Few types of vehicles face as many demands as family SUVs. They must be comfortable, practical, safe, and affordable and that’s before considering how enjoyable they are to drive.
To stand out as the best in this category means being among the finest cars available. This makes distinguishing the top contenders from the rest a truly challenging task.
Luckily, our expert team of road testers is well-prepared for this challenge. They have logged thousands of hours behind the wheel of every family SUV on the market, evaluating them across all the important criteria for family SUV buyers from performance to practicality, and from reliability to running costs.
These SUVs have been tested on public roads as well as in direct comparison with key rivals on our private test track. Moreover, they’ve been loaded with passengers and luggage to assess how they perform when fully loaded.
SUVs That Are Safe With Kids
The outcome of this extensive testing is the list presented here, where we reveal the best family SUVs currently available along with the one we recommend avoiding entirely.
Our list includes vehicles powered by traditional petrol and diesel engines, as well as hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and an increasing number of electric SUVs.
Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage is a well-rounded family SUV that offers excellent value, especially in its lower-spec models. It features a smart and user-friendly interior with generous rear legroom and a spacious 562-litre boot, making it practical for everyday use.
While the rear seats don’t slide like some rivals, their seatbacks recline for added comfort and have a useful 40/20/40 split. One drawback is that rear headroom is compromised if you opt for the panoramic roof, and the car lacks clever rear seat functions.
Some buyers might believe a premium badge guarantees a better car, but with the Sportage being slightly more refined and comfortable than its close relative, the Hyundai Tucson, it’s hard to justify spending extra.
The model we recommend is the 1.6T GDi 157 48V ISG 3 5dr, which accelerates from 0-62mph in 9.9 seconds and delivers 42.8mpg with CO2 emissions of 149g/km.
While hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions are available, the mild hybrid petrol engine strikes a good balance between lively performance and reasonable running costs.
Additionally, it’s worth paying a bit more to upgrade to the mid-range 3 trim, which includes useful features such as heated front and outer rear seats, enhancing comfort and value.
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Skoda Elroq
If you’re in the market for an electric family SUV, the Skoda Elroq is our top recommendation in this category. It shares a similar size and shape to the combustion-engine Skoda Karoq, a longtime favorite.
The Elroq’s boot is impressively spacious, fitting six carry-on suitcases more than the Kia EV3 can manage. Although the Renault Scenic offers even more boot space, the Elroq is a more enjoyable car to drive.
The range-topping 85 model is likely the best fit for most buyers, featuring a powerful 282bhp engine that delivers a swift 0-62mph sprint in 6.2 seconds.
It also comes with the largest 77kWh battery, providing an official range of up to 360 miles between charges. Inside, the Elroq is comfortable, with seats that offer more side support than those in the Tesla Model Y.
Even taller passengers, around six feet tall, will find the rear bench spacious enough, even when seated behind an equally tall driver. The Edition trim is well equipped, including features such as adaptive cruise control, keyless entry, and wireless phone charging.
On the downside, the rear seats lack clever features, there are no physical climate control buttons, and the heat pump is an optional extra. Overall, the Elroq combines comfort, practicality, and value, making it a strong contender in the electric family SUV segment.
Renault Scenic
The Renault Scenic is the second electric SUV featured on this list, offering a Long Range version that officially provides up to 379 miles between charges.
In real-world testing, the Scenic’s efficiency of 3.1 miles per kWh means a practical range of around 270 miles should be achievable under typical driving conditions, which will meet the needs of most drivers.
The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, making the Scenic even more comfortable than the Kia EV6 and more supple than the Tesla Model Y.
Its steering is accurate, though it could benefit from a bit more weight; however, this can be adjusted by selecting the Sport driving mode, which increases steering resistance.
Pricing is competitive, with even the Long Range versions undercutting many rivals, and the entry-level Techno trim is well equipped, including features like 19-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, and adaptive cruise control.
Some downsides include rear seat versatility that could be better, a spongy brake pedal feel, and the fact that the Scenic is not particularly quick, but overall it offers a strong combination of range, comfort, and value, along with a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.
