Top 10 Feature-Packed 7-Seaters for 2024

Need to transport people and things? A seven-seat car is the ultimate solution. Gone are the frumpy days of MPVs; today's options are trendy SUVs, fitting for any setting. Some prioritize occasional third-row use and spacious boots, while others balance adult comfort with luggage space. Yet, all drive like cars, not buses, seamlessly integrating into daily life.

The best 7-seat cars in the UK

1. Volvo XC90

The Volvo XC90 remains a top choice for those seeking a seven-seater vehicle, despite being on the market for nearly a decade. Its enduring appeal lies in its spacious, practical, and comfortable interior, crafted with high-quality materials. Even with seven adults on board, there's ample head and legroom, complemented by a respectable 316 litres of boot space. The second row is flexible, sliding, and reclining, with the option of an integrated child booster seat. While not the newest in terms of technology, the XC90 strikes a balance between performance, efficiency, and running costs, especially in its plug-in hybrid version. Its understated yet classy exterior design stands out on the road without being overly aggressive. With engine options including the B5 diesel and the T8 PHEV, the XC90 delivers both power and efficiency, catering to various preferences. Comfort and refinement take precedence over sporty driving dynamics, aligning perfectly with the XC90's character.

2. Hyundai Santa Fe

The Korean-made Santa Fe, our long-time favourite, now shines even brighter with its efficient plug-in petrol-electric powertrains. Despite the addition of electric components, its spacious seven-seater interior remains unchanged, offering genuinely adult-sized third-row seats. The Hyundai boasts an impressive 571-litre boot, expandable to 1,649 litres with seats folded flat. Its driving demeanor leans towards relaxed, fitting for a seven-seat SUV. The 1.6-litre motor, paired with a 90bhp electric motor, delivers mid-range torque efficiently, though strained at higher revs. With a claimed 36 miles of all-electric range, the Santa Fe offers versatility. Steering is light and precise, facilitating satisfying handling, while refinement and ride comfort are commendable. Priced at £50,000 for the plug-in version, it's not cheap, but its blend of talents makes it a compelling choice in its segment.

3. Dacia Jogger

Dacia introduces a game-changer with its seven-seater Jogger, offering a spacious, well-equipped ride at a budget-friendly price, rivaling mainstream superminis. While lacking in high-end style, its unassuming confidence and functionality make it endearing. Straddling between estate, MPV, and SUV, it accommodates seven adults with room for luggage when seats are lowered. The cabin, though simple, boasts thoughtful storage and cheerful fabric inserts, yet some plastics are subpar. Its turbocharged engine provides smooth performance, though it loses some power with a full load. Despite some body roll during sharp turns, its handling remains reliable, offering a satisfying driving experience. The recent addition of a mild hybrid option by parent company Renault enhances its urban efficiency. While not a sports car, the Jogger's distinctive charm and practicality make it a compelling choice for families seeking value and versatility on the road.

4. Volkswagen Multivan

Volkswagen challenges the notion of the fading MPV with its Multivan, a practical and spacious people carrier that redefines family transport. Built on the versatile MQB platform, it offers a blend of functionality and sophistication previously unseen in VW's lineup. Steering with precision and boasting a refined ride, the Multivan combines a plug-in hybrid option with traditional petrol and diesel choices. Its standout feature is the adaptable interior, comfortably seating seven adults and offering modular adjustments to suit various needs. Convenient elements like sliding rear doors and a versatile storage compartment enhance its usability. Despite its utility, the Multivan's price tag may deter some, starting at just under £50,000 and climbing beyond £60,000. Nevertheless, with its combination of practicality, driving dynamics, and premium appeal, VW's revival of the MPV concept proves that sensible family transport can still be stylish and enjoyable.

