Do you need a car with a large space where all your family members will feel comfortable? Carrrs.com presents 10 best seven-passenger vehicles currently available on the US market.
10. Toyota Land Cruiser
2016 Toyota Land Cruiser © Toyota Motor Corporation
New exterior and interior design features are the obvious changes made to the 2016 Land Cruiser, while new safety technology, a major drivetrain upgrade and enhanced multimedia features make this makeover far more than metal-skin deep.
The Land Cruiser body is new from the A-pillar forward. It’s a whole new look for this iconic vehicle, with the bumper, grille, projector-beam LED low and high beam headlights, headlight cleaners and integrated Land Cruiser logo, all contributing to the new design signature. The hood’s distinctive power bulges convey the potential of the 381-horsepower V8 that lies beneath. Teamed to that power plant for 2016 is the Toyota brand’s first 8-speed automatic transmission, which helps enhance acceleration.
The Land Cruiser shows a new signature from behind, as well, thanks to new taillights with light-tube design and LED brake lights, a new full-width chrome molding and a new bumper. A chrome body side molding embossed with the Land Cruiser logo and new-design 18-inch alloy wheels accentuate the Land Cruiser’s muscular profile.
Once again, the Toyota Land Cruiser comes in one version: fully equipped and with seating for eight. There are no factory options, and really, none are needed. For 2016, new semi-aniline perforated leather is available in the customer’s choice of black or new Terra (brown). The black interior and Terra interiors are accented by Deep Wood trim. The high-quality materials complement a center console redesign that shows a more cohesive appearance and more intuitive controls.
9. BMW X5
BMW X5 © BMW AG
The interior of the BMW X5 is both elegant and spacious. The horizontal structure of the layered surfaces underlines the broad sweep of the instrument panel and reflects the impressive amount of space available on board. The three-dimensional design of the surfaces also generates vibrant contrasts.
The interior materials selected for the BMW X5 also play a role in shaping the exclusive onboard ambience. The trim strip and accent strip extend into the front door panels and are picked up again in the rear door panels. Plus, the standard Poplar Wood Trim now sits atop a high-gloss black surface, which is bordered on its lower edge by an accent strip in Pearl Gloss Chrome.
Two Lines for the exterior and interior of the BMW X5 can be ordered as an alternative to the standard specification, enabling a new level of personalization. Each Line represents a harmonious blend of design, colors and materials. M Sport is also an alternative for those that wish to accentuate the sporting character of the X5. The Lines also encompass the new-look remote control key with redesigned operating buttons.
The BMW X5 xDrive35d features an all new inline six-cylinder diesel engine offering an even better balance between performance and fuel consumption than the outgoing diesel. The 3.0-liter engine, whose BMW TwinPower Turbo technology comprises VNT turbocharging and common rail direct injection, now develops maximum power of 255 hp and maximum torque of 413 lb-ft which is delivered between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. In spite of the slight reduction in output from its predecessor, the BMW X5 xDrive35d has a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) sprint time of 6.9 seconds (preliminary), making it just as quick or quicker. With the latest technology and the addition of an 8-speed automatic transmission, the model is expected to post significant improvements in efficiency (EPA mileage estimates will be available closer to launch). The X5 xDrive35d uses the latest in emission reduction technology. Lower nitrogen oxide limits are met using a close-coupled NOX adsorber catalyst and an SCR catalyst with urea (AdBlue) injection.
8. Mercedes-Benz GL
Mercedes-Benz GL © Daimler AG
The deep values of the GL define its shape, and its shape defies every limitation of large SUVs. Aerodynamic and athletic outside, it’s advanced and accommodating inside. From its sporty grille to substantial wheels to its sleek tail, every element of the GL comes together to create an award-winning, truly fulfilling, full-size SUV.
Large side doors and innovative EASY-ENTRY 2nd-row seats welcome up to seven adults to three rows of luxury seating, including the generous third row. A standard power liftgate, power-folding third row and 60/40-split second row accommodate up to 93.8 cubic feet of cargo. In any configuration, the GL has an extraordinary capacity to satisfy.
Technological teamwork helps make highway driving safer and easier. DISTRONIC PLUS® cruise control uses radar to adapt your speed to the traffic flow, even stop-and-go. Blind Spot and Lane Keeping Assists can alert you if it’s unsafe to change lanes or if you start to drift. Active technology can help guide the GL back into its own lane.
7. Land Rover LR4
Land Rover LR4 © Tata Motors
As one of the world’s most premium, capable and versatile SUVs, the LR4 is the perfect vehicle for people who enjoy living an active lifestyle to the full. LR4 is always in its element, whether it’s crossing town or taking everyone beyond the city limits for a weekend of adventure. Stadium seating gives everybody unspoiled views. And a range of infotainment and technologies keep everyone entertained, relaxed and comfortable. Iconic in its profile and purposeful in its stance, LR4 has striking styling and a contemporary look.
