, and the drivetrain isn’t as refined as competitors—noise and vibrations are more noticeable, and the base engine’s power delivery can feel unpredictable until warmed up. Where the CX-90 really excels is safety: it’s one of only a handful of three-row SUVs to earn IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and NHTSA five-star ratings (for the PHEV), with a robust suite of standard driver-assistance features. Tech and practicality lag behind some rivals, but for shoppers prioritizing design, safety, and driving enjoyment, the CX-90 is a compelling choice.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Can the CX-90’s elegant design, premium interior, unusual powertrains, enjoyable driving dynamics, and impressive safety ratings ensure competitiveness in a family-size SUV segment where the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, and Kia Telluride dominate? With more attention to detail and better technology, this Mazda SUV could lead instead of follow." - Christian Wardlaw, 2025 Mazda CX-90 Review
Read our full 2025 Mazda CX-90 review
3. 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9
CarGurus expert rating: 8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.8% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.7 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very energy efficient | Polarizing design |
| Great interior space | Unimpressive driving dynamics |
| Competitive price tag |
The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 is a standout in the growing field of three-row electric SUVs, offering real-world practicality for families. With seating for up to seven (or six with captain's chairs on upper trims), the Ioniq 9 delivers spacious legroom—42.8 inches in the second row—and a flat floor for easy access. Behind the third row, you'll find 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded and 86.9 cubic feet with both rear rows down, making it versatile for hauling gear or groceries. Its standard 110.3-kWh battery pack means even the base S trim with rear-wheel drive can achieve up to 335 miles of range, while all-wheel-drive variants offer robust power, up to 422 hp, and up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity—making it a practical choice for both daily driving and weekend getaways.
Tech and comfort are big selling points here. The Ioniq 9 features dual, curved 12.3-inch displays, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and up to six high-powered USB-C ports. Advanced safety tech comes standard, including Hyundai’s Highway Driving Assist 2 and driver attention monitoring, with upper trims adding a surround-view monitor and blind-spot view cameras. Charging is flexible thanks to compatibility with both NACS (Tesla-style) and CCS fast-chargers, and federal tax credit eligibility helps offset its starting price of $60,555. While the Ioniq 9’s styling won’t appeal to everyone, its blend of efficiency, family-friendly space, and state-of-the-art features make it a compelling option in the electric SUV segment.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Hyundai Ioniq 9 isn’t a perfect vehicle but it offers terrific passenger space, good tech, and family-friendly features. Shoppers may find its design polarizing (you could easily say the same about the Hyundai Ioniq 5 or the Ioniq 6), but families interested in electric vehicles will do well to test drive this new option." - Matt Smith, 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 Review and Video
Read our full 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 review
4. 2025 Kia Telluride
CarGurus expert rating: 8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.93% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish design | Outdated technology |
| Comfortable | Irritating lane-assist system |
| Great safety ratings | Sticky brakes in thick traffic |
The 2025 Kia Telluride continues to set the standard for family-friendly, three-row SUVs, offering a winning mix of comfort, style, and practicality. Even as newer competitors crowd the midsize segment, the Telluride stands out with its upscale design, spacious interior, and thoughtful features. Inside, you’ll find seating for up to eight, a flexible cargo area with up to 87 cubic feet of space when both rear rows are folded, and comfort touches like available heated and ventilated second-row seats—something rarely found in this class. For 2025, all trims come with a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth, confident power whether you’re hauling the family or hitting the open road.
