Top SUVs for Families: Carly Gregg Reviews the Best Options

Finding the perfect family SUV requires balancing safety, space, reliability, and value. Carly Gregg, automotive enthusiast and seasoned reviewer, has tested dozens of family-oriented vehicles to identify which models truly deliver on their promises. Whether you’re hauling kids to soccer practice, planning cross-country road trips, or simply need extra cargo space, the right SUV can transform your family’s driving experience. This comprehensive guide explores the top-rated family SUVs that combine practicality with modern amenities, helping you make an informed decision for your household.

The family SUV market has exploded with options in recent years, making selection more challenging than ever. From three-row powerhouses to efficient crossovers, manufacturers have engineered vehicles specifically designed for families. According to IIHS safety ratings, modern family SUVs have reached unprecedented levels of crash protection and advanced driver assistance systems. This article draws on real-world testing and performance data to highlight vehicles that excel in family-specific categories.

Honda CR-V: The Reliable Workhorse

The Honda CR-V consistently ranks as America’s best-selling SUV, and for good reason. Its reputation for reliability, spacious interior, and user-friendly technology make it an excellent choice for families. The fifth-generation CR-V offers 76.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, providing ample room for groceries, sports equipment, and luggage.

Carly Gregg’s testing revealed that the CR-V excels in real-world family scenarios. The vehicle features a responsive 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 190 horsepower, delivering smooth acceleration without excessive fuel consumption. The continuously variable transmission ensures seamless gear transitions, making highway driving comfortable for long distances. Honda’s manufacturer reliability data shows CR-V owners report minimal issues within the first five years of ownership.

Interior comfort deserves particular attention. The CR-V provides excellent headroom and legroom for all passengers, with a comfortable seating position that reduces fatigue during extended drives. The center console storage, door pockets, and under-seat compartments offer practical organization solutions for family necessities. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration keep everyone entertained and connected safely.

Safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) give the CR-V top marks across all crash test categories. Honda’s suite of safety features includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking. These technologies provide parents peace of mind during daily commutes and family road trips.

Toyota Highlander: Three-Row Excellence

For families needing genuine three-row seating for six to eight passengers, the Toyota Highlander stands unmatched. This midsize SUV delivers the spaciousness of larger vehicles while maintaining manageable dimensions for parking and maneuverability. The Highlander’s 83.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo space accommodates large families and their gear effortlessly.

Toyota’s engineering philosophy emphasizes durability and longevity. The Highlander’s 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 295 horsepower, providing confident acceleration even when fully loaded. Standard all-wheel drive on most trims ensures stability in various weather conditions, making it particularly suitable for families in regions with winter weather. Toyota’s warranty coverage reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in long-term reliability.

The third-row seating, while not ideal for adults on extended trips, accommodates children comfortably. Parents appreciate the easy-access power-folding third row, which stores flat to maximize cargo capacity when not needed. The Highlander’s quiet cabin, attributed to superior sound insulation, creates a peaceful environment for passengers during long journeys.

Carly Gregg particularly noted the Highlander’s intuitive infotainment system. The 8-inch touchscreen integrates smartphone connectivity seamlessly, while the optional panoramic sunroof creates an airy, spacious feel. Climate zones allow different temperatures for driver, front passenger, and rear passengers—a feature appreciated by families with varying comfort preferences.

Mazda CX-5: Premium Driving Experience

The Mazda CX-5 represents a different philosophy in family SUV design, prioritizing engaging driving dynamics alongside practical functionality. This compact crossover attracts families who value responsive steering, smooth handling, and premium interior materials. The CX-5’s 76.5 cubic feet of cargo space suits smaller families and those prioritizing driving enjoyment over maximum capacity.

Mazda’s SkyActiv engine technology delivers impressive fuel economy without sacrificing performance. The 2.5-liter engine produces 187 horsepower while achieving EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined on front-wheel-drive models. This efficiency translates to fewer fill-ups and reduced fuel expenses over vehicle ownership. EPA fuel economy ratings confirm Mazda’s engineering prowess.

The CX-5’s interior emphasizes quality over quantity. Soft-touch materials, premium upholstery options, and thoughtful design create an atmosphere more akin to luxury vehicles. Parents appreciate the intuitive control layout, where frequently used functions remain easily accessible without requiring touchscreen navigation during driving.

Safety features include i-Activsense technology, Mazda’s comprehensive driver assistance suite. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-departure warning systems provide active protection during everyday driving. The CX-5’s structural rigidity, tested through rigorous crash protocols, ensures passenger protection in collision scenarios.