Volvo XC40
The Volvo XC40 represents the essence of what makes a great family SUV. It successfully combines the practicality, stylish design, and renowned safety features that have long been associated with the Volvo brand only here, all of that is packaged into compact dimensions that make the XC40 ideal for navigating more crowded urban environments.
Our preferred version is the entry-level B3 2.0-litre petrol engine, which provides sufficient power for most drivers while helping to keep running costs low.
The XC40 delivers a smooth and comfortable driving experience, featuring a refined ride quality and a slick automatic gearbox note that a manual version is no longer available.
Although it’s not as engaging to drive as the BMW X1, the XC40 is noticeably quieter on the road and benefits from mild hybrid technology, which contributes to better fuel efficiency.
Inside, the XC40 impresses with a stylish and high-quality interior. It comes well equipped as standard, but we recommend opting for the Plus trim, which adds welcome features such as heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and ambient interior lighting.
One of the XC40’s biggest strengths is its safety, earning a full five-star Euro NCAP rating. It includes an impressive suite of safety technologies, such as automatic emergency braking (AEB) capable of detecting cars, cyclists, pedestrians, and even animals.
On the downside, the XC40 lacks some of the rear-seat flexibility found in certain rivals, has a relatively small infotainment screen, and allows some road noise to filter in on motorway journeys.
Nevertheless, it remains a compelling choice thanks to low depreciation and the availability of attractive PCP finance deals.
Audi Q5
The Audi Q5 has long been a staple in the family SUV segment, striking a balance between sporty performance and everyday usability while delivering the upmarket design and feel that many buyers desire.
Although there is no fully electric version the slightly smaller Q4 e-tron fills that role buyers can choose from a broad range of powertrains including petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid options.
There are also high-performance variants like the SQ5 and the sleeker Q5 Sportback coupé SUV, which are reviewed separately.
For company car drivers, the plug-in hybrid version is the most attractive option. However, for overall capability, the diesel model, badged TDI quattro 204, is our top recommendation.
It delivers strong, smooth performance and proves to be an excellent choice for towing. Ride quality is generally good, although it can vary depending on the trim level selected.
Our preferred trim is the S Line, which features outstandingly supportive seats, sliding rear seats, and tinted rear windows, in addition to the sporty appearance that’s especially popular among premium SUV buyers.
While rear-seat space falls slightly short compared to rivals like the Mazda CX-60, there is still a fair amount of room and ample interior storage.
The boot impresses with its capacity we managed to fit nine carry-on suitcases. However, it’s worth noting that the plug-in hybrid versions have reduced boot space due to the battery placement.
Overall, the Q5 stands out for its punchy engines, confidence-inspiring handling, and comfortable ride especially when equipped with the optional air suspension.
Downsides include an interior that doesn’t quite meet Audi’s usual standards, somewhat fiddly touchscreen climate controls, and the fact that some competitors offer more generous rear legroom. Nonetheless, the Q5 remains a strong and refined choice in its class.
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SUVs That Are Not Practical
Most SUV shoppers are after a vehicle that is practical, offering ample space for gear, a smooth ride, and good fuel efficiency. However, not every SUV lives up to these expectations. While some may excel in other areas, the SUVs on this list fall short in terms of practicality.
BMW X1
As the smallest member of BMW’s lineup, this subcompact crossover can be excused for not offering as much cargo space as larger SUVs. However, there are certain aspects that are harder to overlook.
This luxury SUV suffers from a noisy engine and interior materials made from hard plastics. Additionally, the limited headroom for taller rear passengers makes it less practical for those needing more comfort in the back seat.
This sleek SUV is just as fast as it appears, with a 450-hp, 4.4-liter turbocharged V-8 engine under the hood in its highest-performing trim. Yet, its sloping roofline severely limits rear passenger headroom. Furthermore, it is priced thousands of dollars higher than the X5 it is based on, making it an impractical choice for those seeking better value.
