When you’ve got a growing family, a small boot just won’t do. Between school bags, prams, sports kits, groceries, and weekend luggage, your car needs to carry more than passengers.

This guide explores the best family SUVs with maximum cargo space, helping you find the right balance of comfort, flexibility, and practicality. If you’re comparing SUV cargo capacity or searching for the best storage SUV, this list is a great place to start.

Why Cargo Space Matters for Families

A roomy boot isn’t just about convenience — it’s about making everyday life easier. From long trips to quick runs to the supermarket, space matters more than ever.

Top Reasons to Prioritise Storage:

  • Fit prams, bikes, or sports gear without folding seats
  • Carry luggage for holidays without roof racks
  • Avoid cramped boot spaces when shopping
  • Keep the cabin clutter-free
  • Stay flexible for school, work, and leisure

In short, a family SUV with a large trunk gives you room to breathe.

What Counts as “Good” SUV Cargo Capacity?

Cargo space is usually measured in litres (L), with seats up or down. Most midsize SUVs offer around 500–700L behind the second row. Larger models offer 800L+.

Key Terms to Know:

  • Boot volume behind second row: Daily usable space
  • Boot volume behind first row: With all rear seats folded
  • Load height: Distance from ground to boot floor (important for lifting)
  • Flat-folding seats: Easier loading of large items
  • Underfloor storage: Hidden compartments for smaller gear

Compare real-world usage — not just brochure numbers.

Top Family SUVs with Outstanding Cargo Space

Here are the top SUVs that offer excellent space, clever design, and real-world practicality.

A modern SUV drives along a scenic mountain road, surrounded by lush trees and a reflective lake under a clear blue sky.

1. Kia Sorento

Cargo Capacity:

  • 616L with all seats up
  • 2,011L with rows two and three folded

Why It Works for Families:

  • Easy-to-fold third row
  • Flat cargo floor
  • Good access for bulky items

Bonus Feature: Rear air vents and power outlets make it ideal for family road trips.

2. Skoda Kodiaq

Cargo Capacity:

  • 835L in five-seat mode
  • 2,065L with all rear seats folded

Why It Works:

  • Large square boot
  • Low loading lip
  • Seats fold flat with one pull

Best For: Families who pack big or travel often.

3. Hyundai Palisade

Cargo Capacity:

  • 510L behind third row
  • 1,297L behind second row
  • 2,447L max

Why It Works:

  • Huge interior space
  • Clever cubbies throughout
  • Split-folding rear rows

Bonus: Extra storage under the boot floor for smaller items.

4. Honda CR-V (2025)

Cargo Capacity:

  • 1,113L behind second row
  • Up to 2,166L total

Why It Works:

  • Wide tailgate opening
  • Adjustable load floor
  • One-touch seat release

Ideal For: Urban families that need city-friendly size and strong boot space.

5. Ford Everest

Cargo Capacity:

  • 898L behind second row
  • 1,818L behind first row (5-seat setup)

Why It Works:

  • Rugged yet practical
  • Fold-flat seats
  • Strong roof load for extra gear

Great For: Camping, long trips, or active lifestyles.

6. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

Cargo Capacity:

  • 620L behind second row
  • 1,900L+ with seats down

Why It Works:

  • Durable and spacious
  • Easy to clean after outdoor use
  • Rear-mounted spare tyre keeps underfloor space free

Best For: Families who love off-road or outdoor weekends.

A gray SUV parked on a sandy beach, with its hatch open and a serene view of the water in the background.

SUVs with Clever Storage Design (Not Just Size)

Big numbers are great — but smart design often makes a bigger impact.

Look For These Storage Extras:

  • Underfloor bins: Hide valuables or store tools
  • Sliding second-row seats: Make space where you need it
  • Roof-hinged tailgates: Easier for loading tall items
  • Power tailgates: Helpful when hands are full
  • Hands-free access: Wave a foot under the bumper to open

Interior storage like deep door pockets, large gloveboxes, and seat-back trays also add daily value.

For more family SUV travel hacks, read our related post on Organising Your SUV for Family Road Trips.

Three-Row SUVs: Balancing Seats and Storage

If you need a seven-seater, storage changes once the third row is up.

Tips for Managing Space in Three-Row SUVs:

  • Choose models with more than 500L behind the third row
  • Look for split-fold options for more flexibility
  • Use roof boxes for occasional extra load
  • Prioritise flat-fold seats for full boot use when not carrying passengers

Some families use the third row only on weekends — make sure it’s easy to fold.

Compact SUVs with Impressive Boot Space

Not everyone needs a full-size SUV. Some smaller models do very well for their size.

Top Compact Picks:

  • Volkswagen Tiguan – 615L
  • Mazda CX-5 – 522L
  • Toyota RAV4 – 580L
  • Nissan X-Trail – 585L

Why These Work: They’re easier to park, cheaper to run, and still offer great storage for weekly use.

A red car with tinted windows features a sleek black rooftop cargo box, set against a backdrop of lush green bushes.

Roof Racks, Boxes and Trailers — Worth the Add-On?

If you max out the boot, external storage can help.

When to Use Them:

  • Road trips
  • Camping holidays
  • Extra-large equipment (e.g., surfboards, prams, bikes)

Roof boxes add up to 500L, but affect fuel use. Tow options let you add a trailer for bulky or dirty loads — ideal for bikes or camping gear.

Choose racks that match your SUV’s shape and use fold-down designs if needed.

How to Choose the Best Storage SUV for Your Family

Storage isn’t just about boot size — it’s about how you live.

Ask Yourself:

  • How many people do you regularly carry?
  • What kind of gear do you pack?
  • Do you often take long trips?
  • Will the SUV grow with your children’s needs?
  • Is the boot easy to access and use daily?

Bring your gear to the dealership. See what fits. Try the seat-folding process yourself.

Everyday Features That Help Busy Parents

Look for more than just space. Smart features reduce daily stress.

Helpful Add-Ons:

  • Hooks for shopping bags
  • Slide-out cargo covers
  • Adjustable boot floors
  • Built-in storage organisers
  • Rear window shades for sleeping children

Many of these features come in mid-trim levels — not just premium models.

Space That Works, Not Just Numbers

Finding the best storage SUV isn’t about the biggest number — it’s about what fits your lifestyle. Whether you need an SUV cargo capacity for everyday use or a family SUV with a large trunk for long trips, these models offer smart, spacious solutions.

Choose a vehicle that handles gear, passengers, and surprises with ease. Because when your SUV works for your family, everything else runs smoother too.

For deeper comparisons, see our guide on Best Fuel-Efficient SUVs for Big Families.