Scotty Reiss |
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When you have a growing family you want to indulge your kids with everything: Learning toys, organic produce, sports leagues and family trips to Disney. In the family budget, something has to give. Can you save money on the car to spend other places and still get all the features you want and need—including a 3rd row? Yes, you can. Here are our favorite 7-seater SUVs that start around $30,000 and top out at about $50,000.
And then, one that’s a splurge, but for good reason.
Kia Sorento, Priced from $31,000-$42,000
The Kia Sorento is one of our all-time favorite 7-seater SUVs, and for a lot of reasons. First, you can choose from a number of power trains: Gas, hybrid or plug-in electric hybrid. Then, it comes really nicely loaded with tech, even at the base model level. You can choose between center row captains chairs and a bench seat, and even the top of the line X-Pro SX Prestige is affordable while still being stylish and loaded with luxuries like leather upholstery and a panoramic sunroof. Plus, if you need off-road capabilities, this one has you covered.
Subaru Ascent, Priced from $32,000-$48,000
The Subaru Ascent is one of the most-loved 7-seater SUVs on the road and for good reason. Solid reliability, standard all wheel drive, Subaru’s great Eyesight driver assist system and in this model, 3 rows of seating. We also love Subaru’s rough and ready attitude; it’s good with all things messy, from snowy and muddy roads to kiddos who seems to always leave a mess in their wake: Interiors are built to be easy to clean while still being comfortable and attractive.
Mitsubishi Outlander, Priced From $28,000-$41,000
Mitsubishi has always impressed us with a more-for-the-money attitude, but when they added a plug-in hybrid option that is fast charging at virtually any power level charger, we had to look again. The company’s partnership with Nissan yields some nice features in the Mitsubishi Outlander, but the brand’s commitment to electric vehicles that are also fun to drive informs much about this car, from its easy driving nature to its room for 7 and solid fuel economy, which simply adds to the savings.
Chevrolet Traverse, Priced From $37,000-$56,000
Where do I start: The Chevrolet Traverse is THE one to beat in this category. It has a full-size 3rd row big enough for adults. It has great space for kids car seats. And thanks to a recent redesign, the Traverse is loaded with technology, from the Google-based voice assistance system to the option of adding Super Cruise hands-free assistance. And, there is now a Z71 off-road capable version for those who need to drive off pavement and need confidence doing it.
Video: We took a test drive, drove off road and toured the 2024 Chevy Traverse
Nissan Pathfinder, Priced From $38,000-$51,000
The Nissan Pathfinder is one of the OGs: It’s been a staple of the SUV class for decades. And we’ve long loved its capability on and off pavement, it’s enduring reliability and ability for out families to put it through literally anything and it emerges unscathed. For 2024 it got even tougher with the Pathfinder Rock Creek edition, designed for adventure, overlanding and the like. But there are still plush, pampering editions too for those who need the luxury of being able to get there in style. Video: We tested the Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek edition
Honda Pilot, Priced from $39,000-$54,000
We almost cried when Honda changed the tail lights on the Honda Pilot for the 2024 redesign. Until we climbed in and saw all the wonderful changes and additions: More space, under floor storage, fantastic new technology. And, what didn’t change: a removable center row middle seat that allows you to choose between a bench and captains chairs at will. The new Trialsport edition is even more capable and comes in a head-turning blue called Sky Blue Pearl.
VW Atlas, Priced From $38,000-$53,000
When VW began its journey from building small, sporty cars to building SUVs for families, we wondered if they would really get it; could this Germany-based company really get how American families live in their cars? Well, the VW Atlas answers that beautifully. And the answer is: Yes. With a full-size 3rd row, center and 3rd row seats that can accommodate kids car seats better than even much larger SUVs, and a really great suite of technology, the Atlas delivers everything families need in an SUV.
Mazda CX-90, Priced From $38,000-$56,000
Mazda inspires a lot of love among its buyers for its sporty drive experience. From the ultra fun Miata roadster to the full-size CX-90, Mazda never compromises on its acceleration, handling and ride quality. This is the car for the driver in the family who wants both a great drive experience and room for all the kids and gear. Adding to that is the wide array of interior design choices, from stylish to luxury, for an SUV that competes with the basics as well as luxury brands.
Video: Mazda CX-90: More Power, More Luxury 3 Row SUV – Plus, a Plug-in Hybrid!
And the 7-Seater SUV That’s Worth the Splurge: Toyota Grand Highlander, Priced From $43,000-$58,000
Realizing that families need more— more space, more tech, more comforts, more options—Toyota built this SUV from the ground up. And it’s a home run. The 3rd row is huge and comfortable. Center row seats are as well. The technology in this car is top notch, from the “Hey Toyota” voice activation system to navigation either built in or enhanced, for a subscription. Buyers can choose from basic to luxury, and from gas-powered, hybrid version and hybrid with more power. For buyers who intend to hold onto their family SUV for a while, who want reliability and features that will go the distance, this is a great investment.
Video: Here’s what we like about the Toyota Grand Highlander
Not all SUVs are created equal, so finding the right one for you, with room for kids car seats, 3rd row passengers and amenities to keep everyone happy is key to time well spent in the car.
By Scotty Reiss
Journalist, entrepreneur and mom. Expertise includes new cars, family cars, 3-row SUVs, child passenger car seats and automotive careers... More about Scotty Reiss
