A panel of motoring journalists has determined the best seven-seat hybrid car on sale in the United Kingdom, and the winner is not from Hyundai, Ford, or BMW. The experts at Auto Express have compiled a ranking of the finest seven-seat vehicles currently available, ultimately naming the Dacia Jogger as the standout option.
Dacia Jogger: The Top Choice
Priced at £23,330, the Dacia Jogger was praised for retaining boot space even when all seven seats are occupied. The reviewers noted that even top-spec models remain affordable and boast strong residual values. However, the car was marked down for its one-star Euro NCAP safety rating, an inconsistent brake pedal feel, and a cheap interior. Despite these drawbacks, the Jogger was commended for its MPV-like practicality, impressive flexibility, decent driving manners, and incredible value. The hybrid system is particularly effective in urban driving, running mainly on electric power at low speeds and when pulling away.
Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid: Second Place
Taking second place was the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, priced at £49,090. It earned praise for its generous interior space, excellent equipment levels, and attractive styling. However, the vehicle was marked down for being a little bulky and ponderous to drive, lacking fuel efficiency, and carrying a steep price tag. Despite these issues, the reviewers highlighted that the Santa Fe is ideal for larger families, especially in its seven-seat configuration, as the rearmost third-row seats are spacious enough to accommodate taller passengers on more than a temporary basis.
Kia Sorento: Third Place
In third place was the Kia Sorento, priced at £44,705. It was praised for strong residual values, generous space, and a standard four-wheel drive system. On the downside, reviewers pointed out its higher cost compared to competitors, less impressive engines than some alternatives, and a somewhat cumbersome feel when driving. Alastair Crooks, senior news reporter for Auto Express, commented: "The Sorento is a hugely spacious family car that'll happily seat seven people - or accommodate five with a huge boot. What sweetens the deal further is the Santa Fe's low starting price."
Other Contenders
The leading trio finished ahead of other contenders including the Volvo XC90, the Peugeot 5008, and the Ford Tourneo Connect. The Dacia Jogger was named Family Car of the Year by Auto Express in 2022 and 2023, and its hybrid variant continues to impress with its practicality and value.
