Looking for a family-friendly car that won’t break the bank? India offers a fantastic selection of affordable 7-seater cars, from versatile MPVs to robust SUVs, perfect for larger families needing space and flexibility under Rs 15 lakh.
Renault Triber
The Renault Triber stands out as a compact MPV offering unmatched practicality and comfort at its price point. Its middle-row seats are incredibly versatile, featuring 60:40 folding, sliding, and reclinable adjustments.
For even more luggage space, the last-row seats can be removed entirely, and accessing them is easy once the second row is folded and moved forward. Plus, dedicated AC vents for the middle and last rows ensure comfort on hot days.
Maruti Ertiga
The Maruti Ertiga makes getting in and out a breeze with its wide-opening doors. The front seats are generously cushioned, and the second row can slide back for extra legroom and recline for comfort.
Large windows in the middle row create an airy cabin feel. While the middle seats fold but don’t tumble, making last-row access a bit tricky for some, the third row offers good headroom and shoulder room for two adults, complete with vents and Type-C charging ports.
Mahindra Bolero
The Mahindra Bolero, while rugged, feels somewhat basic compared to other vehicles on this list. Its high ground clearance means entry and exit require effort. Both front and rear seats are narrow and lack support, and the third row consists of side-facing seats, best suited for children.
Overall, the interior quality, particularly the touchpoints, falls short for a vehicle in its price bracket.
Mahindra Bolero Neo
The Mahindra Bolero Neo is a significant upgrade from the standard Bolero, feeling a class apart in many ways. Its interior is much improved, featuring comfortable, chair-like front seats with individual armrests.
The middle row comfortably fits three passengers, though legroom is less generous than headroom. The side-facing jump seats in the back are primarily designed for occasional use and are often best kept folded down to maximize luggage space.
Toyota Rumion
The Toyota Rumion is essentially a rebadged Maruti Ertiga, sharing its familiar and functional interior design, including the beige color scheme. All three rows provide comfortable seating, and the cabin is well-equipped with storage compartments, boosting its practicality.
Choosing the Rumion might also mean a shorter waiting period compared to its Maruti counterpart.
Kia Carens
The Kia Carens earns high marks for its premium interior and exceptional comfort across all three rows. The front seats are well-cushioned and offer a great view, complemented by a convenient storage tray under the co-driver’s seat.
In the second row, the 60:40 split seats can tumble and fold, with an electrically-assisted button for easy third-row access. The last row is surprisingly comfortable, avoiding the typical “knees-up” position and accommodating adults up to 6 feet tall with ease.
Kia Carens Clavis
The Kia Carens Clavis takes premium comfort even further. It features ventilated front seats and powered adjustment for the driver. Even with a panoramic sunroof, headroom remains ample.
Practical touches like foldable trays, an air purifier, sun blinds, and a “Boss Mode” to adjust the front passenger seat enhance the experience. One-touch tumble seats simplify third-row access, which offers enough space for two adults, along with vents, USB ports, and adjustable headrests.
Citroen Aircross
True to Citroen’s reputation, the Aircross boasts remarkably comfortable seats. The front seats are well-cushioned and supportive, with an armrest for the driver. While the 60:40 split middle-row seats prioritize comfort, they lack a central armrest and recline function.
Access to the last row is gained by tilting and tumbling the kerbside seat. The third-row seats are positioned low, leading to a “knees-up” seating posture best suited for children. Like the Triber, these seats can be removed to significantly increase luggage capacity.
Mahindra Scorpio Classic
Entering the Mahindra Scorpio Classic requires a bit of effort due to its high ground clearance. Once inside, the elevated seating offers a commanding view. The fabric-upholstered, chair-like front seats with armrests provide a nostalgic feel.
The second-row bench comfortably seats three, though under-thigh support might be limited for some. The last row features side-facing jump seats, similar to the Bolero, but they lack seat belts and crash protection, making them less ideal. A notable omission is the absence of rear air vents.
Mahindra Scorpio N
The Mahindra Scorpio N represents a considerable upgrade from the Classic. Its interior feels far more premium, featuring relaxed, leatherette-upholstered seats with excellent lumbar support.
The second row, a 60:40 split bench, folds and tumbles on the kerbside for easy access. While the third row offers conventional front-facing seats with seatbelts (unlike the Classic’s jump seats), adults will find the space limited and a “knees-up” seating position. Unfortunately, there are no AC vents in the last row.
- The Renault Triber offers unmatched practicality and flexibility under Rs 10 lakh.
- Maruti Ertiga and Toyota Rumion are strong contenders for balanced space and comfort.
- Kia Carens models provide a premium experience with comfortable seating across all three rows.
- Mahindra’s Bolero range caters to rugged utility, while the Scorpio N offers a more refined SUV experience.
India’s market for affordable 7-seater cars continues to grow, offering diverse options to meet varied family needs and budgets.
