A renowned motoring publication has updated its list for what it think is the best large SUV to buy in the UK at the moment as the car type continues to remain popular11:42, 16 Jul 2026The best large SUV in the UK has been named by one of the UK’s most renowned motoring publications. While SUVs are derided in some corners of the internet, they are a major part of the automotive sphere.With that in mind, knowing which is the best one to buy is critical. And one popular magazine has done just that, updating its list of what it thinks are the best large SUVs on sale in the UK at the moment.Coming in first on AutoExpress' list is the Czech Skoda Kodiaq. The reviewers praised it for being good value for money, having a large boot, and “clever cabin options”.However, it lost marks for its looks, “flimsy-feeling rotary dials”, and “fidgety ride” on the larger wheels.Nevertheless, it was their top pick, they concluded: “The Skoda Kodiaq embodies all that the Czech firm stands for: solid value for money, quality, practicality, and a few little surprises that add to the ownership experience.”The senior road test editor for the magazine Dean Gibson added: “Skoda’s ‘Simply Clever’ philosophy is perfectly suited to a car such as the Kodiaq – family-friendly features make it a useful accessory to family life.”Coming in second was the Volkswagen Tayron that was praised for having seven seats, being comfortable, and having lots of kit as standard.It lost marks for being “dull to drive”, for its PHEV hybrid variant only having five seats, and for R-Line models being “expensive”.In third was the Korean Hyundai Santa Fe that was noted as being the best for large families. It was praised for being “comfortable to drive”, for having a great design, and lots of equipment.However, it lost marks for being expensive, having a noisy petrol engine, and not having a diesel option.In fact, Reach has experience testing at least one of these vehicles. Earlier this year, I reviewed the Santa Fe.When I reviewed it I concluded: “Is the Hyundai Santa Fe perfect? No. I do feel the amenities of the third row of seats should be moved to the second row, or at least the second row should have the same options as the third.“The haptic touch pads should be replaced by buttons, and the four cylinder engine sounds very stretched when it’s revved hard or charging the battery.“There were several occasions when I was in town at sub 20mph speeds and the battery is 50 percent, but the engine is still charging it and I thought ‘Why isn’t it waiting until the battery is at 20 percent to start charging?’.“In the grand scheme of things these are only very little problems to consider; and it has changed my mind that SUVs aren't all leaning too much towards the S side of the acronym. If you’re looking for a capable family SUV that isn’t German or British, give this a look.”