Ranked and tested: top seven multi-passenger vehicles
The UK market is filled with a variety of seven-seater vehicles that cater to families' needs for space, comfort, and cargo capacity. Among the top options are the Skoda Kodiaq, Kia EV9, and Dacia Jogger, each offering unique strengths in these areas.
Dacia Jogger: Affordable Space and Utility
The Dacia Jogger stands out for its exceptional affordability, starting from around £19,000. With genuine seven-seat capability, it boasts over 2,000 litres of cargo space when seats are folded (up to 2,085 litres noted). Third-row seats can be removed for 699 litres of boot space. The Jogger offers a practical MPV feel at a low running cost, making it ideal for budget-conscious families who prioritize space and utility.
Skoda Kodiaq: Comfortable Family SUV
The Skoda Kodiaq, priced from about £38,100, emphasizes comfort for larger families. Its rearmost row is best suited for small passengers, but it still provides a cargo capacity of 340 litres with all seven seats up, expanding to 910 litres with rear seats folded. The Kodiaq offers a range of powertrains, including petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid options, with petrol recommended for most and diesel preferred for motorway driving.
Kia EV9: Premium Electric Seven-Seater
The Kia EV9, a seven-seater electric vehicle, offers a large interior with 7 seats and a roomy boot space of about 828 litres with seats up, 1,650 litres folded. Priced from around £66,000 for the entry-level Air specification, the EV9 boasts electric folding rear seats, advanced technology, a quiet and smooth ride, and dual-motor AWD available in higher trims. The EV9 has a WLTP range of about 206 miles, making it suitable for both short runs and longer trips, though charging must be planned.
In comparison, the Dacia Jogger offers the largest cargo capacity, surpassing both the Kia EV9 and Skoda Kodiaq. The Kia EV9 leads with premium electric features and a refined ride quality, while the Skoda Kodiaq balances comfort, practicality, and multiple powertrain choices. The Jogger prioritizes space and affordability.
Other notable seven-seaters often recommended for families in the UK include the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace, Ford Galaxy, and Peugeot Rifter, which also provide balances of comfort, space, and cargo versatility.
In summary, the Dacia Jogger is unmatched for affordability and maximum cargo, while the Kia EV9 excels on tech and refined ride quality. The Skoda Kodiaq offers a solid middle ground with flexible powertrains and good all-around family utility.
The Dacia Jogger, being the most affordable amongst its competitors, is an excellent choice for families seeking a practical MPV with up to 2,085 litres of cargo space, making it ideal for those prioritizing space and utility within a budget.
The Kia EV9, on the other hand, leads in premium electric features, offering a smooth ride quality and advanced technology, including electric folding rear seats, catering to families who prefer eco-friendly transport options with a WLTP range of about 206 miles.
