If you’re in the market for your next family car, you’ve landed in the right spot. SUVs are an incredibly popular choice for families or anyone needing ample space for passengers and luggage. There are several reasons why an SUV might be the perfect option over alternatives like a saloon, hatchback, or estate.
For starters, SUVs generally offer more interior and boot space than other vehicle types. The elevated seating position makes it easier to load children into the back seats and provides a commanding view of the road ahead, giving drivers a sense of safety and security. Some SUVs even excel in off-road capabilities, which can be a significant advantage if you live in a rural area.
That said, SUVs are not without drawbacks. They often come with a higher price tag than comparable vehicles and tend to be less fuel-efficient, leading to higher running costs. Choosing the right one is essential, which is why our team of experts has curated this list of the best SUVs for 2025, catering to a wide range of budgets.
10 Best SUV Cars of 2025
1. Hyundai Santa Fe
Overall Rating: 10/10
Award: Car of the Year
Best for: Cool practicality
The Hyundai Santa Fe is an excellent choice if you’re after a stylish, spacious seven-seat SUV. With its futuristic exterior and a premium interior, it represents Hyundai’s best effort yet. This SUV is remarkably practical—think 17 cup holders—and offers hybrid engine options. However, it lacks diesel or full-electric variants, and its driving dynamics are a bit dull.
Pros:
- Expansive, roomy interior
- Striking design
- Impressive fuel efficiency for its size
Cons:
- Competitors offer larger boot space
- No diesel or electric version available
- Uninspiring driving experience
Prices:
- New: From £42,625 (£493/month*)
- Used: From £46,000
2. BMW X5
Overall Rating: 10/10
Award: Adventurer’s Choice
Best for: Family-friendly luxury
The BMW X5 stands out as a well-rounded SUV, combining practicality with a high-quality interior. While it’s on the pricier side, the luxury feel justifies the investment. For driving enthusiasts, the X5 delivers an engaging experience rare for an SUV of this size. High-performance ‘M’ versions are also available for those seeking extra excitement.
Pros:
- Powerful and efficient engines
- Premium interior materials
- Surprisingly fun to drive
Cons:
- Lumbar adjustment is an optional extra
- Engine noise in the M50d model feels artificial
- Firm ride with larger alloy wheels
Prices:
- New: From £63,816 (£824/month*)
- Used: From £29,990
3. Volvo EX30
Overall Rating: 9/10
Best for: Great-value EV
The Volvo EX30 is a compact and budget-friendly electric SUV that delivers exceptional style, a minimalist interior, and an enjoyable driving experience. It’s comfortable over rough roads and impressively quiet on highways. The fastest model offers thrilling acceleration. However, its infotainment system can be frustrating, and updates may be necessary for some models.
Pros:
- Comfortable ride
- Advanced driver-assistance features
- Affordable for an EV
Cons:
- Limited boot space
- Tight rear seats
- Over-reliance on touchscreen controls
Prices:
- New: From £32,850 (£354/month*)
- Used: From £26,895
4. Citroen C5 Aircross
Overall Rating: 9/10
Award: Comfortable Cruiser (Highly Commended)
Best for: Value for money
The Citroen C5 Aircross is an outstanding choice for families, offering great value with its spacious cabin and versatile sliding rear bench for extra boot space. It’s also incredibly comfortable to drive. While some interior materials feel a bit cheap, this is forgivable given its affordability.
Pros:
- Stylish design
- Large boot capacity
- Smooth and comfortable driving
Cons:
- Budget materials in some areas
- Clunky infotainment system
- Rear seats may feel cramped
Prices:
- New: From £23,749 (£230/month*)
- Used: From £8,750
5. Citroen e-C3
Overall Rating: 9/10
Award: Smart Spender (Highly Commended)
Best for: Affordable EV option
The Citroen e-C3 is one of the most budget-friendly electric cars on the market, proving you don’t need to compromise on quality to save money. It’s compact and ideal for city driving, with comfortable handling and peppy performance. However, its limited range and practicality may deter long-distance travelers.
Pros:
- Comfortable ride
- Affordable pricing
- Nippy performance
Cons:
- Range under 200 miles
- Oddly shaped boot
- Lack of a heat pump affects winter efficiency
Prices:
- New: From £19,887 (£282/month*)
- Used: Currently unavailable
6. Land Rover Defender 110
Overall Rating: 9/10
Best for: Off-road supremacy
The Land Rover Defender is in a league of its own, combining rugged off-road capabilities with a comfortable and refined on-road experience. Whether you’re navigating rural landscapes or city streets, the Defender delivers versatility and style. With various configurations available, the Defender 110 is the perfect middle ground. However, its running costs and reliability concerns may deter some buyers.
Pros:
- Seven-seat practicality
- Exceptional off-road capability
- Comfortable on the road
Cons:
- High maintenance costs
- Cramped third-row seating
- Reliability concerns linger
Prices:
- New: From £58,414 (£792/month*)
- Used: From £45,660
7. Kia EV9
Overall Rating: 9/10
Award: Outstanding EV
Best for: Electric family living
The Kia EV9 is a spacious, high-tech electric SUV offering configurations for six or seven passengers. With a remarkable battery range and rapid charging, it’s ideal for families seeking an all-electric option. While the interior is generally premium, some materials don’t quite meet the standards of its price point.
Pros:
- Roomy and flexible interior
- Super-fast charging speeds
- Long electric range
Cons:
- Cabin noise at higher speeds
- Awkward climate controls
- Expensive for a Kia
Prices:
- New: From £59,886 (£653/month*)
- Used: From £60,999
8. BMW iX
Overall Rating: 9/10
Best for: Futuristic interior
The BMW iX offers a strikingly modern interior filled with cutting-edge technology and premium materials. Its electric range is among the best in its class, and it’s a joy to drive with a smooth, quiet ride. However, the iX’s exterior design and lack of storage space may not appeal to everyone.
Pros:
- Innovative technology
- Stylish interior design
- Excellent range and refinement
Cons:
- Limited boot space
- Heavy build
- Polarizing exterior design
Prices:
- Lease: From £816/month*
- Used: From £37,990
9. Skoda Karoq
Overall Rating: 9/10
Best for: Sensible spaciousness
The Skoda Karoq is a practical, well-built SUV with generous boot space and clever seating options. It’s a reliable and affordable choice for families, though its styling and entry-level models can feel uninspiring.
Pros:
- Clever and versatile rear seats
- Comfortable ride quality
- Sturdy construction
Cons:
- Plain styling
- Entry-level engines lack punch
- Premium trims are expensive
Prices:
- New: From £28,886 (£268/month*)
- Used: From £9,100
10. Nissan Qashqai
Overall Rating: 8/10
Best for: Everyday reliability
The Nissan Qashqai is a dependable family SUV, known for its practicality and ease of use. While it may not excite, it gets the job done with a robust interior, updated infotainment, and excellent cruising comfort.
Pros:
- Family-friendly interior
- Smooth driving experience
- Google-powered infotainment system
Cons:
- Lacks standout features
- Average boot space compared to rivals
- Unexciting design
Prices:
- New: Pricing starts from £27,500
- Used: From £12,000
This comprehensive guide ensures you’ll find an SUV that suits your needs, whether you prioritize practicality, luxury, or cutting-edge technology. Happy car shopping!
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