Factors to Consider When Choosing a 3-Row SUV

When you’re shopping for a 7- or 8-seater SUV, it’s important to keep a few key things in mind:

  • Passenger Comfort: Look for a vehicle that can keep all passengers comfortable. Check that everyone has enough legroom and headroom. Features like multiple temperature control zones and rear-seat HVAC vents can also improve passenger comfort.
  • Cargo Space: Consider how much space you might need. Assess your vehicle’s cargo space with different seating configurations, including all seats up, the third row down, or both the second and third rows down.
  • Family-Friendly Features: Planning on transporting young passengers? Look for features that make life easier for families, such as built-in sunshades, the ability to mute rear speakers, and easy-clean upholstery.
  • Safety Features: Ensure that your chosen SUV has a range of advanced safety features to keep you and your passengers protected. Look for vehicles with top safety ratings from major organizations.
  • Future Needs: Think about how your needs may change throughout your vehicle’s lifespan. Will you need to accommodate more passengers or cargo?

Hyundai's 7- and 8-Seater SUVs

Hyundai offers three fantastic options for those who are interested in a 7- or 8-seater SUV: the 7-seater Santa Fe, 7-seater Palisade, and 8-seater Palisade.

Hyundai Santa Fe (6- or 7-Seater SUV)

Available in 6- and 7-seater configurations, the Hyundai Santa Fe is the perfect fit for drivers who crave comfort and flexibility. With ample legroom and headroom in all three rows, passengers can relax and enjoy the ride. Multiple climate control zones ensure everyone stays comfortable, while the option to silence rear speakers creates a peaceful atmosphere for napping passengers.

But the Santa Fe isn't just about passengers – it's big on cargo, too. With 413 L of trunk space, 1,148 L of cargo space with the third row of seats folded, and 2,267 L of cargo space with both the second and third rows folded, you’ll have plenty of room for groceries, sports equipment, and weekend adventure gear.

The Santa Fe is also remarkably safe. It was named Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in 2024. The vehicle also comes with Hyundai SmartSense™, a suite of advanced driver-assistance features that give you peace of mind on every drive. With features like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Lane Following Assist 2, you can confidently navigate any road.

Hyundai Palisade (7- or 8-Seater SUV)

The Hyundai Palisade is a versatile SUV available in 7- and 8-seater configurations. Heated second-row seats and multiple automatic temperature control zones come standard for added comfort. Additionally, the 7-seater configuration features captain’s chairs in the second row, ensuring that passengers have all the space they need.

The Palisade also offers plenty of room for storage. This SUV offers 509 L of trunk space, 1,297 L of cargo space when the third row of seats are lowered, and 2,447 of cargo space when both the second and third rows are folded. With so much available room, the Palisade can accommodate luggage, camping gear, and anything else you throw its way.

Of course, safety is paramount–and the Palisade delivers. Like the Santa Fe, it earned Top Safety Pick from the IIHS in 2024 and comes equipped with Hyundai SmartSense™, a suite of advanced driver-assistance features. Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assist both come standard on the Palisade, resulting in a safer and more confident driving experience.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Fit?

Whether you're a growing family or an adventurer with a large crew, Hyundai has a 7- or 8-seater SUV that's perfect for you. Explore our Build and Price tool to customize your ideal Hyundai SUV.

Frequently Asked Questions about 7- and 8-Seater SUVs

Still have questions about Hyundai’s 7- and 8-seater SUVs? Check out our list of frequently asked questions below, or contact a Hyundai dealership near you for more information.

What are Captain's Chairs?

Captain's chairs are individual seats that offer extra comfort and support. They're perfect for passengers who want to relax and enjoy the ride.

Captain’s chairs come standard on 7-seater Palisade models and the 6-seater Santa Fe configuration.

Which Hyundai SUVs Seat 7 Passengers?

The Hyundai Santa Fe and Palisade both offer 7-passenger seating configurations.

Which Hyundai SUVs Seat 8 Passengers?

The Hyundai Palisade is the only SUV in Hyundai's Canadian lineup that can seat up to 8 passengers.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and may not reflect the latest updates to vehicle models, features, or availability. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please visit the current model pages on the Hyundai Canada website or contact your local dealership.