For families in need of reliable transportation, used SUVs are often the most cost-effective option. They offer a rare balance of comfort, roominess, and peace of mind—especially when kids are involved.

But not every SUV cuts. Some are just gas-guzzling tanks that feel outdated the moment you turn the key. Others were built with family life in mind—strong on safety, generous with space, and thoughtful with fuel. If you plan to get a solid SUV without blowing your savings, this guide breaks down the best-used options that check all the right boxes.

When a family buys an SUV, it's not about luxury. It's about practicality. It's about sliding doors that won't crush tiny fingers, cargo space that swallows a double stroller, and safety ratings that let parents breathe a little easier on the road. Whether it's school runs, grocery hauls, or weekend road trips, the right SUV becomes an extension of home life. That's why it's essential to make a careful choice.

Before diving into the top models, here are the top priorities to consider when choosing a used SUV for family life:

Safety Ratings: Look for high scores in crash tests and features like blind spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, rearview cameras, and automatic emergency braking.

Interior Space: Comfortable seating for five or more people, plus a good amount of cargo room for luggage, groceries, or sports gear.

Reliability: The less time the SUV spends in the shop, the better. Certain brands are known to hold up well even after 100,000 miles.

Fuel Economy: Large doesn't have to mean inefficient. Many midsize SUVs offer reasonable gas mileage.

Ease of Maintenance: Opt for vehicles that require fewer expensive parts or specialised service.

With those in mind, here are some of the best-used SUVs for families based on real-world performance, safety, and comfort.

The Toyota Highlander is a go-to pick for families for a reason. It seats up to eight people and has a well-earned reputation for reliability. The third-row seating is well-suited for children, and the second-row offers ample legroom.

This SUV also comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, which includes features such as forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control. Fuel economy is solid for its size, and the V6 engine option offers more than enough power without being noisy. Its resale value is substantial, and most mechanics can efficiently work on it.

Families that need more space without moving to a minivan often land on the Honda Pilot. With three rows and a spacious cabin, the Pilot can comfortably accommodate car seats, backpacks, and coolers. It also has clever storage compartments throughout the cabin.

The Pilot's road manners are smooth and calm—suitable for parents who hate noisy rides. Safety-wise, later models offer features such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and additional safety enhancements. Additionally, the third-row seats are easier to access than those of many rivals.

Mazda doesn’t always come up in family SUV conversations, but the CX-9 deserves a spot. It’s stylish, but it also handles better than most in its class. For parents who enjoy driving, this SUV offers a bit more fun behind the wheel.

Inside, the cabin feels upscale, almost like a luxury SUV without the price tag. It has decent room for seven and offers standard safety features in later models. Fuel economy is better than expected, and its turbocharged engine handles full loads well.

Subaru entered the three-row SUV market with the Ascent, and they did it right. It offers standard all-wheel drive, which is great for rainy or slippery roads. The interior features numerous storage spaces, cup holders, and USB ports to keep everyone charged and organised.

Safety features, such as automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control, come standard. And since it's relatively new in the used market, most models are still in excellent condition with lower mileage.

The Ford Explorer has long been a favourite for growing families. It's roomy, strong, and widely available on the used market. The third row is adult-friendly, and the second row can be equipped with captain's chairs to facilitate easier access for passengers.

Ford packed the Explorer with tech features during these years, including hands-free liftgates, rear-seat entertainment systems, and driver assistance features. It’s not the most fuel-efficient in the group, but it makes up for it with comfort and size.

The Hyundai Santa Fe is one of the most underrated family SUVs. It doesn't shout for attention, but it quietly does everything right. The cabin is thoughtfully designed, with ample space for five and a trunk that can accommodate groceries and gear.

It also ranks high in reliability and typically costs less than its competitors. Later models offer features like blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert. Maintenance costs are lower than average, and used models often come with part of the original warranty.

If space is the top priority, the Chevy Traverse delivers. It offers some of the best third-row rooms in its class, making it a good fit for large families or carpoolers. The cargo area is also huge, even with all seats in use.

The ride is soft and quiet, and the infotainment system is easy to use—something that matters a lot when kids are involved. Safety scores are solid, and used models are readily available.

Even among good models, no SUV is perfect. When buying used, make sure to:

Check for recalls and whether they’ve been resolved.

Inspect the condition of the transmission and suspension.

Get a full vehicle history report.

Have a trusted mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection.

Confirm that child safety seat anchors are intact and functional.

When cost is a significant factor, the Hyundai Santa Fe and Honda Pilot stand out as the most notable options. They offer great value, good safety, and enough room without hitting the same price levels as a Highlander or Explorer. On the other hand, for those who want a slightly newer SUV without breaking into luxury pricing, the Subaru Ascent and Mazda CX-9 strike a balance between modern technology and solid design.

It's possible to find a used SUV that keeps your family safe and comfortable without breaking the bank. Focus on models with proven records, high safety scores, and the kind of space that fits real family needs—not just showroom impressions. It's not about what looks flashiest on the lot. It's about what holds up on the road, keeps the kids in check, and doesn't break down halfway through the school run.