Top 10 7-Seater SUVs 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value

Direct Answer

The Best Overall 7-seater SUV for 2027 is the Toyota Grand Highlander, starting around $41,140, which pairs a genuinely adult-friendly third row, available 362-hp Hybrid Max muscle, and Toyota durability to beat the class where three-row families feel it most: usable space behind the second row and total cost of ownership.

The Best Value pick is the Kia Sorento, starting near $33,990, the only true three-row here that slips under $34,000 while still offering a 227-hp hybrid rated near 35 mpg and the brand's long warranty. This list is built for family buyers who actually use the third row — carpools, grandparents, road trips — and who want flexible 7- and 8-seat configs, real cargo room, and modern safety, whether the budget sits near $34,000 or stretches toward a loaded $65,000.

Every pick below uses real 2026–2027 model-year specs, MSRPs, and safety ratings.

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted each SUV against what three-row shoppers tell dealers and survey firms they actually care about, with extra weight on third-row usability and seating flexibility. We leaned on published data from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book (KBB), **U.S.

News, the IIHS, the EPA, and manufacturer pages**. The weighting:

• Third-row usability and seating flexibility — 25%
• Reliability and ownership cost — 20%
• Safety ratings — 20%
• Cargo and interior space — 15%
• Powertrain and efficiency — 12%
• Price-to-value — 8%

A vehicle with a token third row only kids can stand, or one that wins on power but cramps row three, drops fast. The winners make all three rows livable.

1. Toyota Grand Highlander 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Starting MSRP: $41,140 | Best for: Families who need a third row adults can actually sit in

The 2027 Toyota Grand Highlander was engineered around the problem most three-rows ignore: real space in back. It offers up to 44.7 cu ft of cargo behind a third row sized for 6-foot adults, and a total 97.5 cu ft with both rear rows folded. Powertrains span a 265-hp 2.4-liter turbo, a 245-hp hybrid rated at an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined (FWD), and the Hybrid Max making 362 hp and 400 lb-ft with standard AWD.

It seats seven or eight, tows up to 5,000 lb with Hybrid Max, and earns mostly strong IIHS marks. Toyota's reliability and resale anchor the case.

Pros:

• Best-in-class third row sized for adults
• Up to 44.7 cu ft of cargo behind row three
• Three powertrains including a 362-hp Hybrid Max
• Toyota reliability and strong resale value

Cons:

• Loaded Hybrid Max Platinum nears $60,000
• Base turbo trim is less efficient than the hybrid

Verdict: The Grand Highlander wins on the one metric that defines this class — a third row real people can use — without giving up efficiency or reliability.

2. Kia Sorento 💎 BEST VALUE

Starting MSRP: $33,990 | Best for: Budget families who still want a true three-row hybrid

The 2027 Kia Sorento is the smartest value in the segment, the rare three-row that opens under $34,000. The base 2.5-liter four makes 191 hp, but the standouts are the 281-hp turbo and the 227-hp hybrid rated at an EPA-estimated 35 mpg combined, plus a 261-hp plug-in hybrid with about 32 miles of electric range.

It seats six or seven, tows up to 3,500 lb (gas) or 4,500 lb (turbo AWD), and carries Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Sorento is more compact than the others here, but for families who only occasionally fill row three, that's a feature.

Pros:

• Lowest entry price of any pick at $33,990
• 227-hp hybrid hits roughly 35 mpg combined
• Available plug-in hybrid with ~32 miles EV range
• Class-leading 10-year/100,000-mile warranty

Cons:

• Third row is best for kids, not adults
• Cargo behind row three is tight at 12.6 cu ft

Verdict: The Sorento is the value champion — a real three-row hybrid for the price of a loaded two-row compact.

