Top 12 'Cargo-Ready' Electric SUVs to try for your gear-packed family adventures in 2025 - Goh Ling Yong
The electric vehicle revolution is no longer a distant hum on the horizon; it’s parked in our driveways. For years, the conversation around EVs focused on range, charging speed, and zippy acceleration. But for families, the questions have always been a bit more… practical. Where does the double stroller go? Can we fit the dog, the camping gear, and the kids? Is there an EV that understands the beautiful chaos of a gear-packed family adventure?
The answer, I’m thrilled to say, is a resounding yes. The market has finally matured beyond compact city cars and luxury sedans. Automakers are rolling out a stunning lineup of electric SUVs designed with space, utility, and family life at their core. These aren't just cars; they're basecamps on wheels, ready to haul everything from soccer equipment to a week's worth of wilderness supplies, all without a single drop of gasoline.
Here at the Goh Ling Yong blog, we're all about embracing technology that enhances our lives. That’s why we’ve scoured the latest announcements and test-driven the contenders to bring you this list. Get ready to explore the top 12 'cargo-ready' electric SUVs that should be on your radar for 2025. These are the vehicles that prove you don't have to sacrifice space for sustainability.
1. Kia EV9: The Three-Row Game-Changer
The Kia EV9 isn't just an electric SUV; it's a statement. It's Kia telling the world that a practical, spacious, and tech-forward three-row family hauler can be fully electric and surprisingly stylish. Its bold, boxy design isn't just for looks—it translates directly into a cavernous interior that feels more like a mobile lounge than a typical SUV. This is the vehicle that has made many families seriously consider going electric for the first time.
When it comes to cargo, the EV9 is a champion. With all three rows in use, you still get a very usable 20.2 cubic feet (572 liters) of space—enough for a big grocery run or a couple of carry-on suitcases. Fold the third row down, and you’re looking at a massive 43.5 cubic feet (1232 liters). With both rear rows flat, it opens up to a van-like 81.9 cubic feet (2320 liters). Plus, its small frunk is perfect for stashing charging cables or a muddy pair of hiking boots.
Adventure Tip: The EV9's available Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature is a must-have for adventurers. It allows you to use the car's battery to power external devices. Imagine running a coffee maker, an electric grill, or even a projector for an outdoor movie night at your campsite. It completely changes what's possible on a weekend getaway.
2. Rivian R1S: The Adventurer's Dream Machine
If your family adventures involve more dirt roads than highways, the Rivian R1S is in a class of its own. Built from the ground up for exploration, it combines rugged off-road capability with clever, family-friendly design. It’s the SUV that looks equally at home parked at a trailhead or in the school pickup line, and its performance both on and off the pavement is simply breathtaking.
The R1S is a master of storage. Beyond its standard three-row configuration, it boasts a huge 11.1 cubic foot (314 liter) frunk, a rear underfloor storage compartment, and the unique Gear Tunnel pass-through is replaced with more third-row space compared to its R1T truck sibling. With all seats up, you get a decent cargo hold, but with the third row folded, it becomes a serious gear hauler. Total storage capacity is a staggering 104 cubic feet when all seats are down.
Adventure Tip: The standard air suspension is key. You can raise the R1S for incredible ground clearance on tricky trails or lower it to make it easier for kids (and grandparents) to climb in and out. Also, the built-in air compressor is a lifesaver for inflating bike tires, paddleboards, or air mattresses on the go.
3. Volvo EX90: The Scandinavian Safety Sanctuary
Volvo has built its brand on safety, and the EX90 is the culmination of that legacy, reimagined for the electric age. This three-row SUV is a serene, minimalist sanctuary on wheels. It’s packed with cutting-edge safety technology, including LiDAR sensors that create a 360-degree view of the car's surroundings. For families, this focus on safety provides unparalleled peace of mind on long road trips.
But the EX90 doesn't skimp on practicality. The interior is a beautiful example of sustainable luxury, with ample space for seven passengers. Cargo capacity is generous, offering 12.9 cubic feet (365 liters) behind the third row, which expands to a substantial 67.6 cubic feet (1914 liters) with the third row folded. The clean, flat load floor makes sliding in heavy items like coolers or flat-pack furniture a breeze. A modest frunk adds a convenient spot for smaller items.
Adventure Tip: The EX90's interior is designed for calmness. Use the massive panoramic glass roof and advanced air purification system to create a relaxing environment on long drives. It's the perfect vehicle for visiting national parks, allowing you to enjoy the scenery in quiet, climate-controlled comfort.
4. Tesla Model Y: The Popular All-Rounder
There's a reason the Tesla Model Y is one of the world's best-selling vehicles. It hits the sweet spot for a huge number of buyers by offering impressive range, thrilling performance, and access to the unrivaled Supercharger network. For families, it's a surprisingly practical choice, packing an incredible amount of cargo space into a relatively compact footprint.
