Ten best 7-seater cars perfect for families planning summer road-trips – from affordable Kia EV to iconic Land Rover
WITH summer quickly approaching, motoring experts have revealed their picks for the best seven-seater cars.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect family-sized SUV or something to fit all your friends for a summer road trip, the list compiled by Autocar includes something for everyone.
Seven-seater cars have undergone a transformation over the last decade, largely moving away from MPV styles to more modern SUVs.
Their newer, sleeker design remains just as practical, with multiple rows of seats and plenty of luggage space.
Some modern seven-seaters also run on electric, making sure that your summer road trip is not only fun, but eco-friendly, too.
Dacia Jogger
The Dacia Jogger made the top of the list for the best seven-seater.
Not only is it the cheapest car on the list, but it also offers a great design that is easy to drive and fits the whole family.
While the third row might be better suited for children on longer journeys, the car can comfortably carry seven people, and has up to 2094 litres of carrying capacity with the rear seats lowered or removed.
Extra storage compartments are located throughout the cabin, making the most of a relatively-compact, affordable car.
Kia EV9
For those after an electric vehicle, the Kia EV9 might be your best option.
A similar size to the Range Rover Sport, the car still manages to reach impressively high speeds and has a 313 mile range.
The cabin can be arranged to accommodate several combinations, with a six- or seven- seat layout, and rear seats that stow and deploy electronically for ease.
Volvo XC90
Having been on the market for almost a decade, it’s no surprise that Volvo’s seven-seater model is leading the way for these larger vehicles.
This new hybrid model is a great car for everyday use, with low running costs and a well-equipped interior.
It emphasises comfort and refinement meaning there is plenty of space for seven adults to travel in style.
Hyundai Santa Fe
Its 2024 redesign has ensured the Hyundai Santa Fe’s position as one of the best seven-seater vehicles on the market.
Despite only offering 33 miles of electric-only range on its hybrid model, the car’s practicality and extensive space more than makes up for it.
Its hybrid model has 992 litres of space with its rear seats folded down, and can comfortably carry up to six passengers.
Volkswagen Multivan
Using a more traditional MPV design, the Volkswagen Multivan provides unrivalled space and versatility.
Its interior can be easily customised, making it a great option for a wide range of uses, whether you need the space for seven adults, or want to make use of the extensive boot space.
Land Rover Defender 130
Land Rover is known for their spacious vehicles, and the new Defender 130 is no exception.
With space for up to eight passengers in a 2/3/3 formation, the car even has a 400-litre boot, although its size does make for tight parking.
Its luxury feel is accompanied by a high price point, with its cheapest models costing at least £70,000.
Land Rover Discovery
With two cars making the list, Land Rover is an obvious choice for those looking to supersize their motor.
The Discovery offers a slightly more accessible alternative to the Defender, with seven seats that comfortably fit adults, and a boot that still holds 258 litres even when all seats are in use.
Skoda Kodiaq
Despite only launching their first seven-seater SUV in 2016, Skoda has cemented its place as one of the top brands for affordability and practicality.
The second-generation Kodiaq features a big cabin and a generous boot, all with a reasonably affordable price tag.
It is available in a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol with mild-hybrid assist, and a 2.0-litre diesel ensuring it is pleasant to drive.
Volkswagen Tayron
The Tayron is a great all-round option for motorists, with a nice interior and a wide variety of powertrain options available.
The car is available in a petrol, diesel, mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid model.
However, its third row might be a tight squeeze for older teens and adults.
Mercedes-Benz GLB
Despite its compact design, the Mercedes-Benz GLB still has adequate space for seven passengers.
It offers a smooth driving experience across a range of models, with its 4Matic model working well as an off-road alternative.
However, prices do start at £55,000 with just 257 mile range making it one of the pricier options on the list.