11 Top-Rated 7-Seater SUVs in Canada for 2024
As Canadian families prioritize flexibility, comfort, and capability in their vehicles, 7-seater SUVs have become increasingly popular. These spacious and feature-packed vehicles offer the perfect blend of passenger capacity, cargo space, and all-weather performance that many Canadian drivers demand.
Whether you’re planning road trips, tackling winter driving conditions, or simply needing room for a growing family, a 7-seater SUV can be an excellent choice. We will go over the top 11 7-seater SUVs available in Canada for 2024 in this comprehensive guide, highlighting their key features, performance capabilities, and what makes each one stand out in the competitive 7-seater SUV segment.
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11 Top-Rated 7-Seater SUVs in Canada for 2024
Why Choose a 7-Seater SUV?
Before diving into our top picks, let’s consider the main advantages of opting for a 7-seater SUV:
- Versatile seating: Flexible seats will easily fit larger groups or families.
- Cargo flexibility: Fold down seats for extra storage when needed.
- All-weather capability: Many have all-wheel drive to help Canadian drivers through winter.
- Towing capacity: Ideal for hauling boats, trailers, or camping gear.
- Safety features: Often equipped with advanced driver assistance systems.
- Comfort: Spacious layouts featuring conveniences for every passenger
Now, let’s explore the standout 7-seater SUVs for Canadian buyers in 2024.
11 Top-Rated 7-Seater SUVs in Canada
Kia Telluride
Starting Price: Approximately $50,645 to $59,645MSRP
The Telluride offers great value for anyone looking for a quality experience free of a luxury pricing tag. The Kia Telluride continues to impress with its combination of style, value, and practicality. For 2024, it offers:
- Powerful 3.8L V6 engine with 291 horsepower
- Standard all-wheel drive for Canadian winters
- Luxurious interior with available premium materials
- Advanced safety features including Highway Driving Assist
- Excellent towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs
The Telluride’s bold design and upscale feel make it a standout in the crowded midsize SUV market. Both reviewers and users have given it great compliments for its roomy inside and easy-to-use technologies. The Telluride also boasts impressive fuel economy for its size, with an estimated 9.6 L/100 km on the highway.
Honda Pilot
Starting Price: Approximately $53,350 to 65,100 MSRP
Reputable for longevity and low ownership costs, the Pilot shines as a useful family carrier. Newly redesigned for 2023, the Honda Pilot carries over its improvements for 2024:
- More rugged styling with increased ground clearance
- Enhanced 3.5L V6 engine producing 285 horsepower
- Available hands-free power tailgate
- New TrailSport trim for improved off-road capability
- Honda Sensing suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies
Among Canadian families, the Pilot is a longtime favourite because of its reliability, adaptable interior design, and great resale value. Addressing one of the few complaints about past versions, the new generation Pilot provides enhanced third-row access and comfort.
Toyota Highlander
Starting Price: Approximately $$46,790 to $55,050 MSRP
The Highlander is an excellent choice for families prioritizing dependability and fuel efficiency in their 7-seater SUV. Known for its dependability and efficiency, the Toyota Highlander offers:
- Choice of gas or hybrid powertrains
- Impressive fuel economy, especially in hybrid form
- Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ as standard equipment
- Available 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Comfortable ride and quiet interior
The Highlander’s hybrid option is particularly appealing for those looking to reduce fuel costs and environmental impact without sacrificing space or capability. The hybrid model achieves an impressive combined fuel economy rating of 6.7 L/100 km, making it one of the most efficient 7-seater SUVs on the market.
Mazda CX-90
Starting Price: $45,900 to $64,350 MSRP
For those seeking a more premium 7-seater experience without stepping into luxury brand territory, the CX-90 is a compelling option. As Mazda’s premier three-row SUV, the Mazda CX-90 succeeds the CX-9 new for 2024:
- Available inline-six engine or plug-in hybrid powertrain
- Upscale interior with premium materials
- Mazda’s signature engaging driving dynamics
- Advanced i-Activ AWD system
- Sleek exterior design with Mazda’s “Kodo” design language
Offering a premium experience at a more reasonable price range, the CX-90 is designed to blur the boundaries between mainstream and luxury divisions. Perfect for short trips or running errands around town, the available plug-in hybrid powertrain offers an electric-only range of up to 42 km.
Hyundai Palisade
Starting Price: $50,499 to $60,799 MSRP
The Palisade is an excellent choice for tech-savvy families who appreciate a well-equipped interior. The Hyundai Palisade continues to offer exceptional value and features:
- Refined 3.8L V6 engine with 291 horsepower
- Available ultra-wide 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Remote Smart Parking Assist
- Premium Nappa leather seating is available
- Hyundai SmartSense suite of safety features
With its upscale interior and comprehensive feature set, the Palisade punches above its weight class in terms of luxury and refinement. The Palisade also offers one of the most spacious third rows in its class, making it a great choice for families who frequently use all three rows.
Ford Explorer
Starting Price: $50,535 to $69,135 MSRP
The Explorer is a solid choice for those who appreciate its blend of capability and familiarity in the 7-seater SUV segment. A longtime favourite in the segment, the Ford Explorer offers:
- Range of engine options, including a hybrid powertrain
- Rear-wheel-drive based platform for improved handling
- Available 10.1-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen
- Terrain Management System with up to seven drive modes
- Spacious interior with flexible seating configurations
The Explorer’s diverse powertrain options and capable performance make it a versatile choice for a wide range of drivers. The ST trim offers sports-car-like performance with its 400-horsepower engine, while the hybrid model provides excellent fuel efficiency for a vehicle of its size.
