Families often face a dilemma when choosing a vehicle that balances practicality, comfort, and style. While minivans have traditionally dominated this space due to their spacious interiors and family-focused features, they often carry a stigma for being utilitarian and unexciting.
Many parents, however, prefer vehicles that provide similar benefits without the typical minivan feel. Enter the modern family SUV: vehicles designed to combine ample seating, cargo space, and convenience features with a sleek exterior, engaging driving dynamics, and a sense of adventure. These SUVs bridge the gap between functionality and enjoyment, offering families more than just basic transportation.
A growing number of automakers have recognized this trend, crafting SUVs that accommodate multiple passengers comfortably while still providing options for technology, safety, and performance that make driving enjoyable. Unlike minivans, these vehicles are often built with a focus on style and handling.
They provide elevated seating for better visibility, versatile cargo solutions, and optional premium features that transform routine trips into enjoyable experiences. Families no longer need to compromise between practicality and an engaging vehicle.
In addition to practicality, many family SUVs emphasize safety and reliability, essential for peace of mind. From advanced driver assistance systems to spacious, well-organized interiors, these vehicles are engineered to handle the demands of family life.
Parents can transport kids, groceries, sports equipment, and more without sacrificing comfort or convenience. They also often offer modern infotainment systems and connectivity options to keep passengers entertained on long drives.
These SUVs cater to families who want the benefits of a minivan without the minivan appearance. They offer flexibility for daily routines, road trips, and active lifestyles while maintaining an appealing design and enjoyable driving experience.
The following list highlights 13 family SUVs that provide these advantages, demonstrating that families can have both utility and style in a single vehicle. Each model offers unique features that set it apart, from spacious third-row seating to innovative safety systems and modern interiors designed for comfort and versatility.
1. Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot has long been recognized as a practical and reliable family SUV. It comfortably seats up to eight passengers, with a third row that can accommodate adults in shorter trips and children for longer journeys.
Unlike many minivans, it maintains a traditional SUV design with a bold front grille and high ground clearance, giving it a more rugged appearance. The interior is thoughtfully designed, with numerous storage compartments, a configurable center console, and well-placed cup holders, all aimed at making family life easier.
The Pilot also offers advanced safety features that provide parents with peace of mind. Standard systems include collision mitigation, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control, which are essential for daily commuting or long road trips.
Additionally, the cabin is quiet and well-insulated, ensuring conversations and entertainment remain undisturbed. The infotainment system is intuitive, supporting smartphone integration and rear-seat entertainment for longer journeys.
Performance-wise, the Pilot balances power and efficiency effectively. Its V6 engine provides sufficient acceleration for highway merging while maintaining reasonable fuel economy for a three-row SUV. Handling is smooth, and steering is precise for a vehicle of its size, allowing drivers to feel confident navigating urban streets and winding roads alike.
For families prioritizing versatility, the Pilot excels with its configurable cargo space. Folding down the second and third rows opens a large storage area capable of handling luggage, sports equipment, or large shopping trips.
The combination of comfort, reliability, and SUV styling makes it an attractive alternative for parents seeking the utility of a minivan without the traditional image.
2. Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV that appeals to families looking for a combination of comfort, reliability, and style. It offers seating for up to eight passengers in its standard configuration, with three rows designed to maximize passenger comfort.
The exterior design avoids the boxy look often associated with minivans, favoring sleek lines and a more modern profile that appeals to parents who want practicality without sacrificing aesthetics.
Inside, the Highlander emphasizes convenience and comfort. The cabin is spacious and thoughtfully organized, with climate controls for all rows, multiple USB ports, and cup holders positioned for easy access. The materials are high quality for the class, and the infotainment system is responsive, making it simple to manage music, navigation, and smartphone connections during trips.
Safety is another strong point of the Highlander. It comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, which includes lane departure alert, pre-collision system, and adaptive cruise control. These systems reduce stress on the driver, particularly in heavy traffic or during long journeys, and they complement the SUV’s already stable and composed ride.
Under the hood, the Highlander offers a balance of power and efficiency, with both traditional gasoline engines and hybrid options. The ride is smooth and predictable, with competent handling that sets it apart from minivans.
Cargo space is flexible, allowing families to configure seating and storage to accommodate sports gear, strollers, or luggage, making it an excellent choice for parents who want an SUV that combines everyday practicality with style.
3. Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride has emerged as one of the most acclaimed family SUVs in recent years. Its exterior design emphasizes a bold, upscale appearance, with a strong grille, sculpted body lines, and attractive lighting elements. This SUV makes a clear statement that family-oriented vehicles can be stylish and commanding on the road.
