Finding a vehicle that can comfortably seat seven passengers without frequent gas station stops can be challenging. Many large vehicles prioritize space and power over fuel efficiency. However, advancements in automotive technology have led to the development of 7-passenger vehicles that offer surprisingly good gas mileage. While the minivan and crossover segments often lead in fuel economy for larger vehicles, some SUVs are also bucking the gas-guzzling trend. If you’re looking for a spacious and economical family car, explore these top 10 “Good Gas Cars” that seat seven.
1. 2016 Toyota Highlander Hybrid: The Efficiency Leader
2016 Toyota Highlander Hybrid front view on road
The 2016 Toyota Highlander Hybrid stands out as a prime example of a “good gas car” in the 7-passenger category. It’s the only hybrid on our list, showcasing Toyota’s commitment to fuel-efficient technology in family vehicles. This SUV achieves an impressive 27 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. This excellent fuel economy is due to its hybrid powertrain, which combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with three electric motors. Together, they deliver 280 horsepower while maximizing fuel savings. The Highlander Hybrid uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth and efficient power delivery. An added benefit is the electric motor that can power the rear wheels, providing on-demand all-wheel drive for enhanced traction when needed. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid is spacious and versatile, offering up to 83.2 cubic feet of cargo space when the second and third rows are folded down, making it a practical choice for families.
2. 2016 Mazda CX-9: Fun-to-Drive and Fuel-Efficient
Mazda CX-9 2016 red color on a sunny day
The 2016 Mazda CX-9 is a fully redesigned 7-passenger crossover that doesn’t compromise on driving enjoyment while delivering good gas mileage. Mazda is known for its engaging driving dynamics, and the CX-9 lives up to this reputation. Under the hood, a 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine produces 227 horsepower and a robust 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for daily driving and highway cruising while maintaining efficiency. Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, the front-wheel-drive CX-9 achieves 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway, making it a strong contender in the “good gas cars” category. For cargo, folding down the rear seats reveals 71.2 cubic feet of space, suitable for luggage and larger items.
3. 2017 Acura MDX: Luxury and Practicality with Decent MPG
Acura MDX 2017 silver color in an urban environment
The 2017 Acura MDX continues to be a top choice in the luxury segment for families seeking a premium crossover that is also a “good gas car” option. The MDX provides a comfortable and spacious interior for seven passengers, along with a generous 90.9 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume. It’s powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, offering a good balance of power and efficiency. When equipped with the Technology and Advance packages, the MDX achieves 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. This fuel economy is partly attributed to the availability of front-wheel drive, which enhances efficiency compared to standard all-wheel-drive systems. A new 9-speed automatic transmission further contributes to the MDX’s refined driving experience and fuel efficiency.
4. 2017 Nissan Pathfinder: Spacious and Surprisingly Economical
Nissan Pathfinder 2017 grey color parked outdoor
The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder maintains its large SUV presence while also focusing on fuel efficiency, making it a viable “good gas car” for larger families. Despite its size, the Pathfinder achieves 20 MPG in city driving and 27 MPG on the highway in front-wheel-drive configuration. This is thanks to its 3.5-liter V6 engine, which produces 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque, and a fuel-efficient continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Pathfinder comfortably seats seven passengers and offers a substantial 79.8 cubic feet of cargo space, blending practicality with reasonable fuel consumption.
5. 2016 Ford Explorer: EcoBoost Efficiency in a Family SUV
Ford Explorer 2016 white color on a road
The 2016 Ford Explorer, traditionally not known for fuel economy, has evolved to include efficient engine options, earning its place among “good gas cars”. Ford’s EcoBoost engine technology plays a key role in improving the Explorer’s MPG. The available 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine delivers 280 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, providing strong performance while maximizing fuel savings. An EcoBoost-equipped Explorer achieves 19 MPG city and 28 MPG highway with front-wheel drive and a 6-speed automatic transmission. Beyond fuel efficiency, the Explorer accommodates seven passengers and offers 80 cubic feet of cargo space, making it a versatile family SUV.
6. 2016 Honda Odyssey: The Minivan MPG Leader
The 2016 Honda Odyssey is the first minivan on our list and stands out as the most fuel-efficient minivan, making it an excellent “good gas car” for large families. The Odyssey can seat up to eight passengers and is powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 248 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth power delivery, and the minivan achieves 19 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. A major advantage of the Odyssey is its exceptional cargo capacity. With the rear seats folded or removed, it offers a massive 148 cubic feet of space, making it ideal for families who need to haul a lot of gear.
7. 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL350 BlueTEC: Diesel Efficiency in a Luxury SUV
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL350 BlueTEC (now GLS-Class) demonstrates that even luxury full-size SUVs can be “good gas cars,” particularly with diesel engines. Standard all-wheel drive and a substantial size don’t prevent the GL350 BlueTEC from achieving respectable fuel economy thanks to its 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel V6 engine. This engine produces 240 horsepower and a substantial 455 lb-ft of torque, offering strong towing capability and smooth cruising. The GL350 BlueTEC returns 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. This 7-passenger SUV also features a 7-speed automatic transmission and a generous 93.5 cubic feet of cargo space, blending luxury, capability, and relative fuel efficiency.
8. 2017 Audi Q7: Efficient Luxury with Quattro All-Wheel Drive
The redesigned 2017 Audi Q7 continues to be one of the more fuel-efficient luxury SUVs, solidifying its place as a “good gas car” in the premium segment. Despite its size and standard quattro all-wheel drive, the Q7 achieves 19 MPG city and 25 MPG highway with its 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine. This engine produces 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, delivering strong performance. An 8-speed automatic transmission further enhances the driving experience and efficiency. The Audi Q7 offers 7-passenger seating and 71.6 cubic feet of cargo space, combining luxury, performance, and reasonable fuel economy for its class.
9. 2017 Chrysler Pacifica: Minivan with Modern Design and MPG
The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, replacing the Town & Country, brings a fresh design and competitive fuel economy to the minivan segment, making it a noteworthy “good gas car”. The Pacifica seats seven and is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 287 horsepower, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. It achieves 18 MPG city and 28 MPG highway, impressive for a minivan. The Pacifica excels in cargo space, offering up to 197.3 cubic feet thanks to Chrysler’s Stow ‘n Go seating system. For even greater fuel efficiency, the Pacifica Hybrid, a plug-in hybrid version, was soon to be released, promising even better MPG and electric driving range.
10. 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe: Value and 7-Passenger Efficiency
The refreshed 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe adds a third row of seating to become a 7-passenger SUV, offering a value-oriented “good gas car” option. The Santa Fe provides a well-appointed interior and a comfortable ride. All 7-passenger Santa Fe models are equipped with a 3.3-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque. With front-wheel drive and a 6-speed automatic transmission, it achieves 18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. All-wheel-drive versions have slightly lower highway MPG. The Santa Fe offers 80 cubic feet of cargo space, making it a practical and economical choice in the 7-passenger SUV segment.
In conclusion, finding a “good gas car” that also seats seven passengers is no longer a pipe dream. These ten vehicles demonstrate that manufacturers are increasingly prioritizing fuel efficiency across various vehicle types, from hybrids and minivans to crossovers and SUVs. Whether you prioritize maximum MPG, luxury features, or cargo space, there’s a 7-passenger vehicle on this list that can meet your family’s needs without emptying your wallet at the pump. Consider test driving a few of these models to find the perfect blend of space, economy, and features for your lifestyle.
