Best Family SUVs in the UK That are Spacious and Safe in 2025

Choosing the perfect family-sized SUV can be a daunting task, especially when you're looking for a vehicle that seamlessly combines spaciousness, style, and safety. 

With so many options available, it's essential to consider important factors such as interior space, comfort, and practicality to ensure that your family's needs are met. In this article, we'll explore ten of the best family SUVs available in 2025 in the UK that tick all of the boxes in these key areas.

Are you looking for more room in the boot? A model that is fuel efficient? One that boasts the latest safety features? Or maybe all of the above! Then you’ve come to the right place. 

Our comprehensive list of Sports Utility Vehicles really does have something for everyone. We also highlight what makes a good family SUV, so you know exactly what to look for when it comes to owning a new set of wheels. Read on to find out more…

What makes a good family SUV?

A good family-sized SUV should tick all the boxes needed to cater to families on the daily drive. Below, we outline what to look for: 

Space and Practicality

A family SUV should offer ample interior space for passengers and cargo, with flexible seating configurations and easy access to the rear seats.

Safety Features

High safety ratings, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and robust build quality are essential for ensuring the well-being of family members when on the road. 

On-Board Comfort

A comfortable ride, supportive seats, and effective climate control can make long journeys more pleasant for the whole family.

Reliability

Families often depend on their vehicles for daily tasks, such as the school run, so a good SUV should have a reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs.

Fuel Efficiency

An efficient engine can help reduce running costs, which is important for budget-conscious families.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Features like touchscreen infotainment systems, smartphone integration, and rear-seat entertainment can keep the family engaged and connected during long trips.

Easy to Drive

A family SUV should be easy to manoeuvre in various driving conditions, with good visibility, light steering, and a manageable size for parking.

Value for Money

A competitive price point and a strong list of standard features can make an SUV more appealing to families working within a budget.

Brand Reputation

A brand with a history of producing reliable, well-built vehicles can provide peace of mind for families.

Versatility

The ability to adapt to various family needs, such as accommodating child seats, carrying sports equipment, or even light towing capabilities, can make an SUV more valuable for families.

Top 10 best family SUVs in the UK

1. Alfa Romeo Stelvio
2. Dacia Duster
3. Dacia Jogger
4. Hyundai IONIQ 5
5. Hyundai SANTA FE
6. Hyundai TUCSON
7. Nissan Qashqai
8. Nissan X-Trail
9. Peugeot 3008
10. Peugeot 5008

Alfa Romeo Stelvio

Pros:

• A striking design that stands out from the crowd
• Engaging driving experience with responsive handling
• Premium interior materials
• Impressive performance, especially in higher trims

Cons:

• The limited headroom may be an issue for taller drivers
• Infotainment system can be less intuitive than some rivals
• Higher running costs compared to some competitors

Overview: 

Classed as a premium midsize SUV, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio brings a slice of Italian flair to the UK family car market. If a sporty driving experience is your thing, then the Stelvio will put a smile on your face without compromising on everyday practicality. 

Why it's great for families:

Let’s face it, just because you’re looking for a reliable family car, it doesn’t mean you have to opt for a boring box on wheels. Bucking the trend where family-sized SUVs are concerned, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio provides the perfect blend of performance and practicality that appeals to families who don't want to overlook the enjoyment driving can bring. 

Inside, the Stelvio's spacious interior can comfortably accommodate five passengers, and surprisingly, the boot space is fairly generous too. Parents will appreciate the high-quality interior that will keep the kids comfy on long trips. 

While it may not be the most budget-friendly option on the market, the Stelvio certainly appeals to families who value style and performance, and those who may have the budget to stretch that bit further. 

It's particularly well-suited to families with older children who can appreciate the car's sporty character and don't require features like integrated booster seats or rear-seat entertainment systems.

Dacia Duster

Pros:

• Exceptional value for money
• Spacious interior with a large boot
• Suitable for both city and countryside driving
• Simple-to-use features and tech

Cons:

• Basic interior materials compared to more premium rivals
• The engine can be noisy at higher speeds
• Less advanced on-board tech than some competitors

Overview: 

Sometimes a family-sized SUV needs to do exactly what it says on the tin, and that’s exactly what the Dacia Duster does. While its no-frills approach isn’t to everyone’s taste, you can’t knock the car’s capabilities and its outstanding value for money. 

