Top 9 Passenger SUVs for Large Families: Room for Everyone!

Looking for a spacious and reliable SUV that can seat 9 passengers? Look no further! In this article, we explore the top 9 passenger vehicles on the market, including SUVs with impressive fuel economy and ample cargo space. We also take a closer look at the Chevrolet, GMC, and Ford lineup and highlight the best-used car options for those on a budget. Don’t miss out on our comprehensive guide to finding the perfect 9-passenger SUV for your needs!

SUVs that can hold 9 passengers include the Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, and the Ford Expedition. Most SUVs have a base configuration of 7 or 8 seats but can be adapted to fit 9 by replacing the bucket seats with benches.

However, because there are so few options, finding an SUV that you like and fits your needs can be challenging. Not every SUV will be right for your family, and each model has different pros and cons you should consider. Let’s explore some of the best 9-passenger vehicles you should consider.

What SUV Can Hold 9 Passengers?

Having a big family can be difficult, especially when driving. Getting a good, sturdy car with a second and third row that can fit everyone is a must. That is why we found out which SUVs are capable of holding 9 passengers.

Chevrolet Suburban (SUV)

Chevrolet Suburbans are a good SUV model that can hold 9 passengers. Here are the basic stats for the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban:

• Length – 225.7 inches
• Width – 81.1 inches
• Height – 75.7 inches
• Max cargo capacity – 144.7 cubic feet
• Weight – 5,616 to 6,016 lbs
• Towing Capacity – 7,400 to 7,800 lbs
• MPG – 15 city / 20 highway
• Gas tank – 28 gallons
• Starting Cost – $52,300
• Crash Safety Rating – 4 stars

The Chevy Suburban is tied with the GMC Yukon XL for the largest SUV on this list. They both have fantastic cargo capacities, boast plenty of room for all 9 passengers, and a v8 engine with respectable mpg on the highway and mpg in the city. If you’re traveling with a large group, this is definitely a great option.

In order to fit 9 passengers in this SUV, you need to replace the first two rows of bucket seats with bench seats. This allows three people to sit in each of the three rows. However, this adaption is only available for the base trim for this car.

*Expert Tip: If you are shopping on a budget, check your state and local surplus vehicle auctions. Frequently state governments and municipalities buy the LS trip Suburbans and Tahoes with bench seating. Sometimes the upholstery will be cloth or vinyl, but they definitely buy them nine-passenger seating!

2023 Chevy Suburban Description

f you’re looking for a vehicle that can comfortably transport your large family and all of their gear, the 2023 Chevy Suburban SUV might just be the perfect fit for you. With the ability to seat up to 9 passengers, this SUV is spacious and versatile, making it an excellent choice for family road trips or even everyday errands.

One exciting new feature for the 2023 Chevy Suburban is the Super Cruise1 technology, which is the industry’s first true hands-free driver assistance system for compatible roads. This cutting-edge technology will be available on the Premier and High Country models, providing added safety and convenience for your family’s travels.

In addition to its impressive technology, the 2023 Chevy Suburban also boasts a stylish exterior. The available colors include Silver Sage Metallic, Sterling Gray Metallic, and Radiant Red Tintcoat (for an extra cost). You can also customize your SUV with an accessory black grille featuring “CHEVROLET” lettering, which is available for LS, LT, RST, and Premier models.

But perhaps the most compelling reason to choose the 2023 Chevy Suburban for your family’s transportation needs is its spacious interior. With up to 144.7 cubic feet of cargo space, you’ll have plenty of room to store all of your family’s luggage, sports equipment, or anything else you need to bring along. And with 9 seats available, there will be no need to leave anyone behind on your next adventure.

So if you’re in the market for a 9-passenger vehicle that can haul your family and all of their gear with ease, be sure to check out the 2023 Chevy Suburban SUV. With its advanced technology, stylish exterior, and roomy interior, it might just be the perfect fit for your family’s needs.

