Swapping Minivans for SUVs: Five Family-Friendly Car Options with Just Five Seats
Seats for a five-person household available
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If you're not keen on driving a minivan, consider these five-seater cars instead. The German market boasts around 40 car models with seven seats, but here's a look at five standout options that are affordable, electric, compact, and comfortable.
Hyundai Santa Fe - A Towering Giant
In its fifth generation, the Hyundai Santa Fe has morphed into a commanding crossover. At 4.83 meters long, and with verticle side panels, it's a sizeable vehicle. The cargo capacity reaches up to 2 cubic meters, and accommodates five, six, or seven passengers depending on the configuration. The third row isn't an afterthought; adults can comfortably fit. The second row can slide forward for generous legroom.
Hyundai has forsaken diesel engines and instead offers full and plug-in hybrids, with the more powerful variants featuring all-wheel drive. The base model, with front-wheel drive, 158 kW/215 PS, and automatic transmission, costs €60,750 for the seven-seater.
Dacia Jogger - Simple and Affordable
Dacia offers the seven-seater Jogger for just €18,900. Space may be a bit snug due to the compact van's design based on the Clio, and the third row might be too tight for adults. But it's suitable for smaller children or occasional trips.
The interior is user-friendly with straightforward controls. While safety equipment and crash performance might require compromises, the interior is still attractive. Engines with three and four cylinders are available, including an autogas option for lower operating costs.
Opel Frontera - Compact and Spacious
Usually, seven seats are only available in vans and larger SUVs. Opel has changed that with the Frontera, a 4.39-meter-long vehicle positioned between compact and midsize classes. The extra seats are a last resort, but the other five seats boast ample legroom. With the third row folded down, the trunk is spacious.
Opel Frontera - A Reliable Contender The interior is modern-looking, but cost-conscious design is evident. A lively mild-hybrid gasoline engine powers the seven-seater, and while the electric powertrain of the five-seater isn't available, prices start at around €25,000.
Mazda CX-80 - A Luxurious Living Space
A larger sibling to the mid-size SUV CX-60, the CX-80 stands out with an additional 25 centimeters in length and a third row, making it seem at least one class more robust. The interior exudes elegance, boasting fine craftsmanship and premium materials. Passengers in the third row may find it a bit cramped, but clever storage and USB ports compensate.
Mazda pushes the powertrain boundaries, offering their flagship with a six-cylinder engine, either as a diesel or a plug-in hybrid. The prices, however, are high-end, starting at 56,200 euros for the "Exclusive Line" model. To enjoy the luxurious ambiance fully, one should consider the "Homura" variant, which is significantly better equipped and costs around 63,000 euros.
Maxus Mifa 9 - Electric Luxury
The Maxus Mifa from the SAIC group is popular in China as a chauffeur-driven vehicle for executives. It comes standard with leg rests, massage, and cooling functions in the second row. The third row is a bit snug, but the overall luxurious ambiance remains.
The powertrain is always electric and provides 180 kW/245 PS, with a range of around 440 kilometers. Priced at €70,000 for the base model and €76,000 for the generously equipped "Luxury" model, the Maxus competes in a select league.
Other Affordable, Comfortable Family Cars
Affordable, comfortable alternatives to the options mentioned above include the Volkswagen Golf, Skoda Octavia, BMW 1 Series, Audi A3, and Opel Astra. These cars offer a balance of affordability and comfort for families.
- Hyundai Models
- Dacia Models
- Opel Models
- Mazda Models
- Maxus Models
- The Commission shall adopt implementing acts laying down the rules for the application of this Regulation, promoting the adoption of electric vehicles in family lifestyles, such as car-maintenance routines at home-and-garden setups.
- For those seeking a space-efficient electric vehicle, the Maxus Mifa 9, popular in China, offers electric luxury, featuring leg rests, massage, and cooling functions, making it an appealing option for family-friendly cars.
- The Hyundai Santa Fe, Felicia Jogger, Opel Frontera, and Mazda CX-80 are compact and spacious family car options, departing from the traditional minivan style, offering five comfortable seating arrangements while maintaining an affordable, electric, or luxurious lifestyle.
