An SUV is the Swiss Army Knife of cars. Versatile, spacious, and rugged, it is able to cope with active families and pock-marked roads with equal aplomb. And if you can add a little luxury into the mix, all the better.
However, the SUV segment is notoriously competitive, with pretty much every manufacturer, from volume brands to ultra luxury, having a say. This makes finding the perfect match quite the challenge. Below, we have selected some of our favourite SUVs that can carry up to seven people, and for a sizeable reduction on new prices, used is a good way to go.
Audi Q7
Though the original Q7 was launched in 2006, it’s the second generation from 2015 onwards that will provide all the luxury, space and style you could wish for. A facelift in 2024 introduced a new honeycomb design grille, redesigned bumpers and new LED light signatures, plus redesigned chassis management to give the Q7 more agility in tight urban spaces.
All models offer adaptive air suspension as standard, with driver information conveyed by the Audi Virtual Cockpit, and infotainment via a dual-touchscreen system that features Audi’s MMI Navigation Plus.
Trim levels start at S Line, with Black Edition and top-of-the-range Vorsprung offering further features. Powertrains include the diesel 45 TDI and 50 TDI, both of which are based on 3.0-litre V6 engines with 228bhp and 282bhp respectively. If you prefer petrol there is the 335bhp 55 TSFI, which is also powered by a 3.0-litre V6. More performance? The performance flagship SQ7 has a 4.0-litre twin turbo V8 pumping out 500bhp.
Search Used Audi Q7Range Rover
We are now into the fifth generation of the luxury SUV that changed the world, tempting countless owners of luxury saloons to swap their driving seats for a loftier perch. The Range Rover is amazing - limousine-like comfort and pillowy suspension, combined with remarkable off-road ability and commanding performance.
The current generation (codenamed L460) was launched in 2022 and is offered in standard and long wheelbase versions, though it is the latter you will be wanting if you need a full seven-seater. Powertrains include the D350 mild hybrid diesel, and the P530 petrol, also a mild hybrid. Plug-in hybrids are available for the standard wheelbase Range Rover, including the P460e and P550e petrol PHEVs.
For ultimate luxury, we would recommend Autobiography variants which include features such as a Meridian sound system, sliding panoramic sunroof and digital LED headlights with signature daylight running lights and image projection.
Search Used Range RoverVolvo XC90
Volvo has a reputation for bullet-proof reliability and contemporary Scandinavian design stretching back generations. Once best known for saloons and estate cars, the line-up is nowadays oriented towards luxury SUVs, and the XC90 is the top-of-the-range.
An update in 2025 gave it a restyled front end and new infotainment system, but the formula of ample space with seven seats as standard remains unchanged. Two powertrains are available; the mild hybrid B5 develops 247bhp, and the PHEV (plug-in hybrid) T8 develops 449bhp, with an electric-only range of 44 miles. Both models are based on a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, with eight-speed automatic transmissions and all-wheel drive. That compact engine makes for more cabin space, so this is a true seven-seater that doesn’t assume the third row of seats is for munchkins.
Depending on how many seats you fold down, luggage space is 301 litres, then 680 litres, and finally 1,950 litres. Upfront, the Google-based infotainment system integrates Maps and a voice assistant, and both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are supported.
Search Used Volvo XC90BMW X7
BMW’s X7 comfortably seats up to seven people in an all-wheel drive vehicle of imposing dimensions and impressive technology.
From the outside, its distinctive ‘Iconic Glow’ kidney grille commands attention, especially at night when the dramatic cascade lighting comes alive. Inside, there are seven seats as standard, though a second row of two individual seats is an option for a six-seat layout.
Powertrains include the xDrive40i, with a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six (380bhp) and the M60i, which is powered by a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 developing 530bhp. Both models feature BMW’s fuel-efficient 48-volt mild hybrid technology.
Driver and front seat passenger are informed and entertained via the BMW Curved Display, which combines a 12.3-inch driver information screen and a 14.9-inch touchscreen behind a single glass surface. Standard features include four-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, panoramic glass sunroof, Harman/Kardon audio, heated comfort seats for the driver and front passenger and wireless smartphone charging.
Search Used BMW X7Mercedes-Benz GLS
The Mercedes-Benz GLS is often called ‘the S-Class of SUVs’, with comparable technology, performance and luxury to the company’s flagship luxury saloon but with the further advantages of seven seats and off-road capability.
A longer wheelbase than its predecessor gives the latest model even greater interior space for passengers, as well as a massive 2,400-litre loadspace with all seats folded. As with the BMW X7, the seven-seat standard configuration was offered as an optional six-seat layout featuring two captains’ chairs in the second row.
Powertrains include the petrol GLS 450 4MATIC, with 380bhp, and the diesel GLS 450d 4MATIC, with 367bhp, both of which are powered by 3.0-litre V6 engines. top of the range is the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC, with a 4.0-litre biturbo V8 that develops 611bhp and powers the big Mercedes from 0 to 62mph in just 4.2 seconds.
Inside, driver and passengers enjoy the latest MBUX technology, with the ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistant and a dashboard dominated by two seamless 12.3-inch screens. Standard features include 64-colour ambient lighting and a unique ‘Carwash’ function that automatically prepares the GLS for a carwash at a single touch of a button.
Search Used Mercedes-Benz GLSDiscover your next SUV with Stratstone
If you are looking for a used 7-seat SUV, you could be surprised by the breadth of choice offered by prestige manufacturers such as Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Each offers the convenience, technology and luxury that make long journeys a pleasure, together with ample space for families and all their kit. Some major on space and a ‘magic carpet’ ride, while others have a more sporting bias.
At Stratstone, our associates can help you refine your shortlist and find the vehicle that fits your needs precisely. We offer an extensive range of approved pre-owned SUVs, all carefully selected and meticulously prepared. To find your perfect match, please contact your nearest Stratstone retailer, or browse our extensive range online.
