If you’re thinking about buying a new car for towing, here’s a guide to the best SUVs, utes and 4x4 off-roaders on sale today that are well suited for hitching up a caravan, boat or trailer in 2026.
Motoring
Australia's best large SUVs and 7-seaters in 2026
Looking for the best large SUV or 7-seater SUV in Australia in 2026? Whether you need a fuel-efficient hybrid for family driving, a capable off-roader for towing, or a spacious electric SUV, this guide compares the top large SUVs on sale in Australia based on price, performance, safety, and running costs.
In Australia, a large SUV typically means a vehicle with seven seats, strong towing capability, and enough space for long-distance family travel. Go shopping for a large SUV though, and you'll find everything from two‑wheel drive vehicles that drive more like mid‑size family SUVs to luxury machines, hard-core off-roaders and highly-capable tow cars.
Among these are hybrids, plug-in hybrids, electric vehicles, diesels and petrol-powered models and a price spread that caters to most budgets. In short, there's something for every budget and every buyer — but you could be forgiven for finding the choice overwhelming.
To help you narrow down your options here is the RACV guide to the best large SUVs and seven-seat wagons available in Australia. Once you've checked out our top picks, you can carry out your own research and compare vehicles and get an indicative understanding of car running costs to help you make the best decision about your next large SUV purchase.
More: Research and compare seven-seat family SUVs on sale today in Australia
Best large SUVs and 7-seaters in Australia
Best large SUVs and 7-seaters for the city and suburbs in Australia
While some SUVs do their best work outside of city limits, seven-seat SUVs can be incredibly handy for city and suburban families looking for space, flexibility, and daily usability.
Hyundai Santa Fe
The latest Hyundai Santa Fe offers petrol and hybrid powertrains in front- and all-wheel drive models. Recent design updates have given this large SUV a striking exterior design, while it remains one of Australia’s most family‑friendly seven‑seat SUVs with a strong focus on interior usability, comfort and everyday practicality.
The Hyundai Santa Fe also represents solid value in Australia, priced from $54,400 - $77,150 plus on-road costs and coming with dual 12.3-inch screens and over-the-air software updates, as well as quality finishes throughout. For families looking for luxe features, it is also available as a six-seater vehicle with the second row of three seats replaced with a pair of captain's chairs.
A 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine is available in the most affordable models, but the more frugal 1.6-litre turbo petrol-electric hybrid makes plenty of sense courtesy of claimed fuel consumption of just 5.6L/100km - making it one of the most fuel-efficient seven-seat large SUVs available. Crisp on-road manners add to this SUV’s talents and counter the relatively firm, but well-controlled, ride quality.
Research & compare Hyundai Santa Fe models on sale: prices, specs, features, running costs, safety
Mazda CX‑80
The Mazda CX‑80 is a seven‑seat large SUV designed to sit at the more refined end of the family market. It offers a choice of petrol, diesel and plug‑in hybrid powertrains, all paired with all‑wheel drive.
The CX‑80 prioritises ride comfort, interior quality and on‑road stability, with a cabin that feels more upmarket than many mainstream rivals while remaining family‑friendly. Six‑ or seven‑seat layouts are available, giving buyers flexibility depending on whether passenger comfort or capacity is the priority. While it isn’t aimed at heavy off‑road use, the CX‑80 suits families who spend most of their time on sealed roads but want a spacious, well‑finished SUV for everyday driving and longer trips.
Priced from $55,700 to $93,419 plus on-road costs, there's a wide range of options in the CX-80 range with an efficient diesel engine making the CX-80 one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles of its size.
Research & compare Mazda CX-80 models on sale: prices, specs, features, running costs, safety
Best large SUV for off‑road driving in Australia
For families who tow caravans, travel long distances or venture off the beaten track, traditional large-bodied SUVs continue to play an important role in Australia. In fact, they are still some of our best-selling vehicles. Thanks to continued focus on matching these vehicles to Australian roads, the large off-road SUVs are the best we've ever seen, proving to be excellent all-rounders.
More: Research and compare off-road SUVs in Australia
Toyota LandCruiser Prado
After a year on sale, the Toyota LandCruiser Prado 250 Series is continuing to deliver for buyers with its rugged good looks that speak to its 4x4 off-road prowess. While Prado has always been immensely capable in rough terrain, this fourth-generation model steps it up with even smarter electronics and fantastic wheel articulation to help clamber over just about anything.
The familiar 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine also benefits from a new eight-speed automatic transmission that makes for crisper responses. Combined with a new steering system and improved refinement, the mechanical overhaul makes for a more comfortable and composed SUV on bitumen.
As before, the Prado is available in a range of model variants, all of which have stepped up in price. Thankfully, the entry-level GX isn’t as basic as it used to be, with smart key entry, dual-zone climate-control air-conditioning and blind spot warning all part of a package, which starts from $73,200 plus on-road costs.
A new off-road-focused Altitude variant (from $92,700 plus on-roads) provides a stepping stone to the luxurious Kakadu (from $100,690). While it shares its core platform with the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series, the new Prado doesn’t have an abundance of interior space, in part due to the rather high boot floor.