The Model Y’s secret weapon is its packaging. The deep rear cargo area, large underfloor storage bin, and a generous frunk combine to offer a class-leading 76 cubic feet (2158 liters) of total storage space with the rear seats folded. The optional, kid-sized third row is best for occasional use, but for a family of four or five, the Model Y feels cavernous. The minimalist interior is also exceptionally easy to wipe down after a messy trip to the beach.
Adventure Tip: Lean into the Tesla ecosystem for road trips. The car's navigation will automatically plan your route, including necessary charging stops at Superchargers. This takes almost all the stress out of planning and ensures you're never caught with low battery anxiety.
5. Volkswagen ID. Buzz: The Cool Bus is Back
Few vehicles can evoke as much pure joy as the classic VW Microbus, and the all-electric ID. Buzz captures that spirit perfectly for the 21st century. The long-wheelbase version, set to be a major player in 2025, offers three rows of seating and an absolutely immense interior. It’s less of an SUV and more of a lifestyle vehicle, designed for families who value space, style, and a touch of nostalgia.
The ID. Buzz is all about volume. Its upright, van-like shape maximizes interior room, creating an airy, open-plan feel. Cargo space is expected to be colossal, easily swallowing bikes, camping gear, and luggage for a long vacation. Features like the removable "Buzz Box" center console add clever, flexible storage options for snacks, drinks, and all the little things that accumulate on a family trip.
Adventure Tip: The ID. Buzz is the ultimate "destination" vehicle. Its massive windows and elevated seating position make it perfect for scenic drives. Plan a trip along a coastal highway or through a mountain pass, turn on a great playlist, and enjoy the panoramic views with the whole family.
6. Hyundai IONIQ 7: The Futuristic Family Room on Wheels
While we've primarily seen it as a concept, the production version of the Hyundai IONIQ 7 (name may vary) is one of the most anticipated family EVs for 2025. Building on the success of the IONIQ 5 and 6, the IONIQ 7 is poised to be Hyundai's three-row flagship, promising a revolutionary interior designed more like a living space than a car.
Expect a flat floor and a long wheelbase to create extraordinary interior volume and flexibility. The concept showcased swivel chairs and a configurable layout, and while the production version might be toned down, the focus will remain on passenger comfort and space. It will share its platform with the Kia EV9, so expect similar, if not better, cargo figures and the fantastic V2L technology, making it a powerful and versatile base for any family adventure. I'm personally very excited to see this one hit the roads.
Adventure Tip: When the IONIQ 7 arrives, look for its advanced driver-assistance features. Hyundai's Highway Driving Assist is already excellent, and the flagship model will likely feature next-generation capabilities, reducing driver fatigue on long highway stretches and making the journey itself more relaxing.
7. Lucid Gravity: The New King of Range and Luxury
From the company that brought us the record-breaking Lucid Air sedan comes the Gravity SUV. Launching in late 2024 for the 2025 model year, the Gravity aims to redefine the luxury electric SUV segment with unparalleled range, staggering performance, and an incredibly spacious and flexible interior. It promises seating for up to seven adults in comfort, a rarity in the three-row market.
Lucid’s expertise in powertrain miniaturization means more space is dedicated to people and their things. The Gravity is expected to have a massive frunk and a huge, configurable cargo area. Early previews show innovative seating that can fold perfectly flat, creating a vast surface for hauling large items or even for "car camping" in ultimate comfort. With a projected range well over 400 miles, it’s designed to eliminate range anxiety on even the most ambitious road trips.
Adventure Tip: With its anticipated class-leading range, the Gravity is the SUV for families who want to venture further off the beaten path. Plan that cross-country trip or visit a remote location that lacks robust charging infrastructure, confident that you have the miles to get there and back.
8. Cadillac Escalade IQ: The Unapologetic Flagship
If your family adventures demand the absolute pinnacle of space, luxury, and road presence, the all-electric Cadillac Escalade IQ is your answer. This is not just an electrified version of the Escalade; it's a complete reimagining. It’s bigger, bolder, and packed with more technology than a consumer electronics show, including a stunning pillar-to-pillar 55-inch interior screen.
Cargo space is, as you’d expect, immense. Even with the third row in place, there’s ample room for luggage. Fold the seats down, and you have a warehouse on wheels. But the biggest surprise is the "eTrunk"—a massive 12 cubic foot (340 liter) frunk that’s large enough to hold two sets of golf clubs. It’s the ultimate expression of electric utility, providing secure, weather-proof storage completely separate from the main cabin.
Adventure Tip: Use the Escalade IQ’s "Cadillac Arrival Mode," which leverages its four-wheel steering to allow the vehicle to move diagonally. It’s a spectacular party trick, but it's also incredibly useful for navigating tight parking spots at crowded resorts or national park visitor centers.
