Looking for the best family SUV in South Africa? Here’s a quick breakdown of top contenders, focusing on features, pricing, and practicality for families:
- Toyota Corolla Cross: Reliable, fuel-efficient (4.3–6.8 L/100 km), and packed with safety features like multiple airbags and Toyota Safety Sense. Starts at R414,800.
- Chery Tiggo 4 Pro: Affordable, spacious, and loaded with tech. Fuel consumption ranges from 6.8–8.8 L/100 km. Prices start at R269,900.
- Haval Jolion: Offers advanced safety tech, roomy interiors, and hybrid options with fuel efficiency as low as 5.1 L/100 km. Prices start at R348,950.
- Kia Sonet: Compact yet practical, with efficient engine options (6.0–7.6 L/100 km) and family-friendly features. Starting at R299,995.
- Toyota Fortuner: A rugged 7-seater with off-road capabilities, strong resale value, and a mild-hybrid option. Prices range from R653,500 to R999,000.
- Kia Sportage: Stylish design, excellent fuel economy (5.0 L/100 km), and premium features. Priced between R539,995 and R734,995.
Quick Comparison
| SUV Model | Price Range (ZAR) | Seats | Fuel Efficiency (L/100 km) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Corolla Cross | R414,800–R561,700 | 5 | 4.3–6.8 | Toyota Safety Sense, hybrid option |
| Chery Tiggo 4 Pro | R269,900–R415,900 | 5 | 6.8–8.8 | Affordable, high-tech features |
| Haval Jolion | R348,950–R521,450 | 5 | 5.1–8.1 | Spacious, advanced safety, hybrid option |
| Kia Sonet | R299,995–R484,995 | 5 | 6.0–7.6 | Compact, family-focused features |
| Toyota Fortuner | R653,500–R999,000 | 7 | 10.5 (petrol), hybrid available | Rugged, off-road capable |
| Kia Sportage | R539,995–R734,995 | 5 | 5.0 | Premium design, family-friendly |
Each SUV offers unique benefits tailored to different family needs. Whether you prioritize affordability, fuel efficiency, or advanced features, there’s an option for you. Test drive a few models to find the perfect fit for your family.
Best Family SUVs in South Africa 2024: Price, Fuel Efficiency & Features Comparison
1. Toyota Corolla Cross
In 2024, the Toyota Corolla Cross made a strong impression on South African roads, with 21,861 units sold, earning it the title of the country’s second best-selling passenger vehicle. Manufactured at Toyota’s Prospecton Plant in Durban, this compact SUV offers a winning combination of practicality and reliability.
Safety Features
Safety is a key focus of the Corolla Cross. Standard models come equipped with five airbags (driver, passenger, side, and driver knee), while higher trims add curtain airbags for extra protection. The vehicle also features Vehicle Stability Control, ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, and Hill Assist Control. The XR and GR-Sport trims go a step further with Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of advanced features like the Pre-Collision System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Trace Assist, and Blind Spot Monitoring. For added convenience, a reverse camera and park distance control are also included.
But safety isn’t the only thing the Corolla Cross excels at – it also prioritizes comfort and space.
Interior Space and Comfort
Inside, the Corolla Cross is designed with families in mind. It comfortably seats five passengers and boasts a 440-liter cargo capacity, making it perfect for everyday needs. The cabin features premium soft-touch materials, with leather upholstery available on select trims. Dual-zone climate control and rear AC ducts ensure a pleasant ride for everyone. Higher-end models include a power-operated tailgate with a kick sensor for hands-free access.
A 2025 update brought even more tech to the table, with XR trims gaining a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay, and three USB-C ports. Plus, all models now come with Toyota Connect, offering in-car Wi-Fi and 25GB of complimentary data for 12 months.
