Home News SUV 7 Passenger Hybrid – What Are The Hottest Hybrid 7 Seaters?

SUV 7 Passenger Hybrid – What Are The Hottest Hybrid 7 Seaters?

by Kelvin Yates

Are you planning to purchase a 7 passenger SUV and you are looking precisely for an SUV 7 passenger hybrid? Well, if that is the case, then you are at the right place because there will be a lot to cover on this topic and we will learn everything when it comes to purchasing a hybrid SUV.

Doing the proper research before you go out there on the market and spend a huge amount of money is the right thing to do. You just don’t want to end up with a car that doesn’t meet your demands. These are expensive mistakes that you probably want to avoid.

Because immediately after you leave the showroom floor with your new 7 passenger SUV, you will immediately lose some of the value of this vehicle. This is why we are going to try to help you out when it comes to purchasing your new 7 passenger SUV.

First, we are going to learn what is a hybrid SUV, then we will cover the types of hybrids that are out there and we will discuss the companies that make hybrid SUVs. Then we will discuss a little bit about the reliability and the pros and cons of running a hybrid. After that, we will cover the top choices when it comes to choosing a 7 passenger hybrid vehicle. So, if you want to learn more, follow along.

Hybrid SUV

Now before we dive into the 7 passenger hybrid options that are available. Let’s first discuss what is a hybrid SUV in general. I bet that there are a ton of people who are not into cars and want to learn more about this type of vehicle and what are its main characteristics. Since a ton of people are confusing hybrids with electric vehicles. So, if you want to learn more, follow along.

So, what is a hybrid vehicle? Well, as its name implies, a hybrid is a vehicle that is a hybrid of gas power and electric power. Both of these technologies are joining their powers to get the most out of this vehicle.

And frankly, this thing works. If you are asking me, I would choose a hybrid instead of an electric vehicle any day. Why so?

SUV 7 Passenger Hybrid

Well, mainly because of the convenience. For example, if you drive a classic hybrid you don’t have to charge it at a charging station. This means no waiting time. Electric cars are really annoying when it comes to charging. They are green and all that stuff but waiting for half an hour at a charging station can be a bit of a pain to deal with.

Not to mention that the range of electric cars suffers quite a bit when it comes to driving hard and towing heavy stuff. So, going electric for an SUV is out of the question if you are asking me.

And frankly, it is a good thing that you chose to go for the SUV 7 passenger hybrid. With this type of car, you will get the most for your hard-earned money. Hybrids nowadays have crazy fuel mileage that is better than ever. But more on that in a bit.

Types Of Hybrid

Now let’s discuss the two types of hybrid. Knowing the types of hybrids will be really useful for you to know when you are on the market for an SUV 7 passenger hybrid vehicle. Mainly because there are differences in price as well as in performance and usability between the two main types. So, what are these two types of hybrids? Let’s elaborate.

Classic Hybrid

The first type of hybrid that you should know when you are looking for an SUV 7 passenger hybrid is the classic hybrid.

So, what is a classic hybrid also known as a standard hybrid vehicle? Well, this type of hybrid was the first one to be introduced into the market.

Namely, the Prius was the first hybrid model that was put into mass production, and this model to this day sells really well. With a mileage of 50 mpg is still one of the best performers out there. But how do standard hybrids work?

Well, this type of hybrid works with an ICE, also known as an internal combustion engine, and a small electric motor. There is also a small battery pack. Then with the work of the engine and by using the brakes, the electric batteries are charged up.

When there is a need for power to be delivered, the batteries start powering up the electric motor and this smoothens up the acceleration of the vehicle. Reducing fuel consumption in the process. Overall, that’s all you need to know when it comes to the classic SUV 7 passenger hybrid.

Plug-In Hybrid

Now since we covered the standard hybrid, before we start discussing which are the best SUV 7 passenger hybrid vehicles, let’s take a look at the second type of hybrid. And that is the plug-in hybrid vehicles. So, what is a plug-in hybrid?

Well, these vehicles basically are running the same technology as the standard hybrid but with some little tweaks.