Land Rover InControl® AppsTM enables you to use vehicle optimized smartphone apps on the vehicle’s Touch-screen while your smartphone charges.16 You can enjoy a variety of vehicle optimized apps from our partners with more vehicle apps being released over time.
At the touch of a switch, Terrain Response reconfigures engine, transmission, throttle and traction settings for optimal drive-ability. So whether traveling over pavement, grass, gravel or snow, mud and ruts, sand or rocks, the LR4 takes to it with consummate ease.
The LR4 Landmark Edition adds even more standard driver assistance and luxury features to the HSE Silver Edition for an unsurpassed level of sophistication and exclusivity.
6. Audi Q7
Audi Q7 © Volkswagen AG
The 2017 Q7 introduces Audi’s new SUV design language to both exterior and interior features, debuting an all-new lightweight, multi-material body and chassis. Through a combination of clean and simple lines, and innovative technology, the Q7 interior offers drivers and passengers alike an exceptional driving experience. Expertly-crafted double inlay dash design, available customizable ambient interior LED lighting and available segment-exclusive Bang & Olufsen® 3D Advanced Sound System further enhances the luxury of the interior.
The Bang & Olufsen system delivers an impressive, life-like musical experience through 23 speakers including two retractable acoustic lenses all powered by a 23-channel amplifier with an output of 1,920 watts. A Bose 3D Sound System is also available, which includes 19 speakers, a 15-channel amplifier and 558 watts to deliver acoustic accuracy and impact. While the exterior dimensions have remained similar to the outgoing model, the all-new Q7 offers substantially more interior room for passengers with seating for up to seven standard. With exceptionally competent dynamics, driver assistance systems and connectivity, the Q7 sets the benchmark for the luxury SUV segment.
The Audi Q7 has a powerful and distinctive presence on the road, through its sculpted body and taunt design lines giving it a striking yet leaner appearance. That leaner appearance translates into an approximate weight reduction of 475 pounds compared to the previous model. Towing capacity has increased to an impressive 7,700 pounds, with optional towing package.
The all-new Q7 features an improved interior space—with more headroom, legroom and shoulder room in the second and third rows, and seating for seven standard on all models. The interior design represents the ever-higher standard being set by Audi for its premium comfort and technology matched by the brand’s signature fit and finish.
5. Hyundai Santa Fe
2016 Hyundai Santa Fe and Hyundai Santa Fe Sport © Hyundai Motor Company
Enhancements to the electric power steering system and suspension last year further sharpened the Santa Fe’s world-class ride and handling. Hyundai’s Driver Selectable Steering Mode received an updated 32-bit microprocessor and tuning for a firmer steering feel. Also new last year were stiffer wheel bearings, lower control arm bushings, revised rear suspension geometry and bushings all helping to increase lateral stiffness.
Hyundai Santa Fe continues to offer front- or all-wheel drive and seating options for five, six or seven passengers. The 2016 Santa Fe Sport is powered by an efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine or the powerful, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. 2016 Santa Fe uses the acclaimed 3.3-liter Lambda II V-6. All Santa Fe engines use gasoline direct injection and Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT). A six-speed automatic transmission is standard on all Santa Fe models.
Standard features include remote keyless entry with alarm, body color heated exterior power mirrors with driver’s blind spot mirror, LED headlight accents, steering wheel mounted audio and cruise control and Bluetooth hands-free phone system. Premium features such as xenon headlights, panoramic sunroof, navigation and 12-speaker Infinity Logic7® surround sound audio system are options. Also offered is Hyundai’s innovative power Hands-Free Smart Liftgate with Auto Open, which makes it even easier for owners to gain access to the cargo area when their hands are full. The system makes it easy for the driver to keep both feet on the ground, simply waiting for the liftgate to open after standing within a few feet of the rear bumper with the key fob in a purse or pocket.To simplify the Santa Fe lineup, the GLS (7-passenger) trim has been renamed SE for 2016 and the saddle interior option is no longer available on the Santa Fe Sport or Santa Fe. Java Espresso replaces Frosted Mocha on the exterior paint color palette on the 3-row Santa Fe.
4. Range Rover Sport
Range Rover Sport © Tata Motors
Created by the Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations team, the 2015 Range Rover Sport SVR is the highest-performance Land Rover vehicle ever, capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds and achieving an electronically limited top track speed of 162 mph2. The SVO team also specially tuned the ZF® 8HP70 eight-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive chassis to give the Range Rover Sport SVR exceptional agility while also preserving all-terrain capability.