Why it's great for families:

For the cost-conscious, the Dacia Duster cannot be beaten where the price is concerned. During a time when every penny can count, the Duster is an ideal choice for cost-conscious families who need a reliable and spacious vehicle without breaking the bank. 

The interior is roomy enough to comfortably seat five people, with plenty of headroom and legroom for growing teenagers (phew!). Fitting in family luggage, the weekly shop and sports equipment is not a problem with the large-sized boot. 

Speaking of which, if you’re an outdoor-loving family then you’ll love features such as the handy roof rails and a washable cabin floor (available in certain models) making it easy to clean after muddy adventures.

While it may lack some of the high-tech features found in more expensive SUVs, the Duster covers all the basics that families need. Its straightforward nature also means there's less that can go wrong - no doubt music to your ears!

Dacia Jogger

Pros:

• Seven-seat capacity at an affordable price point
• An impressive amount of interior space
• Flexible seating configurations
• Good fuel economy

Cons:

• Basic interior quality
• Limited engine options
• Fewer high-tech features included compared to rivals

Overview: 

Think of the Dacia Jogger as the bigger brother to the Dacia Duster, comfortably fitting in up to seven seats compared to the standard five. 

Bringing quite a unique approach to the family SUV market, the Jogger seamlessly blends elements of an estate car, an MPV, and an SUV. Its ultimate selling point is no doubt its status as the most affordable seven-seater in the UK market.

Why it's great for families:

If you’re nurturing a growing brood, then the Dacia Jogger should be top of your list. We back it as an excellent choice for larger families looking to accommodate seven people at an affordable price point.

For growing families, the Jogger offers a lot of unparalleled versatility. For example, the third row of seats can be easily removed when not needed, meaning you can increase the boot space for those days out or family holidays. When all seats are in use, there's still enough room for a compact folded pushchair or several shopping bags - ideal!

Many drivers enjoy the raised ride height which provides good all-around visibility - plus the elevation makes it easier for children to see out of the windows on long journeys. 

While the interior may not be as luxurious as some rivals, it's designed to be durable and easy to clean – ideal for families with young children and messy eaters!

Hyundai IONIQ 5

Pros:

• Benefit from cutting-edge electric technology with an impressive range
• Spacious, lounge-like interior
• Fast charging capabilities
• Distinctive, futuristic design

Cons:

• Higher initial cost compared to non-electric SUVs
• The design can prove marmite for some
• Expect a firmer-feeling ride on larger wheel options

Overview: 

It probably comes as no surprise that in this era of the electric (automotive) revolution, family-friendly battery-powered SUVs are becoming more common. As such, the futuristic-looking Hyundai IONIQ 5 certainly represents the new generation of electric vehicles.

Why it's great for families:

In 2021, the UK got its first look at the all-electric Hyundai IONIQ 5. Now a familiar sight on our roads, the family-sized SUV is quickly being considered the future of motoring - and it’s easy to see why… 

Its spacious interior and long driving range (goodbye range anxiety!) make it practical for everyday use, while its eco-friendly approach aligns with the growing environmental concerns of drivers.

Thanks to a unique flat-floor design (a benefit of its electric powertrain), the IONIQ 5 boasts a remarkably spacious interior that provides more than enough legroom for even the tallest of passengers. 

It’s no secret that some drivers are daunted by the thought of an electric-only car, but there’s no need to be anxious with the IONIQ 5; it boasts an impressive range of up to 298 miles on a single charge. Not forgetting the fast-charging capabilities which make it suitable for both daily school runs and longer family road trips. 

Hyundai SANTA FE

Pros:

• Generous seven-seat configuration
• High-quality interior materials throughout
• Comprehensive safety features included
• Smooth and comfortable on-board experience

Cons:

• Can feel large in tight city car parks
• Not as fuel-efficient as some smaller SUVs
• The higher trim levels can be costly

Overview: 

If comfort and space are a priority on the daily drive, then say hello to the Hyundai SANTA FE. This large SUV is available with seven seats, making it ideal for families that need extra space.

Why it's great for families:

For drivers who spend a lot of time on motorways, then you’ll be pleased to hear that the Hyundai SANTA FE really does eat away at the miles, making for an altogether more enjoyable driving experience. 

The third row of seats is more spacious than in many rivals, making it suitable for older children or even adults on shorter journeys. When not in use, these seats fold flat to create a vast amount of boot space - there’s even room for the kitchen sink! 

If you like the finer things in life, then the SANTA FE's high-quality interior materials create a premium feel, while thoughtful touches like multiple USB ports cater to the needs of tech-reliant families. 