Fuel Efficiency
The Corolla Cross offers impressive fuel efficiency, whether you opt for the petrol or hybrid version. The 1.8-liter petrol engine achieves an estimated 6.8 L/100 km (34.6 mpg), while the hybrid model goes further with just 4.3 L/100 km (54.7 mpg). Toyota South Africa highlights the practicality of their hybrid technology:
"Hybrid technology bridges the gap. It’s the right technology for South Africa today: practical, affordable and effective." – Toyota South Africa
Value for Money
Starting at R414,800 (about $23,000) for the 1.8 Xi CVT, the Corolla Cross offers competitive pricing. Hybrid models are priced between R494,400 and R561,700 (roughly $27,500 to $31,200). Every model includes a 6-service/90,000 km maintenance plan and a 3-year/100,000 km warranty, with the hybrid battery covered for eight years.
Alex Shahini from CarMag sums it up perfectly:
"Fit for purpose, the best commuter SUV out there for buyers keen on value for money." – Alex Shahini, CarMag
With Toyota’s extensive dealer network, a reputation for reliability, and excellent resale value, the Corolla Cross stands out as a smart choice for South African buyers.
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2. Chery Tiggo 4 Pro
The Chery Tiggo 4 Pro packs a lot of features into an affordable package. With over 1,100 units sold in May 2024 alone, it’s clear this SUV has struck a chord with families looking for value and practicality.
Safety Features
Built on a six-dimensional beam platform with 66% high-strength steel, the Tiggo 4 Pro is designed to provide solid crash protection. The LiT models come equipped with two front airbags, while the Urban, Comfort, and Elite trims upgrade to a full six-airbag system. Across all models, you’ll find ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, Roll Stability Control, and ISOFIX anchor points for child seats. The higher-end Elite SE trim takes safety up a notch with an Advanced Driver Assist System, which includes Hill Assist and Downhill Assist. Plus, a tire pressure monitoring system offers real-time updates on each tire’s pressure and temperature – perfect for navigating South Africa’s diverse road conditions.
Interior Space and Comfort
Despite its compact design, the Tiggo 4 Pro’s 2,610 mm (102.8 in) wheelbase ensures plenty of legroom for a family of five. The cabin is thoughtfully designed for convenience, featuring versatile storage options. Starting with the 2025 models, leather seats come standard, while higher trims add perks like a 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, and even a power sunroof. Boot space starts at 340 liters (12 cu ft) and expands to 1,100 liters (38.8 cu ft) when the rear seats are folded, making it ideal for weekend trips or large grocery hauls. AutoTrader’s Sean Nurse sums it up well:
"The Tiggo 4 Pro is a good vehicle for a young family that does not yet require a huge amount of space, but has enough room and features to accommodate children and their parents in relative comfort."
Fuel Efficiency
Under the hood, the Tiggo 4 Pro features a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with a dual-clutch transmission (DCT). Chery claims a fuel consumption rate of 6.8 L/100 km (34.6 mpg), though real-world tests in Eco mode show it at 8.33 L/100 km (28.2 mpg), slightly better than the CVT’s 8.8 L/100 km (26.7 mpg). Some drivers have noted a bit of initial jerkiness with the DCT, so taking it for a test drive is a good idea. David Taylor from Cars.co.za offers his take:
"Still thirsty compared with rivals" but offers "excellent value" and "punchy performance."
Value for Money
With prices ranging from R269,900 (around $15,000) to R415,900 (around $23,100), the Tiggo 4 Pro delivers a lot for its price. It comes with a 5-year/150,000 km warranty, a 10-year/1-million-km engine warranty (for first owners), and a service plan of either 5 years/60,000 km or 3 years/30,000 km for LiT trims. As IOL aptly puts it:
"Overall, the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro is an incredibly impressive vehicle and for [the] price…, to be frank, it becomes a no-brainer within the segment."
For families looking to stretch their budget without sacrificing features, the Tiggo 4 Pro stands out as a smart choice. Up next, we’ll dive into another family-friendly SUV worth considering.
