The 10 best seven-seater electric and hybrid cars to buy in 2022

If you want to do your part for the environment but have a larger family or more people to transport, you have special vehicle needs. Seven-seater electric and hybrid cars are not easy to find these days. However, we were able to find 10 of the best seven-seater electric cars worth trying.

We briefly review each of the available models, showing you what each one offers. Additionally, we discuss the factors you should look for in a new electric or hybrid model, beyond powertrain and battery capacity.

the The best 7-seater electric/hybrid cars of 2022

If you want to travel purely electric, consider the Mercedes EQB, Tesla Model Y, and Tesla Model X. However, we also recommend the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, the Kia Sorento Hybrid, and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Or choose the Lexus RX L 450h, Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, Ford Explorer, and Volvo XC90 Recharge.

Here is a complete list of the 10 best 7-seater electric or hybrid cars, ranked by price.

1. Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid (RRP: $34,300)

You can buy this Hyundai Santa Fe as a hybrid or plug-in hybrid model. It is quite similar to the Kia Sorento, as they are manufactured together. Of the two models available, the most efficient option is the plug-in one. Additionally, this version offers up to 36 miles of all-electric driving.

If you can’t charge at home, you’ll prefer the standard hybrid model. It’s cheaper than the plug-in and features the same spacious interior. With three rows of comfortable seating, the whole family will be satisfied.

2. Kia Sorento Hybrid (MSRP: $35,900)

There is not much difference between the Kia Sorento Hybrid and the Hyundai model. You can choose the plug-in or regular hybrid, and the PHEV offers up to 35 miles of all-electric range. It is also one of the largest hybrid SUVs on the market, ensuring a spacious environment.

The good thing about Kia is its focus on luxury. Although you don’t pay a premium price, you have access to a lot of modern equipment and materials.

READ MORE: Hybrids vs. Electric Vs. Plug-in: differences (and which is better?)

3. Toyota Highlander Hybrid (RRP: $39,995)

What’s impressive about the Highlander Hybrid is that it can hold more than seven with certain configurations. If you wish, you can accommodate eight people inside. Plus, it’s packed with the features you want, like LED headlights, a hands-free tailgate, and a sunroof.

While the conventional Highlander is impressive, it can’t offer the same range as the hybrid. With the battery and gasoline engine, you can expect to travel up to 615 miles on a single tank.

4. Mercedes equalizer (MSRP: $45,000)

The Mercedes Equalizer is inspired by the popular GLB SUV. It is the first fully electric seven-seater model from the German luxury car manufacturer. By creating a boxy style, there is plenty of space for passengers inside the cabin.

Plus, you can’t complain about the two-motor setup that creates the standard all-wheel drive. It has a maximum range of 257 miles and can be quickly recharged for more enjoyable trips.

5. Ford Explorer Hybrid (MSRP: $46,555)

The Explorer Hybrid comes with a 3.3-liter V6 gasoline engine with an additional electric motor to generate 318 horsepower. Still, it comes with the gasoline engine’s ten-speed automatic transmission. What you get from the Ford SUV is maximum efficiency.

For example, the hybrid model earns 27/28 mpg with rear-wheel drive or 23/26 mpg with all-wheel drive. Both ratings are better than those found with the gasoline engine alone. You can also equip it to seat six or seven people while towing up to 5,000 pounds.

6. Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid (MSRP: $49,000)

It’s not easy to find a hybrid van these days, so Chrysler hopes to lead the way with the Pacifica. This model combines a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine with two electric motors and a 16-kWh lithium-ion battery.

However, it’s not the powertrain that sets this model apart. The interior is fully equipped with everything your family needs to enjoy the trip. With tons of cupholders, plenty of removable bins, and advanced connectivity, your family will beg for a road trip. There’s even an optional built-in vacuum to store away when you’re done traveling.

seven. Lexus RX L 450h (MSRP: $52,110)

Lexus is known for making a premium car, but this seven-passenger option is unique. It is equipped with a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine combined with two electric motors to develop 308 horsepower.

Even with all that power, the ride is still comfortable and smooth. Additionally, it can offer a maximum of 499 miles of range with the battery and gasoline engine combined.

8. Tesla Model Y (RRP: $62,990)

The Model Y is one of the best electric options on the market, mainly because it is cheaper than the Model X. However, it is possible to add seating for seven passengers inside this electric vehicle.

It comes with a two-motor configuration with all-wheel drive. Furthermore, it boasts of a top speed of 155 mph which is very impressive. With the Long Range AWD model, the only way to get seven seats, you get a maximum range of 330 miles, but you lose some top speed.

9. Volvo XC90 Replacement (MSRP: $63,800)

This Volvo XC90 plug-in hybrid SUV gives you all the luxury touches you crave. We especially appreciate the beauty of the glass shifter and the ambiance it adds to the cabin.

Driving fully electric, you can travel up to 18 miles, which is perfect for traveling around town. However, even as a hybrid, you can expect 55 mpg, helping you spend much less time at the pump.

ten. Tesla Model X (MSRP: $114,990)

It is one of the most well-known 3-way electric vehicles, but it is also quite expensive. The rear doors feature a falcon wing design, ensuring you never get lost in the crowd. Additionally, it has a maximum electric range of up to 360 miles.

With self-driving technology included, Tesla is ahead of its time. It also offers fast charging, so you don’t have to wait while you’re on the road. For the 2022 model year, this new Tesla received a completely updated interior, offering more than you can imagine.

What to look for in a 7-seater electric SUV

1. Powertrain

Aside from the ability to seat seven people, its most important factor has to be the propulsion system itself. With a fully electric vehicle, there is no need for gasoline. The lithium-ion battery will store all of its energy. When the battery runs out, you will need to recharge it.

Choosing a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) means you get the benefits of a gasoline engine as well as an electric motor. You can put fuel at any gas station, but there is no way to refill this model. Additionally, it will have the lowest fuel economy figures of the types reviewed.

In the middle is the plug-in hybrid (PHEV). You can still fill it with fuel, but you can also plug it in to recharge the battery. These cost more than standard hybrids, but they have an all-electric range that helps you save fuel. However, these ranges do not compare to those with an all-electric powertrain.

2. Autonomy/Charge

The powertrain is important, but you don’t want to overlook the importance of the battery specifications. The size and capacity of the battery will determine how far it can travel per charge. The electric vehicle with the longest range at the moment is the Model S Long Range, with a range of 405 miles per charge. However, this particular model is not available with seven seats. If you need the longest range with lots of seating, you should stick with a Tesla.

Additionally, loading speeds need to be taken into account. Some electric vehicles can be charged with a fast charger in less than thirty minutes. Of course, you must consider the type of charger needed and the capacity of the battery.

3. Features

Once you have the powertrain and battery you want, it’s time to choose features. Start with the comfort aspects, such as the seat material and the air conditioning system. On top of that, it’s time to think about technology. You want a large touchscreen, excellent smartphone compatibility, and a navigation system for getting around town.

Beyond these systems, don’t forget the safety equipment. Today’s electric and hybrid vehicles are generally well-equipped with the latest technologies, but some systems may cost you more. You can find systems that help you stay in your lane on the highway, maintain an appropriate speed, and give you more guidance when parking.

Make a list before you start shopping for a car to determine what is important to you. With this information, you can customize your new electric or hybrid vehicle to your needs. Better yet, consider looking for a used model that ticks all the boxes but costs much less.