Top 5 SUVs for Australian Families in 2023
Introduction
The popularity of SUVs in Australia continues to soar, with these versatile vehicles accounting for over 50% of new car sales. For families, an SUV offers the perfect combination of space, safety, and practicality to handle everything from the school run to weekend adventures.
At Picrosommi, we've had countless conversations with Australian families about their vehicle needs. Based on our extensive experience and customer feedback, we've compiled this list of the top 5 SUVs for Australian families in 2023, focusing on models that excel in safety, space, value for money, and suitability for Australian conditions.
What Makes a Great Family SUV?
Before diving into our top picks, let's consider what Australian families should look for in an SUV:
- Safety: A 5-star ANCAP safety rating and comprehensive safety technology
- Space: Adequate passenger and cargo room for family needs
- Practicality: Family-friendly features like easy-to-clean surfaces and plentiful storage
- Fuel Efficiency: Reasonable running costs for budget-conscious families
- Reliability: Proven dependability to avoid unexpected repairs
- Value: Competitive pricing and strong resale value
- Australian Suitability: Performance on diverse Australian road conditions
With these criteria in mind, here are our top 5 SUVs for Australian families in 2023:
1. Toyota RAV4
Why We Love It
The Toyota RAV4 continues to dominate the medium SUV segment in Australia, and for good reason. The hybrid variant, in particular, offers an outstanding combination of space, fuel efficiency, and reliability that's hard to beat for Australian families.
Key Specifications
- Engine Options: 2.0L petrol (127kW/203Nm), 2.5L hybrid (160kW combined)
- Fuel Economy: 4.7L/100km (Hybrid), 6.5L/100km (2.0L petrol)
- Safety: 5-star ANCAP rating, Toyota Safety Sense including AEB, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist
- Cargo Space: 580L with rear seats up, expanding to 1,690L with seats folded
- Towing Capacity: Up to 1,500kg braked
Family-Friendly Features
- Spacious cabin with ample legroom for rear passengers
- Easy-to-clean interior materials
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Rear air vents for passenger comfort
- Multiple USB ports throughout the cabin
- Toyota's renowned reliability and 5-year warranty
Perfect For
Families seeking a practical, fuel-efficient SUV with strong resale value and proven reliability. The hybrid option is particularly appealing for urban families looking to reduce fuel costs.
2. Mazda CX-5
Why We Love It
The Mazda CX-5 strikes an excellent balance between premium feel and affordability. Its upscale interior, engaging driving dynamics, and comprehensive safety features make it a standout in the mid-size SUV category.
Key Specifications
- Engine Options: 2.0L petrol (115kW/200Nm), 2.5L petrol (140kW/252Nm), 2.5L turbo-petrol (170kW/420Nm), 2.2L diesel (140kW/450Nm)
- Fuel Economy: 6.9L/100km (2.0L), 7.4L/100km (2.5L), 8.2L/100km (2.5L turbo), 5.7L/100km (diesel)
- Safety: 5-star ANCAP rating, advanced Smart City Brake Support, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert
- Cargo Space: 442L with rear seats up, expanding to 1,342L with seats folded
- Towing Capacity: Up to 2,000kg braked
Family-Friendly Features
- Premium interior materials that resist wear and tear
- Excellent sound insulation for a quieter ride
- User-friendly infotainment system with rotary controller
- Rear seat recline function for passenger comfort
- 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats for flexible cargo arrangements
- Generous standard equipment across the range
Perfect For
Families who want a more premium experience without the premium price tag. The CX-5 appeals to those who value driving dynamics and interior quality alongside family practicality.
3. Hyundai Tucson
Why We Love It
The latest Hyundai Tucson combines bold styling with impressive practicality and technology. With its distinctive design, spacious interior, and excellent warranty, it's an increasingly popular choice for Australian families.
Key Specifications
- Engine Options: 2.0L petrol (115kW/192Nm), 1.6L turbo-petrol (132kW/265Nm), 2.0L diesel (137kW/416Nm)
- Fuel Economy: 8.1L/100km (2.0L), 7.2L/100km (1.6T), 6.3L/100km (diesel)
- Safety: 5-star ANCAP rating, SmartSense safety suite including AEB, lane-keeping assist, driver attention warning
- Cargo Space: 539L with rear seats up, expanding to 1,860L with seats folded
- Towing Capacity: Up to 1,900kg braked
Family-Friendly Features
- Generous interior space, particularly for rear passengers
- Large panoramic sunroof available on higher trims
- Dual-zone climate control with rear air vents
- One-touch folding rear seats
- Excellent 5-year/unlimited km warranty
- Remote start function via key fob
Perfect For
Families who want distinctive styling and the latest technology features without sacrificing practicality. The long warranty provides added peace of mind for long-term ownership.
