Ford S-MAX - best 7-seater cars

When the Ford S-MAX first went on sale, it proved that you don’t need to sacrifice driving enjoyment when you outgrow a family saloon – marrying practicality with dynamics to make the finest-handling MPV on the market. Thankfully, behind the stylish bodywork of the latest model, that’s still the case. Ultimate practicality is compromised over some rivals thanks to the smaller body and the lack of sliding doors, but it’s still a sound family buy.

The S-MAX’s interior has received an upgrade over the previous model and is similar to the current-gen Mondeo – which means it gets a large, central touchscreen and improved materials quality all round.

• Ford S-Max review

Space for adults in the rearmost seats is tight for all except short journeys, but kids will be just fine – though it’s worth noting that with all seven seats in place, boot space is very limited. Most families will probably treat this car as a five-seater with a spacious boot and the ability to carry seven when needed.

Equipment is generous as all cars get 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless go, and parking sensors to protect that paintwork, while the set of three Isofix car seat mounts across the rear bench will be a boon for large families with young children. There’s a wide range of engines available too, though the sensible 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel is our pick of the range, thanks to a great mix of pace and running costs.

Best 7-seater cars 2017/2018

1. 1. Citroen Grand C4 Picasso
2. 2. Land Rover Discovery
3. 3. Renault Grand Scenic
4. 4. Volvo XC90
5. 5. Peugeot 5008
6. 6. Audi Q7
7. 7. Skoda Kodiaq
8. 8. Land Rover Discovery Sport
9. 9. Ford S-MAX
10. 10. Tesla Model X