Recommended Reading: See our list of Suburban years to avoid

Chevy Tahoe (SUV)

The Chevrolet Tahoe is comfortable and works well for seating groups of 9. These are some basic details about the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe:

• Length – 210.7 inches
• Width – 81 inches
• Height – 75.8 inches
• Max cargo capacity – 122.9 cubic feet
• Weight – 5,473 to 5,845 lbs
• Towing Capacity – 7,600 to 7,900 lbs
• MPG – 15 city / 20 highway
• Gas tank – 24 gallons
• Starting Cost – $49,600
• Crash Safety Rating – 4 stars

A 9 seater variation is available in most years of this car, but only for LS and FL trims. Make sure you’re getting the right trim if you need to regularly seat 9 people!

2023 Chevy Tahoe SUV Description:

If you’re looking for a spacious SUV that can comfortably fit your large family and all of your gear, the 2023 Chevy Tahoe might be just what you need. With seating for up to 9 passengers, this SUV has plenty of room to accommodate everyone.

One of the most exciting features of the 2023 Tahoe is the new Super Cruise technology. This hands-free driver assistance system is the first of its kind in the industry and is available on the Premier and High Country trims. It’s perfect for long drives when you need to take a break from steering and want to let the car do the work for a while.

In terms of exterior options, you can choose from Silver Sage Metallic, Sterling Gray Metallic, or Radiant Red Tintcoat (for an extra cost). If you’re interested in customizing your SUV, you can also opt for an accessory black grille with “CHEVROLET” lettering, which is available on LS, LT, RST, and Premier trims.

The Tahoe is offered in a variety of trims, including LS, LT, RST, Z71, Premier, and High Country. All trims are available with 4WD, but it comes standard on the Z71. The Tahoe also features an independent rear suspension, which helps provide a smooth and comfortable ride.

If you’re interested in a truly luxurious driving experience, consider the High Country or Premier trims. They come with Magnetic Ride Control, which adjusts the suspension in real time to provide the smoothest ride possible. The Z71 and High Country trims also offer the Four Corner Air Ride Adaptive Suspension, which is a first-in-class feature.

Inside the Tahoe, you’ll find a large 12.3-inch-diagonal configurable digital instrument cluster on LT trim and above. This high-tech feature allows you to customize your display to show exactly what you want to see. You’ll also have up to 133 available camera views, including a transparent trailer, rear trailer view, and picture-in-picture side view with the available Advanced Trailering System.

Chevy has also made safety a top priority in the 2023 Tahoe. The Chevy Safety Assist package is standard and includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Following Distance Indicator, Front Pedestrian Braking, and IntelliBeam auto high beams. Adaptive Cruise Control and HD Surround Vision are also available features.

If you need to transport a lot of cargo, the Tahoe has you covered with up to 122.9 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. It can also tow up to 8,400 pounds, making it a great choice for hauling trailers or other heavy loads.

Overall, the 2023 Chevy Tahoe is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a spacious SUV that can accommodate a large family and all of their gear. With a variety of trims and features to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect Tahoe for your needs. (Reference)

GMC Yukon (SUV)

The GMC Yukon is a spacious option that gives enough legroom for adults to sit in any of the three rows. Below is some information about the 2021 GMC Yukon:

• Length – 210 inches
• Width – 81 inches
• Height – 76.50 inches
• Max cargo capacity – 122.9 cubic feet
• Weight – 7,500 lbs
• Towing Capacity – 8400 lbs*
• MPG – Up to 21 city / 27 highway
• Gas tank – 24 gallons
• Starting Cost – $51,000
• Crash Safety Rating – 4 stars

*This car can only tow this much if you get the max trailering package.

This vehicle offers a lot of cargo space (25.5 cubic feet). This will definitely be a necessity if you and 8 others take a long trip. Passenger space doesn’t do much good if there isn’t room for cargo as well! (Source)

Currently, the base SLC model is the only one that offers the adaption to 9 passenger seating.

