7 Passenger SUV Comparison

In the late 80’s and early 90’s the 7 passenger SUV (also known as Midsize SUV) line-up started to become a popular replacement for the large family sedan and station wagon.

Most every manufacturer now offers a midsize SUV with nearly 40 choices available to the consumer. Sport utility vehicles comprise about 27% of all automobile sales and over half of that 27% involve midsize SUVs.

The first sport utility vehicles were built based on truck frames and components. The ride and handling were very truck-like. Now, with over twenty years of revisions and refinements, mid size sport utilities are much more urbane and passenger friendly.

Some SUV’s are still based on truck frames, but in recent years the popularity of car-based SUVs is building.

For the most part, midsize SUVs come with a six or eight cylinder engine. They have plenty of cargo room and usually room for seven or eight passengers. These midsize SUVs are very popular with active parents, especially busy mothers despite the drawbacks.

Compared to a midsize car the SUV will have a bumpier ride, less maneuverability and poorer fuel mileage. Many moms are willing to make these concessions in exchange for the roominess afforded by the SUV.
Midsize sport utility vehicles are more versatile than midsize cars, as well.

Many can be purchased with four wheel drive (4WD) or all wheel drive (AWD) as well as rear two wheel drive (2WD). Four wheel drive and all wheel drive will add to the purchase price and reduce fuel mileage somewhat. They will, however, add to the resale value.

What’s the best midsize SUV? As with any purchase, it would be wise to consider a number of factors before purchasing. What are the buyer’s needs, wants and financial ability? Below is a comparison chart for some midsize SUVs.

The vehicles are listed in alphabetical order for basic comparison purposes only with no recommendations made. The list includes only ten vehicles while, as stated above, more than forty midsize SUVs are available.

7 Passenger SUV Comparison Chart

Vehicle Name            Price Range               MPG         Platform
Buick Rendezvous       $26,000 – $30,000 18 – 27 Car based
Chevrolet Equinox      $22,000 – $25,000 18 – 24 Car based
Chevrolet Trailblazer $27,000 – $33,000 14 – 21 Truck based
Chrysler Pacifica          $25,000 – $37,000 17 – 23 Car based
Dodge Durango             $28,000 – $37,000 14 – 21 Truck based
Ford Explorer               $26,000 – $36,000 14 – 21 Truck based
Ford Freestyle              $25,000 – $31,000 19 – 27 Car based
Honda Pilot                   $27,000 – $36,000 17 – 24 Car based
Hummer H3                   $33,000 – $42,000 16 – 20 Truck based
Jeep Grand Cherokee $27,000 – $43,000 12 – 22 Truck based
Pontiac Torrent            $22,000 – $25,000 18 – 24 Car based

Leave a Reply