BLOCK PARTY

The chunky new Hyundai Santa Fe squares up against the Skoda Kodiaq in a battle of the family-friendly seven-seaters

SANTA FE vs KODIAQ

Seven-seat family SUVs offer different approaches to the formula

FAMILIES looking for multi-seat transport aren't as well served as they used to be. The MPV class has all but disappeared, with most options these days being either van-based or very expensive, so it's down to seven-seat SUVS to fill the void.

One car that has always been a capable contender in the class is the Hyundai Santa Fe. It was initially launched as an awkward-looking 4x4, but each generation has improved in terms of design, quality and kit. And while the Mk4 was rather forgettable, the new fifth-generation introduces a distinctive appearance that draws inspiration from Hyundai's recent concept cars and electric Ioniq range.

This model also sees a line-up of petrol hybrid and plug-in options offered, with no room for diesel in the range. That's a bold move when the latter still has a place in this market, thanks to its towing ability and long-distance fuel sipping.

One car that still offers diesel power alongside petrol and plug-in options is the Skoda Kodiaq. It hasn't been around for as long as the Santa Fe, so the Czech firm has just launched the second-generation model, but it will still be a strong rival for Hyundai.

HEAD TO HEAD

ON THE ROAD

THE Hyundai is more powerful than the Skoda by 10bhp and is faster from 0-62mph by two-tenths of a second, but it's not as pleasant to use its maximum performance.

The gearbox lets the revs soar, and while the Santa Fe is refined most of the time, its coarse engine note is obvious when accelerating. Neither car is designed to be entertaining in corners, but it's the Kodiaq that is the more agile of the two.

DESIGN