2023 GMC Yukon Details:

If you’re in the market for a 9 passenger vehicle to transport your large family and all their gear, the 2023 GMC Yukon SUV is worth considering. With models available in SLE, SLT, AT4, Denali, and Denali Ultimate, there are plenty of options to choose from.

One of the standout features of the 2023 Yukon is the new Yukon Denali Ultimate, which comes standard with 4WD and offers the latest in driver assistance technology with Super Cruise1. The Denali Ultimate also includes Enhanced Automatic Parking Assist2 and 22-inch wheels (polished aluminum and ultra-bright machined), while the other models offer plenty of features such as independent rear suspension that creates more space for third-row passengers, first-in-class available Four Corner Air Ride Adaptive Suspension, and available Magnetic Ride Control.

Inside the Yukon, you’ll find a spacious cabin with up to 13 available camera views3, including HD Surround Vision, Rear Camera Mirror, and Enhanced Trailering Technology Package (includes accessory camera views) that will help make driving and maneuvering easier. The Premium GMC Infotainment System4 with Google Built-In5 compatibility, wireless Apple CarPlay®6, and Android Auto™7 compatibility are also available, as well as a Wi-Fi® Hotspot8 and Amazon Alexa Built-In9.

When it comes to safety features, the GMC Pro Safety Plus2 is standard on SLT and above (available on SLE) and includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Rear Park Assist, Following Distance Indicator, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and IntelliBeam auto headlamps. Adaptive Cruise Control2 and Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking2 are standard on Denali Ultimate and available on Denali (late availability on Denali).

Overall, the 2023 GMC Yukon SUV is a great choice for families who need to haul around nine passengers and a lot of gear. With its spacious interior, advanced technology, and impressive safety features, the Yukon is sure to make your next family road trip comfortable and enjoyable. Plus, with a max cargo room of 122.9 cu. ft., you’ll have plenty of space for all your belongings.

GMC Yukon XL (SUV)

There is also an XL version of the GMC Yukon that gives you even more space and a bigger gas tank. However, the immediate downside of an XL will be that it is will be more difficult to park and maneuver.

Below are the vehicle specs for a 2021 GMC Yukon XL.

• Length – 225.20 inches
• Width – 81 inches
• Height – 76.50 inches
• Max cargo capacity – 144.7 cubic feet
• Weight – 5,683 lbs
• Towing Capacity – 8,300 lbs*
• MPG – Up to 15 city / 20 highway
• Gas tank – 28 gallons
• Starting Cost – $60,800

*This car can only tow this much if you get the max trailering package.

This GMC Yukon XL is quite large and has a lot of cargo space. However, before buying, you should be aware that Yukons don’t always satisfy the customers.

From taillights going out to jarring and shaking, there have been several complaints about some versions of this SUV. While you want to avoid the 2015 Yukon, the 2014 is generally considered to be a good year to seek out. (Source)

Like the others, to get this SUV to fit 9 passengers you need to replace the bucket seats with bench seats.

2023 GMC Yukon XL Details To Consider:

If you’re looking for a spacious vehicle that can comfortably transport up to 9 passengers and all of their gear, the 2023 GMC Yukon XL SUV might be the perfect choice for you. With its ample cargo space and powerful towing capacity, this SUV is designed to accommodate large families and all of their adventures.

One of the standout features of the 2023 Yukon XL is the new Yukon Denali Ultimate model, which comes standard with 4WD and offers Super Cruise driver assistance technology (late availability). This advanced feature allows for hands-free driving on compatible highways, making long road trips more relaxing and enjoyable.

The exterior of the Yukon XL is available in a range of eye-catching colors, including Titanium Rush Metallic, Frosted Pine Metallic, Volcanic Red Tintcoat, and Sterling Metallic (extra cost). The SUV also features Enhanced Automatic Parking Assist (standard on Denali Ultimate and available on Denali), which makes it easier to park in tight spaces.

