Top Family SUVs in Australia with Safety and Space in Mind (2025 Guide)

When it comes to choosing a family car in Australia, SUVs continue to dominate the market. From the school run to weekend road trips, modern Aussie families want a car that’s safe, spacious, comfortable, and filled with useful tech. Fortunately, the 2025 SUV market has plenty of impressive options that cater to every lifestyle and budget.

In this detailed guide, we break down the top family SUVs in Australia—evaluating them based on key factors such as safety ratings, cabin space, boot capacity, fuel economy, value for money, infotainment, and practicality.

Why Families Love SUVs in 2025

Over the past decade, SUVs have become the go-to vehicle for families—and it’s easy to see why:

• Higher seating position offers better visibility.
• Spacious interiors make room for kids, pets, prams, and groceries.
• Advanced safety features are now standard in most models.
• Flexible seating configurations suit growing or active families.
• Modern infotainment systems keep kids entertained on long drives.

Let’s explore the top picks currently making waves across Aussie suburbs and highways.

1. Toyota Kluger (2025) – The Trusted All-Rounder

Why it’s great for families:

• 7-seat configuration
• 5-star ANCAP rating
• Toyota Safety Sense suite standard
• Available in petrol and hybrid versions

The Toyota Kluger is one of Australia’s most popular large SUVs, and for good reason. It’s practical, spacious, and known for bulletproof reliability. In 2025, the hybrid variant continues to impress with fuel economy below 6.0L/100km, making it ideal for long school runs and road trips.

Boot Space: 241L (with all seats up), up to 1150L with third row folded
Best For: Larger families seeking safety and space with hybrid efficiency

2. Mazda CX-90 (2025) – Premium Feel Without the Luxury Price

Why families love it:

• 6 or 7-seat configuration
• Top-tier cabin materials
• High-tech safety features including 360-degree camera, blind-spot monitoring
• Strong turbocharged engine options

The Mazda CX-90 brings a touch of luxury to the family SUV segment. It’s a true premium rival to more expensive European competitors but at a more attainable price point. This SUV balances ride comfort, cabin quality, and family practicality beautifully.

Boot Space: 257L (all seats up), 608L with third row folded
Best For: Style-conscious families who want upscale comfort with reliability

3. Kia Sorento (2025) – High-Value Seven-Seater

Key strengths:

• 7-seat capacity
• Loaded with tech and safety features
• Available in diesel, petrol, and hybrid
• 7-year warranty

The Kia Sorento is one of the most well-rounded family SUVs in Australia. It delivers on every front—safety, comfort, boot space, and value for money. The hybrid version in particular has become a favourite for fuel-conscious families.

Boot Space: 179L (with all seats up), 616L (5-seat configuration)
Best For: Families needing flexibility, fuel efficiency, and warranty peace of mind

4. Hyundai Palisade (2025) – Big on Space, Bigger on Features

Family-winning features:

• Seats 7 or 8 depending on configuration
• Plush, quiet ride
• Loaded with USB ports and cupholders
• Rear-seat entertainment and tri-zone climate

The Palisade is Hyundai’s largest SUV and an ideal choice for bigger families or those who want room to spare. It boasts one of the most usable third rows in the segment, and a boot big enough for multiple strollers or sporting gear.

Boot Space: 311L (all seats up), 704L (with third row down)
Best For: Large families needing maximum comfort and tech inclusivity

5. Subaru Outback (2025) – Wagon Practicality with SUV Toughness

Why Aussie families love it:

• AWD standard across the range
• Excellent ground clearance
• Eyesight safety suite with lane centering, AEB, and adaptive cruise
• Spacious boot and wide-opening doors

While not a traditional SUV, the Outback is a favourite for families who enjoy road trips, camping, or coastal weekends. It’s more fuel efficient than bulkier SUVs but still offers SUV-like practicality and capability.

