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Hi there- looking to purchase a 7 seater (much prefer an SUV rather than people mover) - max budget 25-26K,
Looks like our best options are 2006-2007 Toyota Highlander or 2006-2007 Ford Territory. Any thoughts on either? Which would you choose?

Both vehicles are thirsty, unless you can find a diesel Ford Territory in your price range, and dynamically the Territory is a winner. If you consider the Toyota Highlander then you should consider the AWD models as the 2WD suffers from dreaded torque steer.

If you choose to look at something a little smaller then consider the Mitsubishi Outlander 2.4L or Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2L diesel.

In this price range it will be tough to find a low mileage seven seater SUV but try avoiding high mileage vehicles.

Thanks Donavan. That's helpful.

Not a big fan of the Outlander as the two extra seats in the back seem really flimsy and tagged on...

Any thoughts on Nissan Qashqai+2?

The Qashqai is a bit cramped compared to the other vehicles and it has a CVT transmission too - not a bad option but look for a fairly new model with low mileage.

Also remember that when the third row of seats is up it normally has little room left for any luggage and if you have any plans for towing a large trailer then you should rather consider a manual transmission or conventional automatic.