The market is booming with choices for seven-seat SUVs, offering a blend of gas, diesel, hybrid, and electric powertrains. Finally, families no longer need to compromise on style or rugged capability for passenger space; these vehicles offer more than minivans ever could.
Gone are the days of prioritizing only the front seats. Today’s Best Seven Passenger Vehicles are designed with everyone in mind, offering comfortable and feature-rich seating throughout. Whether it’s kids or adult passengers, everyone can enjoy a comfortable ride, even on those long road trips.
These top three-row SUVs stand out by providing exceptional amenities and generous legroom, ensuring every journey is a stylish one.
The Rise of the Seven-Seater SUV
Back in the 1960s and 70s, the station wagon reigned supreme as the quintessential family vehicle. Some even featured rear-facing seats in the tailgate, adding a touch of extra space. Many cherished family road trip memories were created within these wagons.
However, automakers soon recognized an increasing demand for third-row seating, particularly from larger families seeking more room. Initially a hallmark of minivans, third-row seating transitioned to SUVs as minivans declined in popularity. This shift gave rise to the seven-seater SUV, perfectly meeting the evolving needs of families.
Today, finding mid-size and full-size SUVs with third-row seating is easy. In fact, some of the largest SUVs can comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers.
Many of these SUVs also offer substantial cargo space, even when all three rows are in use. For added versatility, the rear seats can typically be folded, stowed, or even removed when extra cargo room is needed.
Modern seven passenger vehicles are packed with features designed to enhance the experience for all occupants, not just those in the front. Depending on the model, passengers can enjoy rear-seat entertainment systems, heated and ventilated seats, and ample personal space, potentially minimizing sibling squabbles on long journeys. With the right seven-seater SUV, family road trips can actually become something to look forward to.
Of course, these family-oriented SUVs do have some drawbacks. Their size means they aren’t generally known for sporty handling or exhilarating driving dynamics. Their dimensions can also make parking and maneuvering in tight spaces challenging. However, many modern SUVs are equipped with camera systems and parking assist technologies to mitigate these issues, even for less experienced drivers. Historically, SUVs have also been associated with poor fuel economy, although the rise of electric and hybrid seven-seater SUVs is changing this narrative.
Ultimately, the benefits of a three-row SUV are clear: they provide the space to bring along loved ones and even pets on all of life’s adventures. If you need a third row, you might as well maximize its utility.
The Top 7 Best Seven Passenger Vehicles for 2025
Here are some of the best seven passenger vehicles on the market for 2025, offering a range of features and capabilities to suit different needs:
- Chevrolet Suburban / GMC Yukon XL
- Ford Expedition / Lincoln Navigator
- Genesis GV80
- Kia EV9
- Chevrolet Traverse
- Jeep Grand Wagoneer
- Toyota Grand Highlander
1. 2025 Chevrolet Suburban & 2025 GMC Yukon XL: Kings of Space and Capability
The Chevrolet Suburban and its closely related twin, the GMC Yukon XL, have long been go-to choices for those needing maximum passenger and cargo space. These SUVs offer exceptionally generous second and third-row legroom. Furthermore, they boast a class-leading maximum cargo volume of 144.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, providing unparalleled flexibility for hauling either passengers or gear. When equipped with a front bench seat, these behemoths can even accommodate up to nine occupants.
The Suburban and Yukon XL lineups offer a wide array of trim levels to cater to diverse buyer preferences, from practical and utilitarian models to off-road focused trims and luxurious top-tier versions. Planning adventurous family trips off the beaten path? The Z71 trim package equips the Suburban with recovery hooks, a skid plate, and all-terrain tires mounted on 20-inch wheels. For the ultimate in large-SUV luxury, the Yukon XL Denali Ultimate delivers an unmatched experience.
The standard engine is a robust 5.3L V8 producing 355 horsepower. For even greater power, a 420-horsepower 6.2L V8 and a 305-horsepower 3.0L Duramax diesel are also available. All engines are paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission. For those planning to tow trailers or campers, the Max Trailering package is essential, boosting towing capacity up to 8,200 pounds.