With up to 13 available camera views, including HD Surround Vision and Rear Camera Mirror, the Yukon XL offers exceptional visibility and awareness while driving. The available Four Corner Air Ride Adaptive Suspension and Magnetic Ride Control provide a smooth and comfortable ride, even on bumpy roads.

Inside the cabin, the Yukon XL boasts a 10.2-inch-diagonal Premium GMC Infotainment System with Google Built-In compatibility, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and an available Wi-Fi hotspot. The available Amazon Alexa Built-In also allows for convenient voice-activated controls.

In terms of driver assistance features, the GMC Pro Safety Plus is standard on SLT and above (available on SLE), while the Denali Ultimate model offers Adaptive Cruise Control and Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking (standard) for added peace of mind.

With a maximum cargo space of 144.7 cubic feet and a maximum trailering capacity of 830 pounds, the 2023 Yukon XL SUV is well-equipped to handle your family’s needs, whether it’s a weekend camping trip or a cross-country adventure. So if you’re in the market for a spacious and capable SUV, the Yukon XL is definitely worth considering.

Ford Expedition (SUV)

Finally, we have the Ford Expedition. Here are the details about the 2021 Ford Expedition XLT:

• Length – 210 inches
• Width – 79.9 inches
• Height – 76.4 inches
• Max cargo capacity – 121.4 cubic feet
• Weight – 5,623 lbs
• Towing Capacity – 9,200 lbs
• MPG – Up to 17 city / 23 highway
• Gas tank – 23.2 gallons
• Starting Cost – $53,410
• Crash Safety Rating – 5 stars

This SUV has the best towing capacity of all the SUVs we looked at. Amazingly, this vehicle is also the smallest of the ones we have talked about (over a foot smaller than the Chevy Suburban and the GMC Yukon XL). This can be a benefit when you’re trying to park it, but it means you have to sacrifice a bit of legroom and cargo space. Another downside to this car is its gas mileage.

The starting cost of a two-row 2021 Ford expedition is only $49,625, but to be able to fit 9 passengers you will need the three rows. To get that upgrade, the starting cost is $52,300.

If you’re looking into buying a Ford Expedition, we suggest staying away from the 2011 version or older versions and look more at the 2019-2021 years. The basic model comes with bucket seats that need to be replaced with bench seats to fit 9 passengers.

2023 Ford Expedition Overview:

If you are looking for a 9-passenger vehicle to transport a large family and all of their gear, then the 2023 Ford Expedition SUV is an excellent option. The Expedition has been refined to offer improved interiors and more connectivity enhancements that make the ownership experience as convenient as possible for customers.

Ford’s flagship SUV is designed to be more than just family transportation, it’s a full-size SUV that allows families to share adventures and make connections confidently and comfortably. The 2023 Expedition is an expanded lineup of models to choose from, including the new Timberline series, the most off-road-capable in its class.

With millennials accounting for the fastest growing demographic in the full-size SUV segment, the new Expedition is set to meet modern family needs and enable unique outdoor and road-tripping adventures. The Expedition elevates itself above competitors with new class-exclusive features, plus new capabilities and technologies.

The Timberline series elevates the Expedition above the Jeep Wagoneer with the best available ground clearance in its class of 10.6 inches. It also features F-150 Raptor underbody protection and the best available power in its class. The Expedition Timberline SUV model weighs 4% less than Jeep Wagoneer SUV and boasts a better power-to-weight ratio, as Ford’s high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine tops the Jeep Wagoneer SUV 5.7-liter V8 engine with 48 additional horsepower and 106 more lb.-ft. of torque.

For those looking for even more performance, the Expedition Stealth Edition Performance Package delivers 85 more horsepower and 127 lb.-ft. more torque than the Chevrolet Tahoe RST SUV with its 5.3-liter V8 engine. The Expedition SUV equipped with a 3.5-liter GTDI 4×2 has a maximum towing capability of 9,300 pounds, 900 more pounds than the two-wheel-drive Chevrolet Tahoe SUV with a 5.3-liter V8 engine.

