The landscape of Indian roads has transformed dramatically in recent years. Small cars that once dominated the streets are now sharing space with larger utility vehicles that offer more space and versatility. The SUV and MPV segments have witnessed remarkable growth, with seven-seater vehicles becoming increasingly popular among Indian families.
The Rise of Seven-Seater Vehicles in India
Indian automotive consumers are increasingly prioritizing space and practicality, leading to the growing popularity of seven-seater vehicles. While finding a three-row car with seven-seat configuration is relatively easy, locating one priced under ₹10 lakh can be challenging. However, the market does offer several compelling options under ₹15 lakh that combine affordability with functionality.
Top 5 Budget-Friendly 7-Seater Cars
Renault Triber - The Most Affordable MPV
Starting at just ₹5.76 lakh and going up to ₹8.60 lakh (ex-showroom), the Renault Triber holds the title of India's most affordable MPV. The vehicle recently underwent a significant design transformation and received numerous feature upgrades that substantially enhanced its premium appeal. The Triber features sliding and reclining middle row seats, allowing occupants to customize the seating arrangement according to their needs. Under the hood, it houses a 1.0-litre petrol engine that comes paired with either a five-speed manual gearbox or a five-speed AMT unit.
Mahindra Bolero - The Time-Tested Workhorse
The Mahindra Bolero has been serving Indian customers for decades, establishing itself as a reliable and rugged vehicle. Priced between ₹7.99 lakh and ₹9.69 lakh (ex-showroom), this no-frills seven-seater is renowned for its robust build quality and exceptional off-road capability. The Bolero enjoys immense popularity in rural and semi-urban areas, where its durability is highly valued. Powering this iconic model is a 1.5-litre diesel engine coupled with a five-speed manual transmission.
Citroen Aircross X - The Compact Seven-Seater SUV
The Citroen Aircross X stands out as the only compact SUV in its segment offering a seven-seater configuration in the Indian market. With a price range of ₹8.29 lakh to ₹13.69 lakh (ex-showroom), this vehicle provides the versatility of a third row that can be folded down to increase luggage space when needed. The Aircross X is powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine, delivering both performance and efficiency.
Mahindra Bolero Neo - The Modern Interpretation
The Mahindra Bolero Neo represents a contemporary version of the classic Bolero, offering improved ride quality and a more feature-rich cabin. Recently, the Bolero Neo received design updates and additional features alongside its predecessor. Despite its modern touches, it retains the same powertrain as the standard Bolero. The vehicle is priced between ₹8.49 lakh and ₹10.49 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it as an attractive option for those seeking modern amenities in a proven platform.
Maruti Suzuki Ertiga - The Bestselling MPV
The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga continues to dominate the MPV segment in India, maintaining its position as the country's bestselling people mover. Priced from ₹8.80 lakh to ₹12.94 lakh (ex-showroom), the Ertiga strikes an excellent balance between cost efficiency, design, features, and performance. What makes it particularly appealing is the availability of both petrol-only and petrol-CNG powertrain options, catering to different fuel preference and budget considerations. The vehicle is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine that delivers reliable performance.
Making the Right Choice for Your Family
The expanding options in the affordable seven-seater segment mean Indian families now have multiple choices to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize outright affordability, modern features, proven reliability, or fuel efficiency, there's likely a vehicle that matches your requirements. The growing competition in this segment has also led to better features and value across all price points, benefiting consumers looking for practical family transportation solutions.
