Finding the ideal SUV for your family should be easy if you know what to look for. Even if you're not sure, all you need to do is put down your basic requirements. Think fuel economy, driving experience, powertrain, cargo space, more seating, all-wheel drive, and horsepower. Some buyers have specific requirements, including interior comforts and exterior trims. However, the best dealerships have experienced staff to help you compare different models and standard features. Here's a family guide to help you identify safe, comfortable, and reliable SUVs in 2024:
Choose an Automaker
Most car buyers want a specific brand, which makes it easier to narrow down the exact model. Family SUVs are a common category across all car manufacturers, so you can easily compare different brands. Popular options include Hyundai, Jeep, Mazda, Subaru, BMW, Honda, Toyota, and Tesla. You can find a safe, comfortable, and reliable option from any of these brands. Whether you need a third-row seat, hybrid SUV, or sports car, there are many options to go around. Family-friendly options to consider include Hyundai Palisade, KIA Telluride, Toyota Highlander, Honda CR-V, and Hyundai Kona. These SUVs offer more seating area, all-wheel drive, extra cargo space, and powerful turbo engines.
Review Safety Features
Luxury SUVs come with various safety features, including advanced driver assistance systems that cover pedestrian detection, crash prevention, and emergency braking. The safest full-size SUVs feature collision warning, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and other safety features. Choosing the top picks for safety can be overwhelming since most automakers offer standard features. You'll find these same features on Nissan, Chevrolet, BMW, Hyundai, Lexus, Ford, and even small SUVs like Genesis GV70. Look for the latest safety features and ratings from IIHS, as well as evaluation from NHTSA.
Compare Interior Comforts
Comfort and convenience features cut across many aspects, from the infotainment system to interior seating and cargo space. When looking for a comfortable family SUV, consider the size and technologies you want. Do you prefer luxury SUVs with the latest infotainment, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay? Maybe you prefer compact SUVs with off-road capability, or fancy new SUVs with the latest safety features and fuel efficiency. You can find powerful four-cylinder turbo engine SUVs with more horsepower and increased towing capacity. Some families prefer large, full-size SUVs, while others are looking for entry-level or plug-in hybrid models. It all boils down to personal preferences.
Which Is the Best Family SUV?
While no single car is perfect for everyone, the best family SUVs have features that most people are looking for. This includes an enhanced driving experience, advanced safety features, increased horsepower, top trims, fuel economy, sophisticated technologies, and a comfy interior. The 2024 Honda CR-V is touted as one of the best family SUVs of 2024, along with Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade. Genesis GV70, Volvo XC90, BMW X1 and X3, Mazda CX-90, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, and Honda Pilot are all great options when looking for compact and subcompact hybrid SUVs. They offer superior horsepower and better safety ratings.
Key Takeaways
The best family SUV is one that meets your family's needs. Whether you prefer a hybrid powertrain, standard features, a third-row seat, or a sports car, dealerships have more than enough options to go around. You can speak to an expert at a dealership to help you compare the different features, pros, and cons of each model before making your decision. A test drive will also help you determine if a given model will meet your needs.