Boot Space: 522L (all seats up), 1267L (with seats folded)
Best For: Active families who love adventure without sacrificing safety or ride comfort

6. Mitsubishi Outlander (2025) – Feature-Packed and Versatile

Top family-friendly highlights:

• Optional plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV)
• Seven seats in most trims
• Good value for features
• Mi-Pilot driver assist system

With one of the best value-for-money propositions in the market, the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander is a solid option for budget-conscious families. The PHEV version appeals to green-minded parents, offering short electric-only trips with backup petrol range.

Boot Space: 163L (all seats up), 478L with third row folded
Best For: Families wanting hybrid convenience without breaking the bank

7. Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace (2025) – Euro Appeal with Room to Spare

Family-friendly perks:

• Sharp European styling
• Five-star ANCAP rating
• 7-seater option
• Comfortable and quiet interior

The Tiguan Allspace delivers Euro flair without the luxury badge price. It blends safety, subtle sophistication, and driver enjoyment with family needs, making it a classy choice for everyday Australian families.

Boot Space: 230L (all seats up), 700L (5-seat mode)
Best For: Families wanting understated design, excellent build quality, and practicality

8. Honda CR-V (2025) – Back in the Game, and Better Than Ever

Highlights for families:

• Now offered with 7 seats
• Honda Sensing safety suite
• Updated infotainment
• Spacious second and third row

Honda has upped its game with the new-gen CR-V. This SUV is designed with family practicality in mind, offering one of the roomiest second rows in its class and solid fuel economy across petrol and hybrid variants.

Boot Space: 472L with all seats up
Best For: Families who want long-term value and spacious interiors in a compact footprint

9. Ford Everest (2025) – Built for Families Who Love to Explore

Rugged features families love:

• True off-roading ability with 4x4 variants
• Seven seats
• Trailer sway control, hill descent assist, off-road drive modes
• Luxurious cabin options in higher trims

The Ford Everest is built on a ute chassis but offers refinement and flexibility that rivals soft-roaders. Perfect for adventurous Aussie families who tow caravans or hit unsealed roads regularly.

Boot Space: 259L (all seats up), 898L (with third row folded)
Best For: Families that tow, go off-road, or need tough build quality with comfort

10. Skoda Kodiaq (2025) – Underrated Euro Family Star

Features Aussie families appreciate:

• Clever "Simply Clever" features like umbrellas in the doors
• Seven seats
• Digital dash and large boot
• European styling and solid safety credentials

The Kodiaq might fly under the radar, but it’s a gem for families who want value, safety, and understated style. It’s a great alternative to mainstream brands and boasts a refined yet practical cabin.

Boot Space: 270L (with all seats up), 765L with third row down
Best For: Families seeking something different without compromising usability

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Family SUV

✅ Safety First

• 5-star ANCAP safety rating is non-negotiable.
• Look for advanced driver assist systems: AEB, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring.

✅ Space & Boot Size

• Consider how often you’ll use all 7 seats.
• Prioritise third-row usability and cargo capacity with/without seats folded.

✅ Fuel Efficiency & Engine Choice

• Hybrid or PHEV models can lower fuel bills over time.
• Diesel options like the Ford Everest are best for towing or rural families.

✅ Child Seat Compatibility

• Make sure there are enough ISOFIX and top tether points.
• Easy rear door access is crucial for loading young kids.

✅ Warranty & Maintenance

• Kia, Hyundai, and Mitsubishi offer longer warranties (up to 10 years in some cases).
• Consider capped-price servicing to keep long-term costs down.

Final Thoughts: Which Family SUV Is Best for You?

The answer depends on your needs. If you want a reliable hybrid with a strong reputation, the Toyota Kluger leads the way. Want a mix of tech, style, and value? Check out the Kia Sorento or Mazda CX-90. For rugged capability, nothing beats the Ford Everest.

One thing’s for sure—Australia's 2025 SUV lineup offers plenty of excellent family-focused options, no matter your lifestyle or budget. It’s a good time to be a parent who drives.