Kia Sorento: Value and Features

Kia has transformed its reputation through vehicles like the Sorento, delivering impressive feature content and warranty coverage at competitive prices. This three-row midsize SUV competes directly with the Highlander while offering exceptional value. The Sorento provides 76.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo space and seats up to seven passengers.

The Sorento’s turbocharged 2.5-liter engine produces 281 horsepower, delivering spirited acceleration for a vehicle in this category. All-wheel drive capability and electronic torque vectoring enhance handling during cornering, making the driving experience engaging while maintaining stability. Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty demonstrates manufacturer confidence in long-term durability.

Carly Gregg’s testing highlighted the Sorento’s tech-forward approach. The available 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone charging, and panoramic sunroof create a modern, connected environment. Safety features include forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot collision avoidance—technologies often reserved for premium brands.

Interior quality has improved dramatically compared to earlier Kia models. Soft-touch dashboard materials, available leather seating, and ambient lighting elevate the cabin atmosphere. The panoramic sunroof extends the sense of space, particularly appreciated by rear passengers. Climate zones and heated/cooled seats add comfort throughout the family’s journey.

Subaru Outback: All-Weather Capability

The Subaru Outback bridges the gap between wagon and SUV, offering wagon-like cargo efficiency with SUV practicality. Standard all-wheel drive and higher ground clearance make it ideal for families in areas with snow, rain, or unpaved roads. The Outback’s 75.7 cubic feet of cargo space rivals dedicated SUVs while maintaining better fuel economy.

Subaru’s horizontally-opposed boxer engine technology creates a lower center of gravity, improving handling and stability. The 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine produces 180 horsepower, modest by SUV standards but sufficient for family duties. The EyeSight Driver Assist Technology suite includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision throttle management, and lane-keep assist—among the most advanced safety systems available.

Families appreciate the Outback’s practical design. The flat load floor, integrated roof rails, and fold-flat rear seats accommodate bikes, sports equipment, and luggage without requiring roof-mounted carriers. The wagon-style design provides excellent visibility, helping parents monitor surroundings during parking and maneuvering.

The all-wheel drive system, standard on all Outback models, provides confident traction in adverse weather. Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive distributes power to all four wheels optimally, improving stability during acceleration, braking, and cornering. Families relocating to regions with winter weather find the Outback particularly valuable for safety and reliability.

Volkswagen ID.Buzz: Electric Family Innovation

For families interested in advantages of electric vehicles, the Volkswagen ID.Buzz represents a revolutionary approach to family transportation. This electric microbus combines retro styling with cutting-edge technology, offering a unique driving experience that traditional SUVs cannot match. The ID.Buzz seats up to seven passengers while maintaining impressive cargo versatility.

The ID.Buzz’s electric powertrain delivers instant torque, providing responsive acceleration despite substantial vehicle weight. The 82-kWh battery offers approximately 260 miles of EPA-estimated range on a single charge, sufficient for most family daily driving. Home charging capability reduces dependence on public infrastructure, though DC fast-charging networks continue expanding nationwide.

The spacious interior, uncompromised by traditional engine compartments, creates an airy cabin perfect for families. The panoramic windshield extends visibility, while the modern infotainment system includes over-the-air software updates keeping technology current. Climate control zones ensure passenger comfort throughout the cabin.

Parents appreciate the inherent safety advantages of electric vehicles. The low center of gravity, created by floor-mounted batteries, improves stability and rollover resistance. The absence of a traditional engine eliminates certain mechanical failure modes, reducing maintenance complexity. MotorTrend’s comprehensive testing confirms the ID.Buzz’s practical viability for family use.

Safety Features Across Models

Modern family SUVs incorporate sophisticated safety technologies that protect occupants during collisions and help prevent accidents entirely. Automatic emergency braking, available on all featured vehicles, applies brakes when forward-collision risk increases, potentially mitigating crash severity or preventing collisions altogether. Blind-spot monitoring alerts drivers to vehicles in traditional blind spots, reducing merge-related accidents.

Lane-departure warning systems monitor lane position and alert drivers if unintentional lane drift occurs. Some models, like the Subaru Outback, include lane-keep assist that gently corrects steering to maintain lane position. Adaptive cruise control maintains driver-set distances from preceding vehicles, reducing fatigue during highway driving while improving safety.