For 2025, Chevrolet has enhanced these models with new technology features, including Boat Ramp Assist, connected cameras with security record mode, and a redesigned cabin featuring a larger infotainment screen. Upper trims also benefit from Super Cruise, GM’s hands-free driving system, making long highway drives significantly easier and safer. If spaciousness and capability are priorities, the Suburban and Yukon XL remain top contenders in the seven-seater SUV segment.
With an expected starting MSRP around $60,000, the 2025 Suburban and Yukon XL are competitively priced within their class.
2. 2025 Ford Expedition & 2025 Lincoln Navigator: Comfort and Luxury for Everyone
The Ford Expedition is Ford’s strong entry in the seven-seater SUV category, offering seating for up to eight passengers depending on the chosen configuration. Comfort is paramount in this flagship SUV, highlighted by available heated and ventilated second-row seats, a rare feature even in many luxury vehicles.
Third-row passengers enjoy a generous 36 inches of legroom, with optional power-reclining seats further enhancing comfort. When cargo hauling is needed, the second and third rows fold down to create a massive 121.5 cubic feet of cargo space – enough for four queen-size mattresses.
With ten trim levels available, ranging from the opulent Platinum to the off-road-oriented Timberline and the performance-focused Stealth Performance Edition, the Expedition can be tailored to suit diverse driving styles and weekend adventure plans. Adding the Trailer Tow Package increases towing capacity to an impressive 9,200 pounds.
The base 2025 Ford Expedition XL STX starts around $56,000 and achieves an EPA-estimated 18 mpg combined. For those seeking the same practicality with a significant upgrade in luxury, the Lincoln Navigator is a compelling alternative. Sharing the same robust platform as the Expedition, the Navigator elevates the experience with a lavish interior featuring premium leather and wood accents. It offers even more luxury features and provides exceptional pampering for all seven (or eight) occupants, with a starting price around $83,000.
3. 2025 Genesis GV80: Luxury and Value in a Seven-Seat Package
The 2025 Genesis GV80 is a testament to luxurious design, impressive build quality, and cutting-edge technology. This SUV delivers remarkable value compared to other premium seven-seater SUVs in its class. The refined full-leather interior is enhanced with features like a Lexicon 14-channel audio system, a large 14.5-inch high-definition LCD infotainment screen, and tri-zone climate control.
For seven-passenger configurations, the GV80 offers the range-topping 3.5T V6 AWD Advanced+ trim. While third-row legroom is a modest 30.3 inches, making it better suited for shorter trips for adults, the GV80 excels as a luxury SUV that doesn’t compromise on comfort or features for those who occasionally need a third row.
A powerful 3.5L twin-turbo V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission sends 375 horsepower to all four wheels. It achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg combined. With a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds, the GV80 is capable of handling light to moderate towing needs.
Luxury typically comes at a high price, but the GV80 offers a more accessible entry point compared to many rivals. The 2025 Genesis GV80 Advanced model starts at $73,800, making it a compelling value proposition in the luxury seven-seater SUV segment.
4. 2025 Kia EV9: The Electric Future of Family SUVs
The Kia EV9 represents the electric evolution of the family SUV, providing ample seating and cargo space with zero tailpipe emissions. Sharing the length of Kia’s Telluride but benefiting from a longer wheelbase due to its compact electric motors, the EV9 offers enhanced interior space for passengers and cargo. It boasts 32 inches of third-row legroom, and the second row, with an impressive 42.8 inches of legroom (more than the front seats), can slide forward to optimize space distribution.
Kia offers optional Relaxation Chair seats for the second row, featuring deep recline and extending footrests, providing first-class comfort for rear passengers.
Cargo capacity is generous, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row and a substantial 81.7 cubic feet with all seats folded.
The EV9 is available in single-motor rear-wheel-drive configurations with 215 horsepower and up to 304 miles of range in Long-Range form, or dual-motor all-wheel-drive models delivering up to 379 horsepower and 280 miles of range. The 2025 EV9 starts at a competitive $54,900, making electric family transportation more accessible.
