Australia is a country made for road trips. From the Great Ocean Road’s winding coastal views to the rugged red tracks of the outback, Aussies love hitting the road. But the car you choose can make or break the experience. That’s why SUVs have become the go-to option for families, couples, and adventurers planning long drives.
SUVs offer a unique mix of spacious cabins, high driving positions, comfort features, and off-road ability. They’re versatile enough to cruise highways, handle gravel roads, and carry luggage, surfboards, or camping gear with ease. Unlike sedans or hatchbacks, SUVs provide the space and durability you need for multi-day trips across varied Australian landscapes.
In this guide, we’ll break down the top SUVs for Australian road trips in 2025, highlighting the best models for comfort, reliability, fuel efficiency, and family practicality. Whether you’re after a compact SUV for weekend getaways or a large 7-seater for a family adventure, there’s an option here for you.
Key Features to Look for in a Road Trip SUV
Before jumping into specific models, let’s cover the must-have features for an SUV designed for long Australian journeys.
Comfort and Interior Space
When spending hours on the road, seating comfort is essential. Look for SUVs with supportive seats, adjustable lumbar support, and plenty of legroom in both rows. Features like ventilated seats, panoramic sunroofs, and climate control can make long journeys far more enjoyable.
Reliability and Safety
Reliability is vital when driving long stretches in regional Australia, where service stations or mechanics may be few and far between. Brands with a strong track record in durability, like Toyota, Subaru, and Mazda, should be top of your list. Safety ratings, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring are equally crucial for highway confidence.
Cargo Capacity
From eskies and camping gear to prams and surfboards, your SUV needs generous boot space. Roof rails are handy for extra storage with a roof box or sporting equipment. Split-fold rear seats also help maximise practicality.
Fuel Efficiency
With petrol and diesel prices fluctuating, fuel economy matters. Modern SUVs often feature hybrid or plug-in hybrid options, which provide long-term savings on fuel, especially when tackling thousands of kilometres on a single trip.
Off-Road Capability
Not every road trip sticks to sealed highways. If your adventures include dirt tracks, bush trails, or sand driving, a capable AWD or 4x4 SUV with good ground clearance and driving modes is essential.
Best SUVs for Australian Road Trips in 2025
Toyota LandCruiser 300
Few names carry as much weight in Australian road-trip culture as the Toyota LandCruiser. The 300 Series combines legendary durability with modern luxury. It’s ideal for long outback journeys where reliability and rugged 4WD capability matter most. The interior is plush, with spacious seating for seven, advanced driver-assist tech, and a large boot for gear.
Its diesel V6 delivers both power and efficiency, while Toyota’s extensive service network across regional Australia gives you peace of mind. If your road trip involves remote tracks and towing caravans, the LandCruiser remains unbeatable.
Subaru Outback
Although technically a crossover, the Subaru Outback is built for adventurous road trippers. Its symmetrical AWD system, rugged suspension, and generous ground clearance make it great for dirt tracks and unsealed roads. Inside, it’s practical with wide-opening doors, comfortable seats, and a large boot.
The Outback’s safety suite is among the best in its class, with EyeSight driver-assist technology providing confidence on long drives. Its efficient petrol engine makes it more affordable to run compared to bigger SUVs, making it perfect for families who want a balance of comfort and economy.
Hyundai Palisade
For families needing space and comfort, the Hyundai Palisade is a brilliant choice. This large 7- or 8-seater SUV offers limousine-like comfort on the highway. Plush seating, excellent infotainment, and abundant USB ports make long journeys more enjoyable for kids and adults alike.
Its premium interior rivals luxury SUVs at a more affordable price. With strong safety features and an efficient diesel option, the Palisade is designed for those who want practicality without sacrificing comfort.
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is one of Australia’s best-selling SUVs for a reason. For long road trips, its hybrid system delivers excellent fuel economy, keeping running costs low even when tackling thousands of kilometres.
Practical, reliable, and comfortable, the RAV4 Hybrid has a generous boot, strong safety credentials, and Toyota’s bulletproof reliability. It’s not designed for extreme off-road driving, but for highway journeys and light trails, it’s near perfect.
Mazda CX-90
Mazda’s new flagship SUV, the CX-90, brings style and refinement to the large SUV market. With seating for seven, a premium cabin, and strong hybrid powertrains, it’s an ideal option for families seeking comfort on long journeys.
Mazda’s interiors are among the best in the mainstream market, with a mix of soft-touch materials and intuitive technology. On the road, it delivers a smooth, quiet ride—perfect for Australia’s long highways.
Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorento remains a favourite among Aussie families. Offering diesel, petrol, and hybrid powertrains, it suits a wide range of buyers. With seven seats, excellent cargo flexibility, and a comfortable cabin, it’s road-trip ready.
The Sorento also shines with advanced safety features and Kia’s unmatched 7-year warranty, making it a smart long-term investment for frequent travellers.
Ford Everest
Built on the same platform as the Ford Ranger, the Everest is a true 4WD SUV designed for adventurous Australians. It excels at towing caravans, tackling rugged outback roads, and carrying families in comfort.
The interior is refined, with a large touchscreen, supportive seating, and clever storage solutions. Its diesel engine is powerful and fuel-efficient, making it a favourite for families who tow boats or camper trailers.
Nissan X-Trail e-Power
The latest Nissan X-Trail brings a new hybrid powertrain called e-Power, which blends fuel efficiency with smooth performance. With its spacious interior, advanced infotainment, and strong safety rating, it’s a solid mid-size SUV for family road trips.
It’s not as rugged as a LandCruiser or Everest, but for highway and regional travel, it offers a smooth and economical ride.
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
For those who want a rugged 4x4 without breaking the bank, the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport delivers. It’s capable off-road, comfortable on highways, and reliable in remote areas. With seven-seat flexibility and strong towing capacity, it’s a practical option for adventurous families.
Luxury Picks for the Road Trip Enthusiast
For those wanting a premium experience, models like the BMW X5, Audi Q7, and Volvo XC90 combine luxury, space, and cutting-edge technology. While pricier, they deliver superior refinement and comfort for long-distance driving.
Fuel Types: Petrol, Diesel, Hybrid, or Electric?
When planning a road trip SUV purchase, fuel type is a major consideration.
Petrol SUVs are affordable upfront and widely available, but less efficient for long distances.
Diesel SUVs excel in torque and towing, making them ideal for caravans and outback adventures.
Hybrid SUVs offer the best of both worlds, reducing fuel bills while keeping flexibility.
Electric SUVs like the Tesla Model Y and Kia EV6 are growing in popularity, but charging infrastructure in remote areas remains limited. They’re best for trips along Australia’s coastal highways with good charging coverage.
Tips for Choosing the Right SUV for Your Road Trips
Consider the number of passengers and gear you’ll regularly carry.
Think about the type of trips: coastal highways vs. outback tracks.
Balance upfront cost with long-term running costs, including fuel, insurance, and servicing.
Look at warranty length and roadside assistance packages.
Test drive multiple models to see which feels most comfortable.
Conclusion: Finding Your Ideal Road Trip SUV
Australia’s diverse landscapes demand a versatile vehicle, and SUVs are perfectly suited for the task. From the rugged LandCruiser 300 and Ford Everest to efficient hybrids like the Toyota RAV4 and Nissan X-Trail e-Power, there’s an SUV for every kind of traveller.
Whether your adventures involve coastal cruises, outback exploration, or family holidays, the right SUV will ensure every kilometre is comfortable, safe, and memorable. Investing in a reliable, spacious SUV means your road trips can focus on what really matters—enjoying the journey and making lasting memories.
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