Kia prioritizes everyday usability, from easy-to-use controls to a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Telluride also earns top marks for crash safety, with both a five-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation. While the infotainment system could use an update—lacking wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and relying on a USB-A port—the dual 12.3-inch displays and available head-up display keep vital info front and center. With strong value, excellent warranty coverage, and a competitive average price, the Telluride remains one of the smartest picks for American families.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Aging technology caused some irritation during a five-day road trip in the 2025 Kia Telluride. Otherwise, the Telluride was perfectly suited to long-distance travel–whether rolling down an Interstate, roaming a major city, or romping down trails near a national park." - Christian Wardlaw, 2025 Kia Telluride Review
Read our full 2025 Kia Telluride review
5. 2025 Acura MDX
CarGurus expert rating: 8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.3% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish design | Poor fuel economy |
| Comfortable | No hybrid or plug-in hybrid option |
| Easy-to-use technology | Cramped third row |
The 2025 Acura MDX continues its reign as the best-selling three-row luxury SUV with smart updates that make it more appealing than ever. Acura has focused on refining the user experience, introducing a new 12.3-inch touchscreen that replaces the old touchpad interface for a more intuitive and modern feel. Inside, the MDX impresses with quality materials, improved sound insulation, and comfortable seating—especially in trims like the Advance and A-Spec Advance, which now get 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Cargo space is generous for the class, with 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 39.1 cubic feet with it folded, and up to 71.4 cubic feet with both rear rows down, all accessible via easy-to-use manual folding seats.
Performance in the MDX is solid, if not sporty, with most buyers choosing the 3.5-liter V6 delivering 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission. While all-wheel drive (SH-AWD) is available and standard on sportier trims, the ride is tuned for everyday comfort and confidence rather than outright thrills. The MDX stands out with a strong suite of standard safety tech, new Google Built-in infotainment features, and a competitive price point compared to European rivals. However, shoppers should note the lack of hybrid options and a third row best suited for children. Still, for many families, the MDX nails the balance of luxury, practicality, and value.
The CarGurus Verdict: "This year’s updates make the 2025 Acura MDX more appealing than ever. However, this is not a fuel-efficient choice and the standard V6 engine is somewhat underwhelming. Acura needs to install a hybrid or plug-in hybrid in the MDX as soon as possible if it wants to woo customers shopping in this segment." - Christian Wardlaw, 2025 Acura MDX Review and Video
Read our full 2025 Acura MDX review
6. 2025 Volkswagen Atlas
CarGurus expert rating: 4.2 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.9% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish design | Poor fuel economy |
| Comfortable | Poor ride quality |
| Plenty of cargo space | Unintuitive technology |
The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas stands out in the midsize three-row SUV segment for its exceptional passenger and cargo space, making it an appealing choice for families prioritizing comfort and versatility. The SEL Premium R-Line trim, featured here, impresses with upscale touches like diamond-stitched leather, a panoramic sunroof, and a tech-forward cabin. The Atlas comfortably seats adults in all three rows and easily handles bulky gear with up to 96.6 cubic feet of cargo space when both rear rows are folded. Access to the third row is simple, and thoughtful storage is available throughout the interior, ensuring convenience on road trips or daily errands.
Under the hood, every 2025 Atlas is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 269 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic and available all-wheel drive. While this engine is smooth and refined, fuel economy in real-world driving falls short of EPA estimates, especially in city conditions, and ride quality can be harsh over rough pavement. On the tech front, the large touchscreen and wireless smartphone integration are welcome, but Volkswagen’s native infotainment system is unintuitive, and most climate and audio controls are touch-sensitive rather than physical knobs, which can frustrate daily use. Safety, however, is a strong point, with standard IQ.Drive driver-assist features and a five-star NHTSA safety rating.
