If you’re planning to buy a seven-seater SUV in India, you’re likely doing so to accommodate a growing family, regular road trips, or simply to enjoy the added space and comfort. These vehicles offer practicality, road presence, and the ability to handle our varied road conditions. But with a crowded market and different use cases, choosing the right one needs more than just comparing price tags. Here are some key things to consider before making your final decision.
- How Will You Use It?
Start with your primary reason for buying a seven-seater. Is it mostly for daily city commutes with occasional long drives? Or are you planning frequent highway journeys with a full load of passengers and luggage? For city use, compact seven-seaters may suffice. For highway or off-road trips, a larger SUV makes more sense.
- Third Row Usability
Don’t just go by the “seven-seater” label. Many SUVs have third rows that are best suited for kids or short distances. If adults will be using the last row regularly, make sure to check headroom, legroom, and ease of access.
- Boot Space with All Seats Up
This is often overlooked. Once all seven seats are in use, most SUVs offer very limited boot space. If you’re travelling with luggage, this becomes a major issue. Look for models with decent boot capacity or at least foldable third-row seats for flexibility.
The Citroën Aircross handles this balance reasonably well. Its biggest strength is its ability to adapt. From spontaneous drives to full family trips, the Aircross creates space for everything and everyone. Thanks to its Flexi-Pro 5+2 seating and seven unique seating variations, it’s ready for whatever the day demands.
- Fuel Type and Efficiency
Fuel economy can make a big difference in running costs, especially for a heavier vehicle. Diesel engines are typically more fuel-efficient for SUVs and offer better torque for long-distance and uphill driving. However, with increasing restrictions on diesel vehicles in major cities, petrol or even CNG could be better suited for urban users. Be mindful of long-term viability, especially with the push toward EVs and cleaner fuels.
- Ride Comfort and Suspension
Indian roads are unpredictable. A seven-seater SUV should absorb potholes and rough patches without tossing passengers around. Test the suspension and ride quality, especially with a full load.
The Citroën Aircross features a globally acclaimed suspension system. Nicknamed the Flying Carpet Effect, it’s designed to absorb every undulation, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride wherever the road takes you.
- Safety Features
With more people on board, safety becomes even more important. Look for essential features like six airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, ESC, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. Don’t cut corners here.
- Maintenance and Resale
Think long-term. Consider brand reputation for after-sales service, cost of spares, and expected resale value. Also, check service network availability if you live in smaller towns or rural areas.
Final Word
A seven-seater SUV is a big investment, often meant for the long haul. With SUV car prices in India ranging widely across segments, it’s important to prioritise your real-world needs, focus on practicality over flashy features, and test drive multiple options before making a decision. With the right choice, you won’t just get more seats; you’ll get more value out of every drive.
