Top Family-Friendly SUVs of the Year: 10 Standout Picks for Space, Safety, and Sanity

School drop-offs, grocery runs, and weekend escapes—these SUVs make the chaos feel manageable.

What Makes an SUV Truly Family-Friendly?

Space is the headline, but it’s not the whole story. Families need honest third-row room, a second row that welcomes child seats without burying the front passenger’s knees, and cargo space that doesn’t vanish when every seat is filled. Easy-access LATCH points, doors that open wide, and a third row reachable without a gymnast’s flexibility all matter in day-to-day life.

Safety tech should calm nerves, not create them. The best systems gently assist, avoid false alarms, and keep an eye out for pedestrians, cyclists, and cars in your blind spots. Standard automatic emergency braking, lane-centering assist, and adaptive cruise are normal now; look for smooth tuning and clear controls.

Infotainment must be simple. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto reduce cable clutter. More than two USB ports is a must. Voice assistants that recognize natural requests—“I’m cold,” “Find a coffee”—can spare you another menu dive. And don’t forget ride comfort. Quiet cabins, compliant suspensions, and supportive seats tame long drives and tantrums. Fuel economy helps the budget, whether through efficient turbo engines, hybrids, or—in the right use case—an EV with a reliable charging plan.

With that in mind, here are the year’s standout family SUVs, tested for real-world livability, value, and peace of mind.

1) Kia Telluride

Kia’s Telluride still nails the three-row formula. It pairs a roomy cabin with an upscale feel that punches above its price. The second row is wide, the third row is genuinely adult-tolerant for short trips, and the cargo bay stays useable with all seats up. Parents will appreciate clearly marked LATCH anchors and doors that open wide enough to swing in a rear-facing seat without contortions. The V6 is smooth, the ride is calm, and road noise is hushed. Kia’s Highway Driving Assist is among the better-tuned mainstream systems, taking the edge off long freeway slogs. Inside, the dual-screen setup is modern without a steep learning curve. The SX Prestige trim brings cooled seats, a head-up display, and Nappa leather, yet even mid trims feel special. Minor knock: Tow ratings trail a few rivals.

2) Hyundai Palisade

The Palisade is the Telluride’s fraternal twin, but it leans a bit more toward luxury. Materials are plush, switchgear is intuitive, and the cabin’s attention to detail—ventilation controls, storage, ambient lighting—makes daily life easier. Families who carpool will love the one-touch second-row access to the third row and the way the seat lifts and slides even with some car seats in place. The V6 powertrain is unfussy, and the chassis filters broken pavement without leaving the driver feeling disconnected. Hyundai’s driver aids are confident and calm, and the Blind-View Monitor camera feed in the cluster earns real trust. USB ports abound, and the in-cabin intercom helps communicate with the back without shouting. Pick the Calligraphy trim if you want true near-lux touches; the SEL with the Convenience package offers the best cost-to-content.

3) Honda Pilot

Redesigned recently, the Pilot reclaims its place as a versatile do-it-all SUV. Families who need honest third-row space will appreciate the upright roofline and generous legroom. The second row is wide and square, great for installing bulky seats without pinching buckles. Honda’s trick removable middle seat in certain trims converts the Pilot from seven to eight passengers on the fly, and it stores neatly in the cargo floor. The V6 offers confident power, and the new TrailSport variant brings light off-road cred—think muddy soccer fields and gravel campsites—without compromising ride comfort. Honda’s safety tech is improved, with more natural lane-centering and fewer beeps. The infotainment interface is straightforward, if not flashy. Downsides: Some hard plastics linger in lower trims, and pricing can climb quickly, but the core packaging is bulletproof for families.

4) Toyota Grand Highlander

If you love the Highlander idea but want real third-row comfort, the Grand Highlander is your answer. It stretches wheelbase and interior volume to reclaim space for legs and luggage. Even adults can sit in the way back without knees under chins, and Toyota’s thoughtful design gives each row cupholders, cubbies, and charging ports. The hybrid options are the stars here: the standard hybrid is frugal for a vehicle this size, while the Hybrid MAX offers brisk acceleration without a big efficiency penalty. Toyota’s safety suite is comprehensive and conservative in the best way. Materials are durable, and the dashboard layout favors hard buttons for climate and quick-access functions. The cargo area fits a family’s vacation gear better than most. It’s not as plush as some, but as a stress reducer, it’s excellent.