The entry-level xDrive28i models of the BMW X1 are equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 241 horsepower. All-wheel drive comes as standard, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
While the acceleration numbers from testing appear impressive, real-world performance feels less spirited, primarily due to noticeable turbo lag, especially during highway passing or merging. Despite this, the xDrive28i’s athletic suspension makes for an engaging driving experience, particularly on winding roads.
For those seeking an extra boost in performance, the optional M Sport package adds features such as adaptive dampers and shift paddles on the steering wheel, though it’s crucial to distinguish this package from the M35i model.
The M35i, the higher-performance variant of the X1, boasts a 312-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, upgraded brakes, and adaptive dampers. While it offers sharper handling and stronger brakes for a more exciting drive, it does suffer from engine surging and a ride that can feel overly firm, making the xDrive28i the more balanced and practical choice for many.
In terms of performance, the X1 xDrive28i accelerates from 0-60 mph in a quick 5.4 seconds, while the M35i takes just 4.7 seconds, showing a slight yet noticeable difference in speed. When it comes to fuel economy, the xDrive28i is rated by the EPA at 25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, while the M35i is slightly less efficient with a rating of 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway.
However, in our real-world highway fuel-economy test, the M35i exceeded its estimate, achieving 34 mpg at a constant 75 mph. The X1’s interior is modern and stylish, featuring a toggle-switch shift lever, a floating center console, and a fully digital dashboard.
The cabin includes premium details like textured metal speaker grilles and optional Eucalyptus open-pore wood trim, adding a touch of elegance. Standard features across all models include dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, ambient lighting, and a power liftgate. Optional upgrades include a panoramic sunroof and a heated steering wheel, further enhancing comfort.
The X1 integrates BMW’s iDrive 9 infotainment system, found in the larger iX electric SUV and the flagship 7-series sedan, providing a sleek, digital dashboard that spans two-thirds of the dashboard, serving as both a gauge display and an infotainment screen.
Connectivity features include wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio, all included as standard. Additionally, there’s an optional wireless smartphone charging pad, while the Premium package offers a head-up display, a Harman/Kardon stereo system, and a 360-degree camera system for enhanced visibility.
On the safety front, the X1 is well-equipped with standard driver-assistance features such as automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
Fiat 500
For consumers looking for more room than a small Fiat 500 offers, the larger 500L wagon might seem appealing. However, it falls short in terms of comfort and practicality, with unsupportive seats, a less-than-ideal driving position, and delayed throttle response, making it a less appealing option for those desiring a smoother, more comfortable ride.
The Fiat 500 is ideal for short urban trips or quick trips into town. Just as you wouldn’t wear a miniskirt and heels for a mountain hike or tweeds and brogues to the beach, a Fiat 500 isn’t the right choice for long cross-country drives.
While compact city cars are becoming increasingly rare, the Fiat 500 stands out as a solid option. However, if you’re considering the Fiat 500, you might also want to take a look at competitors like the Toyota Aygo X, Kia Picanto, or Renault Clio. When it comes to style, though, the Fiat 500 has the upper hand, offering a unique retro flair that’s hard to match.
Inside, the quirkiness continues with features like a body-colored dashboard and an optional white steering wheel that enhance the overall vibe. While the seats aren’t the most comfortable, there’s plenty of adjustment to help you find a good driving position, and the controls are logically arranged, making them easy to use.
That being said, the 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system can be a bit tricky to navigate due to its fiddly menus. Fortunately, the standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offer simpler alternatives.
Unfortunately, the Fiat 500’s compact size means that space is at a premium. While two adults up front will have no issue, taller passengers nearing six feet will find the rear seats cramped, with limited knee- and headroom. Additionally, the boot doesn’t provide much room for luggage, making it less practical for longer trips or larger loads.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is spacious, offers good fuel economy, and delivers a stable ride, but its SRT8 version, with its 470-hp, 6.4-liter V-8 engine and five-speed auto, is far from practical in terms of fuel efficiency.
While it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over 4 seconds, it returns only 13/19 mpg according to EPA estimates, making it an impractical choice for fuel-conscious buyers.
The fifth-generation 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee strikes a balance between exceptional off-road capabilities and everyday comfort, making it a versatile choice.
