Demand for seven-seat cars in both the current rental and used vehicle market is booming, according to Liquid Fleet.

The top three rental requests in Q1 were for the Audi Q7, followed closely by the Kia Sorento and the Seat Tarraco

The fleet procurement and management company, which offers rental services as well as contract hire, said the versatility of seven seaters makes them popular as rentals while their rarity contributes to strong residual values.

Liquid Fleet typically buys several hundred seven seaters each year for its corporate clients – and said the limited options on the market mean they are much sought after.

There are just 10 seven-seat models in the market to choose from – and the top three rental requests in Q1 were for the Audi Q7, followed closely by the Kia Sorento and the Seat Tarraco. Meanwhile, the Dacia Jogger is sought-after by customers looking for value and space.

Jason Arundell, Liquid Fleet’s remarketing manager, explained: “When it comes to ordering seven-seat cars for the fleet, we are restricted to just 10 models, most of which are higher-value premium SUVs. At 13 months and 22,000 miles when it comes to disposal, we have franchised dealers queueing up to buy them.

“Lots of our customers transport passengers and luggage, but don’t always want to rent a minibus which is where the seven-seater comes into its own,” he added.