5) Mazda CX-90

The CX-90 is for families who still care about how a vehicle drives. Built on Mazda’s new rear-drive-based platform, it delivers a tidy, composed feel in corners without beating you up over bumps. Inside, the design leans premium, with tasteful trims and restrained screens. The second row is adult-friendly, and the third row is fine for kids; you’ll make regular use of the power-folding seats and sliding second row. Mazda’s inline-six provides smooth, easy power, and the plug-in hybrid variant can cover school runs and errands on electric miles if you charge at home. Infotainment finally supports proper touch control in Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, which is a relief. Driver assists are present and helpful, though not as polished as Hyundai/Kia’s systems. If you value steering feel and craftsmanship, this one stands out.

_{Photo by George Barros on Unsplash}

6) Chevrolet Traverse

The latest Traverse leans into space as a selling point, with one of the roomiest third rows and a cargo hold that swallows strollers and sports gear without creative Tetris. The updated turbo engine gives it stronger low-end pull than the previous V6, and the ride is serene on the highway. Chevy’s new infotainment runs through a large center screen with clear menus and snappy responses, and wireless phone integration is standard. Safety tech catches up to rivals, with available hands-free driving on certain trims for approved highways. Parents will welcome wide-opening rear doors, generously padded armrests, and multiple charging points. The RS trim adds style without ditching practicality. Cabin materials are better than before, though still not quite at Hyundai/Kia levels. Value is strong if you watch incentives.

7) Subaru Ascent

For families who encounter winter, gravel, or muddy trailheads, the Ascent’s standard all-wheel drive and surefooted manners inspire confidence. The turbo flat-four delivers plenty of usable torque for merging and hills, and the chassis feels settled when loaded with passengers and gear. Interior space is smartly used: the second row is wide, the third row is workable for kids and tweens, and cupholders are everywhere. Subaru’s EyeSight safety suite is standard across the board and has been refined for smoother operation; the brand’s reputation for crash protection is well-earned. The big touchscreen system is cleaner than before, with physical knobs for climate and volume. Road noise can creep in at speed, and the cabin doesn’t aim for luxury, but families who prioritize safety, traction, and honesty will feel right at home.

8) Volkswagen Atlas

The Atlas is simply easy to live with. Boxy proportions translate into adult-sized seating in all three rows, and the cargo bay is broad and flat. Volkswagen’s recent interior refresh returned blessed physical controls for climate and volume, and the infotainment interface is more straightforward. The turbocharged four-cylinder replaces the old V6 with better real-world torque and decent fuel use. On the road, the Atlas feels stable and composed, making long highway drives less tiring. The seats are supportive, visibility is excellent, and rear doors open wide for car-seat juggling. VW’s driver aids do their job without fuss, and the cabin layout is clean rather than flashy. Downsides: some plastics feel utilitarian, and the ride can be slightly firm over sharp impacts, but the space and simplicity are hard to beat.

9) Kia EV9

If your routine fits an EV, the EV9 is a game-changer for families. It offers true three-row seating with modern design, a flat floor, and loads of storage nooks. The second row can be a bench or captain’s chairs—some trims even offer swivel seats for easier buckling—while the third row is usable for more than emergencies. Acceleration is smooth and silent, and the ride is comfortable without float. Kia’s latest infotainment and driver-assist tech are thoughtfully integrated, and over-the-air updates can improve features as you own it. Real-world range is competitive for its size, and fast-charging speeds are strong if you have reliable DC networks nearby. Plan your road trips, but for daily life, home charging turns every morning into a “full tank” experience. It’s pricey, yet packed with family-forward touches.

10) Volvo XC90

Volvo blends elegance with safety leadership, and the XC90 remains a serene family hauler. The cabin design is airy and inviting, with supportive seats that stave off fatigue on long drives. The second row is wide, and the third row suits kids; materials feel upscale even in lower trims. Volvo’s suite of driver aids is tuned for subtlety, and the 360-degree camera system is among the clearest for tight parking. Powertrains range from mild-hybrid to the T8 plug-in hybrid, which can handle many errands on electricity if you charge at home. Infotainment runs Google built-in apps, giving you native maps and voice control that actually understands natural requests. It’s not the cheapest, and options can add up quickly, but for families who value calm, clean design and top-tier safety, the XC90 delivers.

How We Evaluated These SUVs For Real Family Use

Numbers matter, but families live in the details. During testing, we looked for:

Car-seat friendliness: Are lower anchors easy to see and reach? Can the second row tilt and slide with a seat installed? Do buckles stay upright for booster-age kids?
Third-row access: One-touch levers, a floor that isn’t too high, and steps that don’t trap shoes.
Cargo with all seats up: Can you fit a folded stroller and a week’s groceries without blocking rear visibility?
In-cabin noise: How well does the cabin mute wind and road noise at 70 mph, so conversations don’t turn into yelling matches?
Driver-assist tuning: Does lane-centering feel natural? Does adaptive cruise maintain smooth gaps rather than rubber-banding?
Ownership costs: Fuel or electricity costs, expected maintenance, warranty coverage, and resale strength.