3. Haval Jolion
The Haval Jolion has carved a niche for itself in South Africa’s family SUV market by combining spacious interiors, advanced safety features, and modern technology – all at a price that appeals to budget-conscious buyers. With a price range starting at R348,950 (approximately $19,400) for the City model and reaching R521,450 (roughly $29,000) for the top-tier Hybrid, the Jolion competes head-on with rivals like the Tiggo 4 Pro, offering more interior space as an added advantage.
Safety Features
The Jolion is packed with safety features to meet family needs. Standard across all models are dual front and front-side airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and a high-tensile body shell designed to absorb impact [16, 19]. The electronic safety suite includes ABS with Brake Assist, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Hill Descent Control, Hill Assist, Traction Control, and Roll Over Mitigation [16, 17, 19]. Higher trims, like the Luxury and Ultra models, add six airbags and advanced driver aids such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, and Blind Spot Detection [16, 18, 20]. The Jolion has proven its safety credentials in real-world tests, achieving a stopping distance of 40.24 meters (132 ft) from 62 mph.
The Pro models introduce extra safety enhancements, including "Intelligent Dodge", which helps maintain safe distances during overtaking, and an "Intersection Assistant" to reduce the risk of collisions at junctions [16, 19]. With a five-star ANCAP safety rating and a 90% score for adult occupant protection, the Jolion is a reliable choice for safety-conscious buyers.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Jolion boasts a 2,700 mm (106.3 in) wheelbase, matching the Toyota RAV4 and offering exceptional rear legroom often described as "limousine-like" [20, 21]. Its flat rear floor ensures comfort for three passengers, whether adults or children. The standard model provides 337 liters (11.9 cu ft) of boot space, which expands to 1,133 liters (40 cu ft) when the rear seats are folded [17, 22]. However, the Pro model’s boot space is slightly reduced to 291 liters (10.3 cu ft), and the Hybrid offers 255 liters (9 cu ft) due to the battery placement.
Carina van der Merwe, Brand Manager at GWM HAVAL, highlights the Jolion Pro’s spaciousness:
"Higher and wider than the regular Jolion, the New PRO also rides on the same wheelbase so there’s space aplenty. It has the headroom, the legroom and the boot capacity to rival the best midsize SUVs."
Higher trims elevate comfort and convenience with features like heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto [18, 24]. The Ultra Luxury S and Hybrid models stand out further with an independent multi-link rear suspension for a smoother ride [18, 19].
Fuel Efficiency
The Jolion offers a range of engine options tailored to different needs. The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine delivers 8.1 L/100 km (29 mpg), while the 1.5T S variant improves slightly to 7.5 L/100 km (31.4 mpg). For those prioritizing fuel economy, the 1.5 HEV Hybrid achieves an impressive 5.1 L/100 km (46.1 mpg), a 37% improvement over the standard petrol engine [22, 24]. The Hybrid also delivers a combined output of 140 kW (188 hp) and 375 Nm (277 lb-ft) of torque, offering both efficiency and performance [22, 24].
Value for Money
The Jolion delivers premium features without the hefty price tag. As Conrad Groenewald, Chief Operations Officer at GWM South Africa, puts it:
"The New Jolion PRO’s biggest plus is however that it will make you believe that it exists far higher up the price ladder than where it actually sells."
Each model comes with a comprehensive 7-year/200,000 km warranty, a 5-year/75,000 km service plan, and 7-year unlimited mileage roadside assistance [16, 19, 24]. The Hybrid model’s high-voltage components are covered by an 8-year/150,000 km warranty. For families seeking standout features like automated parking, a 360-degree camera system, and cutting-edge safety technology at an accessible price, the Jolion is a compelling choice.
4. Kia Sonet
The Kia Sonet delivers a compact SUV experience packed with features, making it an appealing option for South African families. With pricing starting at R299,995 (around $16,700) for the 1.5 LS Manual and climbing to R484,995 (approximately $27,000) for the top-tier 1.5 SX CVT, it has been a strong contender in the market since its 2021 debut. Over 3,500 units have been sold locally, highlighting its popularity and value.
