You're in the market for a big, seven-seater SUV, but which should you choose? We've done some homework. 

BMW 2 Series 218i Gran Tourer 

The buzz: The second vehicle from BMW’s first ever line of front-wheel-drive cars. Like last year’s Active tourer, it’s a tall MPV, only this time with two extra seats that fold into the trunk floor. 
Specs: 1.5L engine; 136 horsepower; fuel consumption 18.5km/L; front-wheel drive.
Tech: Up to 645 liters of luggage space; automatic LED front light control and fog sensor; automatic windshield wiper blades; iDrive system for complete control of vehicle settings and media devices.
What it says about you: I have four kids but i’ve still got style.
Starting price: B2,699,000. www.bmw.co.th
 

Toyota Fortuner 2015-2016

The buzz: The biggest overhaul of Thailand’s SUV of choice in almost a decade sees the seven-seater get a tougher, more aggressive face matched with a cabin that draws something from Range Rover’s futuristic styling (only without the high-quality materials). 
Specs: 2.8L direct-injection turbo-diesel engine; 175 horsepower; expected fuel consumption below 8L/100km; four-wheel drive.
Tech: Automatic trunk lid; push-start engine; automatically adjusting Bi-Beam LED front lights.
What it says about you: My neighborhood always gets flooded.
Starting price: B1,199,000-1,599,000. www.toyota.co.th
 

Ford Everest 

The buzz: This closed-trunk, seven-seat alternative to the Ranger pick-up truck adds urban privacy and practicality to a 4x4 with some credible off-road chops: Ford R&D put the vehicle through heavy testing at over 4,000 meters above sea level in China—hence the name Everest. 
Specs: 3.2L TDCi diesel engine; 200 horsepower; four-wheel drive.
Tech: The i4WD Terrain Management System is made for handling heavy loads off road, as is the locking rear differential; 800mm wading depth below water; hill descent control; Panoramic Moon roof that opens up 50 percent of the cabin.
What it says about you: Don’t mess with me.
Starting price: B1,269,000-1,599,000. www.ford.co.th/en/suvs/all-new-everest

Land Rover Discovery Sport 

The buzz: Developed from the Land Rover Discovery, this more compact model offers a practical alternative to the luxurious, coupe-like Range Rover Evoque. The difference here is that you get a full five seats plus two extra that stow in the trunk. 
Specs: 2.2L SD4 PS engine; 190 horsepower; fuel consumption between 6.3-10.6L/100km; four-wheel drive.
Tech: Terrain Response Electronic Stability Control for genuine off-road capabilities; rear parking sensor; ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System).
What it says about you: I like the idea of the great outdoors more than being there.  
Starting price: B5,990,000. www.landroverthailand.com

 

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