For large families, the need for seven-seater vehicles is common. Although the Citroën Aircross Feel7 is the most affordable new option, starting at R$ 123,790, there are more economical alternatives in the used car market. It is important to note that some imported models with three rows of seats may present high maintenance costs or high fuel consumption.
Options for 7-seater used cars
Five options for used cars with seating capacity for seven passengers have been selected as being easier to maintain. Although not all of them are cheap to take to the workshop, they are recognized for their reliability, unlike certain low-circulation imported models.
Chevrolet Spin
Chevrolet established a benchmark in seven-seater minivans in Brazil, succeeding the Zafira, which previously required the use of the Volkswagen Kombi or imported vehicles. The Spin, its successor, is a low-cost project based on a compact car platform. The main advantage of this model is its more affordable maintenance and being more recent. However, there is a notable disadvantage in the third row, which is not built into the floor like it was in the Zafira.
The Chevrolet Spin was only available with the 1.8 Family 1 engine, which generates significant torque at low RPMs. For greater comfort, there is the option of a six-speed automatic transmission.
Fiat Doblo
The Fiat Doblo represented the last vehicle of this type in Brazil. This segment covers vans and trucks with dimensions similar to passenger cars, being popular in Europe to this day. The versions intended for passenger transport of the Fiat Doblo could accommodate two extra seats installed in the trunk. Its van format provides ample interior space, excellent visibility, and easy access through the sliding side doors.
It is recommended to opt for a newer and already refurbished model. It was available with the 1.4 Fire, 1.8 Family 1 from GM, or the 1.8 16v E.Torq engines, all known for their reputation for reliability.
Nissan Grand Livina
The Nissan Grand Livina was developed as an extended version of the Japanese minivan to accommodate the third row of seats. Due to its age, it can be found for lower prices than the Chevrolet Spin. The Grand Livina exclusively used the 1.8 16v engine, the same one used in the short version and the Tiida hatchback. It is a characteristic Japanese engine that uses a chain to synchronize the camshaft and has a good reputation.
In terms of transmission, it offers six-speed manual or four-speed automatic options. A positive point of the Nissan Grand Livina compared to the Chevrolet Spin is the more refined interior finish. In the most complete versions, it could include keyless entry and automatic air conditioning.
Mitsubishi Outlander
The second generation of the Mitsubishi Outlander increased in size and began offering the seven-seater configuration. This SUV was sold in Brazil with 2.0 four-cylinder, 3.0 V6, or 2.3 turbodiesel engines. Among these options, the 2.0 version is considered the easiest to own in Brazil because it shares the mechanical assembly with the Lancer and the ASX. Its performance is not the highest.
The Outlander is the best equipped in this list, featuring dual-zone air conditioning, sunroof, seven airbags, and a rearview camera. Armored units should be avoided, as given its age, they will require extra maintenance.
Mitsubishi Pajero Dakar
This vehicle is indicated for those with a large family who enjoy traveling to more remote areas. Among the seven-seater 4x4 SUVs, the Mitsubishi Pajero Dakar offers the best cost-benefit ratio in the used market. Although the Toyota Hilux SW4 is famous for being indestructible, this makes it highly valued, resulting in high mileage in most units. The Pajero Dakar, on the other hand, is less valued and also has robust mechanics.
Its 3.2 turbodiesel engine is considered by Mitsubishi enthusiasts to be the best diesel the brand has ever offered in Brazil. The Pajero Dakar features 4x4 traction with low range and a center differential, allowing it to be used both on asphalt and off-road.