Safety Features
Safety is a priority across the Kia Sonet range. Every model includes an impressive array of standard features such as ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, and ISOFIX child-seat anchors. Entry-level variants come with dual front airbags, while higher trims like the EX+ and SX are equipped with six airbags, covering side and curtain areas for added protection. The flagship SX model steps up with advanced driver aids, including blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and forward-collision warning. Built with high-strength steel, the Sonet provides enhanced crash safety. While the Sonet itself hasn’t been rated by ANCAP, its close relative, the Hyundai Venue, earned a four-star rating.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Sonet’s interior is designed with families in mind. Its 2,500 mm (98.4 in) wheelbase creates a roomy cabin where both adults and children can relax comfortably. The trunk space ranges from 385 to 392 liters (13.6 to 13.8 cu ft), making it one of the leaders in its class. Practical features like rear air vents and dual USB ports add to the convenience. A ground clearance of 190 mm (7.5 in), paired with 16-inch alloy wheels and 215/60 tires, ensures a smooth ride even on rougher roads. Mid-to-high trims offer artificial leather upholstery with stylish patterns, giving the interior a more premium feel. However, some models feature a single-piece rear seatback instead of the more versatile 60/40 split-folding design.
Fuel Efficiency
The Sonet provides efficient engine options to suit different driving needs. The 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine has a claimed fuel consumption of 6.2 L/100 km (about 38 mpg), though real-world figures tend to range between 7.2 and 7.6 L/100 km (approximately 31 to 33 mpg). For those seeking more power without sacrificing efficiency, the 1.0-liter turbocharged engine offers a claimed 6.0 L/100 km (around 39 mpg), delivering 88 kW and 172 Nm of torque. This turbo engine performs particularly well at high altitudes, avoiding the 17% power loss typically seen in naturally aspirated engines. With these fuel-efficient options, the Sonet can cover up to 700 km (435 mi) on a single tank.
Value for Money
What sets the Sonet apart is its ability to offer premium features at accessible prices. Even the base LX models come well-equipped with conveniences like a reverse-view camera, an 8-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and automatic headlights. As Gary Scott, CEO of Kia South Africa, puts it:
"The Sonet fulfils an important role in Kia’s local line-up… positioned to attract discerning customers who have a great eye for good design, comfort and quality."
The EX+ trim strikes a great balance between affordability and features, adding climate control and leather-like upholstery without the premium price of the SX model. All Sonet models come with a 5-year/unlimited-kilometer warranty, roadside assistance, and a 3-year/45,000 km service plan. CAR Magazine has praised the entry-level Sonet for offering outstanding features and comfort for its price point.
5. Toyota Fortuner
The Toyota Fortuner has earned its place as South Africa’s favorite seven-seat SUV, offering a mix of rugged off-road performance and family-friendly practicality. With prices ranging from R653,500 (≈$36,400) to R999,000 (≈$55,600), it accommodates a variety of budgets. Built on Toyota’s durable body-on-frame IMV platform, the Fortuner is designed to handle everything from smooth highways to challenging gravel roads.
Safety Features
Safety is a key focus for the Fortuner, with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) available on select models. This advanced system includes features like a Pre-Crash System that detects vehicles and pedestrians, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Departure Warning. The vehicle is equipped with seven airbags, covering critical areas such as the driver, front passenger, curtain, driver-knee, and front side zones. For added stability on tough terrain, it offers Active Traction Control (A-TRC) and Downhill Assist Control. Local security concerns are addressed with features like an independently powered alarm, intrusion sensor, ultrasonic glass-breaking sensor, and auto-locking doors.
Interior Space and Comfort
Designed as a true seven-seater, the Fortuner provides generous space across three rows, making it ideal for large families. Higher-end models offer premium touches like leather seats with maroon accents, while the GR-Sport trim adds perforated suede leather with red stitching. Some models also feature heated, electrically adjustable front seats, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system paired with 11 speakers, and thoughtful storage options, including an air-conditioned glove box.
