Purchasing a new family vehicle is accompanied by many crucial considerations. Price point, amenity desires, seating potential and fuel economy are just a few aspects that must be considered to ensure you are buying the best SUV for your family. Knowing where to begin is a daunting task that may seem impossible given the number and propensity of available SUVs on the market. To begin, narrowing down potential vehicles by your family's most desired or necessary attributes can aid in simplifying the process. There are a large number of SUVs on the market today, and many could be a good option for a family. Listed below are a few consumer favorites when it comes to SUVs. These versatile vehicles provide a great starting point toward making your ultimate purchase decision.
1 - Ford Explorer
Produced by an American automaker that is known for their durable vehicles and tough powertrain, the Ford Explorer is a common selection for families. It features seating for six to seven passengers, depending on the chosen configuration and trim, and can attain up to 27 city mpg and 29 highway mpg in fuel economy. For those who enjoy life on the lake or camping adventures, the Ford Explorer is strong enough to tow a boat and trailer or a camper. With a towing capacity of up to 5,600 lbs., the Explorer goes above and beyond what competition is willing to do for their buyers.
2 - Kia Sorento
Traveling with your family can be stressful, especially when young passengers are left to their own devices. The Kia Sorento is an SUV that is packed with technology features to keep your family entertained on the go. As a mid-sized SUV that offers seating for up to seven passengers, the Sorento offers a spacious interior and an outstanding manufacturer warranty. The best engine option for this SUV can generate up to 24 city mpg or 29 hwy mpg making it competitive with other mainstream SUVs. With high ratings for safety and reliability, the Kia Sorento makes a great commuting vehicle for families.
3 - Toyota Highlander
For those who need a little more space for extra family members or friends, the Toyota Highlander fits the bill. Offering seating configurations for seven or eight passengers, this mid-size SUV is widely known for its modern safety features and implementation of innovative technology. At a median price point for SUV models, the Highlander is available in many trim levels that encompass their own unique features and packages. While it falls a bit short on fuel economy in city driving coming in at 21 mpg, it excels on the highway averaging 29 mpg. Toyota vehicles are known for their reliability making them excellent choices for families, and the Highlander offers that same notoriety.
4 - Chevrolet Suburban
As one of the largest and most capable SUVs on the market, the full-size Chevrolet Suburban boasts three rows of seating with a capacity of up to nine passengers. With flex fuel and hybrid models, the Suburban is focused on enhancing its fuel efficiency to protect the environment and make fueling up more economical for buyers. Fuel economy of 15 city mpg and 22 hwy mpg is moderate for this SUV that sits on a truck chassis and boasts a 6.2L V8 engine capable of towing up to 6,300 lbs. For families that need space and additional towing capacity, the Chevrolet Suburban is a strong, capable SUV option.
5 - Subaru Ascent
For the family that enjoys outdoor adventures and off-road experiences, the Subaru Ascent is a viable competitor. With grip-force tires, a higher lift than competitors and durable interior, the Subaru Ascent was made for trekking on a variety of terrains safely and efficiently. This vehicle offers multiple storage areas and cargo holds to make stowing passenger items in a discrete and space-efficient manner. Featuring third-row seating for up to seven passengers, the Subaru Ascent offers ample room for your entire family and their belongings. With a fuel economy of 21 city mpg and 27 hwy mpg passengers do not have to worry about fueling up frequently during fun, family adventures.
6 - Jeep Wrangler
Once known as a durable military vehicle, the Jeep Wrangler has continued to produce vehicles with a nostalgic look and signature features. Incorporating modern upgrades, buyers get the best of both worlds with this off-road SUV. While it may not look like other SUV options, it is more durable and resilient than most. Featuring a forgiving interior that is perfect for the five passengers it can hold; this SUV is well-equipped to handle life's messes. Sporting 22 city mpg and 29 highway mpg, the Jeep Wrangler is ready to take you and your family off road and straight into fun.