Different families prioritize different things. If your week is mostly local trips with occasional road trips, a hybrid or PHEV can save money without compromise. If you tow, verify ratings and cooling packages. Snowy climates point toward standard all-wheel drive with reasonable ground clearance and all-weather tires.

Which One Fits Your Family Best?

For maximum overall goodness: Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade remain the default recommendations because they balance space, comfort, and value so cleanly.
Need extra third-row and cargo room: Chevrolet Traverse and Toyota Grand Highlander feel huge inside without going full-size.
Want driver engagement: Mazda CX-90 gives you an enjoyable steering feel and refinement rare in the class.
Regular snow or dirt: Subaru Ascent’s standard AWD and predictable manners make winter driving feel less stressful.
Prefer an EV lifestyle: Kia EV9 makes everyday family driving quiet, quick, and low-maintenance—assuming home charging.
Luxury calm: Volvo XC90 brings first-rate seats and a serene cabin experience.

Trims and Options Worth Hunting

Second-row captain’s chairs: Easier kid access and cleaner third-row pathways, though you’ll lose one seat. Great if you regularly buckle two child seats.
Surround-view camera: Once you try it in school pickup chaos, you’ll never go back.
Hands-free liftgate: With arms full of backpacks and snacks, the foot-swipe trick is genuinely useful.
Built-in window shades: Saves the hassle of suction-cup shades and keeps naps darker.
Roof rails and crossbars: Handy for cargo boxes or bikes when the trunk is packed.
Heated steering wheel and rear seats: Keeps peace in cold climates, especially for kids who hate heavy coats in car seats.

Buying And Test-Driving: A Family Checklist

Bring the chaos with you—seriously. Pack the stroller, booster, and a rear-facing seat to the dealership. Confirm that the second row tilts and slides with at least one child seat installed, especially if you need third-row access often. Check headroom with car seats in place; some sloping rooflines steal space where you need it. Test buckle accessibility for older kids who buckle themselves—floppy recessed buckles are frustration magnets.

On the test drive:

Smooth out a bumpy street to feel how the suspension handles sharp impacts.
Merge onto the highway and cycle adaptive cruise and lane-centering to evaluate tuning.
Park in a tight spot, using cameras and sensors; verify screen clarity in bright sun and at night.
Turn off the audio and listen for wind around mirrors and roof rails at 65–70 mph.

At home, measure your garage. Larger three-rows can be lengthy, and hatch clearance matters for hands-free access. If you’re considering a plug-in hybrid or EV, map your charging plan. A 240-volt outlet in the garage transforms the experience; without it, you may rely more on public charging than you’d like.

Gas, Hybrid, Plug-In, Or EV?

Gas only: Least complicated and usually cheapest to buy. Look for modern turbos tuned for midrange torque and cylinder deactivation where available.
Hybrid: Fantastic for mixed driving; you’ll likely see big gains around town. Great for families who don’t want to plug in.
Plug-in hybrid: Ideal for short daily trips with occasional long drives. Charge at home to capture the benefit; long road trips run on gas.
EV: Best if you have home charging, consistent daily commute patterns, and access to reliable fast chargers for travel. Operating costs are low and the quiet, instant torque is addictive.

Ownership Tips That Save Money And Stress

Tires matter more than you think: A quieter, quality all-season—or all-weather in snowy areas—can transform ride comfort and winter grip.
Keep software updated: Many newer SUVs receive over-the-air improvements for driver aids and infotainment. Accept updates when convenient.
Protect the interior: All-weather mats and a cargo liner pay for themselves the first time a bottle leaks or a soccer cleat goes flying.
Don’t skip seat inspections: Re-check child seat installations periodically; shifting over time can loosen straps.
Mind the options: Fancy wheels can hurt ride quality and tire costs. If comfort is king, pick the smaller wheel package.

Final Thought

There isn’t a single “best” family SUV, but there is a best one for your mix of passengers, routes, and routines. Use the models above as a short list, test them the way you live, and choose the one that turns Monday morning chaos into something closer to calm.

External Links

The Top 5 Family SUVs of 2025: Safety, Comfort, and Reliability Best SUVs for Families: Parents Chime In - Kelley Blue Book Full-Size SUV Showdown: The List of Best SUVs for Families Our Top Family-Friendly Mid-Size SUVs - Richmond - Whitten Brothers Best family SUVs 2025: our favourite SUVs for kids and cargo