When it comes to family vehicles, the demand for spacious, reliable, and affordable options has never been higher, especially in Australia. In the long list of choices, a three-row SUV with a capacity of seven occupants seems like the best format for maximum practicality. The best 7-seater SUVs under $50,000 offer an ideal balance of comfort, utility, and affordability, making them an attractive choice for families seeking to maximise their budget without compromising on quality or features.

In this blog, we will explore the top 7-seater SUVs available in Australia for under $50,000, showcasing how these options provide families with a blend of space, comfort, and affordability.

Mahindra XUV700

Data for 2024 Mahindra XUV700 AX7L Auto

The Indian automotive brand has embraced a bold design approach with the Mahindra XUV700, aiming for broad mass appeal. It is due for a midlife refresh, but it still presents as an attractive vehicle. Notable exterior features include electric pop-out door handles reminiscent of Tesla and distinctive LED daytime running lights which add a unique character. Overall, it maintains the typical appearance of a seven-seater SUV.

The XUV700’s infotainment system has its quirks. It suffers from some odd bugs and outdated experiences. Although the screens are exceptionally clear and the hardware is responsive, the software and menu design are somewhat confusing. Not only there isn’t much space for adults in the third row, manual effort is needed to fold it to open up more luggage room. You need to pull the lever and then push it down, it doesn’t automatically drop forwards and down like in some rivals, however for the price, this seems to be an acceptable trade-off.

Key Features;

• 10.25-inch infotainment screen & 10.25-inch MID
• Dual-zone climate control
• Panoramic sunroof
• 12-speaker sound system
• 7 Year/1,50,000 km warranty & 7 year roadside maintenance
  

What’s good about it?

• Most affordable compared to all competitors
• Price to feature ratio is exceptional
• Bulky design
  

What’s not so good about it?

• Front-wheel drive
• Infotainment system is very user-friendly
• Interior design

Honda CR-V

Data for 2024 Honda CR-V VTi X7 Auto FWD MY24

The Honda CR-V is a spacious family SUV with an attractive design, exceptional cabin comfort, and a long-standing reputation for its practicalities. As one of the best-selling SUVs globally, it competes with rivals like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento. However, the CR-V’s competitive pricing makes it a more appealing option than these alternatives.

Despite its size, the CR-V is remarkably easy to manoeuvre around town. Its slim pillars enhance visibility, and most trims (except the base Elegance) come equipped with a 360-degree camera, ensuring easy navigation in tight spaces. Comfort is a strong point, as the CR-V smoothly handles most road imperfections, offering a pleasant driving experience even with occasional jolts over speed bumps. While pricier variants of this SUV also get all-wheel-drive, only the base-level three-row front-wheel-drive variant falls under the $50k price tag. While the second row is quite accommodating, the third row might not be comfortable on long journeys for adults.

Key Features;

• 9-inch infotainment system & 10.2-inch MID
• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross Traffic Monitor
• Honda CONNECT
• Drive mode (Econ, Normal, Snow, Sport)
• Honda 360 sensing
  

What’s good about it?

• ADAS works well
• Cabin design is ample
• Seats are super comfortable
  

What’s not so good about it?

• Price to feature ratio is underwhelming
• Engine is noisy and seeps into the cabin
• Small infotainment screen

Mitsubishi Outlander

Data for 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Aspire ZM Auto AWD MY24

The Mitsubishi Outlander is another reliable pick as a family SUV with a spacious cabin that accommodates up to seven passengers. Its boot is large enough for extended family trips, making it quite practical. While the interior is functional and well-built, it lacks the excitement and innovation seen in some rivals. The Outlander offers a smooth, comfortable ride on motorways, though its driving dynamics are average.

However, it doesn’t excel in any particular aspect. Competitors like the Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage present more modern features and designs. Additionally, the third-row seating is better suited for children, as adults may find space lacking. For more details on space and functionality, refer to the full review of the Mitsubishi Outlander.

Key Features;

• 9-inch infotainment screen & 7-inch MID
• Dual-zone climate control, second-row air vents
• Heated front seats
• Wireless phone charger
• MiTEC system
  

What’s good about it?

• Cabin is well-insulated from noise
• Ample boot space
• Spacious second-row
  

What’s not so good about it?

• Driving experience is underwhelming
• Exterior design is ordinary
• Single engine choice

Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace

Data for 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan 132TSI Life Allspace 5N Auto 4MOTION MY24

The VW Tiguan Allspace presents a more mature look than many of its rivals, with an interior that exudes quality. Being a premium model, only the entry-level Life trim falls within the $50k budget. Soft-touch plastics, glossy metal-effect trims, and soft-close storage compartments contribute to a refined feel, though the design isn’t particularly thrilling. The infotainment system is impressive, offering a sharp display on par with Audi’s Virtual Cockpit, setting it apart from many other seven-seaters lacking in tech.

In terms of space, the Allspace’s third row nearly rivals the roomy Skoda Kodiaq. There’s enough room for small adults on short trips, while children should be comfortable even on longer journeys. The middle row is more spacious than the standard Tiguan, thanks to the extended body, and the front seats offer ample adjustment for a tailored driving position.