5. Land Rover Defender 130

The Land Rover Defender stands out for its configurable interior, accommodating up to eight passengers. Opt for the longer-wheelbase 110, and choose from five, six, or seven seats; the 130 seats eight in various configurations. Legislative restrictions prevent the nine-seater option, but enthusiasts may retrofit jump seats. Despite this, the Defender impresses with its versatility. The seven-seater's third-row seats suit children and smaller adults, while the 130 offers eight seats alongside a 400-litre boot. However, its 5358mm length poses parking challenges. With prices starting at over £70,000, the Defender rivals luxury SUVs in performance, offering modern electrified powertrains and formidable off-road capability. It's a pricey but compelling choice for families seeking a versatile, high-quality vehicle.

6. Kia EV9

Kia's EV9 emerges as the leading contender in the realm of 7-seat electric cars. Its imposing presence, akin to a full-sized SUV, ensures it stands out effortlessly in any crowded lot, with bold, square lines reminiscent of the Range Rover Sport. Boasting clever electric design, it offers both six and seven-seat configurations, featuring swiveling 'captain's' chairs akin to those in a Mercedes V-Class. The spacious third-row seats comfortably accommodate small adults and children, equipped with Isofix points for added convenience. With electrically deployable rear seats, the EV9's boot space is adaptable, offering ample cargo room even with all seats in use. Powered by a 99.8kWh battery, its impressive WLTP range of 349 miles (200hp single-motor rear-wheel drive model) and 313 miles (twin-motor) attest to its efficiency, making it a promising choice for both urban and out-of-town driving.

7. Peugeot 5008

Peugeot's 5008 SUV stands out among mid-sized options with its versatile interior layout. While it may not offer the spaciousness of larger SUVs, it excels in accommodating child seats and older passengers. With three separate middle-row seats that slide and fold individually, there's ample flexibility. Though the cabin isn't the widest, it can snugly fit three bulky booster seats side by side. The third-row seats are suitable for children, with space for a smaller belted child seat and occupant when the middle seats are adjusted forward. Engine choices range from a 1.2-litre petrol to more potent options like a 2.0-litre diesel, with the top-end GT trim featuring a 1.6-litre turbo petrol. The 5008 offers agile handling and good value, although it lacks a plug-in hybrid variant due to space constraints for the third row.

8. Land Rover Discovery

Land Rover's current Discovery boasts five rear motorised seats, easily controlled via a smartphone app for added convenience. While not standard on lower trims, it simplifies passenger configuration. However, cargo in the boot can hinder seat conversion. Beyond showroom gimmicks, this Land Rover offers functionality and luxury, ideal for large families. But, pricing starts steep, around £60,000. Entry-level models include seven seats with Isofix anchorages. For motorised seats, you'll need HSE grade and opt-in. Engine options feature six-cylinder petrols and diesels, all with mild hybrid tech. No plug-in hybrid due to seat sacrifice concerns. Overall, despite the hefty price tag, the Discovery remains a top choice for those seeking luxury and spaciousness.

9. Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda entered the seven-seat SUV market in 2016 with the Kodiaq, cleverly bridging the gap between full-sized and mid-sized options. Its spacious cabin and generous boot, along with standard seven seats across all but the base model, make it stand out in its price range. However, the cabin lacks width, making it challenging to fit three child seats side-by-side. Additionally, Euro NCAP's crash tests reveal limitations in rear seat safety, though not unique to the Kodiaq. The engine range is diverse, including a performance variant, albeit less potent than expected. Despite some firmness in certain trims, all Kodiaqs offer a pleasant driving experience.

10. Mercedes GLB

Mercedes introduces its smallest SUV, the GLB, with a unique design strategy inspired by its larger GLS counterpart, incorporating seven seats as standard. This approach aims to stand out in a crowded market. The GLB lineup includes petrol and diesel variants, alongside an AMG-lite option borrowing power from the A35 hot hatch. Performance is commendable, especially with adaptive dampers ensuring a comfortable ride. Off-road capabilities rival the Land Rover Discovery Sport, while interior flexibility accommodates adults in the middle row and children in the rear. Notably, Mercedes expands the GLB's appeal with an electric EQB version, offering seven seats and twin motor four-wheel drive. Despite its comfort and drivability, starting prices exceed £55,000, and its range falls short compared to cheaper rivals. The EQB competes with the Tesla Model X, which recently returned to the market.

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Source and Images: AutoCar UK