4. Kia Sportage
Why We Love It
The latest Kia Sportage impresses with its combination of sharp design, spacious interior, and class-leading 7-year warranty. It offers excellent value for money with generous standard equipment even in base models.
Key Specifications
- Engine Options: 2.0L petrol (115kW/192Nm), 1.6L turbo-petrol (132kW/265Nm), 2.0L diesel (137kW/416Nm)
- Fuel Economy: 7.7L/100km (2.0L), 7.2L/100km (1.6T), 6.3L/100km (diesel)
- Safety: 5-star ANCAP rating, comprehensive safety package including AEB, blind-spot collision avoidance, safe exit warning
- Cargo Space: 543L with rear seats up, expanding to 1,829L with seats folded
- Towing Capacity: Up to 1,900kg braked
Family-Friendly Features
- Dual 12.3-inch curved displays on higher trims
- Multi-terrain drive modes on AWD variants
- Industry-leading 7-year/unlimited km warranty
- Hands-free power tailgate on higher trims
- Heated and ventilated front seats available
- Rear occupant alert system for added safety
Perfect For
Families seeking maximum value and peace of mind with the longest standard warranty in its class. The Sportage is ideal for those who want a feature-packed SUV with distinctive styling.
5. Subaru Forester
Why We Love It
The Subaru Forester has built a loyal following in Australia for its genuine off-road capability, excellent visibility, and robust build quality. It's the perfect SUV for families who regularly venture beyond city limits.
Key Specifications
- Engine Options: 2.5L petrol (136kW/239Nm), 2.0L hybrid (110kW/196Nm plus 12.3kW electric motor)
- Fuel Economy: 7.4L/100km (2.5L), 6.7L/100km (hybrid)
- Safety: 5-star ANCAP rating, EyeSight driver assist technology including AEB, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning
- Cargo Space: 498L with rear seats up, expanding to 1,768L with seats folded
- Towing Capacity: 1,500kg braked
Family-Friendly Features
- Standard symmetrical all-wheel drive across the range
- X-Mode off-road assist for adventurous families
- Excellent ground clearance (220mm)
- Class-leading all-around visibility
- Water-resistant seat materials on select trims
- Facial recognition technology that can store seat and mirror preferences for up to five drivers
Perfect For
Active families who enjoy outdoor adventures and value safety and capability over flashy styling. The Forester is particularly well-suited to rural families or those who regularly encounter rough roads or inclement weather.
Honorable Mentions
While they didn't make our top 5, these SUVs are still excellent choices for Australian families:
- Mitsubishi Outlander: Recently redesigned with a spacious interior and the option of seven seats
- MG HS: Outstanding value proposition with premium features at a budget price
- Nissan X-Trail: Versatile family SUV with innovative storage solutions
- Volkswagen Tiguan: European refinement and excellent driving dynamics
- Ford Escape: Engaging handling and powerful turbocharged engine
Choosing the Right SUV for Your Family
Every family has unique needs, so the "best" SUV varies depending on your specific requirements. When selecting a family SUV, consider:
- Family Size: If you have more than three children or regularly transport additional passengers, consider a 7-seat option like the Mitsubishi Outlander or move up to a larger SUV
- Lifestyle: Do you need off-road capability for camping trips? The Subaru Forester excels here
- Budget: Consider not just the purchase price but ongoing costs like fuel, insurance, and maintenance
- Daily Use: If you mainly drive in urban areas, a hybrid option like the RAV4 Hybrid can significantly reduce fuel costs
- Features: Prioritize the features that matter most to your family, whether that's safety technology, entertainment options, or cargo flexibility
Conclusion
The SUV market in Australia offers more choice than ever for families, with options to suit every budget and lifestyle. Our top 5 picks—the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and Subaru Forester—all excel in different areas while providing the space, safety, and practicality that Australian families need.
At Picrosommi, we stock a wide range of new and quality pre-owned SUVs, including all the models featured in this article. Our experienced sales team can help you compare options and choose the perfect SUV for your family's specific needs and budget.
Visit our showroom for a test drive, or contact us to arrange a personalized consultation about your next family vehicle.