With several configuration options available, including a robust V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, it offers ample power to compete with rivals like the Honda Passport and Volkswagen Atlas in the U.S. However, the Grand Cherokee distinguishes itself with an optional extended body configuration, which accommodates an extra row of seats.
Additionally, buyers of the long-wheelbase version can opt for a 357-hp V8 in specific trims, further enhancing its power. While many competitors provide excellent value for money, none can quite match the Grand Cherokee’s versatility. But is that versatility enough to make it the best choice among the competition?
The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee sees the addition of new standard 18-inch polished/painted aluminum wheels on certain trims for both the regular and extended versions. Apart from a slight price increase, the model remains largely unchanged.
For its size, the 2024 Grand Cherokee offers a reasonable price point. Starting at an MSRP of $39,535 for the Laredo trim, there’s also a special order Laredo A available for $36,495. The Laredo X, priced at $40,285, functions more as a package than a new trim, with a $750 price increase.
Similarly, the Altitude and Altitude X are priced at $44,140 and $44,640, respectively. Moving up, the Limited trim starts at $48,780, while the more luxurious Overland is priced at $61,995. At the top end of the range, the Summit is priced at $65,360, with the Summit Reserve costing $69,840.
Up to the Limited trim, all models can be equipped with four-wheel drive for an additional $2,000, with the higher trims already including it as standard.
Additionally, you can opt for a Jeep Grand Cherokee L in any of the mentioned trims for an extra $2,000, though the Laredo X only costs $1,750 more. Adding the V8 engine to the top three L models increases the price by $3,995. These prices do not include the $1,795 destination charge.
The best value in the range appears to be the Limited, which starts at $48,780. This trim offers a larger infotainment screen, heated rear seats, LED fog lights, and more front-seat conveniences, making it a great mid-range option.
The Grand Cherokee’s interior is spacious and well-appointed, especially in the L configuration, offering even more room for passengers. The cabin features an upscale design that rivals more expensive vehicles. While leather upholstery and wood veneer are reserved for trims over $60k, all models come equipped with a range of standard features.
The upper trims boast a large touchscreen positioned in the center of the dashboard, with physical buttons above and below it to control air conditioning and other common functions. The cabin offers ample space, and the optional sunroof further enhances the feeling of openness.
The regular Grand Cherokee offers five seats across two rows, providing ample head- and legroom for most adults. The Jeep avoids overly complex roofline designs, making it easy to enter and exit. The driver’s seat comes with power-adjustability as standard, making it simple to find a comfortable position with good visibility.
The Grand Cherokee L, with its extended wheelbase, provides even more space, including an additional third row of seats that increases the vehicle’s capacity to six passengers. Access to the third row can be a bit challenging in lower trims, as power-folding second-row seats are available only in higher trims.
As expected from a vehicle of its size, the Grand Cherokee offers generous cargo space across all configurations. The standard five-seater model provides 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 70.8 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. Roof rails further increase its total cargo capacity, and the SUV is capable of handling a 1,283-pound payload.
The Grand Cherokee L, being larger, allocates most of its additional space to the third row of seating. This leaves only 17.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, but folding down the third row increases capacity to 46.9 cubic feet.
With the third row down, the maximum cargo space in the Grand Cherokee L reaches 84.6 cubic feet. The SUV’s convenient liftover height and available power liftgate make loading cargo easy.
For smaller items, there are cupholders in each row, a glove compartment, a large bin beneath the center console, and an armrest cubby. Additionally, each door features sizable pockets for added storage.
Jeep Patriot
The Jeep Patriot’s time came to an end when it failed to keep up with the refinement expected in its class. With poor crash test ratings, limited cargo space, and an uncomfortable ride, the Patriot has been phased out, making it one of the least practical options on the market.
For those in the market for an affordable off-roader, the Jeep Patriot is worth considering. It comes with a choice of two engines: a 158-hp 2.0-liter or a 172-hp 2.4-liter, both of which are four-cylinder options.
