Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi Zetec (2wd) Price £19,790Target Price £17,241Average economy 46.3mpgCO2 159g/kmDespite the 4x4 looks this SUV is two-wheel drive only, but that'll save you money on the list price and fuel bills.
Road manners are good, so is the handling and ride comfort, while the powerful diesel engine is smooth and refined.
The finish and cabin materials are up to Ford's usual quality, so should stand the test of time and children. The Kuga also has a five-star crash rating.
Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 CRTD GSI 7stPrice £22,645Target Price £20,634Economy 38.7mpgCO2 191g/kmGreat value, well put together and seven seats: the Santa Fe doubles as a people mover and 4x4.
Its refined road manners and strong diesel engine make it a great motorway-mile muncher, yet it's just as easy to drive in the town.
Despite the performance on tap you still get reasonable fuel economy for this size of SUV. There's room enough for five adults and the two extra seats are perfect for kids.
Land Rover Discovery 2.7 TDV6 GSPrice £30,190Target Price £27,468Economy 30.7mpgCO2 224g/kmThe Discovery has Land Rover's off-road know-how behind it, yet it still makes an excellent family car.
Considering how well it performs in the rough, the Landie is supremely refined on tarmac, producing minimal wind and road noise. Great high-speed stability and comfort make it an ideal motorway cruiser, while seven seats means it can swallow plenty of passengers.
All in all, it’s a sophisticated work horse.