Years ago, minivans and station wagons were the dominant forces in people hauling, but the SUV has since overtaken the minivan and station wagons are nearly extinct. PArt of the SUV’s success is its wide range of seating options for families of all sizes. These options include 7- and 8-passenger options for larger families.

For many families, an 8-passenger SUV is just too much, but a 7-passenger model usually adds the extra comfort of captain’s chairs in the second row, making a great spot for adults and older teens.

So, what are the best 7-seater SUVs in Canada for 2024? We cover the best seven below.

Methodology

Before diving into the list, you’re likely wondering how we determine the best 7-seater SUVs in Canada. Those shopping for a 7-seater SUV in Canada generally need all three rows of seating and some cargo space for hauling sports equipment, groceries, and other family-related cargo.

With this factor in mind, we determined the best 7-passenger SUVs in Canada by adding the second-row and third-row legroom to the cargo room with all three rows upright. The higher the total, the better.

Let’s move on!

What’s the Best 7-Seater SUV in Canada?

You have plenty of 7-seater SUVs in Canada to choose from, but which ones are the best for your family? We outline the seven best 7-seater SUVs in Canada below.

2023 Toyota Highlander
2024 Toyota Highlander | Source: Toyota

7. Toyota Highlander

Kicking off our list is the latest-generation Toyota Highlander, which runs from 2020 through 2024 and scored 2,147 total points for rear roominess.

Not all Toyota Highlanders are 7-passenger SUVs, as the LE and XLE trims take up to eight passengers. However, the XSE and Limited models feature second-row captain’s chairs, making them 7-passenger crossovers.

The 2024 Highlander boasts a roomy second row, offering up to 983 mm of legroom, but the third row is best left for short trips or young children, as it has only 711 mm of legroom. That said, the cargo room is plentiful at 453 litres with all the seats upright, 1,371 litres with the third row folded, and 2,387 litres with all the seats folded.

Powering the Toyota Highlander is a 2.4-litre turbo four-cylinder engine that delivers 265 horsepower (hp) and 310 pound-feet (lb-ft) of torque to its standard all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. For buyers seeking a more fuel-efficient option, there’s also a hybrid model that features a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor that combine for 243 hp and up to 6.7 L/100 km combined.

The Toyota Highlander also impresses in the technology department with its standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, four USB charging ports, SiriusXM, automatic emergency braking, full-speed adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic high-beam headlight, left-turn intersection support, and much more.

The 2024 Highlander starts from $49,834.58, but the 7-seater models start from $56,434.58 for the XSE AWD trim. The Highlander is a common SUV in Canada, so finding one on the used Highlander market is possible and may save you lots of cash.

Second-row legroom: 983 mm

Third-row legroom: 711 mm

Cargo room: 453 litres

Total score: 2,147

Why Buy the 2020-2024 Toyota Highlander?

The 2020-2024 Toyota Highlander is last on our list in points, but it still fits the bill for many buyers. It’s great for those seeking a hybrid model with great fuel economy. The Highlander is one of the few electrified models on our list, delivering 6.7 L/100 km combined. Also, Toyota is committed to safety, so the Highlander has a full assortment of high-tech safety features standard.

2024 Acura MDX | Source: CarBuzz

6. Acura MDX

Ringing in next to last on our list is the latest-generation Acura MDX. This model runs from 2022 through 2024 and scored a respectable 2,177 total points.

For those looking for a true luxury SUV with a 7-seater cabin, the Honda Pilot’s upscale cousin, the 2022-2024 Acura MDX, is a great option. No matter which trim level you choose, the MDX is a 7-seater SUV in Canada, giving you a wide range of options to pick from.

Like the Pilot, the MDX has ample second-row legroom at 977 mm, but its third row is cramped at 738 mm. However, it makes up for this with 462 litres of cargo room with the seats upright and up to 2,690 litres of cargo space with the seats all folded.

Powering the MDX is a 3.5-litre V6 engine that ships 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission. Opting for the Type S model gives you a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 with 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, a tuned suspension, and more.

This luxury people hauler also has tons of standard features, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Alexa, HomeLink remote, remote start, driver seat position memory, tri-zone climate control, a 9-speaker audio system, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a plethora of safety and driver-assist features, and more.

All this starts from $67,409 and rises to $88,409, but with a robust used MDX market, you can save thousands by buying a pre-owned model.

Second-row legroom: 977 mm

Third-row legroom: 738 mm

Cargo room: 462 litres

Total score: 2,177

Why Buy the 2022-2024 Acura MDX?

Though it comes up a little light in roominess, the Acura MDX remains a good option for families who prefer a luxury SUV. Sure, you can dress up any model on this list with top-notch features, but the luxury ceiling on the MDX is higher than the others on this list. Plus, it’s backed by Honda’s legendary reliability.

2024 Mazda CX-90 | Source: GearJunki

5. Mazda CX-90

Once known as the Mazda CX-9, the current-generation CX-90, which just debuted as a 2024 model, checks in just after the MDX with a total score of 2,196.