Plug-in hybrids are carrying bigger battery packs. And these battery packs are not charged by the ICE of the car but they are charged with the help of a wall charger (to learn more, check out our guide on how to charge Tesla at home).

So, when you have a plug-in hybrid, you need to know that you need to charge this type of vehicle similar to an electric car. If you don’t charge it, the batteries will drain and your fuel economy will drop.

What is good with these plug-in hybrid vehicles is that they can autonomously drive on electric power alone. With these vehicles, you will have at least 30 miles of range only as an EV. This is good if you drive a lot on short ranges.

But it is somewhat bad because you will drain all your batteries and when the ICE kicks in, you will not have enough juice to power the hybrid system. So, charging them overnight is really essential when it comes to these plug-in hybrids if you want to have the hybrid ability. Now before we learn more about the SUV 7 passenger hybrid, let’s take a look at who makes hybrid vehicles.

Who Makes Hybrid SUVs

Now before we dive into our list of SUV 7 passenger hybrid vehicles, let’s cover another topic and that is the topic of who makes hybrid SUVs. Let’s learn more about the brands that you will come across when you are looking for such a large SUV.

As you probably know, Toyota started the whole game in this segment with its Prius. But soon after that, a need for bigger hybrid vehicles was born. Namely, SUVs. This is why Toyota now has the biggest lineup of hybrid vehicles both when it comes to Toyota as well as their luxury brand Lexus.

Other makers that offer hybrid SUVs include Kia, Hyundai, Ford, Land Rover, and Volvo. But when it comes to SUV 7 passenger hybrid the choice is rather small. So, it is worth noting that finding the best car can be a bit tricky. But more on this, we are going to cover later on after we cover another more about the reliability of these hybrid cars and also their pros and cons.

Are Hybrids Reliable

Before we start learning more about the SUV 7 passenger hybrid models, let’s first take a look at the reliability of these hybrid models. Are they really reliable or they are not?

Well, answering this question is a bit tricky because we cannot say that they are fully reliable and you don’t have to worry about anything till you sell the car.

When it comes to hybrids, there are some factors that need to be taken into consideration. Mainly the mileage of the vehicle as well as its age. Why these two things are really important?

SUV 7 Passenger Hybrid

Well, they are because they indicate wear and tear. So, you cannot say that a Prius with 400,000 miles will drive the same as a new Prius.

The mileage takes its toll on the components inside of the engine as well as on the electric motors. And the biggest problem, if you are asking me, is the batteries.

Batteries on hybrids tend to go off after 10 years of use and sometimes even sooner than this. This is the case because as we all know they rely on the same old technology. And when these batteries go through a lot of cycles of charging and discharging, some of the cells that are inside will start to fail.

The more dead cells, the worse it will be and eventually, the hybrid system will go off completely. What is good is that these batteries are repairable or replaceable. But this costs money. So, for a Prius, you can end up paying between $2,000 and $3,000 to get a new battery. So, keep this in mind when trying to purchase a used SUV 7 passenger hybrid.

Hybrid SUV Pros & Cons

Now before we start discussing about the SUV 7 passenger hybrid options that are available on the market. Let’s first learn more about the pros and cons of having a hybrid vehicle. Let’s cover them briefly and learn what you can expect if you decide to purchase a vehicle like this for yourself.

Pros

First, we are going to list the pros. So, what are the pros of the SUV 7 passenger hybrid? As for the practicality, you are probably aware since you get a ton of space with this big SUV. But what about the pros of owning a hybrid? Let’s elaborate on them.

The biggest pro of having a hybrid is fuel efficiency. These vehicles are really fuel-efficient because the electric motor is doing all the heavy lifting while the ICE only is engaged when there is a big need to do so.

This saves a ton of gas and the mpg for a hybrid is significantly bigger in comparison to a non-hybrid vehicle.

SUV 7 Passenger Hybrid

When it comes to SUVs it is worth noting that this difference is not as big as in the case with sedans but it is still improved when compared to the standard internal combustion non-hybrid versions.

For example, the Lexus RX450h is delivering a really good MPG (once you figure out how to calculate MPG) of 31 mpg in the city. So, you get the point why these vehicles are so good.