Sean Nurse, a motoring journalist at AutoTrader, highlighted the vehicle’s improved ride quality, stating:
"While this update is touted as a specification and aesthetics enhancement… there has been some serious work done on the suspension, with improved compliance, more supple ride quality and a far more confidence-inspiring level of comfort and refinement across gravel roads."
These upgrades make the Fortuner a comfortable and reliable choice for families, whether on daily drives or longer road trips.
Fuel Efficiency
The Fortuner offers a range of engine options that balance performance and fuel efficiency. The 2.7 VVTi petrol model achieves a fuel consumption rate of 10.5 L/100 km (around 22 mpg), while the 2.4 and 2.8 GD-6 diesel variants provide even better efficiency for everyday use and extended journeys. Toyota has also introduced a 2.8L 48V mild-hybrid option, which incorporates regenerative braking for enhanced efficiency. With a braked towing capacity of 3,300 kg (7,275 lbs), the Fortuner is well-equipped for family adventures and heavy-duty tasks.
Value for Money
The Fortuner delivers excellent long-term value. Every model comes with a 3-year/100,000 km warranty and a service plan covering 9 services or up to 90,000 km. Maintenance costs are competitive, and the vehicle’s strong resale value makes it a smart investment. By blending off-road capability, spacious interiors, and advanced safety features, the Fortuner seamlessly transitions between city commutes and weekend getaways.
6. Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage has earned its place in the spotlight with its bold, award-winning design, scoring an impressive 77.8% in the 2025 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards Family Car category. Priced between R539,995 (around $30,100) for the entry-level 1.6T-GDi LX and R734,995 (about $40,900) for the top-tier GT Line S, this fifth-generation SUV offers a blend of style, comfort, and performance that aims to rival even premium German brands. Its standout design is matched by a focus on safety, efficiency, and family-friendly features.
Safety Features
Safety takes center stage in the Sportage, with every model equipped with six airbags as standard. The lineup also includes Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill-start Assist (HAC), and ISOFIX anchors for child seats, ensuring peace of mind for parents. Higher trims go a step further with Blind Spot Collision Warning, a feature that adds confidence during lane changes on busy roads. For families who love weekend adventures, the Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) is a game-changer, helping maintain control when towing trailers or caravans – a particularly practical feature for South African holidays.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Sportage’s interior is designed with families in mind, offering a mix of practicality and comfort for both daily drives and long trips. Its curved 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keeping everyone entertained and connected. Dual automatic temperature control ensures all passengers stay comfortable, while the 40:20:40-split rear seats allow for flexible cargo arrangements – perfect for sports gear or family luggage. Thoughtful touches like rear USB-C charging points, built-in clothing hangers on the front seatbacks, and two-way electric lumbar support for the driver add to the vehicle’s appeal, making long journeys more enjoyable.
Fuel Efficiency
When it comes to fuel economy, the Sportage stands out. Its 1.6-liter turbodiesel engine delivers 320 Nm of torque while achieving an impressive claimed average consumption of just 5.0 L/100 km (approximately 47 mpg). As Hannes Oosthuizen from Cars.co.za pointed out, the Sportage offers superior efficiency compared to competitors like the VW Tiguan (7.6 L/100 km) and Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max (8.7 L/100 km). This makes it an ideal choice for both daily commutes and extended road trips, offering savings at the pump without compromising performance.
Value for Money
The Sportage delivers excellent value, backed by a 5-year/unlimited-kilometer warranty and a 6-year/90,000 km service plan. Ané Albertse from AutoTrader sums it up perfectly:
"The Sportage is excellent for families – it’s user-friendly and safe, with enough space for everything the modern family needs".
With a combination of premium features, outstanding efficiency, and a comprehensive warranty, the Kia Sportage proves to be a smart choice for families seeking a dependable and well-equipped SUV.
