Mini-vans are likely the most commonly thought of seven passenger vehicles due to their spacious interior design and family friendly features. In addition to mini-vans, there are also several models of sport utility vehicles and crossovers that are designed to comfortably seat seven passengers.
Debuted in the year 2005, the Honda Odyssey is a seven passenger vehicle that come equipped with power sliding doors for convenience, advanced Bluetooth and navigation system technology and ample safety features. According to Edmunds, the Honda Odyssey is a favored min-van that provides spacious interiors with several additional comforts, such as second-row sunshades, in-floor storage, six-disc CD changer and triple-zone climate control. All Odyssey models allow for the third-row seating.
Saturn Outlook is a seven passenger cross-over vehicle that combines the improved gas mileage and car-like driving experience (responsiveness and acceleration) of a smaller vehicle, with the functionality and interior space of an SUV. The Outlook can accommodate adults in all three rows, due to the “smart-slide” second-row feature which allows easy access to the third row. Additional space in the rear allows for up to 117 cubic feet of cargo storage. Additional available features include a back-up camera, rear-seat DVD player, navigation system and keyless engine start.
As of 2010, the Toyota Sienna is the only mini-van with available all-wheel drive on the market and comes in either a seven or eight passenger configuration. Seven passenger Sienna’s allow for the second row captain’s chairs to be pushed together to form a bench seat, and the XLE model of the Toyota Sienna feature a pop-up foot rest. Additional standard and optional features include rear-seat DVD entertainment systems, navigation systems, tri-zone automatic climate control, dual sunroofs and leather upholstery.
Toyota Highlander features seven passenger capacity with second row captain’s chairs and third row bench seating. A review done by Edmunds, indicates that the third-row is suitable for children but not quite adequate enough for adults. The Highlander is available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Optional features on the Highlander include navigation systems, entertainment systems with DVD and Bluetooth and MP3 capability. The Toyota Highlander also offers efficient miles per gallon (MPG), with 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway.
The Ford Flex, created to replace the Ford Freestar mini-van, offers owners the use of seven passenger seating, and comes with standard second and third rows that fold flat into the floor for ample cargo storage capabilities. Optional unique features found in the Flex are voice-activated communication and entertainment systems, satellite radio, multi-panel sunroof, mini-fridge middle console and one-of-a kind interior "mood lighting" settings.
