Go for the Tata Safari turbo-petrol. It is far more suited as a seven-seater than the Mahindra XUV 7XO, due to a more spacious third row. Also, the Sierra's touchscreen and user interface are far simpler than the Mahindra's, which can feel a bit overwhelming, at least initially.

While we haven't extensively tested the Safari turbo-petrol, expect single-digit fuel efficiency in urban conditions. It is expected of such a large SUV. If running costs matter, then you could consider the diesel version instead. 

Relatively smaller and easier to drive 7-seater options are the Hyundai Alcazar and Kia Carens Clavis, which come with turbo-petrol and diesel automatic options.

We would recommend a three-row vehicle, as there are very few cars in which the second row of seats folds flat or can be removed. Two cars in which you can remove the third row of seats to liberate a large flat area are the Renault Triber and the Citroen Aircross X. 

Both are great options that offer comfortable rides and great space efficiency. The Aircross X is larger, more powerful and from a segment above, but the Triber is more affordable. Also it has a lower boot lip height, which will make entry and exits easier for your dogs. 

All things considered, though, the best all-round option for you is the Kia Carens Clavis, though it is more expensive than the aforementioned two. Not only is it a much better-rounded vehicle with more powertrain options (including an EV), it's also the most practical. 

It has a flat folding third row, which on its own frees up lots of space. Moreover, if you need more still, the second row will fold near-flat in the 7-seat version. You should be able to fit a mattress for your dogs with a bit of folding.

The new Tata Sierra and new Kia Seltos are both excellent 5-seat SUVs packed with the latest features and tech. The Tata scores high on space and ride comfort, while the Seltos is big on quality and driving dynamics. 

However, at this price, you could get a 7-seater too. If you don't mind the MPV body style, the Kia Carens Clavis offers the most spacious and practical cabin and is available with several different engines and gearboxes. 

If you would like an SUV body style, consider the Hyundai Alcazar, though its third row and boot aren't quite as good as the Kia's. 

The Kia Carens Clavis is the best 7-seater within your budget. While the 1.5 petrol NA engine is decent, the added power and punch of the turbo-petrol engine will count for a lot, given that you travel with 6 onboard and go on frequent road trips. The enhanced performance is why we'd recommend you opt for the turbo-petrol. 

Doing so, will require you to go for the Kia Carens Clavis 1.5 Turbo HTE(O) in place of the 1.5 NA HTK. If you do break it down, you don't lose all that much by way of features. 

Features on the HTK that are missing on the HTE(O) include front parking sensors, auto climate control, DRLs and alloy wheels (though the Turbo gets larger and chunkier tyres). There is no difference in safety equipment or infotainment features. 

At the lower end of the price range, there's the Kia Syros. It's got a very spacious cabin and should accommodate you in reasonable comfort. It's got a refined diesel engine that delivers reasonable power and good fuel economy. 

At the upper end of the price range, you could look at the Mahindra XUV 7XO. It's got an airy cabin and a high roof, so it should fit your requirements. However, many of us did find that the driver's seat doesn't go down as low as we'd like, and this is something you are advised to check for yourself. In terms of engine performance, the XUV 7XO's 2.2-litre diesel unit is great, delivering ample power for highway drives.

If you are open to the MPV body style, the Kia Carens Clavis is also worth a look. It's got a relatively high roof, which should put you at ease. Its diesel engine is also pleasant, offering fair performance with good refinement.  

You're right to say the Kia Carens Clavis is better as a 6/7 seater and as a city car, thanks to its more space-efficient shape yet smaller dimensions. Spec for spec, the HTK (O) plus is probably better equipped than the Mahindra XUV700 AX5, too. 

However, if the Mahindra XUV700 was already your wishlist car and you're getting it at the price you want, you should go for it. It definitely has more road presence, a more powerful engine and comes with the peace of mind of a 5-star NCAP rating. 

Its third row is not amazing, but if your family usage is limited, a little shuffling might be worth everything else it offers. 

The Kia Carens Clavis is the ideal pick for your requirements. It's a well-packaged MPV that offers comfortable seating across all three rows. A one-touch operation for the middle row seat fold makes access to the last row easy. Also, there is ample movement built into the middle row to balance space for all passengers. 

The Clavis is also easy to drive and doesn't intimidate as some three-row SUVs can. From the Clavis line-up, the Turbo DCT HTX(O) is the one to buy.

Of the other three-row petrol-auto options, there's the Hyundai Alcazar, MG Hector Plus, Mahindra XUV 7XO and Tata Safari.