Finding the right car for travel in Thailand can feel hard, especially with many options. SUVs now make up the Most Popular Thai Rental Cars because more travellers want comfort and space.
This blog explains why SUVs are leading the market and how they fit different needs for trips around Thailand. Read on to see which SUV could be your best choice next time you rent a car.
The Rise of SUVs in Thailand’s Rental Market
SUVs are gaining popularity in Thailand’s rental market. More people want spacious vehicles for families and adventures.
Increased demand for spacious vehicles
Families and groups now prefer rental vehicles with more space. Suitcases, travel gear, and shopping bags fit better in bigger cars. SUVs meet this need well for both locals and tourists in Thailand.
Rental companies record a sharp rise in reservations for large car types since early 2023.
“People want enough room to sit comfortably even on long trips,” says a Thai rental market analyst.
Popular SUV models offer higher headroom and extra boot space compared to economy cars. This matches the current market growth driven by tourism mobility and family transportation needs.
As travel trends shift, vehicle selection now focuses on comfort and storage over compact size.
Growing preference for family-friendly options
This need for more space links closely to another trend, which is families choosing SUVs as rental vehicles. Many travellers now bring children or older parents on trips. They want extra safety and comfort during travel.
Features like ISOFIX seats, rear air conditioning vents, and wide-opening doors make SUVs stand out for family transportation.
Rental companies in Thailand offer models with advanced entertainment systems and flexible seating options. These benefits attract people planning long-term rentals or group holidays.
This shift supports market growth as more tourists look for travel flexibility with reliable vehicle selection.
Key Features That Make SUVs Popular
SUVs offer high ground clearance. This makes them great for different types of roads, from urban areas to off-road paths. They also provide roomy storage space for luggage and gear.
Safety features in SUVs are top-notch, giving drivers peace of mind on any journey.
High ground clearance for diverse terrains
High ground clearance lets rental vehicles handle many road types in Thailand. Drivers can cross rough paths, flooded roads, or bumpy tracks with less worry about damage underneath.
Tourists use these popular rental cars for trips to hills, beaches and rural villages.
Drivers feel safer taking on different terrains across the country.
This feature gives more flexibility for travel plans and makes SUVs a top choice for both city streets and outdoor exploration. Many travellers pick them as their market demand rises in 2025 due to this advantage alone.
Ample storage capacity
Alongside their ability to handle bumpy or rough roads, SUVs also offer great storage space. Travellers with lots of luggage find this helpful for family transportation and longterm rentals.
Many rental vehicles like the Toyota Fortuner and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport have boot capacities above 600 litres. These models can fit large suitcases, sports gear, and even shopping bags with ease.
Tourists who rent SUVs enjoy freedom during outdoor exploration. The extra room supports travel flexibility on both urban roads and countryside trips in Thailand. Families appreciate being able to pack strollers, coolers, or camping gear without crowding passengers.
This advantage makes SUVs a top choice among popular Thai rental cars in 2025 as market demand increases for comfort and space.
Enhanced safety features
Safety features play a key role in the popularity of SUVs. Most models come with advanced technologies to keep drivers and passengers safe. Features like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automated emergency braking are common.
These tools help prevent accidents on busy roads.
SUVs also offer strong frames and high seating positions for better visibility. Many have multiple airbags for added protection in case of a crash. The stable design makes them safer during sharp turns or rough terrains, which is essential for travel flexibility in various areas of Thailand.
Enhanced safety features give families peace of mind while exploring new places together.

Popular SUV Models for Rent in 2025
Many people are choosing popular models for their rentals in 2025. The Toyota Fortuner, Honda CR-V, and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport stand out as top choices among tourists and locals alike.
Toyota Fortuner
Toyota Fortuner is a popular choice for rental cars in Thailand. This SUV offers comfort and space for families. It comes with high ground clearance, making it suitable for various terrains.
Ample storage allows easy packing for trips.
Safety features are top-notch, which appeals to many renters. The Fortuner’s strong performance makes long drives enjoyable. These qualities support its rise as a favourite option in the Thai rental market.
Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is a top choice among rental cars in Thailand. It offers spacious seating for families and groups. This SUV has high ground clearance, making it great for city roads and rough paths.
Drivers enjoy plenty of storage space for luggage or gear. Safety features add peace of mind during trips.
With its blend of comfort and reliable performance, the Honda CR-V stands out on rental lists in 2025. Other models like the Toyota Fortuner and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport also attract attention from renters seeking adventure.
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport is a strong choice for rental cars in Thailand. It offers great comfort and space for families. This SUV has high ground clearance, making it suitable for various terrains.
Drivers appreciate its ample storage capacity as well.
Safety features stand out in the Pajero Sport. It includes advanced technology to protect passengers on the road. Tourists enjoy renting this model because it combines style with practicality.
Its popularity continues to grow alongside the demand for family-friendly vehicles in 2025 rental markets.
Benefits of Renting SUVs in Thailand
Renting an SUV in Thailand offers comfort for long trips and makes it easy to drive on both city streets and country roads. Discover how SUVs can elevate your travel experience!
Comfort for long-distance travel
SUVs offer great comfort for long-distance travel. They have spacious interiors that allow passengers to stretch out and relax. Plenty of legroom makes the journey enjoyable, especially on longer trips.
The high driving position gives a better view of the road ahead. Many models come with advanced features like climate control to keep everyone comfortable. With these advantages, SUVs meet the needs of families and travellers exploring Thailand’s beautiful landscapes.
Adaptability to urban and rural roads
Comfort for long-distance travel connects well with adaptability. SUVs handle both city streets and country paths easily. They are built to navigate narrow lanes in towns and wide roads in the countryside.
This makes them great for all types of driving needs.
Rental cars like these give tourists a chance to explore hidden gems outside busy cities. Families can load up their gear without worry, thanks to spacious boots. A smooth ride awaits on any journey, whether through bustling urban areas or scenic rural landscapes.
Most Popular Thai Rental Cars in 2025
SUVs are quickly becoming the top choice for rental cars in Thailand. They offer space and comfort, making them great for families. These vehicles handle both city roads and rough terrains well.
Popular models like the Toyota Fortuner and Honda CR-V provide safety and reliability. Renting an SUV gives travellers flexibility for all kinds of adventures in 2025.
At SPS Car Hire Pattaya, we have a great choice of SUVs and other rental vehicles. Please click on the button below for more details.

