[link|http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/content/11098616361346011107/|CVT RIP?]. CVT's pretty old technology, it's just been refined over the years.
One could get a Freestyle Hybrid, in principle. But I agree with the thrust of your comments. The best peoplemover for groups of 6 -7 is a minivan.
Cheers,
Scott.