Sports Utility Vehicles (SUV) are one of the most popular modes of road transport among Americans. Their popularity is evident from the Federal Highway Administration data that 80% of all new vehicles sold in the US in 2022 were either SUVs or trucks.

Apart from their monstrous build and sporty appearance, SUVs also provide better road visibility due to their higher sitting position. In recent years, these vehicles have caught the attention of families, primarily because of their higher cargo capacity and seat numbers. As seven-seater SUVs have become the latest trend in the market, even reputed brands like BMW and Land Rover are launching larger designs with more seats.

Today, we take a look at 10 best 7-seater SUVs for 2024 and 2025:

1. 2025 BMW X7 (9.5/10)

The 2025 BMW X7 is a luxury SUV set to be released later this year. The seven-seater uses the latest technology to serve its driver; it has a 12.3-inch gauge cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. Similarly, other luxurious features of this model include:

  1. Heated Front Seats
  2. Panoramic Sunroof
  3. Power-adjustable Steering Wheel
  4. Interior Lighting
  5. Wi-Fi Hotspot
  6. Driver-Assistance Technology

A major update in the 2025 model is the hands-free driving option that allows driving with touching the steering wheel for up to speeds of 85 mph. The only major cons of owning this SUV is that the third-row doesn't comfortably fit adults. So, while this BMW model is great for families with young children, it may not be the best choice for a groups of adults. 

Specifications:

  • Model Name: 2025 BMW X7
  • Starting Price: $84,495
  • Engine: 3.0L Turbo Inline-6 Gas
  • 0-60 MPH In: 4.6 sec
  • Miles Per Gallon (MPG): 17-22
  • Max Towing Capacity: 5,953 lbs
  • Cargo Volume: 74.9 cubic feet

2. 2024 Cadillac Escalade (9/10)

Experience the comfort and thrill of driving with the 2024 Cadillac Escalade. The luxury SUV comes with a 6.2-liter V-8 engine than can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.

The majestic model is a favorite among families due to its emphasis on safety. The front pedestrian braking is a new feature that allows the car to automatically stop when a pedestrian is detected ahead or boost the brake applied by the driver.

Additionally, Escalade also has a driverless option. However, the company urges its customers to only use this feature when proper conditions are met and under the direct supervision of an experienced driver.

Specifications:

  • Model Name: 2024 Cadillac Escalade
  • Starting Price: $83,890
  • Engine: 6.2-liter V-8
  • 0-60 MPH In: 4.4 sec
  • Miles Per Gallon (MPG): 13-16
  • Max Towing Capacity: 8,200-lb
  • Cargo Volume: 142.8 cubic feet

3. 2024 Land Rover Range Rover (9/10)

The 2024 Land Rover Range Rover is the perfect SUV for those unwilling to make any compromises. This majestive looking vehicle can be driven in a wide variety of conditions, including off-roads to rough terrains. 

The 2024 model was launched with a few updates to the previous version. For instance, a powerful P550e engine has replaced the plug-in-hybrid. Similarly, the latest update also priority customer's personal customization of their vehicle. Called the SV Bespoke, the service faciliates buyers in customizing the SUV according to their preferences.

Additionally, the interior is also a highlight of the Range Rover. This SUV features a bold interior decorated with leathers and woods. However, customers can also opt for leather-free options.

Specifications:

  • Model: 2024 Land Rover Range Rover
  • Starting Price: $108,875
  • Engine: Turbocharged Inline-six/523-hp Twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8
  • 0-60 MPH In: 4.3 sec
  • Miles Per Gallon (MPG): 18-21
  • Max Towing Capacity: 8200 lbs
  • Cargo Volume: 83.5 cubic feet

4. 2024 Volvo XC90 (8.9/10)

For individuals searching for a luxury-looking SUV in under $60k, the 2024 Volvo XC90 is your answer. Manufactured in Sweden, the XC90 is available in three different models: the B5 model with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, the B6 model with a 295 horsepower output, and the 455-hp plug-in-hybrid XC90 Recharge. 

Targeting individuals between the ages of 25 and 44, the XC90 caters to families. Additionally, the model features an attractive design created using high-quality materials that include well-ventilated Nappa leather seats, a head-up display, and a crystal gear shifter. The SUV's exterior also has a smooth finish with seven available colors, including crystal white, denim blue, platinum grey, onyx black, vapour grey, silver dawn, and bright dusk.

Specifications:

  • Model Name: 2024 Volvo XC90
  • Starting Price: $57,895
  • Engine: 2.0-liter Turbocharged Four-cylinder
  • 0-60 MPH In: 4.5 sec
  • Miles Per Gallon (MPG): 22-27
  • Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
  • Cargo Volume: 85.7 cubic feet

5. 2024 Kia Telluride (8.7/10)

The 2024 Kia Telluride is often considered the best budget-friendly SUV for families. With a starting price of only $37,585, this model attracts low-income families due to its cheap cost and reliability.

Along with an auto climate control feature, Telluride also prioritizes customer's safety with nine airbags in the first and second-row seats. Likewise, the model is also equipped with a driver assist technology with features like blind spot detection, rear parking sensors, auto emergency braking, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance, and driver attention warning.

Despite its many attractive applications, the SUV also comes with a few drawbacks. For instance, the third-row seats are not large enough for adults. Similarly, although fuel efficiency is not a major issue, the Kia Telluride has lower mileage that four-cylinder SUVs.

