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Why the 2026 Best 7‑Seat SUV Matters
Every year, families look for a vehicle that can comfortably seat everyone, fit all the gear, and keep the price reasonable. The Drive Car of the Year awards give a clear benchmark for what a modern seven‑seat SUV should offer. In 2026, the competition was fierce, with four front‑running models all priced under $60,000. The winner, the Hyundai Santa Fe, emerged after a rigorous testing regime that covered public road loops, controlled track conditions, and emergency avoidance scenarios.
The Contenders at a Glance
The four vehicles that made the final cut were the MG QS, the Hyundai Santa Fe, the Cherry Tig 9, and the Volkswagen Ton (also known as the Tyron). Each of these models brought a different approach to the seven‑seat, under‑$60,000 segment: the MG QS offered a value‑packed three‑row layout, the Santa Fe delivered a proven hybrid powertrain, the Tig 9 introduced a plug‑in hybrid option, and the Ton stretched a familiar midsize SUV into a third‑row configuration.
MG QS – Value‑Focused but Varies in Comfort
The MG QS is the first three‑row car from MG that has made a mark in Australia. Its interior is spacious, with generous storage in the console and under‑seat bins. The cabin features faux wood trim and a large central armrest that doubles as a cup holder. The third‑row seats can be slid forward to create more legroom for adults, but the overall height remains a bit cramped for taller passengers. The powertrain feels underpowered at higher speeds, and the torque delivery is described as “pokey” when accelerating to 60 km/h. While the infotainment system is functional, it can feel clumsy and laggy, which detracts from the overall experience. Despite these shortcomings, the QS offers excellent value for money, especially for families that prioritize space and affordability.
Hyundai Santa Fe – The Proven Hybrid Champion
The Santa Fe has been the 2025 Drive Car of the Year winner and returns as a strong contender in 2026. Its hybrid powertrain is praised for its fuel efficiency, and the vehicle’s large footprint translates into ample interior space. The second‑row seats feature a sliding base that can be moved forward to accommodate taller passengers or to create more cargo space. The third row is accessible via a single‑touch fold button, and while it is not the most spacious in the segment, it offers reasonable legroom for children and short‑statured adults. The Santa Fe’s infotainment system is reliable, and the vehicle comes with a generous warranty. Overall, the Santa Fe balances practicality, hybrid efficiency, and a well‑designed interior, making it a compelling choice for families on a budget.
Cherry Tig 9 – Plug‑In Hybrid with Mixed Feel
The Cherry Tig 9 stands out as the only plug‑in hybrid in the group, offering a seven‑seat layout and a combined electric‑and‑petrol range. The vehicle’s interior is well‑equipped with heated, ventilated, and massage seats, a large touchscreen, and wireless phone charging. However, the transition between electric and petrol modes can feel abrupt, and the infotainment interface is not as responsive as desired. The third‑row seats are firm but offer limited flexibility, and the rear door opening is narrow, making it difficult for taller adults to access the back seats. While the Tig 9 delivers value and electrification benefits, its overall driving experience and interior usability fall short compared to its rivals.
Volkswagen Ton – A Stretched Familiarity
The Ton, essentially a long‑wheelbase version of the Volkswagen Tiguan AllSpace, brings a familiar design language to the seven‑seat market. The interior is polished, with clever storage solutions such as a lift‑up tray and cup holders. The cabin feels premium, but the third‑row space is slightly smaller than competitors, and the rear door opening is narrow, making it hard for larger adults to get in and out. The infotainment system is touch‑screen only, which can be frustrating for quick adjustments while driving. Despite these drawbacks, the Ton offers a comfortable ride and a well‑finished interior, making it a respectable contender.
Why the Santa Fe Took the Crown
After testing all four models on identical public road loops and controlled track conditions, the judges highlighted the Santa Fe’s blend of practicality, hybrid efficiency, and family‑friendly features. Its spacious interior, reliable infotainment, and proven hybrid powertrain gave it an edge over the MG QS’s underpowered engine, the Tig 9’s clunky interface, and the Ton’s limited rear access. The Santa Fe’s ability to deliver a quality driving experience while staying under the $60,000 price point made it the clear winner for the 2026 Drive Car of the Year’s best seven‑seat SUV.
What Families Should Look For
When choosing a seven‑seat SUV, families should consider interior space, especially in the third row, the smoothness of the powertrain, and the usability of the infotainment system. Hybrid or plug‑in hybrid options can offer fuel savings, but the transition between power sources should feel seamless. A well‑designed storage system and easy access to the rear seats are also key for long trips. The Santa Fe’s balanced approach to these factors demonstrates why it remains a top choice for families seeking value and performance.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Drive Car of the Year’s best seven‑seat SUV under $60,000 showcases how manufacturers are pushing the envelope in space, efficiency, and affordability. While each contender brought unique strengths, the Hyundai Santa Fe’s proven hybrid powertrain, spacious cabin, and family‑centric features secured its place at the top of the segment. Families looking for a reliable, well‑equipped seven‑seat SUV will find the Santa Fe a compelling option that delivers on both performance and practicality.