7-Seater SUVs Ranked by Cargo Space (2025-2026): What Actually Fits

Seven seats don’t always mean seven usable seats and they rarely mean usable cargo space at the same time. This guide highlights 7-seater SUVs that still offer meaningful cargo capacity, making them practical for families, road trips, sports gear, and everyday life in Canada.

We evaluated each SUV based on cargo space with the third row in use and folded, overall usability, and real-world practicality. A truly practical 7-seat SUV must offer usable cargo space with the third row in place, not just maximum volume with all seats folded.

How We Evaluated 7-Seater SUVs

• Cargo space behind the third row and with seats folded
• Ease of third-row access and usability
• Family-friendly design and safety features
• Everyday drivability and ownership practicality

Quick Comparison Table

	Vehicle	Seating	Cargo (3rd Row Up)	Cargo (Seats Down)	AWD	Takeaway
	Toyota Highlander	7-8	Limited	2,387 L	Available	Balanced family hauler
	Nissan Pathfinder	7-8	Limited	2,280 L	Standard	Strong AWD family choice
	Kia Telluride	7-8	Limited	2,455 L	Available	Maximum space, high comfort
	Hyundai Palisade	7-8	Limited	2,447 L	Available	Premium-feeling family SUV
	Mazda CX-90	7-8	Limited	2,125 L	Available	Refined driving, less bulk
	Mitsubishi Outlander	7	Very limited	1,822 L	Standard	Compact 7-seat compromise

Important Note: Cargo volumes are approximate and vary by configuration.

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Full 7-Seater SUVs Comparison

Toyota Highlander

Best for: Families who want a reliable, well-balanced 7-seater with strong resale value.

Why it made the list

• Spacious interior with flexible seating layouts
• Competitive cargo space with seats folded
• Available AWD suits Canadian conditions

Key specs that matter

• Seating: 7-8
• AWD: Available
• Cargo space: Strong overall capacity

Trade-offs to know

• Limited cargo space with third row in use
• Hybrid trims cost more upfront

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Nissan Pathfinder

Best for: Families who prioritize AWD confidence and winter capability.

Why it made the list

• Standard AWD on all trims
• Boxy design maximizes usable interior space
• Strong safety feature set

Key specs that matter

• Seating: 7-8
• AWD: Standard
• Cargo space: Competitive for the segment

Trade-offs to know

• Fuel economy is average
• Interior design is more functional than premium

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Kia Telluride

Best for: Large families who need maximum space without stepping into a full-size SUV.

Why it made the list

• One of the largest cargo areas in the segment
• Comfortable third row for adults
• Strong value for size and features

Key specs that matter

• Seating: 7-8
• AWD: Available
• Cargo space: Class-leading when seats are folded

Trade-offs to know

• Large footprint can feel bulky in urban settings
• High demand can limit availability

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Hyundai Palisade

Best for: Families who want space with a more upscale feel.

Why it made the list

• Spacious interior with premium materials
• Excellent passenger comfort across all rows
• Strong standard safety coverage

Key specs that matter

• Seating: 7-8
• AWD: Available
• Cargo space: Among the best in class

Trade-offs to know

• Pricing rises quickly with higher trims
• Fuel economy is average for its size

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Mazda CX-90

Best for: Drivers who want a more engaging drive without sacrificing third-row seating.

Why it made the list

• Refined on-road driving experience
• Available AWD and electrified options
• More compact than traditional 3-row SUVs

Key specs that matter

• Seating: 7-8
• AWD: Available
• Cargo space: Adequate, not class-leading

Trade-offs to know

• Third row is best for occasional use
• Less cargo space than larger rivals

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Mitsubishi Outlander

Best for: Buyers who want a compact SUV with occasional third-row use.

Why it made the list

• Standard AWD
• Lower entry price than most 3-row SUVs
• Works well for families with young children

Key specs that matter

• Seating: 7
• AWD: Standard
• Cargo space: Limited behind third row

Trade-offs to know

• Third row is tight
• Best suited for short trips, not adults

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Important Note: Cargo capacity, seating configurations, and features vary by trim and model year. Always confirm specifications with the manufacturer or dealership.