12 Best Eight-Seater Family Cars

Looking for a car with extra space? It can sometimes be a bit tricky to find just the right fit. Eight-seater cars may be perfect for you — they offer more room than seven-seat MPVs without being as bulky as minibuses that seat 9 to 16 passengers. If you’ve got a large family or often travel with friends, consider choosing an eight-seater from the list below.

And keep in mind, Carplus is here to support you in getting the vehicle you want, with terms that work well for you.

1. Ford Tourneo Custom

The Ford Tourneo Custom offers a lot of space, with an eight-seater car layout as standard: two seats in the front, three in the middle row facing backward, and three in the third row facing forward. You can opt for an additional seat upfront for nine seats in total.

You can choose between strong 2.0-litre engines, ranging from 104 to 182bhp. Even though it looks like a typical van with windows, the Tourneo Custom still upholds Ford’s reputation for making vehicles that drive nicely.

2. Renault Trafic Passenger

The Renault Trafic Passenger is different from typical 8-seater cars. This van-based people carrier solves the common problem of having many seats but limited luggage space. It can seat up to eight or nine passengers (depending on the variant) while still offering enough room for everyone’s belongings.

The Trafic Passenger offers 2.0-litre diesel, 109-168bhp, with 6-speed manual or dual-clutch auto options. Although the ride is firm, it feels stable at higher speeds and avoids the floaty sensation.

3. Toyota Proace Verso

The Toyota Proace Verso is a flexible MPV with options for nine, eight, or seven seats across two lengths, Long and Medium. The eight-seater diesel models include a 1.5-litre with 118bhp, a recommended 2.0-litre with 138bhp, and a more powerful 2.0-litre with 178bhp and automatic transmission.

In higher trims, the Toyota Proace Verso offers versatile second and third-row seats that slide, recline, and can be removed entirely for a van-like cargo space. Just keep in mind, these seats are heavy.

4. Citroën SpaceTourer

The Citroën SpaceTourer lineup offers three diesel engine options alongside the electric ë-SpaceTourer. The most capable is the 142bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine with a manual gearbox. It provides a smooth and comfortable ride, especially on gentle, undulating roads. Inside, this people carrier offers a commanding view from its elevated seating position.

As far as 8-seater cars go, the smaller M version is versatile, with two or three rows of adult-friendly seats. The third-row configuration impacts cargo space. The larger XL variant comfortably fits three rows of passengers with plenty of space for luggage.

5. Peugeot Traveller

The Peugeot Traveller is incredibly spacious inside due to a large, boxy design. It offers four engine choices, including a 1.6-litre diesel with 94bhp and a six-speed manual gearbox. This one might struggle with heavier loads. Opting for the 2.0-litre diesel with 178bhp provides more smoothness. There’s also an electric version, the Peugeot e-Traveller.

The Compact trim is tight with three rows and eight seats total, and the Standard has good passenger space but a smaller boot or fewer seats. The Long comfortably fits three rows and luggage.

6. Vauxhall Vivaro Life

The Vauxhall Vivaro Life looks like a regular van-like eight-seater. But it’s surprisingly enjoyable to drive due to its platform shared with other PSA Group cars.

For optimal performance, the 178bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine is recommended, especially if regularly carrying up to eight passengers. There’s also an electric model, the Vauxhall Vivaro Life Electric, available. The car remains quiet at higher speeds, so you get a comfortable ride.

There’s decent seating flexibility, which allows to accommodate both passengers and luggage efficiently.

7. Mercedes V-Class

The Mercedes V-Class offers two diesel engine options, the 220d and the 300d, both powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 161bhp and 233bhp. It provides a quiet ride with minimal wind or tyre noise. And its suspension handles bumps well without feeling too soft.

In the standard eight-seater setup, the second row has two individual seats that can be turned to face the three in the third row. Upgrades, like reclining and massage features and pillow-soft headrests, are offered in the VIP-spec V-Class.

8. Volkswagen Transporter Shuttle

The Volkswagen Transporter Shuttle is a practical choice for both passengers and cargo. It offers a comfortable driving experience and incorporates modern tech and safety features.

The engine lineup in these 8-seater cars mainly comprises VW’s reliable 2.0-litre diesel. The ride quality is satisfactory, even with lighter loads.

You can choose from three trim levels: Startline, which is more utilitarian, Highline for added luxury, and Sportline for a sportier appearance. Keep in mind that if you opt for the front middle bench seat, the middle passenger may have less legroom.

9. Mercedes Vito Tourer

The Mercedes Vito Tourer is an eight-seater with a unique platform exclusive to the brand. It features rear-wheel drive models with Mercedes’ latest 2.0-litre turbodiesel engines known for their low emissions. Front-wheel drive versions are powered by efficient 1.7-litre engines.

One of the best things about the Vito Tourer is its exceptional comfort and smooth ride, especially with the larger diesel engine. It’s also surprisingly stylish for a panel van. While it comes in three body lengths (Compact, Long, and Extra-Long), there’s only one roof height option available.

10. Ford Transit Custom Kombi

The Ford Transit Custom has been a top seller in the country for many years. It’s powered by a 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine, which offers power outputs from 108 to 168bhp. This eight-seater has always had excellent driveability. But the latest Transit Custom features improved steering that feels faster, more precise, and lighter.

Inside, the cabin impresses with high-quality plastics of varying textures and appearances and plenty of storage space. The seating position is designed for a less upright feel, which enhances the van’s on-road demeanour.

11. Hyundai Palisade

The Hyundai Palisade is a top pick for its balance of utility for family life, value, and luxury. It runs on a smooth 3.8-litre V-6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive comes standard, and you can choose all-wheel drive as an option.

On the road, the Palisade feels composed and relaxed, perfect for long trips. Inside, you’ll find a high-class cabin with premium finishes and three comfortable rows of seats. The SE and SEL trims make 8-seater cars, while the Limited and Calligraphy models accommodate only seven.

12. Nissan Armada

The Nissan Armada is the largest SUV eight-seater in Nissan’s lineup and features body-on-frame construction and three rows of seating. It’s powered by a robust 5.6-litre V-8 engine.

It comes with an independent rear suspension for better handling on rough roads, but its ride and handling may feel a bit outdated. Four-wheel drive is available on all trim levels, and a limited-slip rear axle is standard.

Eight seats are offered by default, but you can opt for second-row captain’s chairs in the seven-seat setup.

Final Words

Eight-seater cars, often van-based people carriers, cater to a niche market. The selection may not be vast, but there are options available if you need one of these.

Don’t expect an eight-seater to be on the same level of refinement as premium sedans. But you’ll be glad to know that modern vans have clearly improved in terms of comfort and features, so owning one is a more pleasant experience than in the past.

Finally, a reminder to use Carplus to secure the best car finance deal!