The second pro of owning a hybrid is that you can run it only on battery power if it’s a plug-in hybrid. You will get a 30-mile range on electricity alone. Now let’s cover the cons of the SUV 7 passenger hybrid.

Cons

Now before we learn what is the best SUV 7 passenger hybrid, let’s discuss more about the cons of having a hybrid vehicle. There probably is something bad as well. So, what are the cons of owning a hybrid?

Well, the main obstacle to having a hybrid is the price. These vehicles are significantly more expensive in comparison to your standard internal combustion engine. So, if you have a limited budget, then getting a standard internal combustion engine car will be your best bet.

In addition to this, another downside is the high repair costs. For example, if a battery breaks down on this car you could end up paying a few grand to replace it. So, going for a new hybrid might be the best bet since this car is covered under warranty and you will not spend a lot of money on replacement.

On the other hand, if you get a used hybrid car, you don’t know what you are going to get. That’s why you need to be aware of these downsides. But what is the best SUV 7 passenger hybrid? More on that we are going to cover next.

Best Hybrid SUV

Now that we learned everything you need to know when it comes to hybrids and their strong and weak points, we think that now it is time to share with you our list of top SUV 7 passenger hybrid models that are available on the market right now. So, buckle up because it is going to be a fun read.

Best 7 Passenger Hybrid SUV #1: Range Rover Hybrid

The first in our list of SUV 7 passenger hybrid models is the Range Rover Plug-In Hybrid. Why do we include the Range Rover Hybrid? Well, because it is one of the best options out there in this segment. But is it expensive? Well, quite a bit actually.

The starting price of the 2023 model is $105,000 before options. After options, you probably have to pay around $120,000 or even more. But what you will get for your money?

For your money, you will get a 3.0L inline-6 turbocharged gasoline engine that is outputting 434hp and 457lb-ft of torque. This model comes in pair with 8-speed automatic transmission.

What is good though is that is able to seat 7 people very comfortably. And when it comes to speed, we can say that for its big size, it is really quick. Getting from 0-60 in 6.4 seconds and also what is good is that you will have a 19-mile fully electric range to enjoy driving your Range Rover in electric mode. Now let’s move on to the next in our list of SUV 7 passenger hybrids.

Best 7 Passenger Hybrid SUV #2: Lexus RX450hL

Now let’s move on to something more affordable when it comes to the SUV 7 passenger hybrid and that is the Lexus RX 450hL.

This model promises a lot and frankly, the price point also delivers. The model comes equipped with a 3.5L V6 that is producing 308ho and 247lb-ft of torque. The engine comes paired with a single-speed CVT transmission that will deliver a smooth ride.

What is good about this model is that it comes at a good price. The starting cost is $59,000. And for this money, you get the luxury AWD package. In addition to this, you can seat 7 passengers pretty comfortably.

The fuel economy is also really good for a vehicle of this size. The average numbers are 29 mpg. Which is excellent. Considering that most cars in this class struggle to get even 20 mpg. In the long run, you will save a ton of money on gas with this SUV 7 passenger hybrid. Now let’s move on to the next model.

Best 7 Passenger Hybrid SUV #3: Kia Sorento

Another great value for the money when it comes to SUV 7 passenger hybrid is the Kia Sorento. The Kia Sorento is probably if not the best, close to the best value that money can buy. Why I’m saying this? Well, because it is true.

The Sorento is probably one of the cheapest and also one of the best-looking 7 seater SUVs that you can buy. Another good thing is that there are a few trims that you can choose when it comes to hybrid. This means that you are not limited to only one model.

The cheapest one starts at $35,000 while the most expensive one starts at $39,999. And if you are asking me, this is one of a scream of a deal.

The model comes equipped with a 1.6L turbocharged inline-4 engine that produces 227hp and 258lb-ft of torque. It comes equipped with a 6-speed automatic and gets excellent fuel economy. More precisely about 33 mpg on average.

So, it is definitely a good option to look for when it comes to the SUV 7 passenger hybrid. You can also check the Hyundai Santa Fe if you want a similar car. Under the skin, they are practically the same as the Sorento. So, make sure you check it out. Now let’s move on to the last in our list of seven-passenger SUVs.

