Christmas Road Trips Drive Growing Popularity of Seven-Seater MPVs
Christmas travel across the UK is seeing a noticeable change, as more families and groups turn to 7-seater MPVs and people carriers for festive journeys. The shift aligns with an overall increase in seasonal road travel as households prioritise convenience and togetherness.
Increased Demand Noted Ahead of the Festive Period
Eamonn Turley, owner of DiscoverMPVs, which helps families and groups find suitable multi-passenger vehicles, has observed rising interest in MPVs in the run-up to Christmas.
“We are seeing increased demand for practical transport options during the festive period,” said Eamonn Turley. “People value the ability to travel together, especially at Christmas. For many, an MPV offers ample space while also providing the latest in safety and comfort features that help reduce stress during the holiday season.”
These observations reflect wider national trends. The VisitBritain Christmas Trip Tracker 2024 reports that over 30% of UK adults planned an overnight trip during the Christmas and New Year holidays, with trips to London featuring prominently.
Comfort and Capacity Influencing Vehicle Choices
MPVs with seven seats are proving particularly attractive due to their combination of spacious interiors, adaptable layouts and room for luggage, making them well suited to long winter journeys.
“December typically brings heavier luggage loads, longer distances and more passengers than at any other time of year,” said Eamonn Turley, Travel & Outdoors Expert and CEO of DiscoverMPVs.com. “Families are choosing MPVs because they offer the space and flexibility needed over Christmas time, especially when travelling with children, grandparents or additional guests.”
With fuel costs remaining a consideration and public transport often under strain during peak festive dates, many travellers are choosing private vehicles as a practical alternative for group travel.
Driving Confidence During Winter Conditions
Safety continues to be a priority during Christmas travel. Many newer MPV models now include advanced safety technologies, improved driver visibility and enhanced stability controls, all of which are particularly useful when navigating winter roads and heavier traffic.
Continued Growth Expected Into the Coming Years
The preference for larger, more comfortable vehicles has been building year on year, with MPVs becoming an increasingly common choice for Christmas and winter travel. Rental companies have responded by expanding their range of seven-seater options, as well as introducing more nine-seater minivans. This momentum is expected to carry through to 2026 and beyond, with DiscoverMPVs encouraging early booking to secure preferred models.