Specifications:

  • Model Name: 2024 Kia Telluride
  • Starting Price: $37,585
  • Engine: 3.8L V6 Engine
  • 0-60 MPH In: 6.8 sec
  • Miles Per Gallon (MPG): 19-26
  • Max Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs
  • Cargo Volume: 87 cubic feet

6. 2024 Hyundai Palisade (8.7/10)

The 2024 Hyundai Palisade is a significantly improved version of the 2023 model. It has a uniquely blacked-out exterior along with black roof rails.

Furthermore, the design also makes good use of the latest technology. The interior of the SUV features an Android Auto-powered touchscreen infotainment display, in-dash navigation, Apple Carplay and Bluetooth. The vehicle also faciliates charging multiple electronic appliances at once with seven USB ports.

Besides its relatively cheaper price, the Hyundai product also comes with a warranty of 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever occurs first. This makes the Palisade a favorite for low-income households or families living on a single income.

Specifications:

  • Model: 2024 Hyundai Palisade
  • Starting Price: $38,045
  • Engine: 3.8-liter V-6
  • 0-60 MPH In: 6.4 sec
  • Miles Per Gallon (MPG): 19-26
  • Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
  • Cargo Volume: 86.4 cubic feet

7. 2024 Genesis GV80 (8.4/10)

The 2024 Genesis GV80 has a unique design that resembles a Bentley. Hence, it is often confused for a Bentley model. Considered one of the safest SUVs to ride, the model operates on either a 2.5-liter turbo-four engine with 300-horsepower capacity or a twin-turbo V6 engine with a capactiy of 375 horsepower.

One of its best features is a cargo capacity of 84 cubic feet behind the front seats. When the second-row seats are upright, the available cargo reduces to around 34.9 cubic feet. Despite its low price, the GV80 often competes with high-end luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

The only drawback of the model is that the third-row seats are only for kids. As the SUV was designed to primarily cater to families, the third-row limitation should not be an issue as long as there is enough space for adults in the first two rows.

Specifications:

  • Model Name: 2024 Genesis GV80
  • Starting Price: $59,050
  • Engine: 2.5-liter Turbocharged 4-cylinder/Twin-turbo V6
  • 0-60 MPH In: 5.3 sec
  • Miles Per Gallon (MPG): 20-24
  • Max Towing Capacity: 6,000 lbs
  • Cargo Volume: 84 cubic feet

8. 2024 Mazda CX-90 (8.1/10)

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is the winner of the 2023 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+. Launched in January 2023, it has proven to be a fast-selling model. The company sold over 30821 CX-90 SUVs in 2023, with 4,776 being sold in December alone. 

The model has become a favorite among families due to its low-cost and multiple safety features. Some of the best safety factors include:

  1. Blind spot assist
  2. Vehicle exit warning
  3. Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH)
  4. Head-on traffic avoidance assist
  5. Cruising and traffic support
  6. Emergecy braking system
  7. Driver monitoring
  8. 360° view monitor with see-through view

The 360° monitor is one of the best parts of the CX-90. This system allows the driver to view the conditions around the SUV by accessing the vehicle from different angles. It lets the driver to get a top view, front view, front wide view, side view, rear wide view, and see-through view.

Overall, for a price of around $38 thousand, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 is one of the best possible deals you can get.

Specifications:

  • Model Name: 2024 Mazda CX-90
  • Starting Price: $37,845
  • Engine: 3.3-liter Turbo Inline-six 
  • 0-60 MPH In: 6.6 sec
  • Miles Per Gallon (MPG): 23-28
  • Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
  • Cargo Volume: 74.2 cubic feet

9. 2024 Audi Q7 (8/10)

The 2024 Audi Q7 is a modified version of the A6 Sedan. The product comes in two models, the first with a 261-hp turbocharged engine and the other with a 335-hp turbocharged V-6 engine.

Additionally, the 2024 model also has a remote-start feature that can be accessed through a smartphone app. The 2024 Audi Q7 was designed with a focus on the comfort of the driver and passengers. Overall, the Audi model is a great match for families with young children. Although the seven-seat option significantly reduces the cargo area. However, with the seats stowed, the Q7 has sufficient space for around 25 carry-on suitcases.

Specifications:

  • Model Name: 2024 Audi Q7 Premium 45 TFSI
  • Starting Price: $60,695
  • Engine: 261-HP Turbocharge/335-HP Turbocharged
  • 0-60 MPH In: 5.6 sec
  • Miles Per Gallon (MPG): 19-25
  • Max Towing Capacity: 7,700 lbs
  • Cargo Volume: 69.6 cubic feet

10. 2024 Ford Explorer (7.5/10)

If you are looking for the real Ford experience, try the 2024 Ford Explorer. Set to be launched in mid 2024, this model gives a wholesome package to its buyers for a reasonable price.

The exterior of the vehicle is manufactured using stainless steel skid plates for the overall protection. Additional exterior features like LED headlamps, twin-panel moonroof, and power lift gate further enhance the appeal of the SUV.

Likewise, the Ford model also boasts equally impressive safety features like a front passenger knee airbag, safety canopy, SOS post-crash alert system, and roll stability control. With its budget-friendly and multiple passengers approach, the 2024 Ford Explorer has secured a large advance booking.

Specifications:

  • Model Name: 2024 Ford Explorer
  • Starting Price: $38,455
  • Engine: 300-HP Turbocharged 2.3-liter Four-cylinder 
  • 0-60 MPH In: 6.0 sec
  • Miles Per Gallon (MPG): 20-28
  • Max Towing Capacity: 5600 lbs
  • Cargo Volume: 87.8 cubic feet

Sources:

Car And Driver

Cars News US

Mazda USA

Ford