Holiday trips in Nigeria often mean loading up the family, luggage, coolers, and maybe a generator, then heading out on highways that mix smooth stretches with sudden potholes and heavy trucks. The right SUV makes those journeys comfortable, safe, and reliable instead of stressful. In 2026, the best family SUVs for our roads balance space, ground clearance, fuel efficiency, parts availability, and proven durability. Here are five that consistently deliver for long drives from Lagos to Calabar, Abuja to Jos, or anywhere in between.
1. Toyota Fortuner (2023–2026 models)
The Fortuner remains the go-to for many Nigerian families planning holidays. Its body-on-frame construction handles rough patches better than unibody SUVs, and the high ground clearance (around 279 mm) clears most potholes without scraping. The 2.8L diesel engine is strong enough for loaded trips up hills and delivers 9–11 km/l on highways, which is respectable when carrying six people plus luggage. The third row folds flat, giving huge cargo space when not needed, and the interior is durable with easy-to-clean surfaces. Parts are everywhere, mechanics know it inside out, and resale value stays high. It is not the most fuel-efficient, but the reliability and ability to carry a full family plus extras make it hard to beat for cross-country drives.
2. Toyota Prado (150-series facelifts and 250-series 2025+)
The Prado is slightly more premium than the Fortuner and equally tough. The 2.8L diesel or 4.0L petrol options both pull heavy loads comfortably. Ground clearance is excellent (220–230 mm), and the full-time 4WD system handles muddy or sandy diversions during rainy season holidays. The cabin is spacious, with good third-row space for older kids and a quiet ride on long stretches. Parts availability is almost as good as the Corolla’s, service costs are reasonable, and it holds value extremely well. Many families choose it because it feels unbreakable on bad roads and looks respectable when arriving at a village or resort.
3. Mitsubishi Pajero Sport (2023–2026)
The Pajero Sport is a strong contender that many overlook. It uses a 2.4L diesel engine that returns 10–12 km/l on open roads, even loaded. Ground clearance is around 218 mm, enough to clear most potholes, and the Super Select 4WD system is versatile for occasional off-road detours to beaches or villages. The interior is practical with durable materials, good air conditioning for hot trips, and a third row that folds flat. Parts are reasonably available, especially in southern cities, and it is known for long-term reliability. Families like it because it offers a good balance of size, economy, and toughness without the higher running costs of larger V8 SUVs.
4. Hyundai Santa Fe (2021–2025 facelifts)
The Santa Fe is a more modern, family-focused option. The 2.2L diesel hybrid versions (available in recent years) achieve 12–14 km/l in mixed driving, which is impressive for a seven-seater. Ground clearance is around 185 mm—lower than the others, so it is better suited to mostly paved highways rather than very rough rural paths. The interior is spacious and comfortable, with excellent air conditioning, quiet cabin, and modern features like a large touchscreen and good safety tech (blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping). Parts availability has improved significantly, and service costs are competitive. It is a great choice for families who want comfort, efficiency, and a more car-like ride on longer trips.