Key Features;

• 8-inch infotainment system & 10.25 digital driver’s display
• IQ. Drive assist systems for lane assist and adaptive cruise control
• Active control AWD with hill descent control
• Dynamic chassis control
• Panoramic sunroof
  

What’s good about it?

• Second-row space is ample
• Infotainment system
• Cabin is built smartly
  

What’s not so good about it?

• Dull interiors
• Boot space is underwhelming
• Bit pricey

Chery Tiggo 8

Data for 2024 Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max Ultimate AWD Auto AWD MY24

The Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max entered the Australian market earlier this year as one of the most affordable seven-seat SUVs, priced at just $41,990 drive-away. It's positioned as a value-oriented option, offering a seven-year warranty, capped-price servicing, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. While this 7-seater makes room for 5 people comfortably, it won’t be without alot of trouble to access the third row without being a yoga instructor.

Inside, the Tiggo 8 Pro Max offers a layout that nearly feels premium. The woodgrain-style inlays and silver accents create a smart cabin atmosphere, complemented by a sharp infotainment and instrument cluster display. However, the seats, while comfortable, lacked firm bolstering for support during cornering, and the limited seat travel made finding an ideal driving position somewhat difficult. Despite these minor drawbacks, the interior gives off a well-designed and practical impression overall.

Key Features;

• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Driver Attention Warning
• 12.3 infotainment screen & 12.3-inch driver’s display
• Panoramic sunroof
• Traffic Jam Assist & Integrated Cruise Assist
  

What’s good about it?

• Spacious cabin
• Industry-leading warranty period
• Standard tech is ample
  

What’s not so good about it?

• Overly sensitive throttle
• Touch inputs for climate controls
• Third-row access is restricted

Isuzu MU-X

Data for 2024 Isuzu MU-X LS-M Auto 4x2 MY24

The interior of the MU-X hasn't seen major changes from the 2023 model, but it remains pragmatic and functional. Its commercial roots, shared with the D-Max ute, give it a practical feel that suits family use. The MU-X also has a basic part-time four-wheel-drive system, but you’ll have to stretch the budget somewhat for that variant. While this new-generation model is notably more expensive than its predecessor, it offers significantly more features and equipment.

The operating system of the infotainment unit is functional but lacks the sophistication and user-friendly design of other systems. Notably, wireless smartphone mirroring for Android is absent. However, once you plug in your phone and your smartphone’s system takes over, these concerns tend to fade. Given that Isuzu has made this SUV as spacious as it could within constraints, there is ample space for a person in the third row, a bit cramped but adjustable. Third-row vents provide a sense of relief from feeling claustrophobic or shoved in feeling.

Key Features;

• 7-inch infotainment system & 4.2-inch digital multi-function display
• Strong suite of safety features
• Electric parking brake
• Driver attention assistance
• Post-collision braking
• Lane-departure warning & Lane-keep assistance
  

What’s good about it?

• Built like a tank
• Good fuel efficiency
• Spacious cabin
  

What’s not so good about it?

• Price-to-feature ratio
• Cabin feels dated by comparison
• Infotainment system is underwhelming

Mazda CX-8

Data for 2023 Mazda CX-8 G25 Touring KG Series Auto FWD

Why is Mazda discontinuing this relatively popular three-row crossover? The reason is simple: it's making way for its new premium SUV lineup. The two-row CX-60 and three-row CX-90 have already arrived, and a stretched three-row version of the CX-60, known as the CX-80, is set for a local release. But if you’re lucky, you might still be able to find some runout stock of the Mazda CX-8 with the possibility of attractive deals. The base Sport diesel-AWD variant also falls within the budget.

While second-row space in the CX-8 isn't extraordinary, it’s still far from cramped and more spacious than the "bonus" third row found in some midsize SUVs like the Outlander and comparable to the Santa Fe or Sorento. In terms of comforts, you can still get power-adjustable front seats, plenty of safety tech, and black leatherette upholstery in this budget.

Key Features;

• 10.25-inch infotainment screen & 7-inch MID
• Tri-zone climate control
• Driver assist systems like auto emergency braking and blind spot monitoring
• 8-way power driver’s seat & 6-way power passenger seat
• 6-speaker stereo system
  

What’s good about it?

• Cabin is well insulated
• Decent driving experience
• Comfortable interior
  

What’s not so good about it?

• Third row is best suited for kids
• About to be replaced in the lineup

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 7-seater SUVs offer an impressive range of capabilities for families seeking both space and value without compromising quality. Whether you're looking to purchase a new vehicle or exploring the used car market, these SUVs stand out as practical and affordable choices that meet the diverse needs of modern family life. With their blend of comfort, advanced safety features, and ample storage capacity, they promise a reliable and fulfilling ownership experience for both city runs and long road trips.

For those looking to perhaps find their ideal SUV in the used car market with ease, CARS24 is an excellent place for it. With us, you can easily browse a wide selection of certified used 7-seater SUVs that fit your budget. With transparent pricing and a commitment to customer satisfaction, CARS24 makes finding your ideal family vehicle a seamless process. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, a hassle-free car buying experience from a wide range of options is just a few clicks away on the CARS24 website and app.