Best 7-seaters you can buy for under P1.5-million

Seven-seater vehicles are like the swiss army knife of the car world. This category is so broad that it covers MPVs, crossovers, and even some versions of SUVs as well. This makes choosing the right one for you a bit of a hard task simply because of all the options you have. To make it easier for you, we have compiled a short list of seven-seater vehicles that fit under the P1.5 million peso mark that come with just the right amount of features and just the right amount of power to carry a full load of passengers and a bit of cargo. If you are in the market for one of these vehicles then you might want to take a look at this list.

The recently updated BR-V could be another option to consider. The second-row seats can be moved to allow for more legroom in the back. The higher position of the third row also allows for more knee room to be had since there is a dip where you can place your feet. This raises the comfort level of the third row significantly despite being small

The BR-V is powered by a 1.5-liter engine producing 118 hp and 145 Nm of torque mated to a CVT. The vehicle is ideal for those who want a more aggressive styled vehicle versus the more minivan-looking options out there.

Another new addition to the 7-seater segment one-ups the competition by actually being an 8-seater. The Maxus G50 is the brand's latest entry into the segment and much like the rest of its competition also comes powered with a 1.5-liter motor, however, it comes with the advantage of having a turbo attached to it. Under the hood, the minivan styled vehicle pushes out 167hp and 250 Nm of torque and sends power to the front wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The interior space is great and there are air vents all around to help cool all occupants in the vehicle. The second row of the vehicle has the ability to slide forward making for more room for the people sitting in the third row. On top of all of this Maxus G50 also comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. While it does not have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities it does have Bluetooth and USB connectivity. The G50 presents itself as an ideal vehicle for those who want a large minivan-like MPV that is at the same time affordable. 

If you want a higher riding 7-seater MPV that won't break the bank, then look no further than the Mitsubishi Xpander Cross. A variant of the much lower to the ground Xpander, the Cross separates itself by gaining an increased ground clearance of 205mm and by coming with more SUV-like looks. While the shape of the high riding MPV remains the same as its normal counterpart, Mitsubishi has given it body cladding to give the vehicle a more rugged look.

In terms of features, the Xpander Cross is the same as its normal counterpart. It comes with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that comes with Bluetooth, Aux, and USB connectivity. Sadly the infotainment system does not come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities. Aside from this, the lifted MPV also comes with a backup camera and a lot of 12-volt sockets that you can plug into to charge your devices. 

Under the hood, the Xpander Cross still carries with it the same 1.5-liter naturally aspirated motor found in the normal variants. It still produces 103hp and 141 Nm of torque and still delivers power to the front wheels via a 4-speed automatic, but it has the addition of AYC (Active Yaw Control) which gives added confidence and safety in the corners. The lifted MPV presents itself as an alternative to those who want a high riding 7-seater vehicle but whose budget limits them from entering the SUV segment of the market. 

The Xpander Cross is a bit older now especially compared to its recently updated Mitsubishi Xpander counterpart. This 7-seater now sports an updated version of the brand's signature dynamic shield design language and comes with updated T-shaped LED headlights. Its ground clearance has also been raised to match the Xpander cross at 205mm. Aside from this Mitsubishi has also updated the dampers on the MPV to help give it a slightly more comfortable ride. The taillights have also been revised along with the rear diffuser for the recent update. 

On the inside, the Japanese automaker has also updated the interior of the Xpander giving it a more horizontal layout as opposed to the previous version's more vertical orientation. The dashboard has also been revised with again more vertical accents and a new design as well. It does come with a 7-inch infotainment system that has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities. Under the hood, it's still the same 1.5-liter gasoline engine mated to either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic gearbox. 

One of the newer vehicles to enter the lineup of Suzuki Philippines is the Suzuki XL7. Based on the Ertiga, the XL7 brings a more SUV-like design but retains the same attractive pricing and features as its MPV counterpart. Like its MPV brother, it too comes powered by a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter gasoline engine that produces 103hp and 138 Nm of torque. While it may not seem like a lot on paper it is enough to get the vehicle going at speed. Just like the others on this list it too shifts via a 4-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. 

On the inside, the XL7 is well equipped as it comes with a large 10-inch infotainment system that comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A nifty feature to have especially during these tech-reliant times. The large headunit is also paired to a 6-speaker sound system that returns decent amounts of quality and volume. Aside from that the 7-seater vehicle also comes with a backup camera and rear parking sensors to make it easier to drive. All in all the Suzuki XL7 presents itself as a highly capable 7-seater vehicle that comes with the looks of an SUV but with a price that doesn't break the bank. It took all the good parts about its MPV brother the Ertiga and packaged it to look tougher and more robust. 

We can't mention the Suzuki XL7 without mentioning the Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid that it is based on. This 7-seater isn't so much an SUV as it is more marketed as an MPV. It comes powered by a 1.5-liter gasoline engine that produces 103hp and 138 Nm of torque with a 48V electric motor that assists on acceleration and fuel-economy. While it may not seem like a lot on paper it is enough to get the vehicle going at speed. Just like the others on this list it too shifts via a 4-speed automatic transmission. The tuning of the throttle and transmission is a bit different from its SUV-like brother which helps give this MPV a bit more fuel efficiency.