SUV Comparison Table
Here’s a quick look at some key features of popular SUVs, including pricing, seating capacity, fuel efficiency, and safety highlights.
| SUV Model | Price Range (ZAR) | Seating Capacity | Fuel Consumption (L/100km) | Key Safety Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Corolla Cross | Under R450,000 | 5 seats | 5.5 (Hybrid) | N/A |
| Chery Tiggo 4 Pro | Under R450,000 | 5 seats | 7.0 | N/A |
| Toyota Fortuner | N/A | 7 seats | N/A | N/A |
| Kia Sportage | R600,000–R800,000 | 5 seats | 5.0 | 6 airbags, ABS, ESC |
Conclusion
Picking the right family SUV means finding a match between what the vehicle offers and what your family needs. Take the Toyota Fortuner, for instance – it’s known for its dependable performance, rugged off-road capabilities, and 7-seat layout, making it a solid choice for families that prioritize space and durability. On the other hand, the Kia Sportage strikes a balance with its affordability, roomy interior, and a broad range of safety features. Meanwhile, the Haval Jolion stands out with its cutting-edge technology and an impressive 7-year/200,000 km warranty, adding an extra layer of reassurance.
It’s always a good idea to test drive a few options to get a feel for ride quality, interior comfort, and how the vehicle handles on the road. Remember, what’s on paper doesn’t always translate to real-world performance. Also, consider how close the nearest dealerships and service centers are – brands like Toyota and Kia, with their well-established networks, often provide more convenient after-sales support. This can be a key factor, especially if you’re looking at brands that are still building their service presence.
Finally, don’t just focus on the sticker price. Factor in the total cost of ownership, including fuel economy, insurance rates, and how easy it is to find replacement parts. If you’re considering a nearly-new SUV, check its service history and any remaining factory warranty to help protect against potential depreciation or unexpected costs.
FAQs
What are the most fuel-efficient family SUVs available in South Africa?
If you’re searching for fuel-efficient family SUVs in South Africa, there are a few standout options worth considering. The Toyota Corolla Cross HEV leads the pack with its hybrid system, boasting a claimed fuel consumption of 4.1–4.5 L/100 km and a starting price of R494,400. It offers impressive mileage while maintaining plenty of space and comfort for family needs.
Other strong contenders include the Suzuki Fronx and Toyota Starlet Cross, which both achieve 5.5–5.7 L/100 km. These models are priced from R298,900 and R304,900, making them more budget-friendly options. For those who prefer diesel engines, the Ford EcoSport 1.5 TDCi delivers a solid 4.6 L/100 km at a price of R314,900, while the Renault Duster 1.5 dCi provides 4.8 L/100 km for R327,900.
These SUVs strike a balance between affordability, practicality, and the elevated ride height that suits South African roads. Just remember, fuel efficiency numbers are based on manufacturer claims and can vary depending on factors like driving habits and vehicle load.
What safety features do these family SUVs offer?
The SUVs highlighted here put safety front and center, with most earning 5-star safety ratings from top testing programs. They come standard with crucial safety features like front-impact airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and electronic stability control (ESC), providing a strong baseline for passenger protection.
Some models take it up a notch by offering advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). For example, the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro include six airbags, ABS, ESC, and rear parking sensors, making them standout choices. The Toyota Fortuner and Hyundai Tucson also deliver multiple airbags along with tech like lane-keeping assist and forward-collision warning, catering to families focused on safety. On the other hand, the Ford Everest adds features like blind-spot detection and hill-start assist, making it a great pick for families who want off-road capabilities without sacrificing safety.
While all these SUVs meet rigorous safety standards, the Chery models and Mazda CX-30 shine with their extensive active safety systems. Meanwhile, the Fortuner, Tucson, and Everest strike a balance between traditional safety essentials and modern technology.
What is the best family SUV for value and features?
The Hyundai Alcazar stands out as an excellent choice for families seeking value without compromising on comfort or practicality. Priced at just under R500,000 (approximately $26,000 USD), this SUV offers a roomy seven-seat configuration, a thoughtfully designed interior, and a solid track record for dependability. With its combination of features and affordability, it’s a compelling option for families in South Africa who prioritize space, convenience, and budget-friendly pricing.
