The Best 7-Seater Luxury SUVs Overview
Electric seven-seater vehicles are growing increasingly popular due to changing legislation, improving technology and declining costs. Kia and Hyundai are both readying family-oriented EVs while Lucid is taking orders for its Project Gravity SUV.
These cars combine premium luxury with cutting-edge features for an exquisite driving experience. Their elegant exteriors and spacious interiors ensure optimal comfort.
Volvo EX90
The Volvo EX90 is an iconic EV SUV from Swedish manufacturer Volvo, known for their commitment to zero emissions and sustainability. This 2024 model is set to replace the outgoing XC90 directly, boasting several innovative technologies such as fully automated driving technology, mobile app support for managing more vehicle functions and an onboard battery charger capable of replenishing up to 80% in less than 30 minutes.
Though an electric vehicle, the Volvo EX90 still appears conventional SUV. There are some clues to its advanced tech though – like its center windshield bulge which contains laser imaging detection and ranging sensors that help navigation and lane-detection systems “see” objects even in complete darkness.
Internally, there’s a clean and minimalist design with most controls centralized around a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system incorporating graphics created using Epic Games’ Unreal Engine as well as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support. Seats feature sustainable textile made up of wool blended with recycled plastic bottles while Bowers & Wilkins 25 speaker sound system provides music enjoyment.
The Lexus EX90 SUV is powered by a 111 kWh lithium-ion battery with an approximate range of 300 miles. Additionally, its twin motor drivetrain makes for swift acceleration from zero to 60mph in just 4.7 seconds! Furthermore, hardware readiness exists within the EX90 for full autonomous operation; when updated over-the-air updates arrive in future updates it could navigate itself autonomously down highways to bypass traffic jams.
Kia EV9
Kia’s first electric SUV aims to demonstrate that style doesn’t need to be sacrificed for efficiency. Based on Kia’s E-GMP platform, which also underpins its two-row models EV6 and Niro EV, this makes the EV9 larger than its two-row competitors while still boasting sleek exterior lines and spacious seating for six or seven occupants.
The EV9 makes use of lighting as an aesthetic element, adding a distinctive light pattern to its front face and an animated light bar projecting customizable animation. Furthermore, several driving modes exist that adjust battery use and vehicle dynamics – Eco mode emphasizes fuel economy while Sport mode increases acceleration and steering response.
On longer journeys, the EV9 provides lane centering assistance to help keep you within the center of the lane. Furthermore, an optional powertrain adds 50 more miles for a total range of 265 miles.
Kia hasn’t released pricing details for its EV9 yet, but estimates indicate it should cost approximately $60,000. Leasing could save money since this car qualifies for the federal $7,500 tax credit.
Inside the Kia EV9 you will find two 12.3-inch touchscreens which combine driver information and infotainment functions. A pair of cameras replaces traditional rearview mirrors to stream images to the display. Furthermore, through Kia Connect you can add features such as Smart Parking Assist or Relaxation Mode which includes power operated leg rests for passengers in the back seat.
IONIQ SEVEN
Hyundai’s IONIQ SEVEN SUV was created to be an elegant, powerful EV. Due to launch in 2024 and compete with luxury vehicles like Kia’s EV9 GT, its design will stand out. Boasting an aerodynamic form and unique front grille with vertical sweep, its roof slopes gently back for easier windscreen access; and features large windshield wipers. Furthermore, its unique rear features a glass trunk lid and Parametric Pixel lighting – these characteristics all set it apart as one-of-a-kind in design terms of design!
Like its Ioniq 5 counterpart, SEVEN is powered by an advanced lithium-ion battery capable of reaching 300 miles of driving range and connected to a 350 kW charger capable of charging it from 10 percent to 80 percent in under 20 minutes.
The SEVEN’s interior is spacious and flexible, featuring segment-leading hygiene features. When left unoccupied, its UVC system activates automatically to sanitize bacteria and viruses from its interior, while its Hygiene Airflow System uses small vents to sucked in fresh air while sucking out pollen and allergens through little openings in its design.
Uncertain whether the SEVEN will appear as futuristic as its concept counterpart, the production model should feature either seven or eight seats with either dual captain’s chairs or an L-shaped bench in the second row, and possibly a panoramic screen across its dash. If it meets or even surpasses these criteria, it would make an excellent choice for those seeking both luxury and efficiency in an electric SUV.
VinFast VF9
VinFast, a Vietnamese automaker new to America, introduced their flagship EV SUV, the VF 9 last month. Competing against rival EV SUVs like Rivian R1S, its luxurious interior is intended to attract families. Equipped with three rows of seating and powered by dual motor powertrain with an estimated range of 400 miles or more.
VinFast offers a subscription plan similar to most EV manufacturers’ plans, except without warranties or replacement thresholds for its batteries. They have also partnered with Electrify America in providing fast chargers.
Though not yet autonomous, the VF 9 has all of the hardware necessary for future autonomous features. Additionally, driver aids such as blind spot detection, active parking assist and traffic jam assistance provide valuable driver aids. Over-the-air updates (OTA) provide further capabilities over time.
The interior of the VF 9 is clean and minimal, featuring a large landscape central display and few physical controls. It comes equipped with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and a 15.6-inch digital instrument cluster; however, drivers who are unfamiliar with electric vehicles could find its lack of traditional instrument panels frustrating.
VinFast will begin selling the VF 9 in America starting 2024 when production at its North Carolina plant begins. The model will come equipped with both two-row five-seat capacity and three-row seven-seat Plus configurations.
Tesla Model Y
Tesla Model Y remains the top seller among electric SUVs, but there are now more options than ever available to prospective buyers. Audi Q4 e-tron, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6 and Nissan Ariya all make excellent alternatives; if you’re willing to spend extra for longer range, quieter ride quality or increased interior space than one of these other vehicles may make for more contentment overall.
No matter which Model Y you buy, its acceleration and battery range are unrivalled. Furthermore, its spacious cabin offers enough room for seven seats (a seven-seat version is forthcoming). Unfortunately, however, its infotainment system can be somewhat frustrating to operate.
The Tesla Model Y boasts plenty of rear seat room, while its second-row seats fold forward for expanded cargo capacity. When folded back up, its cargo hold can accommodate 72.1 cubic feet – more than enough room to meet most family’s needs.
The Tesla Model Y offers sporty and composed driving experience on winding roads, though it doesn’t feel quite as agile as its slimper sibling, the Model 3. Its SUV body creates a higher center of gravity which reduces sharp responses while its taller ride height adds some choppyness with occasional jolts transmitted through chassis to cabin. Performance model with 21-inch wheels may provide greater road surface comfort while providing four years of bumper-to-bumper coverage and an eight year/120,000 mile warranty!