For Aussie families, a car is more than just a mode of transport. It’s a mobile command centre for school drop-offs, weekend footy runs, long road trips, and everyday errands. The best family car must balance safety, space, comfort, tech, and affordability. With the 2025 market offering an impressive range of SUVs and sedans, choosing the right one can be a challenge.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the best family cars available in Australia in 2025, factoring in key elements like:
- ANCAP safety ratings
- Interior space and seating
- Child seat compatibility
- Fuel economy
- Tech and convenience features
- Price and value
Key Features to Look for in a Family Car
Before diving into the models, here’s what Aussie families typically prioritise in a family vehicle:
✅ Safety First
- ANCAP 5-star rating (mandatory)
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
- Lane-keep assist
- ISOFIX and top tether points
✅ Space & Versatility
- Ample boot space for prams, bags, and sports gear
- Flexible seating (7 seats optional for growing families)
- Rear legroom and easy access for car seats
- Flat floor for easier entry/exit
✅ Efficiency & Budget
- Fuel-efficient petrol, hybrid, or diesel engines
- Affordable servicing and maintenance
- Good resale value
✅ Tech That Makes Life Easier
- Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Multiple USB ports (front and rear)
- Digital driver display and touchscreen
- Rear-view camera (360-degree if possible)
Top Family SUVs in Australia 2025
1. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
From $42,000 Drive-away
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid continues its reign as the go-to family SUV in 2025 thanks to a winning mix of fuel efficiency, cabin practicality, and class-leading safety.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Hybrid powertrain with excellent fuel economy (~4.7L/100km)
- Spacious rear seats and 580L boot
- 5-star ANCAP rating (2020 test)
- Toyota’s rock-solid reliability and low ownership costs
Downside: Long wait times on new orders due to popularity
2. Kia Sportage
From $39,000 Drive-away
A stylish, well-equipped, and spacious SUV with one of the best infotainment systems in the segment.
Highlights:
- Up to 543L boot space
- Full suite of advanced safety tech
- 7-year unlimited kilometre warranty
- Excellent value for features and interior quality
Downside: Hybrid not yet widely available in Australia
3. Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
From $55,000 Drive-away
A true family hauler with 7 seats, comfort-focused design, and now available in a hybrid powertrain.
Best For:
- Larger families or those needing three rows
- Smooth hybrid system (~6.0L/100km combined)
- Upscale cabin and advanced driver-assist tech
Downside: Higher starting price than smaller SUVs
4. Mazda CX-90
From $74,000 Drive-away
If you want a premium-feeling 7-seater that’s family-ready and future-focused (with hybrid tech), the CX-90 delivers.
Family-Friendly Features:
- PHEV and mild-hybrid options
- Wide-opening rear doors and ample child-seat space
- Premium safety suite (adaptive cruise, traffic jam assist)
Downside: Pricey for some families but offers strong value per dollar
5. Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid EV
From $56,000 Drive-away (PHEV model)
A plug-in SUV with all the family practicality plus electric-only daily driving capability (84km EV range).
Top Family Benefits:
- 7 seats standard
- Electric driving for school runs
- Quiet, refined ride
- Outstanding warranty (10 years conditional)
Best Sedans for Families in 2025
6. Toyota Camry Hybrid
From $39,000 Drive-away
A staple of Aussie family life for decades, the 2025 Camry Hybrid is still unbeatable for value, comfort, and running costs.
Family-Friendly Points:
- Fuel economy under 5.0L/100km
- Massive boot (524L) and roomy back seat
- Safety tech that matches SUVs
- Ideal for urban families not needing an SUV
7. Honda Accord Hybrid
From $55,000 Drive-away
Newly refreshed and tech-packed, the Accord Hybrid delivers spacious comfort with premium vibes.
Ideal For:
- Families wanting sedan practicality with upscale design
- Great fuel economy (4.9L/100km)
- Tech-rich cabin with Google built-in
Downside: One of the more expensive sedans on this list
8. Hyundai Sonata N Line
From $52,000 Drive-away
While more sporty than utilitarian, the Sonata N Line gives families who love driving a sleek, comfortable, and feature-packed ride.
Key Highlights:
- Large 510L boot
- Heated/ventilated seats for front and rear
- Wireless tech, safety, and bold styling
Downside: Not a hybrid, so higher running costs than Camry/Accord
Honorable Mentions: Family-Friendly Cars for Smaller Budgets
9. MG ZS EV Long Range
From $49,000 Drive-away
One of the most affordable EVs on the market with enough space for a small family and lower running costs than petrol alternatives.
10. Subaru Forester
From $42,000 Drive-away
Legendary for safety and all-weather traction thanks to standard AWD. Reliable, practical, and great for families living outside the city.
11. Kia Carnival (People Mover)
From $55,000 Drive-away
Technically not an SUV or sedan, but if you’ve got three or more kids, the Carnival is a dream machine with sliding doors and endless space.
Best 7-Seaters for Growing Families
For larger families or those who frequently carpool, these 7-seaters make the top list in 2025:
| Car Model | Starting Price | Seats | Fuel Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Palisade | $67,000 | 7/8 | Petrol/Diesel | Premium large families |
| Toyota Kluger Hybrid | $62,000 | 7 | Hybrid | Efficiency + space |
| Nissan Pathfinder | $62,000 | 7/8 | Petrol | Road trips, big luggage needs |
| Kia Sorento Hybrid | $63,000 | 7 | Hybrid | Balanced family SUV |
| LDV MIFA 9 (EV Van) | $99,000 | 7/8 | Electric | Quiet, luxury family mover |
Buying Tips for Aussie Families in 2025
1. Prioritise Safety First
Always check the latest ANCAP rating and ensure the model tested reflects the trim you’re buying.
2. Check Car Seat Fit
Not all cars are equal when it comes to child-seat compatibility. Visit the car with your seat before committing.
3. Balance Budget vs Long-Term Cost
An expensive hybrid may cost more upfront but could save you thousands in fuel over 5 years.
4. Consider Resale Value
Brands like Toyota, Subaru, and Mazda generally retain value better than others – critical if you plan to upgrade in 3–5 years.
5. Shop End-of-Year or EOFY Sales
Many dealers offer significant savings around June and December – great time to snag a top-tier trim for a base model price.
Conclusion: The Best Family Car Is One That Fits Your Life
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for family vehicles in Australia. Whether you prefer an economical sedan like the Toyota Camry Hybrid, a space-maximizing SUV like the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, or a budget EV like the MG ZS EV, 2025’s lineup gives Aussie families better, safer, and more efficient choices than ever.
Before signing on the dotted line:
- Always take a test drive
- Check your child-seat fitment
- Understand servicing/ownership costs
- Compare warranty offers
A well-chosen family car doesn’t just get you from A to B – it makes every journey smoother, safer, and more enjoyable for everyone onboard.
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