5. 2025 Chevrolet Traverse: A Refreshed and Spacious Family Hauler
Chevrolet has significantly upgraded the Traverse for 2025, introducing a new engine, a redesigned cabin, and a new Z71 off-road trim. This already spacious model, capable of seating up to eight, is now even more appealing.
A new 2.5L turbo-four engine delivers 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque, exceeding the output of the V6 it replaces. An eight-speed automatic transmission ensures efficient performance, with AWD models expected to achieve 21 mpg combined. The Traverse now offers GM’s Super Cruise hands-free highway driving assist as an option, enhancing driver comfort on long journeys.
The 2025 Traverse offers up to 98 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats folded. With all seats in use, the third row provides 34 inches of legroom and an impressive 37 inches of headroom. While not a heavy-duty towing vehicle, it can handle up to 5,000 pounds when needed. The Z71 trim adds all-terrain tires for venturing to campsites, while the RS trim offers a more road-focused driving experience.
The 2025 Traverse starts at a budget-friendly MSRP of $40,995, making it an attractive option for families seeking a spacious and versatile seven passenger vehicle.
6. 2025 Jeep Grand Wagoneer: Premium Comfort and Unmatched Space
Jeep presents the premium Grand Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer L, luxurious seven-seater SUVs with expansive cabins and third-row seating designed to impress even the most discerning passengers.
The Grand Wagoneer boasts best-in-class overall passenger volume, particularly in the third row, meaning fewer complaints about cramped conditions. Thanks to its long wheelbase, third-row passengers enjoy a generous 36.6 inches of legroom.
Even with the third row occupied, the Grand Wagoneer provides a genuinely spacious cargo area. The power-folding third-row bench seat conveniently stows away for even greater cargo capacity.
The Grand Wagoneer is offered in four trim levels, with the top-of-the-line Series III providing the most luxurious features. However, even the “base” Series I is generously equipped. When equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer-Tow package and the Hurricane engine, the Grand Wagoneer can tow up to 9,800 pounds.
While offering best-in-class features, the Grand Wagoneer also comes with a higher price tag. The Series I MSRP starts at $91,945, and the Series III reaches $116,290. For those seeking similar space without the top-tier luxury, the standard Wagoneer starts at $62,945.
7. 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander: The Practical and Efficient Family Choice
Toyota’s Grand Highlander has emerged as a leading contender in the seven-passenger SUV segment, surpassing the Sequoia in many key areas for family hauling, with the exception of towing capacity.
While the Sequoia offers a robust 9,000+ pound towing capacity, the Grand Highlander is rated lower. However, the Grand Highlander excels with a more refined driving experience, significantly better fuel economy, and a more accessible price point.
The Grand Highlander offers 34 inches of third-row legroom and surpasses the Sequoia with 37 inches of headroom. Second-row passengers also benefit from ample space with 40 inches of legroom and headroom, both exceeding the Sequoia. Cargo capacity is impressive, with 98 cubic feet available with all seats folded and 21 cubic feet with all seats in use.
Toyota offers the Grand Highlander with a fuel-efficient 265 horsepower 2.4L four-cylinder turbo engine achieving 24 mpg combined. Hybrid options include a 2.5L hybrid system with 245 horsepower and 36 mpg combined, and a more powerful 2.4L 362 horsepower Hybrid Max system delivering 27 mpg combined.
The 2025 Grand Highlander starts at $43,320 for the base XLE trim and $45,020 for the XLE Hybrid, making it a compelling choice for families prioritizing practicality and efficiency in a seven passenger vehicle.
Seven-Seater SUVs: Built for People and Gear
This selection represents just a glimpse of the numerous excellent seven and eight-passenger SUVs available today. These vehicles offer comfortable rides and stylish interiors, with some even enhancing off-road and towing capabilities.
With such a diverse range of SUVs to choose from, finding the perfect one to match your lifestyle has never been easier. And yes, the whole family will appreciate the upgrade.
Why Trust Our Recommendations?
At GearJunkie, we understand the importance of making informed purchasing decisions. Our expert team is dedicated to rigorously researching and testing the gear we recommend to ensure you get the best value for your money. We are committed to providing thorough analysis to help our readers make confident choices.
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