3. Kia Telluride

Starting MSRP: $39,190 | Best for: Families who want a premium, balanced three-row with no weak spot

The redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride is the all-around stalwart of the big-three-row class. The base 2.5-liter turbo makes 274 hp and 311 lb-ft, while the new turbo-hybrid combines for 329 hp and 339 lb-ft at an EPA-estimated 35 mpg combined (FWD). It seats seven or eight, swallows up to 88.3 cu ft of cargo, and tows up to 5,000 lb (gas) with available AWD.

Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile warranty and a record of IIHS Top Safety Pick+ results make it a low-risk buy. The cabin still feels a class above its sticker.

Pros:

• Available 329-hp hybrid rated near 35 mpg
• Premium-feeling, genuinely roomy three-row cabin
• 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
• Strong resale and proven safety record

Cons:

• Hybrid and X-Pro trims push past $46,000
• Third-row cargo trails the Grand Highlander

Verdict: The most well-rounded big three-row here — buy it when you want zero compromises and a premium feel.

4. Hyundai Palisade

Starting MSRP: $38,935 | Best for: Shoppers who want maximum SUV per dollar with eight seats

The 2027 Hyundai Palisade is the Telluride's mechanical twin and one of the roomiest eight-seaters you can buy. The 2.5-liter turbo makes about 287 hp, while the hybrid delivers an estimated 329 hp at an EPA-estimated 34 mpg combined (FWD) with up to 619 miles of range.

It seats seven or eight, offers second-row captain's chairs or a bench, tows up to 5,000 lb, and brings the same 10-year/100,000-mile warranty as Kia. Hyundai's strong IIHS scores and upscale cabin punch above the price.

Pros:

• Eight-seat flexibility with captain's-chair option
• Hybrid targets 34 mpg and roughly 619 miles of range
• Same long warranty and safety pedigree as Telluride
• Upscale interior with generous standard features

Cons:

• Closely overlaps the Telluride on price
• Hybrid availability can be limited at launch

Verdict: A value-rich eight-seater — the pick if you want the Telluride package with the most seating flexibility.

5. Honda Pilot

Starting MSRP: $42,195 | Best for: Eight-seat families who want rugged versatility and a removable middle seat

The 2027 Honda Pilot keeps it simple with a smooth 3.5-liter V6 making 285 hp and 262 lb-ft through a 10-speed automatic. EPA figures land near 22 mpg combined (FWD) and about 20 mpg for the rugged TrailSport. It seats up to eight thanks to a clever removable second-row middle seat you can stow in back, offers up to 113.7 cu ft of cargo behind row one, and tows up to 5,000 lb with AWD.

Honda's proven mechanicals and safety suite make it low-stress to own.

Pros:

• Eight-passenger seating with a removable middle seat
• Huge cargo capacity up to 113.7 cu ft
• Proven V6 reliability with no hybrid complexity
• Capable TrailSport trim for light off-roading

Cons:

• No hybrid, so efficiency trails the leaders
• Base Sport trim is sparsely equipped

Verdict: The flexible eight-seater — ideal if you want V6 simplicity and a configurable second row.

6. Chevrolet Traverse

Starting MSRP: $40,800 | Best for: Cargo-first families who want the biggest interior volume

The 2027 Chevrolet Traverse is among the roomiest three-rows on sale, with up to 98 cu ft of cargo space. A single 2.5-liter turbo four makes a stout 328 hp and 326 lb-ft through an eight-speed automatic, returning about 22 mpg combined (FWD). It seats seven or eight, tows up to 5,000 lb, and offers the off-road Z71, sporty RS, and luxury High Country trims.

For families who haul gear as often as kids, the Traverse's sheer volume — and a third row that holds adults — is hard to beat.

Pros:

• Among the largest cargo holds in class at 98 cu ft
• Strong 328-hp turbo four standard
• Adult-usable third row
• Z71 off-road and High Country luxury trims available

Cons:

• Turbo-four fuel economy is only average
• Cabin materials trail the class leaders

Verdict: The space champion — pick it when maximum cargo and a roomy third row matter most.