Music to the ears of parents, safety is a strong point for the Hyundai SANTA FE, with features like autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a safe exit system that prevents doors from opening if a vehicle is approaching - a must with children!  

Hyundai TUCSON 

Pros:

• Bold, distinctive exterior design
• Spacious and well-crafted interior
• A wide range of engine options, including efficient hybrids
• Advanced safety and infotainment features are included as standard

Cons:

• The ride quality can feel hard at times
• Higher-spec models can be pricey

Overview: 

If you’re looking for a mix of style and practicality, then you can’t go far wrong with the Hyundai TUCSON. This tech-savvy mid-size SUV stands out from the crowd with its distinctive design and range of efficient powertrains.

Why it's great for families:

Not quite sold on the idea of a fully electric car just yet? Well, why not opt for a halfway house instead thanks to the Hyundai TUCSON’s range of hybrid options - you’ll spend far less at the fuel pumps too! 

As we know, living in the UK brings its fair share of questionable weather, so the TUCSON’s optional all-wheel drive (AWD) system comes in very handy when conditions are less than ideal. 

Another helpful benefit is the Hyundai TUCSON’s wide-opening doors which make it super easy to load and unload children, pets, or shopping. Speaking of which, let’s not forget the bonus of a powered tailgate (available on higher-spec trims) to make life even easier when you've got your hands full organising the kids and their belongings!

Nissan Qashqai

Pros:

• A very comfortable drive
• Good balance of compact exterior and roomy interior
• Efficient engine options
• User-friendly technology

Cons:

• Boot space is average for its class
• The rear seats don't slide or recline in all models
• Infotainment system could be more engaging 

Overview: 

Proving to be a popular choice for many families, the Nissan Qashqai is officially classed as a compact crossover SUV - though some may argue it's a pure crossover, and some an out-and-out SUV. But hey, whichever side of the fence you sit on, one thing’s for sure, is that the Qashqai is certainly pioneering.

Why it's great for families:

Given its compact dimensions, the Nissan Qashqai is often praised for its surprisingly spacious interior. Whether you have one child or three, you’ll have no problem fitting in everything you need for the school run, and after-school clubs, and still have plenty of room for the family dog. 

While not considered class-leading, the boot size is more than adequate for the weekly food shops or footy training kit. Size-wise, the high roof line means there's plenty of headroom for even the tallest family members, which also makes things easier for moving younger children in and out of the car. 

Comfort is another area where the Qashqai really shines. Its suspension is well-tuned enough to cope with our varied road surfaces in the UK (potholes included!), providing a smooth drive that can help keep children settled and able to snooze on longer journeys. 

Nissan X-Trail

Pros:

• Optional seven-seat configuration
• Spacious and practical interior layout
• New e-POWER technology for improved engine efficiency

Cons:

• The third-row seats are best suited for children
• Some rivals offer more premium-feeling interiors
• Can feel large in size

Overview: 

As the ‘big brother’ to the smaller-sized Nissan Qashqai SUV, the Nissan X-Trail offers even more space and versatility, thanks to the addition of two more seats. This is a huge tick-in-the-box for families of seven.

Why it's great for families:

If you’re nurturing a growing brood or often get designated the title “taxi of mum and dad”, then the Nissan X-Trail has your back. When not in use, the third row of additional seats folds flat to create a vast amount of boot space, ideal for squeezing in that extra flatpack furniture you bought in IKEA! 

Now with added e-POWER technology, the X-Trail can comfortably transition between city life and countryside living and makes light work of motorway driving.

Where practicality is concerned, the X-Trail’s rear doors open to nearly 90 degrees, making it very easy to access child seats or help older relatives in and out of the car. If more space or passenger comfort is needed, then you’ll be pleased to hear the middle row of seats slides and reclines, allowing you to create either more legroom or boot space.

Peugeot 3008

Pros:

• Striking, appealable design
• High-quality materials in the cabin
• Efficient engine range, including plug-in hybrid options

Cons:

• The i-Cockpit dashboard layout may not suit all drivers
• Rear headroom can be tight for taller passengers
• Boot space is good, but not class-leading

Overview: 

Now here’s a compact-sized SUV that blends standout style with near-perfect practicality. But this is the good bit; the Peugeot 3008 offers premium feels at a mainstream price point - ideal if you’re sticking to a budget.

