Most Spacious Cars for Growing Aussie Families

Introduction: Why Space Matters for Growing Families

In Australia, families come in all shapes and sizes, but one thing’s for sure: as your family grows, so does the need for space. Whether you’re navigating the school run, heading out on a weekend camping trip, or simply trying to fit groceries alongside a double stroller, a spacious car can make all the difference. That’s why we’ve put together a detailed guide to help Aussie families find the most spacious, practical, and feature-packed cars in 2025.

We’re not just looking at boot space or how many seats you get—we’re diving deep into legroom, interior flexibility, cargo layout, safety tech, comfort features, and value. Let’s explore the top contenders in Australia that will make your life on the road smoother, roomier, and safer.

What Defines a Spacious Family Car?

Before we jump into the list, let’s clarify what “spacious” really means for a growing family:

• Generous rear legroom and headroom for teenagers and adults alike

• Flexible seating layouts (think 7- or 8-seat configurations)

• Ample boot space even with all rows in use

• Smart storage options for bottles, prams, groceries, and more

• Wide-opening doors and ISOFIX points for easy child seat installation

• Third-row accessibility that doesn't require acrobatics

Top Spacious SUVs for Families in Australia

1. Toyota Kluger (2025)

Why it’s a top pick:
The Kluger is a favourite among Aussie families, and for good reason. With three rows of seating, it comfortably fits up to seven passengers. Its second-row slides forward to give better access to the third row, and there's up to 552L of boot space even with the third row up.

Interior Highlights:

• 7-seat layout with reclining second-row seats

• Rear air vents for all rows

• Massive centre console for mum and dad’s essentials

Safety Features:
Toyota Safety Sense (lane tracing, adaptive cruise, pedestrian detection)

2. Kia Carnival (2025)

Why it’s a top pick:
Technically a people mover, but in reality, it's a luxury SUV in disguise with unmatched space. The Carnival offers more flexibility than most SUVs and is perfect for families with three or more kids.

Interior Highlights:

• True 8-seater with adult-friendly third-row

• Sliding rear doors for tight carparks

• Up to 627L boot space with all seats up

Bonus: Rear-seat entertainment and clever under-floor storage.

3. Hyundai Palisade (2025)

Why it’s a top pick:
It’s big, bold, and built for luxury road trips. The Palisade’s third row is legit—adults can actually sit there. It also comes with 7- or 8-seat options and a premium interior that feels more European than Korean.

Interior Highlights:

• Heated and ventilated second-row seats

• Dual sunroofs to keep things airy

• Wireless charging + USB ports in all three rows

4. Mazda CX-90 (2025)

Why it’s a top pick:
A new addition to Mazda’s SUV range, the CX-90 replaces the CX-9 and brings in a more premium interior, hybrid tech, and better third-row space.

Interior Highlights:

• 3-row seating with genuine leather trim

• Elegant design and spacious footwells

• Over 600L boot with third row folded

Drive Experience:
Smooth inline-6 mild-hybrid with excellent on-road comfort.

5. Nissan Pathfinder (2025)

Why it’s a top pick:
The Pathfinder has gone through a modern revival, offering family-friendly features and a bold design. It fits 7 or 8 people depending on configuration.

Interior Highlights:

• Removable centre console in second row

• Tri-zone climate control

• 782L boot (with third row down)

Safety:
Top ANCAP rating, driver assist tech included.

Most Spacious Sedans for Smaller Families

Not everyone wants an SUV. Sedans still offer comfort and space, especially for families with one or two kids.

1. Toyota Camry Hybrid (2025)

• Excellent legroom front and back

• Large 524L boot space

• Hybrid fuel efficiency with low maintenance

2. Skoda Octavia (2025)

• Feels more like a liftback than a traditional sedan

• Massive 600L+ cargo space

• Clever Euro design with family-friendly features

Affordable & Spacious Cars Under $40K

If you don’t want to break the bank but still need the room:

1. MG HS Plus EV

• Plug-in hybrid with generous interior

• 451L boot space

• Great value for under $50K

2. Mitsubishi Outlander (PHEV available)

• One of the only 7-seaters under $50K

• Modern tech + decent third row for kids

• Cargo space: 478L with all rows up

Most Spacious Electric Cars for Aussie Families

Going electric doesn’t mean sacrificing space.

1. Kia EV9 (2025)

• Brand-new, full-size 7-seater electric SUV

• Massive flat-floor design, no central tunnel

• Lounge-like second-row experience

2. Tesla Model Y

• 5-seater with excellent second-row legroom

• Rear seats fold flat for huge boot capacity (~854L)

• Access to Tesla Supercharger network

3. Hyundai Ioniq 7 (Expected Late 2025)

• Concept previews show luxurious cabin space

• 7-seat EV with emphasis on family comfort

• Spacious cabin and sliding lounge seats

Smart Storage: Features That Matter

Beyond raw dimensions, here are features to look for:

• Underfloor storage (great for dirty shoes, tools, or snacks)

• Rear USB ports (kids can stay charged on long drives)

• Seat-back trays (essential for road-trip meals or screens)

• Power tailgates (hands-free boot loading is a lifesaver)

• Flexible middle rows (sliding, reclining, or even captain’s chairs)

Safety Is Key for Family Buyers

Spaciousness is only useful if your family is safe:

• 5-star ANCAP ratings are a must

• ISOFIX anchors in second and third rows help with child seats

• Rear-seat reminders protect against leaving items or children in the car

• Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are lifesavers in car parks

7 Practical Tips for Buying a Spacious Family Car

1. Measure your garage: Some of these SUVs are big

2. Test the third row yourself: Don’t trust marketing brochures

3. Bring your car seats/stroller to the test drive

4. Check boot size with all rows in use

5. Compare insurance costs across vehicle types

6. Ask about extended warranty options

7. Consider long-term value & resale

Verdict: Which Car Is Best for Your Growing Family?

It all depends on your lifestyle:

• Big family? Go for the Kia Carnival or Hyundai Palisade

• Urban family? Toyota Camry Hybrid or Tesla Model Y

• Adventurous family? Mazda CX-90 or Mitsubishi Outlander

• Budget-conscious? MG HS Plus EV or Skoda Octavia

• Future-focused? Kia EV9 or Hyundai Ioniq 7

Final Thoughts

As your family grows, your car needs to grow with you—not just in size, but in functionality, comfort, and safety. Whether you’re after a roomy electric SUV, a budget-friendly 7-seater, or a plush ride with luxury features, there’s never been a better time to upgrade.

Australia's 2025 car market offers an impressive variety of spacious, smartly designed vehicles tailored to family life. Make the right choice now, and you’ll thank yourself every time you load up the kids, groceries, and surfboards for another adventure.