Structural design has evolved significantly, with modern SUVs incorporating high-strength steel and aluminum alloys that absorb crash energy while protecting occupants. The passenger compartment remains rigid, protecting the cabin during side-impact collisions. Multiple airbags—including curtain airbags extending the full side window length—provide comprehensive occupant protection.

Carly Gregg emphasizes that safety extends beyond crash protection. Visibility improvements through larger windows and camera-based systems help parents avoid accidents. Electronic stability control prevents skids during emergency maneuvers, while all-wheel drive systems improve traction in adverse weather. Car and Driver’s safety evaluations provide detailed performance data for comparison.

Fuel Efficiency Comparisons

Fuel economy significantly impacts the total cost of vehicle ownership. Compact crossovers like the Mazda CX-5 achieve superior efficiency, with EPA ratings reaching 28 mpg combined. Midsize SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Toyota Highlander average 26-27 mpg combined, while three-row models like the Kia Sorento achieve approximately 25 mpg combined. The Subaru Outback, with wagon-like aerodynamics, achieves 26 mpg combined despite standard all-wheel drive.

Electric vehicles eliminate fuel consumption entirely. The Volkswagen ID.Buzz achieves approximately 3.5 miles per kilowatt-hour, translating to electricity costs significantly lower than gasoline. Home electricity rates typically cost one-third the per-mile expense of premium gasoline. Over 150,000 miles of typical family driving, electric vehicle owners save substantial sums on fuel.

Turbocharging improves efficiency by reducing engine displacement while maintaining performance. The Honda CR-V’s 1.5-liter turbocharged engine demonstrates this technology’s effectiveness, delivering strong performance while achieving respectable fuel economy. Hybrid options, available on certain models, combine gasoline engines with electric motors for further efficiency improvements.

Parents should consider fuel economy in the context of vehicle purchase price and expected ownership duration. A vehicle costing $2,000 less initially but consuming 2 mpg more fuel may cost more over 100,000 miles of driving. FuelEconomy.gov provides detailed comparisons for informed decision-making.

Real-world fuel economy varies based on driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance. Aggressive acceleration, excessive idling, and underinflated tires reduce efficiency. Regular car maintenance tips for beginners help optimize fuel economy throughout vehicle ownership. Proper tire inflation, engine air filter replacement, and routine oil changes maintain manufacturer-estimated efficiency levels.

FAQ

What is the safest family SUV available today?

All featured vehicles achieve top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. The Subaru Outback, with standard all-wheel drive and advanced EyeSight technology, excels in accident prevention. The Toyota Highlander’s robust construction and comprehensive airbag system provide excellent crash protection. Safety depends on specific model year, trim level, and equipped features, so reviewing individual ratings proves essential.

Which family SUV offers the best cargo space?

The Toyota Highlander provides maximum cargo space with 83.7 cubic feet behind the second row. The Kia Sorento offers comparable space at 76.7 cubic feet. For compact families, the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V provide adequate space at 76.5 cubic feet. The Volkswagen ID.Buzz maximizes interior volume through its tall, boxy design while seating seven passengers.

Are electric family SUVs practical for long road trips?

The Volkswagen ID.Buzz’s 260-mile range suits most family road trips with strategic charging stops. Expanding DC fast-charging networks allow 30-minute charges adding 150+ miles. Home charging overnight provides convenient daily driving. Families planning frequent multi-state trips may prefer traditional powertrains until charging infrastructure expands further.

How do I decide between three-row and two-row family SUVs?

Families with three or more children benefit from three-row seating. However, third rows sacrifice cargo space and provide limited comfort for adults. Two-row models maximize cargo capacity while seating five passengers comfortably. Consider your family size, cargo needs, and passenger comfort requirements when deciding.

What warranty coverage should families prioritize?

Comprehensive powertrain coverage protects against expensive engine, transmission, and drivetrain repairs. Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty provides exceptional protection. Toyota and Honda offer 5-year/60,000-mile basic coverage with 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage on hybrids. Extended warranty options provide additional peace of mind for families keeping vehicles beyond standard coverage periods.

Can I maintain these SUVs easily at independent shops?

All featured vehicles use standard components available through independent repair shops and suppliers. Japanese brands (Honda, Toyota, Mazda, Subaru) benefit from extensive aftermarket support. Kia and Volkswagen models increasingly feature readily available parts. Routine maintenance like how to change car engine oil and how to replace car brake pads can be performed at independent facilities, reducing maintenance costs.