Research & compare Toyota Prado models on sale: prices, specs, features, running costs, safety
Ford Everest
The Ford Everest is an Australian-engineered seven-seat SUV that blends serious off-road capability with family comfort. Proving its popularity with buyers, last year the Everest was Australia's fifth best-selling passenger vehicle with 26,161 sales, just 56 ahead of the Toyota Prado which landed in sixth place.
Built on the Ford Ranger ute platform, Everest offers rugged body-on-frame durability and dual-range 4WD traction, yet it is surprisingly refined on-road ride. The local development efforts help the Everest deal with country roads, soaking up bumps with ease while maintaining a sense of comfort and control.
Off the beaten track, the Ford Everest boasts a high stance and available off-road aids (lockable rear diff, terrain management modes) for tackling rough trails. The 3.0 L V6 turbo-diesel (184 kW/600 Nm) is the pick of the engines, providing effortless power and enabling the Everest to tow up to 3,500 kg with confidence.
Inside, the cabin is modern and spacious across all three rows, with essential details like top-tether child-seat points in the third row which can be a rarity among rivals, and rear climate vents for passenger comfort. Boot space is more generous than the Prado, offering improved appeal for larger families.
Priced from $58,990 to $83,490 depending on trim, the Ford Everest represents a high-value package with more affordability than the Prado.
Research & compare Ford Everest models on sale: prices, specs, features, running costs, safety
The Hyundai Palisade offers eight seats and is packed with luxury features in the range-topping Calligraphy Black Ink model pictured here.
Best large SUV for luxury features in Australia
Hyundai Palisade
The Hyundai Palisade continues to set the benchmark for mainstream luxury in the large SUV segment, with a 2.5-litre 245kW/460Nm hybrid powertrain now used across the range.
The Palisade’s standout feature remains its flexible 7- or 8-seat layout, with the 8-seat version offering three-across benches in both rear rows, while the optional 7-seat variant available in the top-of-the-range Calligraphy trim includes plush captain’s chairs in the second row.
The top-spec Calligraphy brings the luxury, with quilted Nappa leather (instead of the standard leather in the new Elite entry model), dual sunroofs, a digital rear-view mirror, and Remote Smart Parking Assist.
Following a 2023 safety update, the Palisade holds a full 5-star ANCAP rating. With pricing from $76,500 plus on-road costs and a feature list and finish that rivals premium European SUVs, the Palisade offers a compelling mix of luxury, practicality, and hybrid efficiency.
Research & compare Hyundai Palisade models on sale: prices, specs, features, running costs, safety
Lexus GX550
The Lexus GX 550 is a new-generation luxury off-roader that blends the rugged DNA of the Toyota Prado with the refinement and technology expected of a Lexus. Built on the same TNGA-F body-on-frame platform as the Prado 250, the GX 550 is engineered for serious off-road use, featuring full-time 4WD, low-range gearing, adaptive suspension, and available locking differentials.
Power comes from a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 producing 260 kW and 650 Nm, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission – delivering strong, smooth performance both on- and off-road although the size and nature of the GX means it still feels more rugged (read agricultural) than its European counterparts.
Inside, the GX 550 offers a sumptuous cabin with high-grade materials, heated and ventilated seats, a large 14″ touchscreen, head-up display, and a premium 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. Seating is available in 6- or 7-seat layouts, with second-row captain’s chairs optional.
Safety is comprehensive, with the latest Lexus Safety System+ including adaptive cruise, lane tracing assist, and a driver monitoring system. While ANCAP has yet to test the GX 550, its platform-mates have earned 5-star ratings, and the GX is expected to follow suit. Priced from around $115,000 drive-away, the GX 550 offers a compelling mix of luxury, technology, and trail-ready toughness, making it a standout for buyers who want a premium SUV that’s as capable in the bush as it is on the boulevard.
Research & compare Lexus GX models on sale: prices, specs, features, running costs, safety
Best electric or plug-in hybrid large SUV in Australia
Hyundai Ioniq 9
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is Hyundai’s first three-row electric SUV and its most advanced EV to date. One of the best electric SUVs available in Australia, it takes its power from a 110.3 kWh battery enabling approximately 600 km of range (WLTP) and supports ultra-rapid charging (up to 233 kW DC) that can recharge 10–80% in as little as 24 minutes.
Dual electric motors produce a combined 314 kW and 700 Nm, delivering spirited performance for a family SUV. With a 5 metre length, the Ioniq 9’s dedicated EV platform provides a spacious, flat-floor interior with a choice of 7 seats or an indulgent 6-seat layout featuring reclining relaxation chairs in the middle row.
The cabin design is cutting-edge, reminiscent of a lounge with tech highlights including dual 12.3″ curved displays, a head-up display, and available digital side mirrors, plus a full suite of SmartSense driver aids.
