Best seven-seater cars 2015–2025 on the German market (author’s choice)

Volkswagen Touran (2015–2020)

The Volkswagen Touran is a textbook example of a rational family car. The second generation (2015–2020) is a compact MPV that you’ll see everywhere on German roads. Despite its modest footprint, the Touran offers 7 seats and, with the rear rows folded flat, up to around 1,900 litres of cargo space. Inside, everything is laid out in classic VW style: intuitive seat folding, loads of storage and materials that stand up well to daily family abuse.

Engines: the most common units are the 1.4 TSI petrol (150 hp) and 2.0 TDI diesel (110–190 hp). They have enough power to move a fully loaded Touran confidently, while staying surprisingly economical. In real conditions, diesel versions use about 5–6 l/100 km, petrols around 7 l/100 km – very attractive figures for a family on a budget.

Reliability and servicing: with regular oil changes and sensible warm-up/cool-down, TSI/TDI engines last a long time. The DSG dual-clutch gearbox, which used to have a questionable reputation, has become more robust in these model years. Yes, DSG has a particular feel and needs timely oil changes, but if serviced correctly it rarely causes major drama. Strengths of the Touran: precise handling, low consumption, strong demand on the used market (easy to sell later). Weaknesses: a relatively firm ride (especially on poor roads) and a third row that is tight for taller adults.

• 🔥 Engines: 1.4 TSI 150 hp; 2.0 TDI 110–190 hp.
• 💲 Real-world consumption: diesel ~5–6 l/100 km; petrol ~7 l/100 km.
• 👓 Pros: economy, flexible interior, strong resale value.
• ❗ Cons: firm suspension; tight third row for adults.

Ford S-Max (2015–…)

The second-generation Ford S-Max (from 2015) combines the space of an MPV with the driving dynamics of a car. It has built a reputation as a “sporty” family car: sharp steering and a well-sorted suspension give it arguably the best handling in its class. On the motorway or a twisty road, the S-Max feels planted and reassuring – which many drivers appreciate.

Interior and comfort: the 7-seat layout is family-friendly. The second row consists of three separate seats, the third row folds flat into the floor to create a large boot. Equipment levels are generous for this segment – dual-zone climate control, modern infotainment and driver-assistance systems are common.

Tech: the most popular versions use the 2.0 TDCi diesel (150–190 hp), which offers plenty of torque and a real-world consumption of around 6 l/100 km. There is also a 2.0 EcoBoost petrol (240 hp) for those who prioritise performance. The automatic gearboxes on newer S-Max models are generally reliable. Strengths: strong performance and stability at speed, spacious cabin, good ergonomics. Weaknesses: its size can make city parking more challenging, and the turbo engines are sensitive to neglected servicing (oil quality, EGR system cleanliness, etc.).

• 🔥 Engines: 2.0 TDCi 150–190 hp; 2.0 EcoBoost 240 hp.
• 💲 Real-world consumption: diesel ~6 l/100 km.
• 👓 Pros: best-in-class handling, high equipment levels, comfortable seating.
• ❗ Cons: big footprint for city use; engines demand proper servicing.

VW Sharan / Seat Alhambra (2010–2020)

The VW Sharan (second generation) and its Spanish twin, the Seat Alhambra, are classic full-size MPVs focused on comfort. Built up to 2020, these seven-seater vans quickly became favourites among practical-minded German families. Their key advantages are a huge interior and easy access: sliding side doors make getting to the second and third rows a breeze – very handy in tight parking spaces or with child seats.

Space: with seven seats in use, the boot is modest, but folding the third row opens up more than 1,100 litres, and with the second row down you get over 2,400 litres – effectively a small van. ISOFIX mounts are plentiful, the seat folding mechanisms are straightforward and the interior is well insulated from road noise, making long motorway trips very relaxed.

Tech: most cars are equipped with the 2.0 TDI diesel (140 or 177 hp), with petrol TSI engines (150–200 hp) a bit rarer. Diesels consume roughly 6–7 l/100 km in real life, petrols around 8–9. Reliability is generally good, though chain-driven petrols require attention to timing chain noise around 150,000 km. The 6-speed DSG needs its oil changed every ~60,000 km but rewards you with lower fuel consumption. Strengths of Sharan/Alhambra: huge space and comfort, well-protected bodywork and a powerful climate system. Weaknesses: higher fuel consumption on heavier versions, expensive original parts and a large turning circle, which can make city manoeuvres more work.

• 🔥 Engines: 2.0 TDI 140/177 hp; petrol TSI 150–200 hp.
• 💲 Real-world consumption: diesel ~6–7; petrol ~8–9 l/100 km.
• 👓 Pros: class-leading space and comfort, sliding doors, strong climate control.
• ❗ Cons: relatively high consumption; costly OEM parts; big turning circle.