Chevrolet Traverse
Starting Price: $47,999 to $62,899 MSRP
The Chevrolet Traverse remains a solid choice for families needing space and value. The Chevrolet Traverse provides ample space and practicality:
- Best-in-class cargo space behind the third row
- 3.6L V6 engine with 310 horsepower
- Available HD Surround Vision camera system
- Teen Driver technology
- Towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs
The Traverse’s spacious interior and strong V6 engine make it an excellent choice for larger families or those who frequently haul cargo. Its smooth ride and quiet cabin contribute to a comfortable driving experience, even on long trips.
Subaru Ascent
Starting Price: $41,995 to $54,995 MSRP
For adventurous families or those living in areas with challenging weather, the Ascent provides peace of mind and capability. Subaru’s largest offering brings the brand’s signature all-wheel drive capability:
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
- 2.4L turbocharged BOXER engine
- EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
- Available 180-degree front-view camera
- Up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity
The Ascent’s focus on safety and all-weather performance makes it a compelling option for Canadian drivers facing challenging road conditions. Its boxer engine design provides a lower centre of gravity, contributing to improved handling and stability.
Ford Expedition
Starting Price: $57,625 to $82,795 MSRP
The Ford Expedition continues to be a favourite for those needing maximum space and towing capability. Its aluminium-intensive construction helps keep weight down despite its large size. The Ford Expedition offers:
- Powerful turbocharged V6 engine options
- Best-in-class towing up to 9,300 pounds
- Available extended-length MAX version for even more space
- Pro Trailer Backup Assist for easier towing
Depending on your configuration, the Ford Expedition can seat up to eight people. With its accessible heated and ventilated second-row seats, something hardly found for front-row passengers in other vehicles is comfort king.
Volkswagen Atlas
Starting Price: $50,495 to $54,495 MSRP
The Volkswagen Atlas offers European-inspired design and driving dynamics:
- Spacious interior with adult-friendly third row
- Available 4MOTION all-wheel drive
- Digital Cockpit Pro with customizable displays
- IQ.DRIVE suite of driver assistance features
- Refreshed exterior styling for a more premium look
The Atlas stands out with its boxy design that maximizes interior space, making it one of the most practical options in the segment. Its comfortable ride and composed handling make it a pleasure to drive on long highway journeys.
Nissan Pathfinder
Starting Price: $46,898 to $58,098 MSRP
Rounding out our list, the Nissan Pathfinder combines rugged capability with family-friendly features:
- 3.5L V6 engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission
- Intelligent 4×4 system with seven drive and terrain modes
- Available 10.8-inch head-up display
- ProPILOT Assist with Navi-link
- Impressive towing capacity of up to 6,000 lbs
The Pathfinder’s blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability makes it a versatile choice for adventurous families. Its towing capacity is among the best in its class, making it an excellent option for those who need to haul boats or trailers.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a 7-Seater SUV in Canada
When shopping for a 7-seater SUV, there are several important factors to keep in mind:
Fuel Efficiency: Given the growing cost of fuels, you really should give the fuel economy of your selected SUV priority. Over time, hybrid models such as the Toyota Highlander Hybrid can save really large amounts.
Safety Features: Look for advanced driver assistance systems and high crash test ratings. Most modern SUVs offer a suite of safety features, but some go above and beyond with innovations like Subaru’s EyeSight technology.
Cargo Space: Think about not only the total cargo capacity but also the available space behind the third row when all the seats are occupied. Especially if you plan to use the third row frequently, pay attention to its accessibility and comfort, especially for adult passengers.
Towing Capacity: If you need to tow a trailer or boat, make sure to choose an SUV with adequate towing capacity for your needs.
All-Weather Performance: For Canadian winters, consider models with advanced all-wheel drive systems and features like hill descent control.
Technology and entertainment: Modern SUVs provide a range of digital capabilities including entertainment value. Think about what’s most important to you—a good sound system, a big touchscreen, or smartphone integration.
Maintenance Costs: Research the long-term durability ratings and approximated maintenance expenses of the models you have selected.
With every model providing its special combination of features, performance, and pricing, Canada’s 7-seater SUV market is more competitive than it has ever been. There is a 7-seater SUV that will fit your needs regardless of your priorities—fuel economy, off-road capability, luxurious conveniences, or just simple utility.
Spend some time test-driving a variety of your next family car to select the one that best fits your tastes and way of life. Whether everyday commuting, weekend excursions, or extended road trips, think about how the car will be most used and select a model that shines in those areas.
Keep in mind that even if 7-seater SUVs have lots of room and adaptability, their fuel costs could be more than those of smaller vehicles and parking could be more challenging. Compare these elements to your needs to guide your family toward the greatest choice.
With the wide range of excellent options available, Canadian families are sure to find a 7-seater SUV that can handle everything from daily commutes to weekend adventures, all while keeping everyone comfortable and safe. Whether you choose the value-packed Kia Telluride, the efficient Toyota Highlander Hybrid, or the rugged Subaru Ascent, you’ll be getting a vehicle that’s well-suited to the diverse needs of Canadian drivers.
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