The CarGurus Verdict: "This family-sized SUV has more interior space than most rivals, making the 2025 VW Atlas a great choice if passenger and cargo room are high on your list of requirements. However, unimpressive fuel economy, dissatisfying ride quality, and a sometimes-infuriating infotainment interface could have you mapping out alternatives to an Atlas." - Christian Wardlaw, 2025 Volkswagen Atlas Review
Read our full 2025 Volkswagen Atlas review
7. 2025 Lincoln Aviator
CarGurus expert rating: 7.8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.4% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.1 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish design | Poor fuel economy |
| Impressive technology | Poor ride quality (22-inch wheels) |
| Great safety ratings | Cramped third-row seats |
The 2025 Lincoln Aviator stands out in the midsize luxury SUV segment by embracing classic American luxury with a modern twist. Its exterior design blends traditional proportions—a blunt nose, sleek roofline, and short overhangs—with fresh styling cues for 2025. Inside, the Aviator offers an inviting and plush cabin, especially when equipped with the available 30-way adjustable Perfect Position front seats featuring heating, ventilation, and massage. The technology suite is equally compelling, highlighted by a 13.2-inch touchscreen running Lincoln’s Digital Experience, standard wireless smartphone integration, and an outstanding 28-speaker Revel Ultima audio system. Despite its high level of tech and comfort, the third-row seat is best suited for kids due to limited space and support.
Under the hood, every Aviator is powered by a robust 400-hp twin-turbocharged V6 producing 415 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive. On the road, the Aviator prioritizes a quiet, composed ride over athletic handling, making it an excellent choice for serene commutes and family road trips. Cargo capacity is generous, with 19.2 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 78.6 cubic feet with all rear seats folded, providing ample space for luggage or gear. Safety is another strong suit, thanks to standard Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0 and hands-free BlueCruise capability, plus top crash-test scores from both the NHTSA and IIHS. While fuel economy trails some rivals and ride quality can be harsh with the 22-inch wheels, the Aviator’s mix of comfort, technology, and safety makes it a compelling option for luxury SUV shoppers.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Distinctive without resorting to polarization, the 2025 Lincoln Aviator is a compelling choice for people seeking a powerful, quiet, and comfortable luxury SUV. It’s been around since 2019, yet you can’t consider this Lincoln to be a relic thanks to its undeniable technological sophistication." - Christian Wardlaw, 2025 Lincoln Aviator Review
Read our full 2025 Lincoln Aviator review
8. 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander
CarGurus expert rating: 6 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.4% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Impressive stereo | Potentially polarizing design |
| Comfortable | Cramped third row |
| Quiet cabin | Sluggish performance |
The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander receives a mild refresh that focuses on interior and technology upgrades, including a standout Yamaha premium sound system and subtle tweaks to the exterior. While the Outlander offers value in its lower trims and includes a third row of seats—uncommon in this segment—space in that back row is extremely limited, making it best suited for children or occasional use. Most buyers will get the most out of the Outlander by folding that third row flat, which frees up a practical 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row. The cabin features user-friendly controls, plenty of soft-touch surfaces (especially in higher trims), and thoughtful touches like physical HVAC buttons, making everyday driving more comfortable and intuitive.
Under the hood, the Outlander is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 181 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque, paired to a CVT that mimics an automatic but can feel sluggish, especially when merging or accelerating onto the highway. While the all-wheel drive system offers stability and multiple drive modes, the Outlander’s fuel economy—26 mpg combined—lags behind top competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Safety equipment is competitive, but advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control require stepping up to higher trims. Mitsubishi’s warranty coverage is generous, and pricing starts attractively at $31,140, but fully loaded models can approach $45,000, where rivals offer more power and efficiency for less.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander still isn’t the best-driving crossover you can buy, and the front fascia might turn you off, but the small improvements and excellent sound system might inspire some buyers to visit the dealership." - Emme Hall, 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Review
Read our full 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander review
9. 2025 BMW X7
CarGurus expert rating: 7 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.9% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great handling | Potentially polarizing design |
| Easy-to-use technology | Unimpressive interior materials |
| Reasonable value for money |
The 2025 BMW X7 remains the brand’s flagship SUV, offering upscale space, seating for six or seven, and a commanding presence on the road. The X7 stands out in the luxury SUV segment with its sharp driving dynamics and a choice of powerful engines, including the xDrive40i’s turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six (375 hp, 398 lb-ft of torque) and the M60i’s twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 (523 hp, 553 lb-ft of torque), both paired with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic. If you crave even more power, the Alpina XB7 serves up 631 hp and a thrilling 3.9-second 0–60 time. Inside, the X7 features BMW’s modern Curved Display—combining a 12.3-inch digital cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen—for an intuitive tech experience, plus thoughtful utility like a split tailgate and air suspension to ease loading.
