10 Best SUVs Perfect for Modern Families

If you’re shopping for a family SUV that blends safety, comfort, space, and modern features, today’s market has some exceptional options. These top rated family SUVs offer reliability, strong resale value, and the practicality families need for daily life and long trips alike.

Toyota Highlander

Ah, the Highlander. This thing’s like the grandma of family SUVs super reliable but still pretty sleek for a midsize SUV. It fits like seven folks comfortably, which is like, perfect if you’ve got an actual family or just wanna impress your friends with space. The tech is decent, like touchscreen stuff and safety features that actually feel useful and not unnecessary bells and whistles important when you’re driving mini-humans. Prices start around $38k, which is pretty legit for what you get. I’m not gonna lie, sometimes it feels a bit vanilla, but hey, vanilla’s tasty in the SUV world, right?

Honda Pilot

Okay, so with the Pilot, you’re getting a bigger vibe. It feels a bit more rugged than the Highlander but still really smooth on city roads. I gotta say, the interior feels super spacious like, everyone gets their own bubble, which is a dream during long trips. It packs all the safety gear and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, so you’re not stuck in the tech dark ages. Starting price is about $40k. If you want something comfy but also with a bit of muscle, the Pilot’s good you know?

Kia Telluride

Alright, now the Telluride this one’s like the cool kid on the block. It’s got that classy, almost luxury feel but way more chill on the wallet, starting around $38k. Plus, it looks sharp like, not your average family hauler. The interior? Super posh with comfy seats and enough room to throw a party. It’s got a ton of storage space, which mothers of small humans and sports gear lovers appreciate, for sure. Honestly, it might be the one I’d want to take off-roading just for kicks.

Subaru Ascent

So, the Ascent is kind of a sleeper hit, right? It’s all-wheel drive standard, which is like, a blessing if you live somewhere rainy or snowy. Plus, Subaru’s known for safety, so you’re set there. It’s roomy, fits seven or eight depending on how you set it up. The interior isn’t fancy but it’s tough and practical. Price starts near $37k. I mean, it’s not winning any beauty contests, but it’s solid, kinda like that reliable friend who always shows up.

Ford Explorer

The Explorer man, this one’s like a classic that keeps changing. It’s bigger, more powerful, and kinda looks like it means business. The price? About $40k to start, which is fair for what you’re getting strong engine options and a pretty techy cabin. It’s got that American muscle vibe but still family-friendly inside. There’s a hybrid version too, which is kinda neat for saving some gas money. Honestly? It’s a bit of a beast but also somehow cozy.

Hyundai Palisade

Now the Palisade is a bit like the Telluride’s sibling but with its own style. It’s comfy, fancy enough inside to make you think you’re driving a luxury SUV, but starting around $37k, it won’t totally break the bank. It’s like, you get all these nice materials, a massive infotainment screen, and loads of safety features. The ride is smooth, perfect for those road trips that feel like an eternity with kids. Plus, the cargo space is generous good for all the snacks and sports gear, no joke.

Chevrolet Traverse

If you want a big SUV that can carry everyone and their stuff, the Traverse is the way. It’s a bit bulkier, like a big suburban soccer mom vibe, starting about $35k. But the upside? Lots of room—like, seriously, space for days. The calves in the third row won’t cry when the kids get cramped, which is a win. Tech-wise, it’s decent, not flashy. It’s a bit of a tank but smooth on the road. Fun fact: I think it surprisingly has a pretty quiet cabin.

Volkswagen Atlas

The Atlas is kind of interesting it’s big enough for the whole family, feels like you’re in a European SUV but, like, made for Americans. Priced at about $36k starting, it’s got that boxy, practical look but inside it’s surprisingly upscale. It’s got those spacious third-row seats that actually fit adults, which doesn’t always happen, so big check there. Also, the drive is chill, not too sporty but handles nicely. It’s like your sensible buddy who’s also kinda stylish.

Mazda CX-9

Okay, the CX-9 is like the fancy smallish family SUV. Smaller than some of the others I mentioned but wow does it pack a punch in the looks and driving feel department. Starting around $39k, it has this sleek silhouette that honestly might make you want to show it off to the neighbors. Inside feels plush, tech is smooth, and driving? Fun enough to make those school runs less of a drag. Maybe not for giant families, but for four or five, it’s great.

Nissan Pathfinder

Last one Pathfinder. It’s kind of the underdog, you know? Prices start around $35k, so it’s on the cheaper side. It used to be more off-road tough but now it’s mostly comfortable, family-friendly with some decent power. It doesn’t wow with style or luxury but it’s reliable, roomy enough for most family needs, and has enough tech to not feel old-fashioned. For the price and what it gives, it’s like a safe pick if you want something straightforward.