Top-Rated Family-Friendly SUVs in Canada
The one thing that’s common across everyone in my family is our love for travelling. In fact, some of my best memories growing up are from those summer road trips we’d take together in our five-seater (the first one for the family). Though beautiful, our typical summer road trip looked like a complete mess with our car packed to the brim with bags, snacks, and, of course, my siblings and I squished into the backseat, trying to fit into whatever little space we could get. We used to poke at each other, fight for control of the window, and half our snacks would make their way to the floor (and, of course, all over our seats). Can’t deny it was complete chaos! Looking back, it’s always funny how we all still managed to enjoy every bit of it. But, years later, when I see how easy and convenient modern family-friendly SUVs make travelling with your loved ones, I wonder if it would have been different if we had one back then. If you also love travelling, especially with your whole crew, then there’s no need to contemplate, invest in a full-size SUV, as it offers generous room to comfortably spread out and accommodate all you want for your road trip. But, which SUV should you buy? For that, I’ve listed some of the top-rated family-friendly SUVs that Canadians love to drive and enjoy showing off every time they hit the road. Take a look and see which one grabs your attention the most!
Best Family-Friendly SUVs for Comfort, Space and Safety
| Specifications | 2025 Volkswagen Atlas | 2025 Kia Telluride | 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe | 2025 Ford Explorer | 2025 Nissan Pathfinder | 2025 Toyota Highlander |
| Maximum Cargo Space (L) | 2,735 | 2,455 | 2,267 | 2,274 | 2,335 | 2,390 |
| Passenger capacity | 6 or 7 | 8 | 6 or 7 | 6 or 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Headroom (first/second/third-row) (in.) | 40.1 / 39.5 / 38.3 | 39.5 / 40.2 / 38.1 | 40 / 39.5 / 37.8 | 41 / 40.5 / 38.9 | 42.2 / 40.1 / 38.3 | 41 / 39.4 / 36.1 |
| Legroom (first/second/third-row) (in.) | 41.7 / 37.6 / 33.7 | 44 / 42.4 / 31.4 | 41 / 41/ 30 | 42.9 / 39 / 32.2 | 44.3 / 41.7 / 29.6 | 42 / 41 / 27.7 |
| Hip room (first/second/third-row) (in.) | 58.4 / 58.6 / 45.1 | 58.9 / 57.9 / 43.7 | 56 / 56 / 44 | 57.3 / 57.6 / 42.3 | 57 / 56.1 / 44 | 56.5 / 55 / 43.3 |
| Shoulder room (first/second/third-row) (in.) | 61.5 / 60.5/ 54.9 | 61.5 / 61.2 / 55.2 | 58 / 58.3 / 53 | 60.7 / 61.3 / 55.3 | 59.1 / 58 / 55.4 | 59 / 58.7 / 55.2 |
Volkswagen Atlas
Imagine having all the space, comfort, and convenience you demand on a road trip, plus a premium interior that makes every drive feel supreme. That’s exactly what you get with the VW Atlas. It beautifully combines excellent craftsmanship, bold design, and a powerful engine, giving you everything a family could want in a three-row SUV.
Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride brings to the table ultimate comfort, tons of space, incredible interior amenities and top-notch craftsmanship. It’s a complete package in the SUV world that you’ll want to bring home without a second thought.
Hyundai Santa Fe
With solid craftsmanship, plenty of room for both passengers and their belongings, smart tech features, and committed safety features, the Hyundai Santa Fe checks all the boxes for a versatile, high-tech, and reliable family-friendly SUV option.
Ford Explorer
Looking for a ride that’s got space, comfort, and an outdoorsy vibe? The Ford Explorer has it all. It’s my pick for families who love off-road adventures, as it comes loaded with incredible off-road features to have your back on those off-beaten paths.
Nissan Pathfinder
In its class, I’d call Nissan Pathfinder the “good boy” among the chaotic family. It’s quiet, with less subtle with less dramatic styling compared to the Explorer and Atlas. This three-row SUV is perfect for road trips, dropping the kids off at school, or just running errands, while also ensuring great thrills and comfort on your weekend getaway.
Toyota Highlander
If you’re looking for the best family SUV, the Toyota Highlander isn’t just a good pick—it’s the pick, in my opinion! Trust me, it’s not just a ride to take you from point A to point B; it’s about making every journey smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. It’s an SUV that brings everything your family needs together in one sleek, reliable, and striking package.
Find the Best SUVs at Cars.ca
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