Top 10 Best Family SUVs for Cargo and Vacations
Looking for a family SUV that ticks all the boxes for space, practicality, and driving experience? We’ve rounded up ten of the best family SUVs for all life’s journeys.
What makes a good family SUV? Well, quite a few things. From comfort and interior space, to performance, reliability, and safety.
For longer journeys, in particular, you’ll want something versatile that delivers across all areas.
Read our list of the top ten best SUVs for families in 2024, fit for any adventure.
1. Ford Kuga
The Ford Kuga is a popular five-seater SUV that’s perfect for the average-sized family. Its bold, muscular stance gives it a noticeable road presence with an ornate front grille, chrome accents, and a contoured body. Because style is still important!
It’s available in a wide range of different trim options depending on your tastes. You can also choose from petrol, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid options to suit your driving style. Made for longer adventures, the Kuga offers the perfect balance of space and storage. The boot offers up to 536 litres for luggage, while the flexible rear seat bench can slide forward to create even more space.
Passengers are sure to be seated comfortably inside the Kuga, with plenty of leg and headroom. So much so that three adults can sit comfortably in the back.
As for the driver, the Kuga is well-equipped with the latest technology to enhance your drive. Highlights include the 13.2” touchscreen with Ford SYNC 4 infotainment, dynamic headlights and a 360-degree camera. You can even tow up to 2,100kg if you want to bring a trailer or caravan along with you.
2. Skoda Kodiaq
Winner of the Auto Express Award for Best Large SUV, the Skoda Kodiaq is well-suited for family road trips. It was even named Best Used Large Family Car by Carbuyers, praised for its excellent value.
Skoda cars are renowned for offering generous standard equipment for a reasonable price tag. The Kodiaq is no exception, with its spacious, comfortable interior and high-end features. Available as a five or seven-seater SUV, the Kodiaq easily welcomes the whole family, while offering plenty of storage.
The five-seater offers up to 910 litres of boot space, while the seven-seater offers 845 litres. There’s also a range of other storage options in the interior, such as upper and lower storage in the glovebox. Plus, a smartphone holder in the back of the front seats, and even a hidden umbrella in the front door.
Inside, the Skoda Kodiaq features a range of luxurious features to enhance comfort. Such as three-zone air conditioning, heated, massaging front seats, and more. Drivers can enjoy top technology with a 10.25” Virtual Cockpit and wireless Smartlink, including charging. Not to mention a range of driver assistance features like Lane Assist and Blind Spot Detection for added safety.
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3. PEUGEOT 5008
The PEUGEOT 5008 is another award-winning seven-seater SUV with striking style and a dynamic design. With an abundance of space for both passengers and cargo, it’s set for any journey.
Available in hybrid, petrol, and diesel powertrains, it’s suitable for a range of driving styles and preferences. The hybrid version is self-charging and offers up to 48.7mpg, making it perfect for the more eco-conscious.
With five seats in use, you’ll have a decent 952 litres of boot space available. This increases to up to 2,150 litres with the second and third rows folded. The hands-free tailgate allows easy access to your luggage too. The panoramic sunroof helps lighten the interior, allowing all passengers to enjoy the view.
Up front, the PEUGEOT i-Cockpit keeps you seamlessly connected, with a configurable 12.3” digital panel. The 10” HD touchscreen brings you wireless smartphone mirroring for music and navigation. Voice recognition will ensure you never have to take your eyes off the road, while a range of driver aids enhance safety. From Automatic Emergency Braking to Park Assist and more.
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4. Dacia Duster
The Dacia Duster is a versatile family SUV built for any adventure. The five-seater SUV perfectly combines space, style and performance. A great all-rounder for families.
Choose from petrol, diesel and bi-fuel powertrains depending on your driving preference. Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed a practical, dynamic driving experience. Inside, the modular layout allows for complete flexibility, with the 60/40 rear bench split. This allows you to maximise your boot space if needed, in addition to the 418 litres already provided.
Elsewhere, there’s plenty of storage in the doors and the backs of the front seats. Up front, the sliding centre console offers up to 1.1 litres of extra storage, so you can keep all your essentials handy.
Featuring the latest technology, the Dacia Duster makes staying connected a breeze. There are two multimedia systems – Media Display and Media Nav. Media Display lets you pair your smartphone with the 8” screen, while Media Nav offers on-board navigation. You’ll also benefit from a range of driver aids like Hill Start Assist, Blind Spot Warning and more.
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5. SEAT Tarraco
The SEAT Tarraco is a large, seven-seater SUV that’s built around people. It’s also a three-time winner of the Auto Express Best Large SUV award, as a testament to its greatness. Offering a generous boot space of up to 1,775 litres, the SEAT Tarraco easily embraces any adventure. Even with all seats in use, you’ll still get a practical boot space of up to 230 litres.
The interior offers a spacious, comfortable cabin to seat the whole family, designed to offer maximum comfort. From three-zone climate control to heated front and rear seats, the SEAT Tarraco accommodates everyone. If you want to lighten the interior, the optional panoramic sunroof is sure to help you make the most of brighter days.
As for the driver, the SEAT Tarraco is packed with the latest technology for a calm, confident drive. The 360-degree top view camera with advanced sensors makes every manoeuvre safe and simple. While the digital cockpit and 9.2” display allows you to control everything from music to navigation and more.
Choose from petrol or diesel versions, with optional four-wheel drive for enhanced control. With Front Drive, you’ll get selectable driving modes Comfort, Eco, and Sport to help fine-tune your drive. Meanwhile, 4Drive versions feature Off-Road and Snow modes.