Developed alongside the new-generation Range Rover, the Range Rover Sport delivers exceptional on-road dynamics with genuine Land Rover all-terrain capability. The Range Rover Sport presents an assertive and muscular exterior, luxurious interior, and the practical flexibility provided by the option of 5+2 third row seating for occasional use.
Featuring Land Rover advanced air suspension and innovative dynamic chassis technologies, the Range Rover Sport features an aluminum unibody architecture to achieve a weight savings of approximately 800lbs. (Note to editor: The previous generation vehicle featured an “Integrated body-frame,” which was composed of a steel unibody mounted on a full frame chassis). The weight reduction transforms the vehicle’s dynamic performance, enabling it to blend agile handling with exceptional comfort and to offer a unique mix of sporting luxury and a dynamic, engaging driving experience.
3. Kia Sorento
2016 Kia Sorento © Kia Motors
With its towering mountain peaks, twisting ribbons of smooth tarmac and crisp mountain air, Lake Tahoe presents the perfect locale for the first drive of the all-new 2016 Kia Sorento. More capable than ever before with increased towing capacity, more room for passengers and their gear and a newly available turbocharged engine, the 2016 Sorento owes many of its design inspirations to the highly regarded Cross GT concept that was unveiled in 2013.
Kia’s design and engineering teams focused on a stronger body structure, delivering premium-grade NVH reduction and providing the driving confidence to enable the active lifestyle CUV owners covet. Sorento buyers have their choice of three engines, including a new 2.0-liter turbocharged four cylinder, the silky smooth 3.3-liter V6 and an improved 2.4-liter normally aspirated inline-4. Standard premium features and luxurious amenities will be available across five trim levels – L, LX, EX, SX and SXL – when U.S. sales begin in January, 2015.
“The all-new Sorento has been passionately designed and obsessively crafted, delivering class-up premium materials and features in a more capable package,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president, Product Planning, KMA. “Increased use of advanced high-strength steel and additional structural reinforcement have resulted in improved torsional rigidity, which pays dividends behind the wheel in the form of better ride comfort and driving dynamics. Couple that with significant reductions in NVH and it’s clear that the 2016 Sorento sets Kia’s new standard for the blending of refinement and capability.”
2. Land Rover Discovery Sport
Land Rover Discovery Sport © Tata Motors
Discovery Sport, a versatile premium compact SUV that is the first member of the new Discovery vehicle family. A dynamic design with a compact footprint provides seven-passenger seating in an available “5+2” configuration. The 2015 Discovery Sport will deliver a highly refined combination of performance, safety and efficiency thanks to a body shell of high-strength steel and lightweight aluminum, a 240hp turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive.
New Land Rover innovations debut in the Discovery Sport, including available Autonomous Emergency Braking2 and a new touchscreen infotainment system3.
“The launch of Discovery Sport is a pivotal moment in the 66-year history of Land Rover,” said Phil Popham, Jaguar Land Rover Group Marketing Director. “Not only does it mark the introduction of the first new member of our expanding Discovery family, it also brings the versatility of 5+2 seating to the compact premium SUV market.”
Designed and engineered at the Land Rover Development Center in the UK, the Discovery Sport will be produced at the company’s award-winning manufacturing facility in Halewood, Liverpool, in the United Kingdom. It goes on sale in early 2015 alongside the existing seven-seat Land Rover LR4 in the US, which is sold as the Discovery in over 170 markets worldwide.
1. Volvo XC90
Volvo XC90 © Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co., Ltd
The all-new Volvo XC90 is one of three finalists for the 2016 North American Truck/Utility of the Year. The announcement is a result of 53 independent journalists in the U.S. and Canada who recognize the seven-passenger SUV among vehicles setting new automotive benchmarks.
The 2016 Volvo XC90 is ushering in the company’s new product strategy, which encompasses all-new design, power and architecture philosophies. The XC90 also introduces Volvo’s Sensus Connect, a tablet-like touchscreen that eliminates most interior buttons; two more world-first safety functions with Intersection Auto Brake and Run Off Road Protection; and Pilot Assist, Volvo’s semi-autonomous technology that enables the car to accelerate, decelerate, stop and steer itself at speeds below 30 MPH.
“The all-new XC90 represents the future of Volvo,” said Lex Kerssemakers, president and CEO, Volvo Cars of North America. “We are grateful that NACTOY judges recognize how significant it is for consumers, the industry, and for us.”
The XC90 is available with Volvo’s T6 Drive-E turbo and supercharged engine producing 316 horsepower, or with the T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) powertrain producing 400 horsepower. Volvo City Safety, which includes automatic emergency braking and the Sensus Connect touchscreen, is standard. Apple CarPlay, four-corner air suspension with active chassis and Pilot Assist are available as customer options.