Priced at $119,750 plus on-road costs and available in one Calligraphy grade model, the Ioniq 9 is the most expensive Hyundai ever sold in Australia, however, it justifies the cost with luxury-level amenities, a hushed ride, and advanced tech – putting it in the same league as the Kia EV9 GT-Line and Volvo EX90 among large electric SUVs. For families who refuse to compromise on space or comfort, the Ioniq 9 is a benchmark electric 7-seater that delivers on range, power, and design.
Research & compare Hyundai Ioniq 9 models on sale: prices, specs, features, running costs, safety
Denza B8
The Denza B8 is a brand-new plug-in hybrid flagship SUV from BYD’s luxury sub-brand, and has just arrived in Australia joining the Denza B5. Roughly the size of a Nissan Patrol (5.2 m long, and around 3.3 tonnes), the B8 is designed to rival the LandCruiser/Patrol class at a lower price point.
Its Dual Mode off-road plug-in hybrid drivetrain combines a 2.0 L turbo petrol with front and rear electric motors for an astounding 425 kW and 760 Nm total output. This super-hybrid setup works with 4WD and a 3-speed hybrid transmission can carry six or seven people and features some serious off-road hardware.
A large 36.8 kWh battery offers around 100 km of pure electric range (WLTP), while the hybrid system stretches total range to over 900 km (with fuel consumption as low as 3.9 L/100 km on the WLTC test). Crucially, the B8 has been developed to be capable in Australia: it boasts a ladder-frame chassis, adjustable air suspension with up to 310 mm ground clearance, front and rear diff locks, and 890 mm water wading depth – true heavy-duty specs that match or exceed traditional off-road SUVs.
Inside, the Denza pampers occupants with an almost overwhelming high-tech luxury cabin including spacious 6- or 7-seat layouts, a rotating 17-inch touchscreen, premium materials, and a suite of advanced ADAS safety systems. With an aggressive starting price around $100k drive-away, the Denza B8 is poised to disrupt the segment and make its presence felt. It brings brutal power, exceptional efficiency, and genuine 4×4 capability – a combination that will make it one of the most talked about 7-seat SUVs of 2026 in Australia.
Research & compare Denza B8 models on sale: prices, specs, features, running costs, safety
Best value-for-money large SUV in Australia
For buyers looking for 7 seats on a budget, there are an increasing number of options available for under $50,000 plus on-road costs. They enable larger families or grandparents to move the whole family without breaking the bank.
More: Australia's cheapest SUVs revealed
Nissan X-Trail 7-seater
Medium-sized SUVs have traditionally accommodated five people, but a handful pack in a third row to take the seating capacity to seven (or six in the case of the new Tesla Model Y L). The Nissan X-Trail is among the best of those mid-size SUV options, providing the same body but with a pair of child-ready seats behind the spacious two rows up front.
Seven-seat Nissan X-Trail models come exclusively with an all-wheel drive system, with prices starting from $41,140 plus on-road costs. There’s a basic level of gear for that money, in the budget-friendly entry-level ST, but once you step up to the higher-series ST-L (from $45,715 plus on-roads) it comes with comforts like heated front seats and faux leather trim.
The excellent e-Power hybrid system isn’t available in seven-seat models, leaving the ageing 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine as the only option. It dishes up respectable performance but is forced to work hard with a load on board. That said, the X-Trail is comfortable and composed on the road, making for an easy family mid-size SUV that has the handy addition of a third row of seats.
Research & compare Nissan X-Trail models on sale: prices, specs, features, running costs, safety
MG QS
The MG QS was a new entrant to the market in 2025, making waves as a large 7-seat SUV that delivers serious space and features at a budget-friendly price. With a starting price of $46,990 drive-away for the base Excite and $50.990 for the top grade Essence, the MG QS undercuts popular rivals by $10,000–$20,000 or more.
Despite the approachable cost, MG hasn’t skimped on equipment – even the base model comes standard with 20″ alloys, LED headlights, tri-zone climate control, power driver’s seat, 12.3″ infotainment touchscreen (wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto), digital instrument cluster, adaptive cruise, 360° camera, and a full suite of safety assists.
The Essence trim adds niceties like leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, 12-speaker Bose audio, and AWD capability. For an affordable car, the QS has a surprisingly premium-feeling cabin and comfortable ride, even on 21″ wheels. Power comes from a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine, which provides decent performance, though fuel economy is average for its class.
The QS earned a 5-star ANCAP safety rating in late 2025, ensuring peace of mind. Overall, the MG QS offers an unbeatable value-for-money proposition – delivering the space and amenities of a large family SUV for the price of many mid-size competitors. It’s an ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers who don't want to compromise on comfort, safety, or practicality.
Research & compare MG QS models on sale: prices, specs, features, running costs, safety
The information provided is general advice only. Before making any decisions please consider your own circumstances and the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations. For copies, visit racv.com.au. As distributor, RACV Insurance Services Pty Ltd AFS Licence No. 230039 receives commission for each policy sold or renewed. Product(s) issued by Insurance Manufacturers of Australia Pty Ltd ABN 93 004 208 084 AFS Licence No. 227678.
