Best 7-Seater Compact SUV with 3rd Row: Top Picks for Families in 2025
Compact SUVs with a third row are designed to offer the perfect blend of practicality and comfort for families. These vehicles provide ample seating for seven passengers while maintaining a manageable size for city driving. The third row is often best suited for children or occasional use, but newer models have improved legroom and comfort for adults as well. Below, we delve into the top 7-seater compact SUVs with a third row, comparing their features, performance, and value.
Top 7-Seater Compact SUVs with a Third Row in 2025
The following vehicles stand out in the competitive compact SUV segment, offering a combination of space, technology, and reliability.
1. Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander remains a top choice for families seeking a dependable 7-seater compact SUV. Known for its robust build quality and excellent resale value, the Highlander offers a comfortable ride and a well-designed interior. The third row is accessible and provides decent space for children. Standard safety features include Toyota Safety Sense, which encompasses adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
2. Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot is another strong contender, praised for its spacious cabin and smooth handling. The third row is more accommodating than many competitors, making it a practical choice for larger families. The Pilot also boasts a user-friendly infotainment system and ample cargo space, even with all seats in use. Honda Sensing, the brand’s suite of driver-assistance technologies, comes standard.
3. Mazda CX-9
For those who prioritize driving dynamics and upscale interiors, the Mazda CX-9 is an excellent option. Its sleek design and premium materials set it apart from more utilitarian rivals. The third row is tighter but suitable for shorter trips. The CX-9’s turbocharged engine delivers spirited performance, and its intuitive infotainment system enhances the driving experience.
4. Hyundai Palisade
The Hyundai Palisade offers a luxurious feel at a competitive price point. Its spacious interior, upscale finishes, and long list of standard features make it a standout. The third row is among the most comfortable in its class, and the Palisade includes advanced safety tech like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard.
5. Kia Telluride
Sharing a platform with the Palisade, the Kia Telluride combines rugged styling with a refined interior. It excels in comfort and practicality, with a roomy third row and generous cargo capacity. The Telluride also offers a smooth ride and a wealth of standard features, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen and wireless smartphone charging.
6. Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is a versatile choice, available with multiple engine options, including a hybrid variant. Its third row is functional, and the Explorer’s towing capacity is impressive for the segment. The SYNC 4 infotainment system is intuitive, and available features like a panoramic sunroof add to its appeal.
7. Chevrolet Traverse
The Chevrolet Traverse stands out for its expansive interior and straightforward controls. The third row is spacious, and cargo room is abundant. The Traverse also offers a smooth ride and a user-friendly infotainment system. Safety features like rear park assist and teen driver technology are notable inclusions.
Comparison Table: 7-Seater Compact SUVs with a Third Row
| Model | Starting Price (USD) | Fuel Economy (MPG) | Cargo Space (cu. ft.) | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander | $36,420 | 24 city / 29 highway | 16.0 (behind 3rd row) | Toyota Safety Sense, Hybrid Option |
| Honda Pilot | $38,080 | 20 city / 27 highway | 16.5 (behind 3rd row) | Honda Sensing, Spacious Cabin |
| Mazda CX-9 | $37,750 | 22 city / 28 highway | 14.4 (behind 3rd row) | Premium Interior, Turbo Engine |
| Hyundai Palisade | $35,550 | 19 city / 26 highway | 18.0 (behind 3rd row) | Luxury Features, Advanced Safety |
| Kia Telluride | $34,590 | 20 city / 26 highway | 21.0 (behind 3rd row) | Spacious, User-Friendly Tech |
| Ford Explorer | $36,760 | 21 city / 28 highway | 18.2 (behind 3rd row) | Hybrid Option, Towing Capacity |
| Chevrolet Traverse | $34,520 | 18 city / 27 highway | 23.0 (behind 3rd row) | Roomy Interior, Teen Driver Tech |
Key Considerations When Choosing a 7-Seater Compact SUV
When selecting a compact SUV with a third row, consider the following factors to ensure it meets your family’s needs:
- Seating Comfort: Assess the legroom and headroom in the third row, especially if adults will use it frequently.
- Cargo Space: Evaluate the available storage behind the third row and how it expands when seats are folded.
- Fuel Efficiency: Compare MPG ratings to find a balance between performance and economy.
- Safety Features: Look for advanced driver-assistance systems like automatic braking and blind-spot monitoring.
- Technology: Consider infotainment options, connectivity, and convenience features like wireless charging.
Final Thoughts
The best 7-seater compact SUV with a third row depends on your specific priorities, whether it’s luxury, space, or fuel efficiency. The Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot are excellent all-rounders, while the Mazda CX-9 appeals to those seeking a more premium experience. The Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride offer outstanding value with their upscale interiors and advanced features. Meanwhile, the Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Traverse provide versatility and practicality for larger families.
For more information, visit the official websites of these manufacturers: Toyota , Honda , Mazda , Hyundai , Kia , Ford , and Chevrolet .