7. Subaru Ascent

Starting MSRP: $39,945 | Best for: All-weather families who want standard AWD and a safety record

The 2027 Subaru Ascent comes only with standard all-wheel drive, a real edge in snow and on unpaved roads. Its 2.4-liter turbo flat-four makes 260 hp and 277 lb-ft through a CVT, returning roughly 21–22 mpg combined. It seats seven or eight, tows up to 5,000 lb, and has earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ every year since launch.

The middle row offers a bench or captain's chairs, and ground clearance plus grip make it the natural pick for tough climates without paying extra for AWD.

Pros:

• Standard all-wheel drive on every trim
• Consistent IIHS Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ record
• Strong 5,000-lb towing for the class
• Captain's-chair or bench second-row options

Cons:

• Fuel economy of 21–22 mpg trails hybrid rivals
• No hybrid powertrain offered

Verdict: The all-weather pick — buy it for standard AWD and a rock-solid safety history.

8. Mazda CX-90

Starting MSRP: $40,475 | Best for: Drivers who want near-luxury feel and a plug-in option

The 2027 Mazda CX-90 is the enthusiast's three-row, with a premium cabin and rear-biased dynamics. The 3.3-liter inline-six turbo makes up to 340 hp and 369 lb-ft, while the PHEV pairs a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor for a combined 323 hp and short electric-only commutes.

It seats seven or eight (a six-seat captain's-chair layout is available), tows up to 5,000 lb, and both CX-90 versions earned the 2026 IIHS Top Safety Pick+. The tradeoff: row three is tighter than the domestic giants.

Pros:

• 2026 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ on every CX-90 version
• Smooth 340-hp inline-six turbo
• Plug-in hybrid allows short all-electric commutes
• Premium, near-luxury interior and driving feel

Cons:

• Third row is tighter than rivals
• Inline-six premium fuel is recommended

Verdict: The upscale, sporty pick — worth it if driving feel, safety, and a plug-in option top your list.

9. Volkswagen Atlas

Starting MSRP: $39,310 | Best for: Buyers who want German feel and a top safety rating

The 2027 Volkswagen Atlas delivers a roomy, solidly built cabin and a 2.0-liter turbo four making 269 hp and 273 lb-ft through an eight-speed automatic. EPA figures reach 23 mpg combined (FWD), and 4Motion AWD is available. It seats six or seven, offers up to 96.6 cu ft of cargo and second-row captain's chairs, and tows up to 5,000 lb.

The 2026 Atlas earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+, the institute's highest honor, making it a smart pick for safety-focused families who want flat-folding flexibility.

Pros:

• IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating
• Spacious, solidly built German-feel interior
• Up to 96.6 cu ft of cargo space
• Available second-row captain's chairs

Cons:

• Single turbo-four lacks a hybrid or V6 option
• Resale value trails the class leaders

Verdict: A safe, spacious, well-finished pick — strongest for buyers who prize the top IIHS award.

10. Toyota Sequoia

Starting MSRP: $64,720 | Best for: Buyers who need full-size space and serious towing with hybrid efficiency

The 2027 Toyota Sequoia is the full-size flagship of this list, built on the Tundra truck platform. Its standard i-FORCE MAX hybrid V6 makes 437 hp and 583 lb-ft, towing up to a class-leading 9,520 lb while returning about 22 mpg combined (2WD) — strong for its size.

It seats seven or eight, offers a third row adults won't dread on a long haul, and brings real off-road hardware in TRD Pro trim. The catch is a sliding cargo floor that can pinch space behind row three, and a steep entry price.

Pros:

• Standard 437-hp hybrid V6 with 583 lb-ft
• Class-leading towing up to 9,520 lb
• Roughly 22 mpg combined for a full-size SUV
• Available TRD Pro off-road hardware

Cons:

• Highest starting price in the group at $64,720
• Sliding cargo floor limits space behind row three

Verdict: The heavy-hauler — buy it when you need full-size room and big-trailer towing without a thirsty V8.

Buyer Decision Tree — Which One's Right for You?

