The best seven-seater cars in the UK
By FergusGuide overview:
- Seven-seater cars are available in predominantly two body styles, SUVs or MPVs. The best one for you will depend on how you use it, and you need to consider features like third-row legroom, boot space, and running costs.
- If you have a growing family, and SUV will likely be your best option as they're flexible everyday vehicles. Good options include the Skoda Kodiaq, Kia Sorento, and Hyundai Santa Fe.
- If you want an MPV or People Carrier for added versatility, good options include the Volkswagen ID. Buzz, which is inspired by the iconic VW Camper Van.
- Electric seven-seaters are becoming a genuine option for families, with models like the Peugeot e-5008 being perfect for eco-conscious families.
Choosing a seven-seater is one of those big family decisions you don't want to get wrong. You need something that's spacious, reliable day-to-day, and flexible as your family grows.
Whether you need a reliable commuter, a car for weekend adventures, or a bit of both, there's plenty of choice on the market.
However, finding the right one isn't always straightforward. You've got different body shapes (SUV or MPV), trim levels, and interior features to consider, which if you're new to seven-seaters, can be overwhelming.
To help you out, we'll walk you through the best seven-seater cars available to lease in the UK right now, what to look for before you choose, and how leasing can help your family.
Already know what you want? Get straightforward pricing on your next seven-seater from an independent broker. Head to our Family Leasing hub or browse our latest lease deals.
First things first, not all seven-seaters follow the same set of rules. Some have genuinely usable third rows, some don't. Some have loads of boot space, some don't.
Before you compare models, you need to know what features actually matter for your family:
- Boot space - Boot space is massively important. Many seven-seaters have a pretty small boot when all seven seats are in use, so if luggage space is a priority, it's worth checking the vehicle dimensions before choosing.
- Third-row practicality - This is the big one. Do you want constant nagging from your children for the whole lease term, or motoring bliss (no arguments when driving)? Third-row legroom varies by model, with some models offering space for adults, while others are only just spacious enough for kids.
- Ease of access - Getting in and out of the third row can be complicated for even the most flexible of us. Sliding rear doors are a real advantage here, and are mainly found on MPVs.
- Running costs - Some seven-seaters can burn through fuel like there's no tomorrow. Choosing a model with good MPG, or even better, hybrid or electric power, can help keep money in your pocket.
- Family essentials - Beyond the above, think about details that make family life easier, such as ISOFIX points, USB ports, and rear climate control.
If you have a young baby or toddler, you'll also want to check pram and pushchair compatibility. Not every seven-seater boot is pushchair-friendly once all the seats are up.
See our pram-friendly car guide for more information.
“If you're a growing family, you might find that a typical five-seater car simply doesn't have enough room. A seven-seater vehicle may be worth considering as it offers more flexibility and more space to carry passengers and their belongings.”
We've selected eight of the best seven-seaters currently available in the UK. We've covered a range of budgets, body styles, and use cases because we understand that the right car for one family is very different to another.
1. Skoda Kodiaq
- Best for: Families looking for a great all-rounder without a premium price tag
- Boot space: 340 litres (all seats up) / 910 litres (5 seats) / 2,035 litres (all rear seats folded)
- Euro NCAP rating: 5 stars
The Kodiaq is one of the best value seven-seaters on the market in the UK. It matches the capabilities of many of its rivals on this list, yet undercuts them on arguably the most important area: the price.
A cost-effective choice for families seeking quality without overpaying, the Kodiaq is an impressive thing. It's good to look at, features advanced, easy-to-use technology, and its rear space is perfect for children and teenagers.
However, the boot is where it stands out. With seven seats in place, you'll get a respectable 340 litres, but fold down the third row and you'll get a huge 910 litres, perfect for sports equipment or luggage for a weekend away.
Under the bonnet, you can choose from a diesel and a mild-hybrid petrol, with the latter offering less emissions and up to 46mpg.
2. Kia Sorento
- Best for: Families looking for a reliable seven-seater
- Boot space: 179 litres (all seats up) / 1,996 litres (rear seats folded)
- Euro NCAP rating: 5 stars
Kia's reputation for reliability is only enhanced by the Sorento. A large and handsome SUV that's genuinely spacious and comes with a hybrid powertrain, it's sure to be a loyal companion for all your family trips, whether that's the day-to-day or a weekend away creating amazing memories.
The Sorento comes with a brilliant specification at an affordable price. It's packed full of useful features like auto-folding second row sliding seats, boot underfloor storage, and an array of advanced driver assistance features.
You can also choose from diesel, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains, ensuring it's suited to how you drive.
3. Hyundai Santa Fe
- Best for: Families who want cutting-edge technology and a spacious, premium-feeling SUV
- Boot space: 235 litres (all seats up) / 1,717 litres (rear seats folded)
- Euro NCAP rating: 5 stars
The Hyundai Santa Fe is big, even for a seven-seater. But the result is a really spacious interior, one of the best on the market. No matter whether you're sitting in the passenger seat or in the third row, the Santa Fe makes sure you'll be comfortable.
It's big, but it's not ugly. The Santa Fe's bold exterior is one of the best-looking on the market, and add in its dramatically improved interior, it goes toe-to-toe with some of the market's most premium models.
Inside, you'll get quality materials throughout, such as a large panoramic display, wireless charging, and one of the most comprehensive driver assistance suites in the class.
It's also available as a plug-in hybrid and with four-wheel drive, meaning it can handle whatever is thrown your way.
