There are few decisions more important than choosing a new vehicle for your family. You’ve got hundreds of options to consider, and additional features to contemplate.
What comes first to your mind when shopping for your family’s new SUV? Safety.
We went ahead and found the safest SUVs for your crew. We know that you need a lot of room, good gas mileage, and a car with ample features. We’ve got the research under control, you just get out there and drive.
Read on to learn more about choosing the right SUV for your large family.
Important Features for Your Family SUV
You are the one who is going to decide what the most essential features are for your SUV. But, we can take a guess at what is at the top of that list.
Safety
If this is going to be the family SUV, safety should be a top priority!
First and foremost, the crash test rating. This test is performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). They rate each car on its ability to keep its passengers safe.
That isn’t all that goes into a vehicle’s safety. Size matters. As does the vehicle’s center of gravity.
Newer vehicles tend to be safer, and ones that have added safety equipment are considered to be safer, as well.
Size
Size isn’t just for safety. It is for your children, your pets, your stuff when moving across the country. When it comes to family cars, the bigger the better.
Fuel Efficiency
You’ll probably want a fuel efficient SUV.
A big car means more space for your family, but also can mean a hefty gas bill. It is all a matter of balance. Get a SUV that is large enough for your crew, but consider the fuel efficiency of the vehicle as well.
If you’re going to be trekking across town all day delivering children to different activities, you’ll want to go
The Safest SUVs for Your Family
The following SUVs are at the top of their class for safety, cargo space, and performance. Perfect for a family SUV.
These SUVs balance fuel efficiency and size to make them affordable (and larger) alternatives to sedans.
1. Chevrolet Traverse
The Chevrolet Traverse is a bold, beautiful SUV that packs performance and appeal into a family-friendly car. At only $29,800 basic pricing, this SUV is certainly affordable.
The Traverse can comfortably fit eight adults, or seven if you go with the second-row captain’s chairs.
You’ll find ample cargo room, as well as surprisingly impressive gas mileage, with 28mpg highway.
This well-priced and safe SUV may be the perfect vehicle for your family.
2. Honda Pilot
As a midsize SUV, the Honda Pilot is tough to beat in all-around performance. It has a 3.5L V6 engine that puts some serious power into this SUV.
It seats 7 or 8, depending which second-row option you get, and you’ll find that there is a ton of little compartments to store yours or your children’s stuff.
Starting at $31,450, you can keep your family safe in this larger mid-size SUV.
3. Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is a practical, yet tough SUV. Starting at $34,600, the Highlander is
This mid-size SUV seats 8, or 7 if you go with the second-row captain’s chairs over the bench seat.
Is safety at the forefront of your mind? This SUV can be equipped with Toyota Safety Sense.
4. Hyundai Palisade
Starting at $31,775, the Hyundai Palisade is another great choice for your family’s new SUV.
This SUV has been deemed a top safety pick by the experts. In addition, the Palisade has several safety features you can add on but comes standard with the rear back up camera.
We love the Hyundai Palisade, but the real plus is Hyundai’s awesome maintenance package and warranty that you won’t want to miss out on.
5. Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent might just be the SUV your family is looking for.
This SUV seats 7 or 8, ideal for your large family. It scored an overall 5 out of 5 crash test rating, making it hard to beat safety-wise.
You can be riding in safety and style in the base model for just $31,995.
6. Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorento is our winner for the most bang for your buck, with MSRP at $26,900 for the standard model.
With a really classy look, the Sorento looks more expensive than it is. It has an incredible safety rating, making it one of the safest SUV options there is.
The newest models of the Sorento come standard with third-row seating; past years have had the option for two or three rows.
If you want to have some real power behind your SUV, choose the V6 instead of the standard V4. The V4 standard model does have excellent gas mileage if you choose to go that route.
7. Ford Expedition
The Ford Expedition is one of the most powerful SUVs on our list. It is also the most expensive one, starting at around $52,800 for the standard model.
Choose 7 or 8 seats in your model, either way, you’ll have ample room and plentiful cargo space. If not, don’t worry, you can trail it with the large towing capacity.
With the highest quality materials and pure size, the Ford Expedition is a top vehicle choice to keep your family safe.
Which SUV Is for You?
What is the best SUV for your family? You can’t go wrong if you pick from one of these safest SUVs.
So do you prefer the Kia Sorento or Honda Pilot? You won’t know until you go test drive your new SUV!
Looking for more information like this? Check out the rest of our page for more articles.