Finding a car that can comfortably fit seven passengers without frequent gas station stops can be a challenge. Many large vehicles prioritize space and power over fuel efficiency. However, advancements in automotive technology have led to a selection of 7-passenger vehicles that offer surprisingly good gas mileage, particularly within the crossover and minivan segments. While passenger sedans typically can’t accommodate seven adults, and many large SUVs are known for their thirst for fuel, there are exceptions. Let’s explore ten 7-passenger cars that stand out for their fuel economy, proving that you can haul the whole family without breaking the bank at the pump.
1) 2016 Toyota Highlander Hybrid — 27/28 MPG
The 2016 Toyota Highlander Hybrid leads our list as the most fuel-efficient 7-passenger vehicle and uniquely features hybrid technology. This SUV achieves an impressive 27 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. It combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with three electric motors, delivering a total of 280 horsepower. The hybrid system utilizes a continuously variable automatic transmission and can engage the rear wheels for added traction when needed. The Highlander Hybrid doesn’t compromise on space, offering a generous 83.2 cubic feet of cargo room when the second and third rows are folded down.
Silver 2016 Toyota Highlander Hybrid front quarter view, highlighting its fuel-efficient SUV design.
2) 2016 Mazda CX-9 — 22/28 MPG
The 2016 Mazda CX-9 is a fully redesigned 7-passenger crossover celebrated for its dynamic driving experience, setting it apart from many competitors. It’s powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, the front-wheel-drive CX-9 achieves 22 MPG in city driving and an excellent 28 MPG on the highway. For cargo needs, folding the rear seats provides 71.2 cubic feet of space.
Dark gray 2016 Mazda CX-9 angled side view, showcasing its sporty and fuel-efficient crossover design.
3) 2017 Acura MDX — 20/27 MPG
The 2017 Acura MDX remains a top choice in the luxury crossover segment, offering both premium features and practicality for seven occupants. Known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior, the MDX provides ample room for passengers and up to 90.9 cubic feet of cargo capacity. It features a potent 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, yet still manages to achieve 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway when equipped with the Technology and Advance packages. This efficiency is aided by its front-wheel-drive configuration (all-wheel drive is optional) and a new 9-speed automatic transmission for this model year.
White 2017 Acura MDX front view, emphasizing its luxurious and fuel-conscious design as a 7-passenger SUV.
4) 2017 Nissan Pathfinder — 20/27 MPG
The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder maintains a substantial presence on the road, but its engineering focuses on efficiency. Despite its size, the Pathfinder achieves 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway with front-wheel drive. It is equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) paired with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. The Pathfinder comfortably seats seven and provides 79.8 cubic feet of total cargo space.
Red 2017 Nissan Pathfinder side view, demonstrating its spacious yet fuel-efficient SUV profile.
5) 2016 Ford Explorer — 19/28 MPG
Historically, the Ford Explorer wasn’t synonymous with fuel efficiency. However, the introduction of Ford’s EcoBoost engine changed the game. The 2016 Ford Explorer offers an optional 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine that delivers 280 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine configuration helps the Explorer achieve 19 MPG city and an impressive 28 MPG highway. EcoBoost models are front-wheel drive and use a 6-speed automatic transmission. Beyond fuel economy, the Explorer accommodates seven passengers and offers 80 cubic feet of cargo space.
Blue 2016 Ford Explorer front angle view, highlighting its EcoBoost engine for improved fuel efficiency in a 7-passenger SUV.
6) 2016 Honda Odyssey — 19/28 MPG
The 2016 Honda Odyssey is the first minivan on our list, recognized as the most fuel-efficient in its class. Capable of seating up to eight passengers, the Odyssey is equipped with a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 248 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed automatic transmission manages power delivery, and fuel economy is rated at 19 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. The Odyssey also excels in cargo capacity, offering a substantial 148 cubic feet of space with the rear seats stowed.
7) 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL350 BlueTEC — 19/26 MPG
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL350 BlueTEC comes standard with all-wheel drive and is classified as a full-size luxury SUV. Despite its size and weight, the diesel 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine significantly enhances fuel efficiency. This engine produces 240 horsepower and a robust 455 lb-ft of torque while achieving 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. This 7-passenger SUV features a 7-speed automatic transmission and offers 93.5 cubic feet of cargo space.
8) 2017 Audi Q7 — 19/25 MPG
The 2017 Audi Q7 represents a complete redesign and remains a fuel-efficient option in the luxury SUV category, even without a diesel variant in this model year. While large and luxurious, the Q7 utilizes a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine to balance power and efficiency. This engine delivers 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, with fuel economy ratings of 19 MPG city and 25 MPG highway, even with standard quattro all-wheel drive. An 8-speed automatic transmission is standard, and the Q7 provides 71.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats.
9) 2017 Chrysler Pacifica — 18/28 MPG
The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica replaced the Town & Country with a modern design, competitive fuel economy, and seven-passenger seating. It features a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 287 horsepower, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. A standout feature is its exceptional cargo space, up to 197.3 cubic feet, thanks to the Stow ‘n Go seating system. For even greater fuel efficiency, the Pacifica Hybrid, a plug-in hybrid minivan, was soon to be released, promising a 30-mile electric range and an estimated 80 MPGe.
10) 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe — 18/25 MPG
The refreshed 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe expanded its seating capacity to seven as a standard feature, enhancing its family appeal. The Santa Fe boasts a stylish interior that offers a premium feel, especially considering its competitive price point. All 7-passenger Santa Fe models are powered by a 3.3-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is rated at 18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway for front-wheel-drive models, utilizing a 6-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive versions have a slightly reduced highway MPG, and all models offer 80 cubic feet of cargo space.
These ten vehicles demonstrate that fuel efficiency and 7-passenger capacity are not mutually exclusive. Whether you prioritize a hybrid powertrain, a turbocharged engine, or a diesel option, there are choices available to meet the needs of larger families seeking to minimize fuel costs.
