Family SUVs. The very phrase conjures images of packed school runs, weekend adventures, and the general organised chaos that comes with modern family life. It’s no wonder they’re so popular. They strike that sweet spot, offering the generous cabin space we all crave for wrangling kids and adults alike, coupled with a boot that can swallow everything from weekly shopping to camping gear. The sheer variety out there today is staggering, too – from trusty petrol and diesel engines to the increasingly popular hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and even fully electric options, each with their own unique packaging advantages.
It can feel a bit overwhelming, sifting through all the options. That’s where a bit of curated insight comes in handy. We’ve been looking under the bonnet, exploring the interiors, and putting these family haulers through their paces to bring you a rundown of some of the top contenders.
The All-Rounder Champion
When you’re looking for something that just works for pretty much any family scenario, the Skoda Kodiaq often rises to the top. It’s a real workhorse, offering a fantastic range of engines, including a plug-in hybrid that boasts an impressive electric-only range – perfect for those shorter commutes or school runs without touching a drop of petrol. Its cabin is incredibly robust and versatile, and the option of seven seats means it can adapt to growing families or carpooling duties. It’s also remarkably well-priced for what you get, making it a truly sensible choice.
What I particularly appreciate about the Kodiaq is its sheer practicality. Even in its more basic trims, it feels incredibly spacious and well-equipped. While it might not have the absolute premium feel of some pricier rivals, everything is put together with a solidity that inspires confidence. And the boot space? It’s enormous, especially in the five-seat configuration, offering over 900 litres. Handling is surprisingly agile for its size, too, giving you a good feel for the road.
One thing to note with the plug-in hybrid Kodiaq is that it can't be specified with seven seats, as the battery pack occupies that space. But for those prioritising space and value, it’s hard to beat.
The Sci-Fi Statement with Serious Space
If you’re looking for something that turns heads and offers a truly futuristic family experience, the Kia EV9 is a showstopper. It looks like it’s beamed down from another planet, and it certainly attracts attention. But beyond the dramatic styling, it’s a remarkably serene and capable family vehicle. Its electric powertrain is smooth and quiet, offering a substantial real-world range that can easily handle longer journeys, and it charges up quickly when you need it.
The clever packaging of the EV9’s electric platform allows it to maximise its already generous dimensions. It’s available with six or seven seats, and crucially, the third row is genuinely comfortable for adults, not just an afterthought. The attention to detail is impressive, with cupholders and USB-C ports for most rear passengers, and the electric stowage of the rearmost seats is a neat touch. The boot is capacious even with all seats in use, and in five-seat mode, it’s cavernous. Plus, there’s even a frunk – a front boot – perfect for stashing charging cables.
It does feel substantial on the road, and perhaps a little less nimble in tight car parks than some smaller SUVs, but its commanding presence and sheer interior volume are undeniable strengths.
The Dependable Family Companion
For many, the Nissan Qashqai has become the go-to choice for family motoring, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a car that’s designed to make family life easier. The interior is sensible, solid, and incredibly user-friendly, with a comfortable ride and supportive seats that make longer journeys a breeze. The integration of Google-based infotainment is a significant step forward, making navigation and entertainment seamless.
While its mild-hybrid petrol engine is competent rather than exciting, and the e-Power system might not appeal to those who enjoy a more engaging drive, the Qashqai excels in its core mission: being a comfortable and practical family car. It handles competently, though perhaps without the sharpest feedback, and while some rivals might offer slightly more boot space, the Qashqai’s overall package is undeniably appealing for its target audience.
Choosing a family SUV is a big decision, and thankfully, there are some truly excellent options out there that blend practicality, comfort, and modern technology. Whether you prioritise all-around ability, futuristic design, or dependable familiarity, there’s a top-rated family SUV waiting to make your journeys smoother.
