As Canadian families increasingly seek vehicles that offer both spaciousness and practicality, three-row SUVs have become the preferred choice. These vehicles provide ample room for passengers and cargo, making them ideal for long road trips, urban commuting, and outdoor adventures. In 2025, several automakers have introduced budget-friendly three-row SUVs that blend affordability with the essential features families desire. This detailed guide examines the most affordable three-row SUVs available in Canada, focusing on their pricing, features, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander is a standout in the affordable three-row SUV category, with a starting price of $35,598. This model appeals to families seeking a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. The Outlander’s compact size and versatile features make it a top contender in the market.
Infotainment: 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
Safety Features: Forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, rearview camera
Comfort: Heated front seats, automatic climate control
While the Outlander may not boast the same level of luxury as some competitors, it delivers solid performance and reliability at a highly competitive price point. Its compact dimensions make it an ideal option for urban families seeking a practical yet affordable three-row SUV.
The 2025 Kia Sorento offers a blend of affordability, style, and advanced technology, starting at $38,995. Known for its range of engine options and impressive fuel efficiency, the Sorento is a versatile choice for Canadian families looking for a value-driven three-row SUV with modern amenities.
Key Features:
Seating Capacity: 7 passengers
Engine Options:
2.5L 4-cylinder engine (191 hp)
1.6L turbocharged hybrid engine (227 hp)
Fuel Economy:
Gasoline: 10.7L/100 km city, 8.3L/100 km highway
Hybrid: 6.9L/100 km city, 7.5L/100 km highway
Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission
Drivetrain: Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Safety & Technology:
Infotainment: 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging
Comfort: Leather-trimmed seats, tri-zone automatic climate control
The Sorento’s hybrid options provide excellent fuel economy, making it an ideal choice for families looking to minimize their environmental impact without compromising on performance. Its stylish design and advanced safety features further enhance its appeal, making it a solid contender in the affordable three-row SUV segment.
The 2025 Subaru Ascent offers a unique combination of ruggedness, spaciousness, and safety features. Starting at $48,674, the Ascent provides families with a reliable vehicle equipped with standard all-wheel drive (AWD) and a suite of advanced safety technologies. Its performance and capability make it a strong choice for those who need an SUV that can handle both urban environments and rugged terrains.
Comfort: Tri-zone automatic climate control, available leather upholstery
The Ascent’s standard AWD and suite of safety features make it an excellent choice for families living in areas with harsh weather conditions. The vehicle’s rugged capability and spacious interior further elevate its value, making it a standout in the affordable three-row SUV market.
4. Nissan Pathfinder (Starting at $49,985)
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder is a powerful and capable three-row SUV designed for families who need space, performance, and utility. With a starting price of $49,985, the Pathfinder is an attractive option for those who require towing capacity, off-road capability, and advanced technology.
Key Features:
Seating Capacity: 7 or 8 passengers
Engine: 3.5L V6 engine producing 284 horsepower
Fuel Economy: 11.7L/100 km city, 9.3L/100 km highway
Transmission: 9-speed automatic transmission
Drivetrain: Available 4×4
Safety & Technology:
Infotainment: 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation
Comfort: Tri-zone automatic climate control, available leather upholstery
The Pathfinder stands out for its towing capacity of up to 6,000 lbs, making it an excellent option for families who frequently tow trailers, boats, or other recreational vehicles. Its combination of power, comfort, and safety features make it a great choice for those who need both performance and family-friendly practicality.
5. Mazda CX-90 (Starting at $48,026)
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 offers a more luxurious and performance-oriented option in the affordable three-row SUV category, with a starting price of $48,026. The CX-90 is designed for families who seek a premium driving experience without the premium price tag, blending style, comfort, and dynamic performance.
Key Features:
Seating Capacity: 6 or 7 passengers
Engine Options:
3.3L turbocharged inline-six engine (280 hp)
Hybrid powertrain (323 hp)
Fuel Economy:
Gasoline: 12.5L/100 km city, 9.2L/100 km highway
Hybrid: 7.6L/100 km city, 7.3L/100 km highway
Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission
Drivetrain: AWD (standard)
Safety & Technology:
Infotainment: 10.25-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging
Safety Features: i-Activsense suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring
Comfort: Premium leather upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control
The CX-90’s dynamic driving experience, high-end features, and refined interior make it an excellent choice for families who want a touch of luxury without the exorbitant cost. Its upscale design and comprehensive safety features further enhance its appeal.
Conclusion
In 2025, Canadian families have several affordable options for three-row SUVs, each catering to different preferences and needs. The Mitsubishi Outlander offers an entry-level price with essential features for those on a tight budget, while the Kia Sorento balances affordability with advanced hybrid options. The Subaru Ascent and Nissan Pathfinder stand out for their rugged capabilities and standard AWD, making them perfect for families who require versatility and safety. Finally, the Mazda CX-90 combines luxury, performance, and technology, offering an upscale experience at a reasonable price.
Choosing the right three-row SUV will ultimately depend on your specific requirements, whether it’s affordability, performance, or additional features. Each of these models presents a compelling case for families in Canada, ensuring that there is a suitable option for every budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Affordable Three-Row SUVs in Canada
What is the most affordable three-row SUV in Canada?
The Mitsubishi Outlander is the most affordable three-row SUV in Canada, with a starting price of $35,598. It offers 7-passenger seating, a 2.5L engine, and essential features, making it an excellent choice for families on a budget.
Are there any hybrid options available for affordable three-row SUVs?
Yes, the Kia Sorento offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains in addition to traditional gasoline engines. The hybrid variant delivers a fuel-efficient 6.9L/100 km city and 7.5L/100 km highway, providing families with an eco-friendly and affordable three-row SUV option.
Which affordable three-row SUV has the best towing capacity?
The Nissan Pathfinder offers the best towing capacity in the affordable three-row SUV category, capable of towing up to 6,000 lbs when properly equipped. This makes it an excellent choice for families who need a vehicle with significant towing power for boats, trailers, or other recreational vehicles.
Are all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) available in these affordable three-row SUVs?
Yes, most of the vehicles in this category come with available AWD or standard AWD. For example, the Subaru Ascent offers standard AWD, while the Nissan Pathfinder provides available 4×4 drivetrain options. These features are beneficial for families living in regions with harsh weather conditions or those who enjoy outdoor adventures.
What are the safety features included in these affordable three-row SUVs?
Safety is a key focus for many of these models. Common safety features include forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. For example, the Subaru Ascent includes the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology suite, while the Kia Sorento features lane-keeping assist and forward-collision warning as standard. These features provide added peace of mind for families on the road.