9. Chevrolet Blazer EV: The Stylish and Sporty Mainstreamer
The Chevrolet Blazer EV brings head-turning, Camaro-inspired style to the practical mid-size electric SUV segment. It’s a fantastic option for families who don’t need a third row but still want ample space, great technology, and a fun-to-drive character. With multiple powertrain options (including front-, rear-, and all-wheel drive), there's a Blazer EV to fit different budgets and needs.
Inside, the Blazer EV is modern and spacious. The flat floor opens up the cabin, providing generous legroom for rear passengers. The cargo area is a very practical 25.5 cubic feet (722 liters) behind the rear seats, expanding to 59.1 cubic feet (1673 liters) when they’re folded down. While it lacks a frunk, the main cargo hold is well-shaped and very usable for everything from sports gear to a week's worth of groceries.
Adventure Tip: For families who enjoy winter sports, opt for the all-wheel-drive version. The Blazer EV's excellent traction and stability, combined with its generous cargo space for skis and snowboards (with the seats folded), make it an ideal and stylish companion for a weekend trip to the mountains.
10. Ford Mustang Mach-E: The Driver's Crossover
Yes, it has the Mustang name, but the Mach-E has proven itself to be a surprisingly practical and popular electric crossover for small families. It delivers a sporty driving experience that parents will love, without sacrificing the utility needed for daily life and weekend trips. It’s a great choice for those who aren't ready to go "full SUV" but need more space than a sedan.
The Mach-E offers a respectable 29.7 cubic feet (841 liters) of space behind the rear seats, but its secret weapon is the 4.7 cubic foot (133 liter) frunk. It’s not just extra space; it’s made of durable, drainable plastic, making it the perfect place to toss wet towels, muddy boots, or even use as a cooler for drinks and snacks on a day trip. It’s one of the most thoughtfully designed frunks on the market.
Adventure Tip: Take advantage of the Mach-E's fun-to-drive nature on a winding backroad. It handles with an agility that belies its size, making the journey itself a fun part of the adventure, not just the commute to get there.
11. Hyundai IONIQ 5: The Retro-Futuristic Innovator
The IONIQ 5’s unique, 8-bit-inspired design turns heads everywhere it goes, but beneath the retro-cool skin lies one of the most innovative and spacious interiors in its class. Built on the same E-GMP platform as the EV9, it features an incredibly long wheelbase for its overall size, creating a massive passenger cabin that rivals SUVs from the class above.
The sliding center console and completely flat floor give the IONIQ 5 a sense of openness that is a game-changer for families. Cargo space is a solid 27.2 cubic feet (770 liters), which expands to 59.3 cubic feet (1679 liters) with the seats folded. It also features the V2L function, allowing you to power electronics from the car, and its ultra-fast 800-volt charging architecture means you can get back on the road quicker during long trips.
Adventure Tip: The IONIQ 5 is perfect for a "digital nomad" day trip. Find a scenic spot, use the V2L to power your laptop, and slide the center console back to create a comfortable mobile workspace. When you're done with work, you're already at your adventure destination.
12. Audi Q8 e-tron: The Refined and Comfortable Cruiser
For families who prioritize comfort, quietness, and premium build quality, the Audi Q8 e-tron is a superb choice. It’s a heavily refined version of Audi's original e-tron SUV, now with better range and efficiency. This is the vehicle for long, serene highway journeys, where its whisper-quiet cabin and supple air suspension can truly be appreciated.
The Q8 e-tron delivers on the utility front with a spacious 28.5 cubic foot (807 liter) cargo hold, expanding to over 60 cubic feet with the seats down. The space is wide and easily accessible. A small but useful frunk is perfect for storing the charge cable or an emergency kit. It feels solid, safe, and luxurious—a true German cruiser ready for any family road trip.
Adventure Tip: Use the Q8 e-tron's supremely comfortable ride for a long-distance tour of historical sites or a multi-day wine-tasting trip. Its quiet and refined nature makes it the perfect vehicle for civilized adventures where the journey is as important as the destination.
Your Adventure Awaits
The transition to electric is no longer a compromise for active families; it’s an upgrade. With groundbreaking vehicles offering more space, clever features, and the ability to power your gear on the go, the possibilities for adventure have never been greater. Whether you need a rugged off-roader like the Rivian R1S or a versatile family lounge like the Kia EV9, there's a 'cargo-ready' electric SUV in 2025 that's perfect for you.
The key is to match the vehicle to your family’s unique brand of adventure. So, pack the cooler, load up the bikes, and get ready to explore. The future of the family road trip is electric, and it’s looking incredibly spacious.
Which of these electric SUVs are you most excited about for your family's next adventure? Is there a model we missed? Drop a comment below and let's start the conversation!
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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