This Mazda 7-seater SUV has a sharp design and can haul seven passengers in superior comfort. Like many other three-row SUVs on this list, the CX-90 is actually an eight-passenger crossover in its base setup, but the GT and GT-P trims are 7-seater SUVs.

These models offer tons of second-row legroom at 1,000 mm, but the third-row is tight at 773 mm. Still, that is plenty of room for a younger child or teen on a short haul. Cargo room is lighter than some models at 423 to 2,101 litres, but still plenty for most families.

The 2024 CX-90 comes standard with a 3.3-litre mild-hybrid line-six-cylinder engine that produces 340 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque and ships it through a standard AWD system. You can also opt for a plug-in-hybrid version if you like.

Where the CX-90 excels is its high-end cabin that includes a standard 10.25-inch infotainment screen, an 8-speaker audio system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto (wireless ACP and AA in GT and GT-P trims), tri-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, and tons more.

The 2024 CX-90 starts from $45,900, but the 7-seater versions start from $55,350 for the standard model and $64,350 for the plug-in hybrid model. You can also seek a used CX-9 or CX-90, save a nice chunk of cash, and still get a reliable SUV.

Second-row legroom: 1,000 mm

Third-row legroom: 773 mm

Cargo room: 423 litres

Total score: 2,196

Why Buy the 2024 Mazda CX-90?

While it’s pretty far down our list of the best 7-seater SUVs in Canada, the CX-90 still offers plenty of value, particularly for buyers seeking a sportier SUV. Its angular body gives it a unique appearance, and its Mazda DNA gives it above-average handling abilities. Add to this ample power a mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, and it checks numerous boxes other than rear roominess.

2023 Ford Explorer
2024 Ford Explorer | Source: Ford

4. Ford Explorer

Kicking off the upper half of our list of the best 7-seat SUVs in Canada is the current-generation Ford Explorer, which runs from 2020 through 2024 and rang up a 2,341 total score.

The Ford Explorer has been around for many years and continues getting better with each iteration. The latest version is a seven-seater SUV with tons of powertrain options and upscale features to fit any family.

As for interior roominess, the Explorer has a respectable 991 mm of second-row legroom, but the third-row seating is a little tight at just 813 mm. Cargo space is also decent, ranging from 528 to 2,132 litres.

The Explorer has a powertrain for everyone, too, starting with a 2.3-litre turbo four-cylinder that delivers 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. It also has two 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 options: a 365-hp and 380-lb-ft engine in the Platinum trim level and a 400-hp and 415-lb-ft version in the ST. Finally, there is the 3.3-litre hybrid with 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque for those looking for better fuel economy.

Standard features are plentiful too. The 2024 Explorer has an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, SiriusXM, Ford MyKey, and more. However, it lacks many of the standard safety features and driver-assist technology of many other family SUVs, but they are available as options.

The 2024 Ford Explorer’s MSRP starts from $50,670, but with a robust used Explorer market, you may save thousands.

Second-row legroom: 991 mm

Third-row legroom: 813 mm

Cargo room: 528 litres

Total score: 2,341

Why Buy the 2020-2024 Ford Explorer?

The Explorer is getting closer to the top of our list in total points, but it’s still lagging behind other options in rear roominess. That said, the Explorer is a great option for a wide range of buyers based on its many engine options that range from a thrifty hybrid to a gutsy performance engine. Plus, the Explorer ST adds a touch of performance no other model on this list can match.

2024 Hyundai Palisade | Source: CarExpert

3. Hyundai Palisade

Stating our top-three 7-seater SUVs in Canada is the current-generation Hyundai Palisade. This model runs from 2020 through 2024 and scored 2,384 total points in rear roominess.

The Hyundai Palisade continues the trend of not being only a 7-seat model. It comes standard with eight seats but has the option for captain’s chairs in its Urban trim — they are standard in the Ultimate Calligraphy trim.

The Hyundai Palisade follows Hyundai’s recent trend of heading in a more premium direction with upscale styling and materials. Inside, this three-row SUV comes standard with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, five USB ports, SiriusXM, heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, lane-follow assist, and much more.

Powering this posh midsize SUV is a 3.8-litre V6 engine that pumps out 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. This power heads through an eight-speed automatic transmission and out to a standard AWD system.

Second-row legroom is plentiful at 1,077 mm, but the rear seats are tight at just 798 mm. Cargo room is OK with the seats upright at 509 litres, and it is plentiful with all the seats folded at 2,447 litres.

MSRP for the 2024 Palisade starts from $54,699, but the 7-seat models start from $57,431. You may be able to find a used Palisade on the open market to help save a little cash on your 7-seater SUV.

Second-row legroom: 1,077 mm

Third-row legroom: 798 mm

Cargo room: 509 litres

Total score: 2,384

Why Buy the 2020-2024 Hyundai Palisade?

The Hyundai Palisade doesn’t quite reach the top of our list, but it has lots to offer. First, it’s a unique model you won’t see at every single traffic light. Also, its upscale look and feel make it seem like a far more luxurious SUV than its price tag would lead you to believe.