Practicality isn’t overlooked: the X7 boasts more cargo room behind the rear seats (48.6 cubic feet) than many rivals, and up to 90.4 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. While some competitors offer more towing capacity, the X7’s 7,500-pound maximum is more than enough for most families. Standard driver aids include forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring, while advanced features like hands-free Highway Assistant are optional. With a starting price under key rivals and fuel economy topping out at 22 mpg combined for the xDrive40i, the X7 offers impressive value in a high-end package, making it a top pick for drivers who want space, performance, and tech without sacrificing luxury.
The CarGurus Verdict: "BMW loyalists will find more of what they love about the brand, while the X7’s superb driving dynamics and reasonable pricing (for this high-end segment, that is) should give customers of rival brands something to think about." - Stephen Edelstein, 2025 BMW X7 Review
Read our full 2025 BMW X7 review
10. 2026 Hyundai Palisade
CarGurus expert rating: 9 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.9% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Multiple powertrain options | XRT trim loses luxury features |
| Great ride quality | Fuel economy lags behind top rivals |
| Spacious |
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade stands out as a top choice for families seeking a spacious and stylish three-row SUV. The redesign brings a more squared-off profile, bold grille, and distinctive lighting, while the interior echoes Midcentury Modern design with soft, flowing lines and high-quality materials throughout. Inside, you’ll find seating for seven or eight, with a versatile cabin that offers up to 86.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats, making it practical for both everyday errands and long road trips. Even the third row is sized for occasional adult use, and thoughtful touches like USB-C ports, air vents for all rows, and available heated/ventilated seating boost comfort for everyone onboard.
Under the hood, the Palisade is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 287 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and your choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The ride quality is refined and comfortable, and new for 2026, the XRT Pro trim adds off-road capability with all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance. Tech-savvy families will appreciate dual 12.3-inch digital displays, standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, available surround-view cameras, and a suite of advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and more. Hyundai’s long warranty and competitive pricing make the Palisade an even more attractive value in the crowded midsize SUV segment.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The 2026 Hyundai Palisade is an improvement over the outgoing version it replaces in every meaningful way. Consider the Palisade a top choice if you’re in the market for a three-row SUV that’s comfortable for the whole family." - Jeremy Korzeniewski, 2026 Hyundai Palisade Review
Read our full 2026 Hyundai Palisade review
FAQs: Best 7-Passenger SUVs
Which 7-passenger SUV has the most cargo space? For those who need maximum hauling capability, full-size SUVs are the leaders. Models like the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL offer cavernous interiors, with up to 144.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. In the midsize category, the Volkswagen Atlas is a standout with 96.6 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity.
Which 7-passenger SUV is best for families? The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade are consistently praised as top choices for families. Both offer a winning combination of adult-friendly third-row seating, upscale interiors that feel more expensive than they are, and a long list of standard technology and safety features. Their strong value proposition and excellent warranties add to their family-friendly appeal.
Which 7-passenger SUV has the best third row? For truly usable third-row seating that can comfortably accommodate adults, the Toyota Grand Highlander is a top contender. It was specifically designed to provide ample legroom and headroom in the rearmost seats. Other models with commendable third-row space include the Chevrolet Traverse, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, and Volkswagen Atlas.
Are there any good hybrid or electric 7-passenger SUVs? Yes, the market for electrified 7-passenger SUVs is growing. The all-electric Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Kia EV9 offer spacious, futuristic cabins with zero tailpipe emissions. For those who prefer a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), the Mazda CX-90 PHEV provides an appealing blend of performance and up to 26 miles of electric-only range. Traditional hybrid options like the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid are also excellent choices, delivering impressive fuel efficiency without the need to plug in.
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