What to Look For When Buying a 7-Seater SUV

• Third-row usability — Sit in row three yourself before buying. The Grand Highlander, Traverse, and Sequoia fit adults; the Sorento and CX-90 are best for kids on long trips.
• Seating configuration — Decide between a second-row bench (8 seats) and captain's chairs (7 seats, easier third-row access). The Pilot's removable middle seat splits the difference.
• Cargo behind row three — A spacious cabin means little if cargo space vanishes with all seats up; compare the 44.7 cu ft behind the Grand Highlander's third row to tighter rivals.
• Real safety ratings — Check published IIHS Top Safety Pick / Top Safety Pick+ status and NHTSA stars. The CX-90 and Atlas earned 2026 Top Safety Pick+.
• Hybrid vs gas — Hybrids like the Grand Highlander, Telluride, and Sorento cut fuel costs; gas V6s like the Pilot keep purchase price and complexity down.
• Towing if needed — Most tow 5,000 lb; the Sequoia leads at 9,520 lb. Match capacity to your trailer or camper.

What matters less than marketing implies: panoramic-roof size, badge trim names, and peak horsepower. A 40-hp difference is invisible on the school run; third-row fit, safety scores, and warranty affect your family far more.

FAQ

Which 7-seater SUV is the best overall for 2027? The Toyota Grand Highlander earns our top spot for its adult-friendly third row, up to 44.7 cu ft of cargo behind it, three powertrains including a 362-hp Hybrid Max, and Toyota reliability.

What is the best value 7-seater SUV? The Kia Sorento starting near $33,990 is the only true three-row here under $34,000, and it still offers a 227-hp hybrid near 35 mpg plus a long warranty.

Which 7-seater SUVs have a third row adults can actually use? The Toyota Grand Highlander, Chevrolet Traverse, and Toyota Sequoia offer the roomiest third rows; the Sorento and Mazda CX-90 suit kids better than tall adults.

Which 7-seater SUV can tow the most? The Toyota Sequoia leads at up to 9,520 lb, well ahead of rivals that top out near 5,000 lb.

Which 7-seater SUVs are the safest? The Mazda CX-90 and Volkswagen Atlas both earned the 2026 IIHS Top Safety Pick+, and the Subaru Ascent has earned a Top Safety Pick award every year since launch.

Should I get a 7-seat or 8-seat configuration? Choose captain's chairs (7 seats) for easier third-row access and individual comfort, or a second-row bench (8 seats) for maximum capacity; models like the Pilot let you swap a removable middle seat to switch between them.

Bottom Line

For 2027, the Toyota Grand Highlander is our Best Overall 7-seater SUV — starting around $41,140, it wins on the metric that defines this class: a third row adults can use, backed by up to 44.7 cu ft of cargo behind it and a 362-hp Hybrid Max option. The Kia Sorento, from about $33,990, is our Best Value, the rare true three-row hybrid under $34,000.

If your needs lean toward maximum towing, top safety awards, standard AWD, or eight-seat flexibility, use the decision tree above to route yourself to the Sequoia, CX-90, Ascent, or Pilot instead. Buy on third-row fit, safety, and total cost of ownership — not headline horsepower — and your whole family rides happy.

Sources

• Car and Driver — three-row SUV reviews and rankings
• MotorTrend — three-row SUV buyer's guides and specs
• Edmunds — 2026/2027 three-row SUV prices and reviews
• Kelley Blue Book (KBB) — pricing and ownership data
• U.S. News — Best 3-Row SUV rankings and reviews
• IIHS — Top Safety Pick and crash-test ratings
• EPA — fuel economy ratings
• Toyota.com — Grand Highlander and Sequoia specs
• Kia Media — 2027 Sorento and Telluride pricing
• Honda Newsroom — 2027 Pilot specifications

*7-seater SUV review — 7-seater SUV reviews, rating, best 7-seater SUV 2027, and a review of the top three-row family SUV picks for buyers.*