The new Ford Expedition SUV is poised to attract new customers who are more culturally diverse than the full-size SUV category has seen in past years, including more women seeking family adventures to balance the stress of their overprogrammed lives. The expanded lineup brings more personality and design distinction for each series, from the Expedition XL to the premium Expedition Platinum, as well as the new Stealth Edition Performance Package and Timberline model.

Overall, the 2023 Ford Expedition SUV is a great option for those looking for a spacious and capable vehicle to transport a large family and all of their gear. With its advanced features and capabilities, it can handle any adventure that comes your way. (Reference)

Top 9 Passenger Vehicles You Can Buy (Not SUVs)

If none of the SUVs listed above fit your needs, or if you need a 9-passenger transporter, your best option would be a 12-passenger van. Some of the best passenger vans are the Ford Transit and the Nissan NV.

Passenger Vans Can Seat 9

Nissan NV (Van)

*Note: 2021 was the latest details provided by Nissan. Once they release updated information, I will work on updating this section. Thanks for your patience. 

If you’re looking for a spacious and versatile vehicle to transport your large family and all their gear, the 2021 Nissan NV Passenger is an excellent choice. With its impressive seating flexibility and up to 324 possible seat configurations, the NV3500 Passenger Van can comfortably accommodate up to 12 passengers.

Inside the NV Passenger, you’ll find a host of comfort and convenience features that make long trips more enjoyable. The large, comfortable 3rd-row seats include integrated inboard and outboard wear patches for added durability. An available large center console provides ample storage space for your laptop, charger, business cards, and other essentials.

The middle split 2nd and 3rd row seats are completely removable and repositionable, and the rear 50/50-split 4th-row seat can be partially or completely removed as needed. Leather-appointed seats are available for all four rows, along with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, 8-way power driver’s seat with manual lumbar support, and front driver and passenger’s heated seats.

The NV Passenger also offers easy ingress and egress without intrusive seat belts thanks to its low step-in height and wide door openings. The rear 50/50-split doors make it easy to load and unload cargo and luggage.

The NV Passenger’s standard safety features include integrated seat belts for all rear seating positions, head restraints for all seating positions, and curtain side-impact supplemental airbags with rollover sensor for all four rows of outboard occupant head protection.

Available technology features include the standard 7.0-inch display audio, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth, and RearView Monitor. Also available is NissanConnect with Navigation and Mobile Partner with SiriusXM Radio, which comes with a 3-month free trial (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately).

Overall, the 2021 Nissan NV Passenger is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a versatile and spacious vehicle to transport their large family and all their gear. Its outstanding seating flexibility, impressive cargo space, and comfortable interior make it ideal for both personal and fleet use.

Ford Transit (Van)

*Note: I looked to update for 2023 data, but Ford’s last details are from 2020. Once new spec sheets are available, I will work on updating this page. Thanks for your patience. 

If you’re looking for a vehicle to transport a large family and all their gear, the 2020 Ford Transit crew van is a great option to consider. With seating for up to nine passengers, it’s perfect for families with multiple children or those who need to transport a group of friends. The Transit crew van is an enhancement to the 2020 Ford Transit family based on customer feedback, and it’s tailored for owners who need to move larger crews plus gear to a job site.

The exterior of the Transit is updated to be both stylish and functional. The cargo and passenger vans now have a power sliding door and premium high-intensity discharge headlamps with signature LED surround. The van also comes with a new grille design for maximum cooling. If you opt for the powerful 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, you’ll get a larger grille for even better cooling.

Inside, the Transit has been updated to be more comfortable and user-friendly. There are now more cupholders and compartments for storing gear and gadgets, and grab handles have been improved. The vents have been updated to better direct heated and cooled air, and the ergonomics have been enhanced to make using everything a bit easier. Optional swivel front seats are available for the first time in response to recreational vehicle customer requests.