Transmission choices include a five-speed manual, a six-speed automatic, or a CVT. While front-wheel drive is the standard configuration, all-wheel drive is available as an option for those seeking extra traction. Standard features include Uconnect infotainment, which offers easy access to navigation, music, and communication, as well as satellite radio.
The Patriot is also equipped with a range of practical features, including keyless entry, power accessories, and a height-adjustable driver’s seat. Its 4WD variants make it more capable when the road gets rough, providing decent off-road performance, though it’s far from a high-end off-road vehicle like the Wrangler.
While the Patriot isn’t exactly a thrilling ride, its boxy design evokes the charm of classic Jeeps, and it remains a favorite among those who appreciate the iconic Jeep look without breaking the bank.
Its somewhat dated interior and lackluster driving dynamics might not offer the excitement some expect, but it’s a solid, budget-friendly option for those who need a functional and rugged SUV for everyday use. Plus, with its relatively low starting price, the Patriot provides good value for anyone wanting a no-frills, reliable off-roader.
Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG
Among the entire Mercedes-Benz G-Class lineup, the G63 AMG is the most extreme model. With its 5.5-liter V-8 engine producing 536 hp, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 5 seconds.
Despite its luxurious diamond-quilted leather interior, the G63’s high price tag and poor fuel economy may cause buyers to hesitate. The G63 starts at $137,000 and delivers just 12/14 mpg city/highway, which makes it a tough sell for those seeking both luxury and efficiency.
Just days after unveiling its monstrous off-road G-Class, the XL 800, German tuner Brabus has introduced an even more extreme version, the Brabus XLP 800.
As the name suggests, this pickup truck boasts nearly 800 horsepower, and it features portal axles similar to the XL 800. However, the XLP stands out with one significant difference that sets it apart from the rest of the pack: it is, in fact, a pickup truck.
The Brabus XLP 800 is based on the Mercedes-AMG G63 and begins with a complete transformation of the vehicle’s chassis. This conversion, which was initially designed in 2020, is fully approved by German transport authorities, ensuring that it is a legitimate, roadworthy vehicle—not just a questionable custom build.
The modifications begin with a frame extension that stretches the rear axle by 19.7 inches, bringing the total length to 209 inches, making room for a fully functional cargo bed. While you might not be loading up with mulch, it’s the ideal space for hauling other high-end items, like sailboat fuel or downhill skiing gear.
To achieve this, Brabus developed its own set of bed sides and a back panel, using a combination of steel and carbon fiber. The bed floor is crafted from a composite material, the same soft teak wood Brabus uses in its high-performance boats, adding an elegant touch to this off-road beast.
The XLP 800 also incorporates Brabus’ signature portal axles, which include a gearbox at the wheel hub. This innovative design shifts the power out to the wheel several inches lower than the usual axle or CV shaft entry, increasing ground clearance substantially (to 18.5 inches) and enhancing torque at the tires.
Brabus further upgrades the suspension with a custom-built front suspension system and KW suspension featuring adjustable damping and ride height, which allows for in-cabin shock adjustments.
A widebody kit expands the truck’s stance, pushing the wheels and tires outward, further enhancing its aggressive appearance. The front of the vehicle receives additional modifications, including a Brabus-designed hood, grille, and front bumper, the latter of which houses a powerful 10,000-pound winch.
Under the carbon hood, the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine has been reworked to generate an impressive 788 horsepower and 737 lb-ft of torque—an increase of over 200 horsepower compared to the stock version. Despite its power, the XLP 800 can accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 4.8 seconds and has a top speed limited to 130 mph.
While the exterior of the XLP 800 focuses on aggression and power, the interior offers a stark contrast with luxury and lightness. The cabin is adorned with Brabus’ signature double diamond quilting on the sky-blue leather that covers nearly every surface. A touch of carbon trim adds sophistication, but the attention to detail in the cabin could easily lead to hefty detailing bills.
Although Brabus markets this beast as an off-road-ready vehicle, it’s likely to be seen more on the tarmac than on rugged trails. While it may handle some sand dunes in places like Dubai, the XLP 800 is probably best suited for high-end adventures, like navigating the stone entryways of Monte Carlo’s exclusive casinos.