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6. PEUGEOT 3008
If you’re looking for the ultimate flexible large SUV for carrying passengers and cargo, the PEUGEOT 3008 could be your go-to. It’s available in petrol, diesel, electric, and hybrid versions appealing to all kinds of drivers.
The 100% electric version offers up to 326 miles (WLTP) driving range and zero emissions, for a more efficient drive. Meanwhile, the hybrid offers improved fuel efficiency without the need to plug in and recharge.
As a large SUV, the PEUGEOT 3008 scores highly for space. Inside, both front and rear passengers enjoy plenty of space to relax, without compromising on storage space. The boot offers up to 520 litres, expanded by folding down the rear seats. Elsewhere, several storage units give you an extra 34 litres of space.
Built around comfort, the 3008 offers plenty of features for passenger well-being. These include customisable LED mood lighting, heated front and rear massaging seats, and more. As for technology, the PEUGEOT i-Cockpit brings you everything you need for a connected drive. From wireless charging and smartphone mirroring to music, navigation, and more.
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7. Hyundai IONIQ 5
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is an all-electric crossover utility vehicle (CUV) designed for modern families. The midsize CUV offers the perfect blend of practicality and performance, with up to 315 miles (WLTP) range and 0-62mph acceleration in 5.1 seconds.
Inside, a comfortable living space awaits welcoming all passengers. The front relaxation seats have a reclining feature for when you want to take a quick break from the journey. Plus, the sliding centre console can be used as a desk or picnic table with the family.
The boot offers a generous 527 litres of space for luggage, increased to 1,587 litres with the help of 60/40 foldable seats. The flat floor design makes for a roomier cabin, offering passengers increased leg and headroom. As an EV, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 prioritises sustainability, with recycled materials in the interior.
Bursting with technology, the IONIQ 5 offers an exceptional in-car experience. Automatic dual-zone air conditioning keeps passengers comfortable. While wireless charging and USB ports charge your devices. The cabin features a 12.3” fully digital cluster and infotainment touchscreen housing all your main functions. Plus, with the BOSE premium sound system you can enjoy high-quality acoustics. Complete with 64 lighting variations for added ambience.
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8. Nissan ARIYA
The Nissan ARIYA is an award-winning all-electric crossover that’s another great option if you’re looking for something bigger. Aside from its striking design and alluring features, it’s also incredibly practical and versatile.
Boot space starts at 468 litres with all five seats in use, increasing to 1,350 litres with rear seats folded. In the cabin, the flat floor creates a lounge-like experience for passengers with ample room all around. A slide-out tray in the front creates a mobile workspace if you need to catch up on a few emails, with deep storage beneath for storing any essentials.
The dashboard presents a clean, clutter-free set-up for the driver, with dual, curved 12.3” displays. These can be customised to your preferred layout and used to control music, navigation and more with a simple tap.
The ARIYA features e-4ORCE technology with dual motors and all-wheel drive. This brings you increased control whatever the conditions, while retaining an ultra-efficient drive. With up to 329 miles (WLTP) driving range and fast, easy charging, you can roam free of range anxiety.
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9. Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 is a spacious family SUV built to please. It’s available in petrol, diesel, or hybrid versions with each offering a more fuel-efficient, economical drive.
The boot size is practical at 522 litres to start with. This can be increased further with the 40:20:40 split rear bench to help store larger items. With the Exclusive-Line trim, you’ll get a powerlift tailgate giving you hands-free access to the boot.
Inside, the CX-5 benefits from Mazda’s unique Japanese craftsmanship, renowned for its premium quality. As standard, you’ll get a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift, manual driver lumbar support, and rear seat recline.
For comfort and convenience, there’s also dual-zone climate control and rear air vents to keep the cabin at optimal temperature. The infotainment system is complete with DAB radio and six speakers, plus wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You’ll also get access to Mazda’s integrated navigation system, with the Mazda Connect multimedia system.
The Mazda CX-5 is all about keeping you and your passengers safe. A wide range of driver assistance features are offered as standard, such as Lane Keep Assist and Hill Launch Assist.
10. Vauxhall Mokka
The Vauxhall Mokka is another spacious SUV to have on your list for a test drive. It offers a fun, energetic style and driving experience with impressive space and storage for your adventures.
Choose from petrol or electric powertrains depending on your style. The Mokka-e offers up to 252 miles (WLTP) maximum range with the highest-level Ultimate trim, with fast DC charging. Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed both practicality and convenience.
The boot offers up to 667 litres of storage behind the rear seats, though these can easily be folded in a 40/60 split to extend it even further. Passengers will be kept comfortable with heated front seats, while there’s a heated steering wheel for the driver.
In the front cabin, the PureConnect system houses all your in-car infotainment. Depending on the trim, you’ll receive either a seven or 10” touchscreen with a 10 or 12” digital instrument cluster. The Navi touchscreen will make finding your way easy, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto help you stay connected to what matters.
With PureSense, you’ll receive a range of advanced features to enhance your drive. These include IntelliLux LED Matrix Lights, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and many more.
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Which family SUV is right for me?
The question of which family SUV is right for you will come down to a few key things. These include your budget, driving style, and individual tastes.
Test drives are a great way to find out whether a vehicle is right for you. Alternatively, try our lifestyle search and browse cars that fit your lifestyle requirements.
Find your new family SUV at Bristol Street Motors
Feeling inspired to find your new family SUV? At Bristol Street Motors, you won’t be short of choice. We have a wide range of stylish and spacious SUVs in stock from a range of top manufacturers. Whether you’re looking to stay traditional or explore electric and hybrid SUVs, you’ll find it all under our roof.
Browse our latest new and used cars for sale now and book a test drive to help choose your perfect model. For any questions, get in touch with our friendly sales team.
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