The center stack can be optioned two different ways – either with a standard 4-inch full-color multifunction display or 8-inch slim-line touch screen display, each with the latest in SYNC® 3 plus Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ compatibility. A 4.2-inch productivity screen in the cluster provides vehicle information and phone call status. AppLink for SYNC allows customers to control select apps on the touch screen without plugging in their Android or iOS device. FordPass Connect™ modem with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and connectivity for up to 10 devices is standard, along with USB outlets in every row of the passenger van.

For the first time, the Transit offers an intelligent all-wheel-drive system that’s always on and does not raise the load floor or seat height, making this van configuration as easy to enter and exit as the standard rear-wheel-drive model. This is a great feature if you live in an area with inclement weather or if you plan to do some light off-roading.

The Transit also comes with new and improved powertrains designed to meet a wide range of customer needs. These include the all-new standard 3.5-liter PFDi V6 and the proven 3.5-liter EcoBoost® gas engine which now includes Auto Start-Stop Technology. Both gas engines can be ordered with dual 250-amp alternators to provide a robust power supply for upfit equipment. All engines are paired with Ford’s proven 10-speed automatic transmission.

Finally, the Transit comes with new standard driver-assist features including Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning, Post-Collision Braking, Lane-Keeping System, and auto high-beam headlamps. Additional available features include Adaptive Cruise Control, front and rear split-view camera, adjustable speed limiting, and Enhanced Active Park Assist to simplify maneuvering into parallel or reverse perpendicular parking spots.

Overall, if you’re in the market for a vehicle to transport a large family and all their gear, the 2020 Ford Transit crew van is a great option to consider. It’s stylish, functional, and packed with features designed to make your life easier.

*Expert Tip: Remember, these vans are harder to drive and are taller and longer than other cars. While they offer more passenger space, they sometimes won’t fit in garages or certain parking spaces.

Another option could be a sprinter van, and many large families will buy those because it has plenty of seating, but also much needed cargo room for all the gear that comes with having a large family and trying to go anywhere as a family. 

Mercedes Sprinter (Van)

The Mercedes Sprinter van is an excellent choice for anyone who needs to haul up to 9 passengers and their gear. Here are some benefits of buying a Mercedes Sprinter van for this purpose:

1. Spacious interior: The Sprinter van has a spacious interior that can comfortably accommodate up to 9 passengers and their luggage. This makes it an ideal vehicle for families, sports teams, or any group of people who need to travel together.
2. Comfortable ride: The Sprinter van is equipped with a range of features designed to provide a comfortable ride for passengers. These include air conditioning, comfortable seats, and a smooth suspension system that absorbs bumps and vibrations.
3. Efficient performance: The Sprinter van is powered by a range of efficient engines that offer excellent fuel economy. This means that you can save money on fuel costs, even if you are traveling long distances with a full load.
4. Versatile cargo space: The Sprinter van has a versatile cargo space that can be configured to meet your specific needs. The van can be fitted with shelves, cabinets, and other storage solutions to help you organize your gear and keep it safe during transport.
5. Safety features: The Sprinter van is equipped with a range of safety features, including airbags, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera. These features help to ensure that you and your passengers are safe and secure while traveling.
6. Durability: Mercedes is known for building durable and reliable vehicles, and the Sprinter van is no exception. With proper maintenance, the Sprinter van can last for many years, making it a great investment for anyone who needs to haul passengers and their gear on a regular basis.

Overall, buying a Mercedes Sprinter van for hauling 9 passengers and their gear is an excellent choice. With its spacious interior, comfortable ride, efficient performance, versatile cargo space, safety features, and durability, the Sprinter van is a vehicle that you can rely on for many years to come. (reference)

Recommended Reading: Sprinter Van Years to Avoid

Frequently Asked Questions: