Best Cars for a Family Road Trip in Australia

Planning a road trip in Australia with the family? Choosing the right car is just as important as mapping out your route. Whether you’re heading up the coast, venturing into the Outback, or exploring the countryside, comfort, space, and fuel efficiency matter.

Not all vehicles are suited for long journeys with kids and luggage in tow. Some offer more legroom, while others shine in fuel economy or off-road capabilities. To help you pick the best ride, we’re comparing SUVs, minivans, and economy cars for family travel. Each category has its advantages, so it comes down to what best fits your trip. If you're considering renting a vehicle, an economy car hire service might be a budget-friendly option, especially for shorter trips with fewer passengers.

Let’s break down the best options to make sure your road trip is smooth, enjoyable, and free of unnecessary hassles.

SUVs: A Balance of Space and Performance

SUVs are a popular choice for family road trips, and for good reason. They provide plenty of space, high seating positions for better road visibility, and strong safety features. If you're traveling across different terrains, an SUV can handle both highways and rougher roads with ease.

Why Choose an SUV?

• Roomy Interior – SUVs offer ample legroom and headspace, making them comfortable for long drives.
• Luggage Capacity – Whether it’s camping gear, strollers, or suitcases, SUVs have large cargo areas. Some models even have roof racks for extra storage.
• Safety Features – Many SUVs come with advanced safety tech, including lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.
• Versatile Driving – From smooth highways to dirt tracks, an SUV can handle different road conditions.

Best SUVs for Family Road Trips in Australia

1. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado – A top pick for long-distance travel, especially if you’re heading into rugged terrain. It’s reliable, spacious, and built for endurance.
2. Mazda CX-9 – A family-friendly SUV with a comfortable cabin, excellent fuel efficiency, and a smooth ride.
3. Hyundai Palisade – Great for large families, offering three rows of seats, modern tech features, and a luxurious feel.
4. Subaru Outback – Technically a crossover, but ideal for adventurous families who want fuel efficiency without sacrificing off-road capability.

SUVs are ideal for families who prioritize comfort, space, and safety. However, they can be pricier in terms of fuel consumption compared to other vehicle types.

Minivans: The Ultimate Family-Friendly Option

If space is your main concern, a minivan might be the best option. Designed specifically for family travel, minivans offer unbeatable comfort and flexibility.

Why Choose a Minivan?

• Maximum Seating Capacity – Most minivans comfortably fit seven to eight people, with plenty of legroom.
• Sliding Doors – Makes it easier for kids to hop in and out, especially in tight parking spaces.
• Entertainment Features – Many modern minivans include rear-seat entertainment systems, USB ports, and Wi-Fi capabilities to keep the kids entertained.
• Fuel Efficiency – While larger than SUVs, some minivans are surprisingly fuel-efficient, making them a cost-effective option.

Best Minivans for Family Road Trips in Australia

1. Kia Carnival – Known for its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and smooth handling. It’s a great pick for big families.
2. Toyota Tarago – A reliable, long-standing favorite for Australian families, offering plenty of cargo space and a comfortable ride.
3. Honda Odyssey – One of the best minivans for comfort and tech features, including built-in navigation and entertainment options.
4. Volkswagen Multivan – Ideal for those who need flexibility with seating arrangements and extra cargo space.

The downside of minivans is their size, which can make parking tricky. But if you’re prioritizing comfort and need space for a bigger family, a minivan is hard to beat.

Economy Cars: Budget-Friendly and Fuel-Efficient

If you’re looking for an affordable way to travel, an economy car might be a practical choice. While they don’t offer as much space as SUVs or minivans, they shine when it comes to fuel efficiency and ease of driving.

Why Choose an Economy Car?

• Lower Fuel Costs – Smaller engines mean less fuel consumption, which is great for long-distance travel.
• Easy to Park and Maneuver – Perfect for city driving or destinations with limited parking space.
• Affordable Rental Rates – If you’re hiring a car, economy cars are usually the cheapest option.
• Good for Small Families – If you’re traveling light and have younger children, an economy car can be a cost-effective solution.

Best Economy Cars for Family Road Trips in Australia

1. Toyota Corolla – Reliable, fuel-efficient, and comfortable enough for small families.
2. Hyundai i30 – Offers a great balance of fuel economy, interior comfort, and tech features.
3. Mazda 3 – A stylish hatchback with good cargo space and a smooth ride.
4. Honda Civic – Spacious for a compact car, with excellent safety ratings.

Economy cars work well for shorter road trips or for families traveling light. However, they may not provide the space and comfort needed for longer adventures.

Things to Consider Before Choosing a Family Road Trip Car

Before you hit the road, here are some key factors to keep in mind when selecting the best car for your trip:

1. Distance and Route

Are you sticking to highways, or will you be heading into remote areas? If you're driving long distances or through rugged terrain, an SUV or a minivan might be the better option.

2. Number of Passengers

Consider how many people are traveling. If it's just a small family, an economy car might be enough. But for bigger families or groups, an SUV or minivan is a smarter choice.

3. Storage Space

Think about how much luggage, camping gear, or extra items you'll need to bring. SUVs and minivans offer more storage, but some economy cars have decent trunk space too.

4. Comfort and Features

Long road trips require comfortable seating, air conditioning, and entertainment features. Look for models with adjustable seats, rear air vents, and built-in entertainment systems.

5. Fuel Economy

The cost of fuel can add up on a long trip. Economy cars are the most fuel-efficient, while some SUVs and minivans have hybrid options to help reduce costs.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best car for a family road trip in Australia depends on your priorities. SUVs provide a balance of comfort and adventure, minivans maximize space and convenience, and economy cars keep costs low.

If you're traveling light and sticking to major roads, an economy car can save you money. For families needing extra room and comfort, a minivan is the most practical choice. If you plan on exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, an SUV will give you the flexibility to do so.

No matter which vehicle you pick, the key is to plan ahead, pack smart, and enjoy the journey. After all, road trips aren’t just about the destination—they’re about the experience along the way.`