Best 7 Passenger Hybrid SUV #4: Toyota Highlander

The last in our list of SUV 7 passenger hybrids is another product by Toyota. More precisely, the Toyota Highlander. This model is similar to the Lexus RX that we discussed previously but less luxurious and less stylish than the Lexus. But that doesn’t mean that it is really good.

What is good with this model is that it comes with a few different trim levels for the hybrid version and all of them are good. The base trim level is the LE, the LE starts at $42,000, then you climb another level to the limited which starts at $47,000. Next, is the Platinum, starting at $51,000. And the sporty trim is the XLE which starts at $45,000.

All models come with the same 2.5L inline-4 engine that is producing 243hp and 175lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a CVT transmission that delivers a really smooth drive and excellent fuel economy.

The average fuel economy of this model is 35 mpg which makes the Highlander the best in its class of SUV 7 passenger hybrid vehicles when it comes to fuel efficiency. And honestly, if I were buying a new 7 passenger I would go for the Highlander.

Best 7 Passenger Hybrid SUV #5: Ford Explorer Hybrid

Next up, we have the ever-reliable Ford Explorer, but with a twist – it’s a hybrid. A classic favorite among families, the Explorer now offers an eco-friendly alternative.

Priced starting at around $50,000, the Explorer Hybrid might seem a bit steep. But given its features and efficiency, it justifies the price tag. Under the hood, it houses a 3.3L V6 paired with an electric motor, outputting a combined 318hp and 322lb-ft of torque. Additionally, its 10-speed automatic transmission ensures a refined and responsive driving experience.

One significant advantage of this SUV? Its towing capacity. Unlike many hybrids which often compromise on towing, the Explorer Hybrid can pull up to 5,000 pounds. And when you’re not towing, you can expect an average fuel economy of around 28 mpg. Not the best, but still commendable for an SUV of its size.

Best 7 Passenger Hybrid SUV #6: Volvo XC90 T8

Transitioning to luxury, the Volvo XC90 T8 is the epitome of Scandinavian elegance and efficiency. It’s not just about looks; it’s a performance beast in the hybrid world.

The XC90 T8 boasts a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo and supercharged engine, combined with an electric motor, churning out an impressive 400hp and 472lb-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, it ensures a seamless driving experience.

While the price point starting at around $68,000 might be intimidating for some, the features and performance justify the cost. Its plush interiors, state-of-the-art safety features, and an electric range of around 18 miles set it apart.

Fuel efficiency? Around 27 mpg combined. Not the highest in its class, but considering its performance and luxury, it’s a worthy trade-off.

Best 7 Passenger Hybrid SUV #7: Acura MDX Sport Hybrid

Acura, Honda’s luxury brand, brings forth the MDX Sport Hybrid. A delightful blend of performance, luxury, and efficiency, this SUV is bound to turn heads.

Starting at around $53,000, the MDX Sport Hybrid is a bit more affordable than some luxury competitors. Its 3.0L V6, combined with three electric motors, produces 321hp and 289lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, it ensures a sporty ride.

With features like adaptive suspension and torque vectoring, the driving experience is truly engaging. And despite its performance leanings, it doesn’t compromise on efficiency. It averages about 27 mpg, striking a nice balance between fun and practicality.

Best 7 Passenger Hybrid SUV #8: Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

Lastly, let’s discuss something unconventional – the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. While technically a minivan, its seating capacity and features rival many SUVs on this list.

Starting at $40,000, it’s reasonably priced. Powered by a 3.6L V6 combined with two electric motors, it offers 260hp. The transition between its gasoline engine and electric motors is nearly seamless, thanks to its electronic continuously variable transmission (e-CVT).

The Pacifica Hybrid shines in fuel efficiency, with about 30 mpg combined and a whopping 32 miles of pure electric range. This makes it one of the top choices for those prioritizing efficiency in a 7-passenger vehicle.