Why it's great for families:

The 3008's winning combination of style and substance means you can enjoy a taste of the finer things in life without breaking the bank. 

Families will benefit from its thoughtful interior layout and design - for example, the rear seats provide ample room for growing children or teenagers, with enough width to comfortably fit three child seats across the back. 

As with all Peugeot’s, safety is a strong point for the 3008, with a range of advanced driver assistance systems available. Features like autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot detection provide extra peace of mind for family journeys. In fact, the car boasts a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating for further reassurance to parents.

The 3008's infotainment system is user-friendly, with a responsive touchscreen and smartphone integration keeping the whole family connected and entertained. You can prove a hit with the kids by opting for the premium sound system so they can sing their hearts out to Taylor Swift!

Peugeot 5008

Pros:

• Versatile seven-seat layout
• Good balance of comfort and handling
• Generous equipment included as standard

Cons:

• Third-row seats are best suited for children
• No hybrid or electric options are currently available
• Can feel big to park in tight spaces

Overview: 

Designed to cater to larger families, the Peugeot 5008 is a mid-size SUV that neatly packs in seven seats in one stylish package. If you need space and flexibility, then this could be the car for you. 

Why it's great for families:

Just like its little sister, the 5008 sports a premium-looking interior with a polished exterior design. While not to every driver’s tastes, the i-Cockpit dashboard layout - featuring a small steering wheel and high-mounted digital instrument cluster - provides a high-tech feel that can make even mundane family journeys much more enjoyable.

The third row of seats (probably best suited for children) provides useful extra space for larger families and when not in use, can be completely removed, creating ample boot space. 

Despite its larger size, the 5008 remains relatively easy to manoeuvre, with light steering and good visibility. While there's no hybrid option (unlike the 3008), the range of conventional petrol engines offers a good balance of performance and economy.

Practical features that can be found in the 5008 include numerous storage compartments, USB ports, and an optional hands-free power tailgate. These thoughtful touches can make a real difference in the day-to-day life of busy families.

FAQs and Answers

When it comes to the best family-sized SUVs, we hope our list of the top 10 models in the UK has helped you draw up a shortlist. Do you have more questions about the best family SUVs? Check out our FAQ section below where we answered your most-asked queries:

What is the best family SUV in the UK?

It's difficult to single out the best family SUV in the UK as preferences and needs vary from family to family. However, based on various factors such as spaciousness, safety, practicality, and overall value, some of the top contenders for the best family SUV in the UK market include the Nissan Qashqai, Peugeot 3008, and Hyundai TUCSON. 

What is the most reliable SUV in the UK?

When it comes to reliability, several SUVs in the UK have consistently demonstrated strong performance with minimal issues reported by manufacturers. One such model that stands out is the Hyundai TUCSON which is backed by a comprehensive warranty and known for its dependable performance.  

What is the best second-hand SUV to buy?

The best second-hand SUV to buy will depend on your specific needs, budget, and personal preferences. One of the best options in the UK is the Nissan Qashqai which is known for its practicality, comfort, and affordable running costs, making it a very popular choice in the used SUV market. 

What is the best mileage to buy a used SUV?

If you want to prioritise low mileage and a longer remaining lifespan, look for SUVs with less than 50,000 miles on the clock. These vehicles may come at a higher price point initially but could pay dividends in the long run by offering more years of trouble-free driving. Be sure to check the age of the vehicle, as older SUVs with low mileage could indicate infrequent use, which may lead to potential issues.

How many miles do most SUVs last?

The lifespan of an SUV can vary greatly depending on factors such as the make and model, maintenance habits, driving conditions, and overall vehicle quality. However, with proper care and maintenance, many modern SUVs will reach at least 100,000 miles and can last well over 200,000 miles depending on the make and model.

Invest in the best family SUVs at Wilsons Epsom

If you're in the market for a spacious, stylish, and safe family SUV, look no further than our Wilsons Epsom multi-franchise dealership in Surrey. We offer an extensive selection of both new and used family-sized SUVs from top manufacturers, ensuring that you'll find the perfect vehicle to suit your family's needs and budget. 

Whether you're interested in the latest models with cutting-edge safety features and modern designs or high-quality pre-owned SUVs that offer excellent value for money, our knowledgeable sales team is dedicated to helping you make the right choice. 

All of our vehicles can be viewed online where you can explore each model in more detail. If you like what you see, why not come down to our showroom to experience an SUV for yourself by going for a test drive - we encourage you to bring the whole family along for the ride!