The Best Seven-Seaters for Reliability and Practicality

If you’re looking for a practical vehicle to accommodate a larger family or provide extra seating for occasional group travel, a seven-seater could be your ideal choice. Among SUVs and MPVs, reliability is a key concern, as these vehicles often carry heavier loads and are expected to endure family wear-and-tear. In this guide, we explore five standout seven-seaters based on reliability survey data, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision

The reliability ratings for these seven-seaters are sourced from the annual What Car? Reliability Survey, one of the most trusted assessments of vehicle dependability in the UK. This survey gathers feedback from thousands of car owners, evaluating models aged up to five years on factors such as fault rates, repair costs, and time off the road.

1. Hyundai Santa Fe (2018-2024): The Reliability Champion

Reliability Rating: 98.9%
Common Faults: Non-engine electrics (4%)
Average Repair Cost: £0
Time Off Road: Up to one week

The Hyundai Santa Fe shines as the most reliable seven-seater on the market, with minimal faults and excellent warranty support. A spacious and well-built SUV, it’s ideal for families seeking dependable transportation. Owners reported only minor issues with non-engine electrics, and Hyundai’s five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty ensures free repairs. Half of all affected vehicles were back on the road within a day.

Pros:

• Generous warranty
• Practical and spacious
• Strong reliability record

Cons:

• Repairs, though rare, may take up to a week

2.Land Rover Defender (2020-Present): Rugged and Resilient

Reliability Rating: 96.3%
Common Faults: Bodywork and infotainment system (5%)
Average Repair Cost: £0
Time Off Road: Often more than a week

Breaking Land Rover’s poor reliability stereotype, the Defender offers impressive dependability for adventurous families. Despite a 14% fault rate, most issues were minor, and owners appreciated that repairs were covered by warranty. However, long repair times are a downside, with 63% of cases leaving the vehicle off the road for over a week.

Pros:

• Iconic design and off-road capability
• Low fault severity

Cons:

• Lengthy repair times

3.Peugeot 5008 (2017-2024): Affordable and Stylish

Reliability Rating: 95.0%
Common Faults: Brakes, interior trim, and non-engine electrics (5%)
Average Repair Cost: £0
Time Off Road: 75% fixed in a day or less

The Peugeot 5008 combines sharp styling with practicality, making it a top choice for budget-conscious buyers. Despite a 16% fault rate, most repairs were completed quickly and cost nothing, thanks to Peugeot’s comprehensive warranty. It’s also known for its smooth driving experience and well-thought-out interior.

Pros:

• Stylish and affordable
• Fast repair turnaround

Cons:

• Minor electrical and trim issues

4.Skoda Kodiaq Diesel (2016-2024): Versatile and Dependable

Reliability Rating: 94.7%
Common Faults: Non-engine electrics (6%)
Average Repair Cost: £0 for most diesel models
Time Off Road: 46% fixed within a day

A family favourite, the Skoda Kodiaq offers a premium interior, efficient engines, and generous space. Diesel variants are particularly reliable, with fewer costly repairs compared to petrol models. While electrical faults were reported in 20% of cases, most vehicles were back on the road swiftly.

Pros:

• Spacious and efficient
• Lower repair costs for diesel models

Cons:

• Electrical faults in some vehicles

5.Volvo XC90 (2015-Present): Safe and Feature-Rich

Reliability Rating: 93.2%
Common Faults: Infotainment system (11%)
Average Repair Cost: £0 for 90% of repairs
Time Off Road: Most fixed in less than a week

Known for its luxurious interior and top-notch safety features, the Volvo XC90 is a popular choice for families prioritising comfort and protection. Although 30% of owners reported faults, these were generally minor, and repair costs were low. Infotainment system issues were the most common complaint.

Pros:

• High safety standards
• Luxurious interior

Cons:

• Higher fault rate compared to competitors

What to Consider When Choosing a Reliable Seven-Seater

1. Reliability Ratings

Focus on vehicles with strong reliability scores to minimise unexpected breakdowns and repair costs. The Hyundai Santa Fe leads the pack in this regard.

2. Warranty and Support

Comprehensive warranties like Hyundai’s five-year coverage or Peugeot’s repair policies can save significant costs.

3. Repair Times

Consider the potential downtime for repairs. While the Santa Fe and Peugeot 5008 excel in quick fixes, models like the Defender may require extended time in the garage.

4. Running Costs

Diesel engines, such as those in the Skoda Kodiaq, tend to offer lower long-term costs, but check for compatibility with your driving habits and environmental considerations.

5. Interior Space and Features

Assess the practicality of third-row seating, boot space, and tech features. Volvo’s XC90 stands out for safety and premium interior quality, while the Peugeot 5008 offers affordability without sacrificing style.