On the inside, the Suzuki Ertiga gives you the basics of what you will need in an MPV. It gives you a relatively large infotainment system that does support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and has a reverse camera as well. Its seats may be fabric but are comfortable for what they offer and breathe well in hotter conditions. Space is still abundant and the air conditioning system is good enough to keep the entire cabin cool when fully loaded.

An entry that has been updated since its initial launch is the Toyota Rush. The affordable 7-seater SUV comes with a rugged design all while coming in at an affordable price. Toyota Motor Philippines has recently upgraded the model giving even the entry-level E variant the addition of two more seats effectively making it a 7-seater vehicle with the addition of a backup camera. Like the other MPVs on the list, the Rush is powered by a 1.5-liter naturally-aspirated engine that produces 102 hp and 134 Nm of torque. It may struggle climbing up steep inclines when fully loaded as the vehicle is on the heavy side.

The Rush is ideal for those who want to venture into owning an SUV but don’t want to splurge too much with their purchase. The seating in the back might be a bit too tight for adults, especially during long road trips. The seating position in the third row can also be a bit limiting as adjustment space is hindered by the rear hatch. You also get the added bonus of 17 cup holders in the vehicle.

We can't mention all of these 7-seaters without mentioning the one that arguably started off the MPV segment - the Toyota Innova. While only select variants do make it under the P1,5 million market what they offer you is a powerful 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine, a choice between a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox, and room for seven with a bit of cargo in the back.

It may not come with more of the high-tech features compared to its other rivals on this list but it does get the basics down right. The MPV gets access to a 7-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity which is already the industry standard and the tough Toyota reliability that everyone seems to enjoy. You really can't go wrong with the Innova especially if you are looking for a bit more power under the hood. 

If the Toyota Innova isn't your thing and you want a vehicle that comes with a bit more features then you can go with the Toyota Avanza as an alternative. It may not have the diesel power of its MPV sibling but it does come with a great price point and a good amount of features as well. While this new version takes on a more boxy and longer design compared to its previous version, it does come with the same powerplants available. This means that the MPV has a 1.3-liter or 1.5-liter motor under the hood with the same power figures as before.

On the inside, the cabin is a substantial upgrade over its previous version with a bit more room inside and better build quality that helps keep the road, and engine noise at bay. For entertainment, the Avanza does come with either an 8 or 6.75-inch infotainment system. The 8-inch model comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities along with Bluetooth and Aux-in connectivity. The 6.75-inch model is only available with Bluetooth and Aux-in connectivity. A 4-speaker sound system is available for the higher variants, while the lower variants only get a 2-speaker sound system. 4 USB chargers are available regardless of the trim level along with two 12volt accessory chargers. 

If you want a safer version of an Avanza that comes with SUV-like styling then the Toyota Veloz could be more up your alley. The Veloz is the brand's entry into the 7-seater subcompact crossover SUV segment in the Philippines. It shares much of the same design as its Avanza stablemate but comes with a much bolder front fascia and along with more technologically advanced safety features. Just like its MPV sibling, the Veloz is powered by a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine that sends power to the front wheels via a CVT. It is available in two trim levels and is being marketed by Toyota as being an ideal vehicle of choice for young professionals and those who are starting a family. 

On the inside, it comes with a spacious cabin that, depending on the variant chosen, also sports an eight or nine-inch infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities. It also comes with a wireless charger which is great to keep supported devices topped up when not using the USB ports to charge. Other safety features for the crossover SUV include a reverse camera and back up sensors to make parking a breeze. 

If you want something a little bit more different GAC Philippines has something interesting to offer you with the GAC GN6. It's the brand's entry into the 7-seater MPV segment and offers something special as its only variant comes with captain's seats for the second row. While its styling looks a bit more minivan-like compared to the current crop of 7-seaters that have gone with SUV-like looks, it is well executed and fits the platform well. It has a massive grille at the front with projector halogen headlights, a sleek body, and LED taillights at the back.

On the inside, the GN6 takes it to a different level with its premium interior design. It features a  2-2-3 seating arrangement. Up to 7 occupants may ride with space to spare for cargo. As such, the trunk space of the GN6 is rated at 326 liters and can be maximized by folding the seats, resulting in up to 1,100 litter, enough to fit most large bags or bulkier cargo. For easier cargo loading and hauling, the GN6 was designed with a fold-flat floor, thereby maximizing all available cabin space for cargo. Interior upholstery is a light-tone leather that is accented by dark brown tones, but GAC also provides a dark brown interior option for the MPV. Captains' chairs are also standard, and they're featured in the middle row of the cabin. GAC was also able to equip its MPV with a standard sunroof, which can also be controlled via the keyfob. 

The Nissan Livina is the brand's entry into the 7-seater MPV segment in the Philippines. It sports the brand's latest iteration of its v-motion design language and the front but retains similar body lines to that of its twin Mitsubishi Xpander. As Nissan and Mitsubishi are in an alliance with one another they share a few similar parts with one another. The Livina is powered by a 1.5-liter gasoline engine that is mated to either a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual gearbox. It is available in three different trim levels with the E being the only variant to get a manual transmission. It comes with a Blaupunkt 7-inch infotainment system that supports screen mirroring capabilities as well as Bluetooth connectivity.