2024 Honda Pilot | Source: CarBuzz

2. Honda Pilot

Coming in as the second-best 7-seater SUV in Canada is the current-generation Honda Pilot, which runs from 2023 through 2024. This model scored a respectable 2,497 points in rear roominess.

Like the Toyota Highlander, the Honda Pilot doesn’t offer exclusively 7-passenger models. In fact, most are 8-passenger SUVs. That said, the Trailsport model boasts second-row captain’s chairs, making it a 7-passenger SUV. On top of that, you get about 25 mm of extra ground clearance, an upgraded AWD system with Trail mode, steel skid plates, and more to help you travel off-road.

The Pilot is also roomier than the Highlander, offering 1,036 mm of second-row legroom and 826 mm of third-row legroom. That’s still not a ton of legroom for those in the third row, and it will not likely work for older teens or adults on long trips. The Honda Pilot also has loads of cargo room, ranging from 635 litres with all the seats upright to a cavernous 3,166 litres with all the seats folded.

Powering the Pilot is a 3.5-litre V6 engine that pumps out 285 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. This power flows through a 10-speed automatic transmission and its standard AWD system.

Technology is also plentiful in this 7-seater SUV. It comes standard with a 7-inch colour instrument cluster, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, four USB ports, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic monitoring, traffic sign recognition, and more.

The Honda Pilot starts from $53,783 new, but the 7-seat Trailsport model sits at $60,583. The Pilot is a popular model, so finding a used Pilot that suits your needs shouldn’t be difficult and may save you a few thousand dollars.

Second-row legroom: 1,036 mm

Third-row legroom: 826 mm

Cargo room: 635 litres

Total score: 2,497

Why Buy the 2023-2024 Honda Pilot?

The Pilot isn’t quite tops on our list, but it’s close. It’s a great model for families who want maximum space but prefer not to upgrade to a full-size SUV. The Pilot carefully combines loads of interior space in a midsize body, making managing daily traffic a little easier.

2024 Ford Expedition | Source: Ford

1. Ford Expedition

The overall winner in our contest of the best 7-seater SUVs in Canada with an overall score of 2,591 in its base model and 2,970 in its optional MAX body is the latest-generation Ford Expedition, which runs from 2018 through 2024.

Remember that the Expedition is an 8-seater SUV standard, but you can opt for second-row captain’s chairs to make it a 7-seater.

The cabin has loads of room for all shapes and sizes, as the Expedition has 1,081 mm of second-row legroom and 917 mm of third-row legroom. It also has up to 2,962 litres of cargo room in its standard setup and 3,439 litres in the longer MAX body. With the third row upright, the Expedition offers 593 cubic feet of cargo space in its standard body and 972 cubic feet in the MAX body.

Power comes from a 3.5-litre turbo V6 that pumps out 380 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque or 400 hp and 480 lb-t of torque, depending on the trim level. This heads through a 10-speed automatic transmission and out to all four wheels.

Features are also plentiful inside the 2024 Expedition. It has 8-way power front seats, tri-zone climate control, 4G LTE Wi-Fi, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, lane-keeping assist, a universal garage door opener, automatic emergency braking, and more.

Expedition’s starting pricing ranges from $77,915 to $106,140 for the standard model and $95,345 to $109,640 for the MAX model, but you can save big by opting for a used Expedition.

Standard Second-row legroom: 1,081 mm

Standard Third-row legroom: 917 mm

Standard Cargo room: 593 litres

Standard Total score: 2,591

MAX Second-row legroom: 1,081 mm

MAX Third-row legroom: 917 mm

M‍AX Cargo room: 972 litres

M‍AX Total score: 2,970

Why Buy the 2018-2024 Ford Expedition?

First of all, it wins our competition of the best 7-seat SUVs in Canada by a fairly wide margin — especially in the MAX body. Plus, the Expedition has many features, potent engine options, and a great towing capacity. Add to that the fact that it’s been around since 2018 gives you plenty of pre-owned options to help you save cash. The only downside is it’s a full-six SUV, so it requires a good amount of space on the road and enjoys gulping fuel more than most models on our list.

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Save Big on the Best 7-Passenger SUV in Canada at Clutch

You have many 7-seater SUVs in Canada to pick from, but the prices can get a little high on these people-hauling specialists. Fortunately, you can get great deals on some of the best 7-seater SUVs in Canada on the used market from Clutch, Canada’s premier online automotive retailer.

Our high-quality pre-owned 7-seater SUVs have been through a 210-point inspection and reconditioning process to ensure they are ready for your next road trip. Plus, we offer each vehicle with a 6,000-km or 90-day warranty. 

When you order your pre-owned 7-passenger SUV online with Clutch, you bypass the headaches of going to the dealership and negotiating a good price. At Clutch, you always get a great price — no haggling necessary. On top of that, you get a 10-day or 750-km test-own period. If you don't love your new Clutch SUV during that period, you can return it for a refund or exchange it for another vehicle. 

Trading up into a newer 7-passenger SUV with more features? Clutch can also handle trade-ins, and you can get your offer online. If you're satisfied with our offer, we'll pick up your trade-in vehicle and apply the trade-in value to your purchase.