For families that are growing or those who frequently travel with a group, a standard sedan often lacks the space needed for comfortable journeys. This is where the appeal of a 6-passenger SUV comes into play, offering a sweet spot between spaciousness and maneuverability. While larger SUVs exist, the best 6-passenger SUVs provide ample room without being overly cumbersome. Many of these SUVs feature a 2-2-2 seating arrangement, often with second-row captain’s chairs, but the configuration alone doesn’t guarantee suitability for your specific requirements. Some models may compromise on third-row legroom, making it more suitable for children, while others might sacrifice cargo space to accommodate passengers.
Our expert reviews delve into the top 6-seater SUVs available in the USA, giving you detailed insights into seating comfort, versatility, and overall practicality. We understand that choosing a vehicle is about more than just passenger capacity. Therefore, our rankings also consider crucial factors such as performance, fuel efficiency, build quality, and long-term value. We aim to provide you with all the essential information in an easily digestible format, saving you valuable time that would otherwise be spent on extensive research and dealership visits.
To help you quickly assess each vehicle’s standing in its segment, we utilize a BuzzScore rating system. It’s important to note that while vehicles in this list might have similar BuzzScores, they don’t necessarily compete directly against each other. To understand more about how BuzzScore ratings are calculated, you can find detailed information here. This list is constantly updated to reflect the latest BuzzScores and include new vehicles as they become available in the market.
1 Acura MDX
2025 Acura MDX
8.6/10
What is Buzzscore?
Engine: 3.5-liter V6
Horsepower: 290 hp
Drivetrain: FWD or AWD
Currently topping our list of Best 6 Passenger Suvs is the Acura MDX. The 2025 Acura MDX starts at an MSRP of $51,200 for the base, front-wheel-drive model, with a range of trim levels available to suit different needs and budgets. While also offered as a seven-seat SUV, the MDX stands out with its versatile second-row seating.
Regardless of the chosen trim, this Acura SUV features a multi-functional center row that allows for easy removal of the middle seat. This clever design transforms the second row into two comfortable captain’s chairs, significantly improving access to the third row. In terms of passenger space, the Acura MDX provides 29.1 inches of legroom in the third row and a generous 38.5 inches in the second row. For cargo, the MDX offers up to 71.4 cubic feet of space when the rear seats are folded down. For those prioritizing performance, the MDX Type S, boasting a sporty 355-horsepower engine, is a compelling option.
Three-row SUVs aren’t typically known for their driving enjoyment, but the Type S variant of the MDX changes that perception. It’s not just practical, but also genuinely fun to drive and comes exceptionally well-equipped.
– Ian Wright / CarBuzz
Driven: 2025 Acura MDX Type S Is The Complete Package
Subtle enhancements to this sporty SUV have elevated its overall appeal and performance.
2 Lincoln Aviator
2025 Lincoln Aviator
8.6/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $57,095
Engine: 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 Gas
Horsepower: 400 hp
Fuel Economy: 18/26 MPG
The Lincoln Aviator is another standout 6-passenger SUV that offers a customizable second-row experience. This American-made SUV is available in three distinct trim levels, with the base model starting at $58,495. The seating configuration in this six-seater SUV varies depending on the trim you select. Beyond the standard bench seat option that accommodates up to seven passengers, you can opt for twin captain’s chairs. These captain’s chairs can be configured with either a convenient pass-through to the third row or a refined center console positioned between them. Notably, the top-tier Black Label trim is exclusively available as a six-seater. Interior dimensions remain consistent across the Aviator lineup, offering third-row passengers 29.2 inches of legroom and second-row occupants a spacious 39 inches. When it comes to cargo capacity, the Aviator provides a maximum of 77.7 cubic feet.
Under the hood, every Lincoln Aviator is powered by a robust twin-turbo V6 engine that produces 400 horsepower. This ensures that performance is readily available, even when the SUV is fully loaded with passengers and cargo.
While many SUVs in this segment come standard with seven seats, several models offer the option to upgrade to second-row captain’s chairs. This conversion transforms them into comfortable six-seater SUVs, earning them a well-deserved spot on our list of top picks.
2025 Lincoln Aviator Facelift Ditches Hybrid Engine In Favor Of More Tech
The 2025 Aviator receives a facelift and enhances its technology offerings, bringing BlueCruise hands-free driving to the entire Lincoln range.
3 Kia Sorento Hybrid
2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid
8.2/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $38,690
Engine: 1.6L Turbo Inline-4 Hybrid
Horsepower: 227 hp
Fuel Economy: 36/36/36 mpg (FWD) | 34/34/34 mpg (AWD)
The Kia Sorento Hybrid stands out as the first dedicated 6-passenger SUV on our list, meaning it doesn’t offer a seven-seat configuration. Second-row captain’s chairs are standard and the only seating layout available, emphasizing passenger comfort in all positions. The Sorento Hybrid is offered in two well-equipped trims: EX and SX Prestige, with the EX trim starting at an attractive $38,690.