Top 10 Best Seven-Seater Electric and Hybrid Cars – Facts

  1. Hybrid and electric seven-seaters are ideal for drivers who want practicality without the running costs of petrol and diesel cars.
  2. The choice between hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or fully electric cars depends on the type of journeys you make.
  3. Electric cars are ideal for short trips, while plug-in hybrids are better suited for a mix of long and short trips.
  4. A full hybrid doesn’t need plugging in and works best in urban areas, where frequent braking puts energy into a small battery, allowing it to run on electric power for short periods.
  5. The top ten seven-seater electrified cars on the market include the Hyundai Santa Fe, Mercedes EQB, Tesla Model X, Volvo XC90 Recharge, Kia Sorento, Mercedes EQS SUV, Citroen e-SpaceTourer, Toyota Highlander, Peugeot e-Rifter, and Mercedes EQV.
  6. The Hyundai Santa Fe is available as a full-hybrid or plug-in hybrid, with exceptional cabin quality and good fuel economy.
  7. The Mercedes EQB, a seven-seater SUV, gets all-wheel-drive with a dual-motor setup and offers a driving range of up to 257 miles.
  8. The Tesla Model X boasts semi-autonomous driving capabilities, impressive charging speeds, and loads of technology with a range of 360 miles.
  9. The Peugeot e-Rifter offers seven-seat configurations and a range of 172 miles with a quiet and smooth electric powertrain.
  10. The Mercedes EQV is a luxurious take on the van-with-windows recipe, seating six to eight people and featuring whisper-quiet operation and excellent refinement.

SUV 7 Passenger Hybrid: In Conclusion…

In this article, we have covered quite a bit when it comes to the SUV 7 passenger hybrid models. First, we learned what is a hybrid and the different types of hybrid vehicles that are out there.

Then we learned more about the reliability of hybrid cars and also their pros and cons. Then we covered our list of SUV 7 passenger hybrid models and we covered the best models that money can buy.

SUV 7 Passenger Hybrid: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Now let’s answer some frequently asked questions.

What Is A Hybrid SUV

A hybrid SUV is a sport utility vehicle that is designed for fuel economy. The internal combustion engine works in pair with the electric motor and the batteries to deliver more mpg for the driver and help him save a ton of money on gas.

What Is The Best SUV Hybrid

The best hybrid SUV is probably the Toyota Highlander or the Toyota RAV4. Both of these SUVs deliver excellent fuel economy of more than 35 mpg combined.

Does Subaru Have A Hybrid

Subaru has only one hybrid offering and that is the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek model. This model will be available for 2023 and onward. The estimated fuel mileage will be about 35 mpg.

Does Nissan Make A Hybrid

Yes, Nissan has hybrid vehicles. The most popular hybrids by Nissan are the Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid and the Nissan Altima Hybrid.

Does Ford Explorer Have 3rd Row Seating

The Explorer basically invented the third-row SUV category. So, the answer to this question is, yes, the Explorer has third-row seats.

What Hybrid SUVs Have 3rd Row Seating

There are a number of models that have this option. Namely, the Range Rover, the Lexus RX 450hL, Kia Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe, Toyota Highlander, and Volvo XC90.

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2 comments

Marcia Rodriguez September 16, 2023 - 11:58 pm

FYI, I think you have inaccurate info. The Kia Sorrento hybrid (NOT PHEV) is NOT a 7 seater. It has a third row, but the second row has captains chairs, therefore 6 seater. We’re told there are only 2 trim levels for the HYBRID Sorento. None of which seat 7.

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Rae Castillon September 17, 2023 - 6:44 pm

Hi Marcia,

From an update in September 2021, the Kia Sorento hybrid was available in both 6-seater and 7-seater configurations, depending on the trim level and seating options chosen. However, it’s important to note that vehicle configurations can change from year to year, and my information might not reflect the latest updates.

To determine whether the Kia Sorento hybrid is currently available as a 7-seater, I recommend visiting the official Kia website or contacting a Kia dealership for the most up-to-date information on the specific trim levels and options available in your region for the current model year, which could be 2023 or later. They can provide you with accurate details on the seating configurations and features of the latest Kia Sorento hybrid models.

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