Škoda Kodiaq (2016–2025)

The Škoda Kodiaq shows that a seven-seater can also be an all-wheel-drive SUV. Produced since 2016 and refreshed during its lifecycle, it remains one of the most popular family SUVs in 2025. In many reliability rankings the Kodiaq scores high among 7-seat models, and in owner surveys it is often described as one of the less problematic mid-size SUVs. Sister models from VW Group – SEAT Tarraco and VW Tiguan Allspace – also receive good reviews, but the Kodiaq tends to be the default choice thanks to its value and clever details.

Engines and driving: early cars came with the 1.4 TSI petrol (150 hp), later replaced by the 1.5 TSI EVO (150 hp) with better efficiency. Popular diesels include the 2.0 TDI (150 or 190 hp), praised for torque and a realistic ~6 l/100 km consumption. You can have front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (4×4 with an on-demand clutch). Ground clearance of around 190 mm plus 4×4 makes Kodiaq confident on rough roads and light off-road. Handling is safe and predictable; this is a comfort-oriented car rather than a sporty one.

Interior: Škoda’s “simply clever” philosophy is on full display. There is plenty of room; the third row suits children or average-height adults on shorter trips. In five-seat mode, the boot is enormous (700+ litres). Materials are robust and practical. High-spec versions feature a digital instrument cluster, adaptive cruise control and a broad set of assistance systems – on equipment, Kodiaq is on par with many passenger cars. Strengths: solid reliability, excellent practicality, generous ground clearance. Weaknesses: some drivers find the suspension on the firm side, and strong demand keeps used prices relatively high compared with similar-age saloons/estates.

• 🔥 Engines: 1.4/1.5 TSI 150 hp; 2.0 TDI 150/190 hp.
• 💲 Real-world consumption: around 6 l/100 km for 2.0 TDI.
• 👓 Pros: space, ~190 mm ground clearance, modern driver assists, robust drivetrains.
• ❗ Cons: suspension may feel firm; used prices hold up strongly.

Dacia Lodgy / Jogger (2012–2025)

For budget-conscious buyers, the Dacia Lodgy is worth a serious look – it’s one of the most affordable 7-seat MPVs on the market. Built from 2012, this Romanian-French workhorse won customers with its simplicity and low price. In 2022 it was replaced by the Dacia Jogger, which is also available as a 7-seater. Both cars are simple in design but give you seven seats for money that competitors can’t really match.

Practicality: the Lodgy’s styling and interior are modest, but its packaging is impressive. At roughly 4.5 m in length it still accommodates a usable third row and offers around 200 litres of boot space with all seats up. Remove the third row and you get around 600 litres; fold the second row as well and you’re looking at over 2,000 litres. In terms of pure practicality per euro, it’s hard to beat.

Tech: the most common engine is Renault’s 1.5 dCi diesel (90 or 110 hp). It is very economical (~5 l/100 km in real use) and not particularly picky, as long as servicing is up to date. There are also petrol options (naturally aspirated 1.6 and turbo TCe units). Most cars come with a 5- or 6-speed manual gearbox; the Jogger can be found with a CVT. Reliability: the engines are simple and durable if you look after them, and the body is decently protected against rust. Weak points include suspension and steering components – they wear out faster, but parts are inexpensive. Strengths: extremely low fuel and service costs, huge space for the money. Weaknesses: noisy, basic interior with very little sound insulation and a pared-back safety/comfort spec.

• 🔥 Engines: diesel 1.5 dCi 90/110 hp; petrol 1.6/TCe; Jogger also with newer petrol options.
• 💲 Real-world consumption: ~5 l/100 km (1.5 dCi).
• 👓 Pros: lowest cost of ownership, huge practicality.
• ❗ Cons: noisy cabin, basic comfort and safety spec.

You’ll also occasionally see US-imported minivans such as the Toyota Sienna or Honda Odyssey on German roads. They offer a massive cabin (7–8 seats) and strong engines, but keep in mind: they tend to use more fuel and may require more effort to service due to parts availability.

Comparison table of 7-seater models (2015–2025)

To wrap up, one key message: whatever you choose, the real secret to a successful purchase is a thorough pre-purchase inspection in Germany. Our team can inspect cars in Berlin or elsewhere in the country. We offer car-sourcing and inspection services across Germany, focusing on speed, transparency and expertise: we’ll check the vehicle’s history and provide a detailed report. With our help you can buy a reliable 7-seater without hidden issues.

*Estimated annual costs include routine servicing, insurance and taxes at ~15,000 km/year, excluding fuel. Actual costs depend on your region, driving history, trim level and the specific car’s condition.

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