Both trims are designed with passenger convenience in mind, featuring two USB ports in each row, ensuring every occupant can keep their devices charged. Additionally, both the second row and the cargo area in each trim include a practical 12-volt power supply. Inside, the Kia Sorento Hybrid provides a comfortable environment with 29.6 inches of legroom for third-row passengers and a generous 40.7 inches for those in the second row. Cargo space starts at 12.6 cubic feet in the trunk and expands to an impressive 75.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, offering ample room for luggage and gear. As a hybrid model, the Sorento Hybrid excels in fuel efficiency, achieving up to 36 mpg combined in the FWD configuration, making it an economical choice for families.
4 Ford Explorer
2025 Ford Explorer
8.0/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $39,625
Engine: 2.3L Turbo Inline-4 Gas, 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6
Horsepower: 300-400 hp
There’s a strong reason why the Ford Explorer has remained a popular SUV for so long. It consistently ranks as one of the best 6-seater SUV options for a variety of reasons. Beyond its widespread use as a police patrol vehicle across the country, the consumer version of the Explorer is available in four trims, starting with the Active trim at $39,755. Technically, the Ford Explorer can accommodate up to eight passengers with bench seats in the second and third rows, making it exceptionally suitable for larger families or substantial cargo needs. For passenger comfort, the third row offers 32.2 inches of legroom, while the second row provides an expansive 40.5 inches. The Explorer also boasts impressive cargo volume, offering a maximum capacity of 85.8 cubic feet, making it one of the most spacious in its class.
Every Ford Explorer trim, except for the sporty ST, offers seating for up to seven passengers. The ST model comes standard with second-row captain’s chairs, limiting capacity to six. For the rest of the lineup, captain’s chairs are available as an option. While a second-row bench is preferable for maximizing passenger capacity to seven, we generally recommend the captain’s chairs for enhanced adult comfort and creating more personal space for children, which can minimize squabbles. Captain’s chairs also improve accessibility to the third row.
– Nicole Wakelin, CarBuzz Editor-at-Large
5 BMW X7
2025 BMW X7
8.0/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $83,500
Engine: 3.0L Turbo Inline-6 | 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8
Horsepower: 375 hp | 523 hp
Fuel Economy: 21/25/22 mpg | 16/21/18 mpg
The BMW X7 earns its place on our list as a premier 6-passenger SUV, albeit at a premium price point. With a starting MSRP of $83,500, it represents a more significant investment than many of its competitors, such as the Audi Q7. However, the X7 justifies its price with its luxurious features, high-end finishes, and powerful engine options, available as both a six- or seven-seat SUV. As a luxury SUV, the BMW X7 is replete with comfort-enhancing features for all occupants. The M60i trim, for example, includes automatic five-zone climate control, ventilated front seats with massage functions, and heated rear seats. For passenger space, the third row provides 33.3 inches of legroom, and the second row offers 37.6 inches. Cargo capacity is generous, with a maximum volume of 90.4 cubic feet available behind the front seats.
The standard six-cylinder turbocharged engine in the BMW X7 is both refined and powerful, delivering 375 horsepower. For those seeking even more performance, a robust 523-hp V8 engine is also available.
Best 6-seater Trucks Of 2025
If your seating needs extend to trucks, these are the top 6-seater trucks available in 2025.
What To Consider When Choosing a Six-Seater SUV
While passenger capacity is a primary factor when considering these vehicles, it’s not the only element that determines if they are suitable for families. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when searching for the ideal 6-passenger SUV:
- Space: Ensuring comfortable seating for six adults is crucial. Pay close attention to third-row space, as it can sometimes be limited in 6-seater SUVs. If you frequently transport teenagers or adults in the third row, prioritizing models with more generous head- and legroom is advisable.
- Cargo Capacity: Integrating a third row of seats often impacts cargo space. Midsize SUVs, in particular, may require compromises in this area. With all seats in use, trunk space in some 6-seaters can be comparable to that of a typical sedan. If you regularly need to carry both passengers and luggage, carefully evaluate the cargo volume behind the third row.
- Value for Money: The price range for 6-passenger SUVs is broad, starting under $40,000 and extending to over three times that amount for luxury models. Finding a model that offers the best balance of features and value within your budget is essential. Remember to look beyond the base price, as some models might require additional options to match the features offered by competitors.
Exploring Your 6-Passenger Vehicle Options
The market offers a wider selection of 6-seater vehicles than you might initially realize, including those with seven or eight seats that can be configured for six with captain’s chairs. From our list, the Ford Explorer and Kia Sorento Hybrid, alongside the Acura MDX, Lincoln Aviator, and BMW X7, represent some of the strongest contenders in the 6-passenger SUV category.
Sources: Acura, Lincoln, Kia, Ford, BMW