4. Volkswagen ID.Buzz
- Best for: Families looking for a unique seven-seater that stands out
- Boot space: 306 litres (all seats up) / 1,716 litres (rear seats down)
- Euro NCAP rating: 5 stars
The Volkswagen ID.Buzz is an MPV that's unlike anything else. Inspired by the iconic VW Camper Van, the ID.Buzz manages to be simultaneously nostalgic and thoroughly modern.
The electric platform delivers a smooth, refined driving experience, and the spacious interior feels genuinely premium. The third row is accessed via sliding rear doors, a practical bonus for families loading children in tight spaces, and it's well-designed throughout.
Under the skin, it comes with up to 293 miles of range and charging capabilities of up to 200kW, depending on the trim.
5. Dacia Jogger
- Best for: Families looking for a rugged and affordable seven-seater
- Boot space: 160 litres (all seats up) / 1,819 litres (rear seats folded)
- Euro NCAP rating: 3 stars
The Dacia Jogger is proof that you don't need to spend a lot to get seven seats. As the most affordable seven-seater on this list, the Jogger makes genuine family practicality accessible to households where budget is the primary concern.
It's a no-frills car, and it's functional rather than luxurious. The infotainment is a bit basic by modern standards, but it still comes with all the essentials and is incredibly easy to use, something which is hard to find nowadays.
Where the Jogger wins is simplicity and running costs. It's straightforward to run, easy to understand, and available as a hybrid, which keeps fuel costs down.
6. Mazda CX-80
- Best for: Families who want a refined, upmarket seven-seater
- Boot space: 258 litres (all seats up) / 1,971 litres (seats folded)
- Euro NCAP rating: 5 stars
Launched in 2024, the CX-80 is Mazda's most refined and premium SUV. With superb interior quality and plenty of space for the whole family, it puts some of its European rivals to shame.
Its cabin is superb. Materials are excellent, the design is understated and elegant, and the overall feel is closer to that of an executive saloon than a family SUV. You can also choose from a diesel or plug-in hybrid powertrain, with the latter offering up to 38 miles of all-electric driving.
The third row is accessible and works well for children, and the boot with seats folded is very generous. You'll also get a car with an excellent reputation, with Mazda consistently scoring well in driver satisfaction surveys.
7. Peugeot e-5008
- Best for: Families ready to go fully electric without compromising on space or style
- Boot space: 259 litres (all seats up) / 1,796 litres (rear seats folded)
- Euro NCAP rating: 5 stars
If you fancy switching to an EV for your next family car, the e-5008 is seriously one to consider. Where many other EVs feel like a compromise, the e-5008 doesn't. You'll get all the best features of the standard 5008 with an electric powertrain that returns up to 414 miles of range.
One of these great features is Peugeot's i-Cockpit interior design, which provides one of the most distinctive and premium-feeling cabins in its class.
Practicality is also solid, boot space is competitive, and the third row suits children well.
8. Land Rover Defender 110
- Best for: Families after genuine off-road practicality
- Boot space: 389 litres (all seats up) / 2,277 litres (rear seats folded)
- Euro NCAP rating: 5 stars
Where most seven-seaters are designed for school runs and motorway trips, the Defender is built for everything. Whether that's towing, off-roading, or simply living somewhere with challenging road conditions, the Defender tackles whatever is thrown your way.
The seven-seat configuration uses the third-row jump seats, which are best suited to occasional use rather than long journeys. But boot space with those seats folded is among the best in class, and the interior speaks for itself.
You'll find features like a 13.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 12.3-inch interactive driver display, and optional access to Amazon Alexa and Spotify.
Not sure which model to go for? Our UK-based team can help you find the right seven-seater lease for your family. Contact us to speak to our leasing experts.
If you're researching a seven-seater car for the first time, it can be tricky to choose between an SUV and an MPV. Both offer unique advantages and disadvantages, so it's essential you do your homework before committing.
It depends on how you actually plan to use your car:
SUV | MPV | |
|---|---|---|
Ride height | Higher, easier for adults to get in/out | Lower, easier for young children/elderly |
Boot space | Often limited | Usually more generous |
Third-row usability | Usually best for children | Often usable by adults |
Driving feel | More dynamic, car-like | Comfort-focused, smooth |
Sliding doors | No | Yes (on most models) |
Best for | Families who want a car that does it all | Families who prioritise carrying people and luggage |
If you're looking for a seven-seater that will stand the test of time, you're in for a treat, because there are some great options out there. We'd recommend:
- Kia Sorento - Kia has one of the best reliability ratings in the industry, and it backs it up with its seven-year/100,000-mile warranty.
- Hyundai Santa Fe - The Santa Fe has improved its reliability scores in recent years and is backed by a five-year manufacturer's warranty.
- Skoda Kodiaq - Built on Volkswagen Group's MQB platform, the Kodiaq scores well in long-term owner surveys and ownership costs are consistently low.
- Dacia Jogger - Dacia's no-frills approach has an unexpected reliability benefit: fewer complex systems means fewer things to go wrong.
- Peugeot e-5008 - The e-5008's electric drivetrain is inherently simpler than combustion engines, with fewer moving parts.
Whether leasing a seven-seater is worth it depends entirely on your priorities.
Leasing provides fixed monthly costs, cars that are always in warranty, and flexible maintenance options for the duration of your lease term. It's great for drivers seeking a predictable and stress-free car.
However, you need to consider things like mileage, fair wear and tear, and delivery wait times, which may put some drivers off.
Check out our guide for more information: Car leasing vs buying.
Trusted since 2002 with over 180,000 leases arranged. If you're looking for a new family car, go with a leasing broker you can trust.
Head over to our Family Leasing hub for more information, or check out our latest seven-seater lease deals.
Guide Information
Originally published: 13th February 2017
Last updated: 18th March 2026
Due to be reviewed: 18th March 2027