Inside, the Telluride delivers a well-appointed cabin with generous space for up to eight passengers. Its second- and third-row seats are designed to accommodate adults comfortably, a rare feature in three-row SUVs. The cabin features a combination of high-quality materials, intuitive controls, and clever storage solutions that cater to the needs of families on the move.
Safety technology is abundant, with standard features such as blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and a surround-view camera system. These systems enhance confidence during city driving and long trips, ensuring the family remains safe while navigating various conditions.
Performance is equally strong, with a V6 engine that provides responsive acceleration and capable towing capacity. The Telluride balances ride comfort with stability, making it suitable for both daily errands and weekend getaways. Cargo space is flexible, with multiple fold-flat seating configurations, allowing families to carry everything from groceries to sports equipment without feeling cramped.
4. Hyundai Palisade
The Hyundai Palisade offers a luxurious feel within the family SUV segment without veering into minivan territory. Its exterior design emphasizes sophistication, with a prominent grille, sleek lighting, and a well-proportioned silhouette that appeals to drivers seeking elegance and utility in one package.
The cabin is spacious and thoughtfully configured, accommodating up to eight passengers. The seating is comfortable and supportive, and high-quality materials create a refined atmosphere. Families benefit from multiple USB ports, a well-positioned infotainment system, and optional rear-seat entertainment to keep children occupied during longer drives.
Safety features are comprehensive, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The SUV also has a strong structural design, contributing to a reassuringly solid ride. Parents can feel confident in both city and highway environments, knowing the vehicle prioritizes passenger protection.
Performance is strong and smooth, with a V6 engine delivering sufficient power while maintaining reasonable fuel efficiency. Handling is composed, and the SUV feels stable and secure even when fully loaded.
Cargo space is versatile, with the option to fold down the second and third rows for large loads. The Palisade provides families with a blend of style, comfort, and utility that minimizes the sense of driving a minivan.
5. Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent is a standout option for families who prioritize safety, versatility, and all-weather capability. Its exterior maintains a traditional SUV profile, avoiding the boxy aesthetic associated with minivans while offering a commanding presence on the road.
The elevated ground clearance and rugged design cues convey durability, making it a practical choice for families who enjoy weekend adventures or trips to areas with varying road conditions. Its exterior styling strikes a balance between athleticism and family-oriented functionality, providing a sense of confidence to drivers without appearing overly utilitarian.
Inside, the Ascent emphasizes comfort and utility. It seats up to eight passengers and provides generous legroom in the second row, while the third row is suitable for children or smaller adults.
Subaru’s focus on ergonomic design means controls are intuitive and easy to reach, while the cabin layout ensures passengers have access to cup holders, storage bins, and charging ports.
This attention to detail enhances the everyday usability of the vehicle, making long trips and daily commutes equally convenient. Families benefit from thoughtfully designed interior touches that reduce clutter and optimize passenger comfort.
Standard features include Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which integrates adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, pre-collision braking, and more. The SUV has received strong crash test ratings, giving parents peace of mind that their family is well protected.
Additionally, Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system contributes to excellent stability and traction in inclement weather, ensuring the vehicle remains composed under challenging driving conditions.
Performance and handling in the Ascent are surprisingly refined for a large family SUV. Its turbocharged engine delivers ample power for highway merging and overtaking, while the ride quality balances comfort and control.
The suspension absorbs road imperfections effectively, and steering is responsive enough to inspire confidence even when the vehicle is fully loaded. Cargo space is flexible and generous, accommodating everything from sports equipment to luggage. The Subaru Ascent combines practicality, safety, and SUV styling in a way that makes it a strong alternative to traditional minivans.
6. Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 is a family SUV that excels at blending driving enjoyment with everyday practicality. Its exterior design prioritizes sleek lines, a bold front fascia, and a stylish silhouette, all of which create a more engaging appearance than typical family-oriented minivans.
Mazda’s design philosophy focuses on motion and elegance, ensuring the vehicle looks dynamic even when stationary. For parents who care about aesthetics while maintaining the ability to transport their family comfortably, the CX-9 achieves a rare balance.
Inside, the CX-9 emphasizes a premium cabin experience. While it seats seven, the third row is best suited for children, but the second row offers spacious accommodations for adults. The interior design features high-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and a well-laid-out center console, creating an upscale feel that enhances the driving experience.
Infotainment controls are accessible and intuitive, ensuring that passengers can enjoy entertainment and connectivity features during long drives. Additionally, subtle touches such as adjustable climate zones, multiple USB ports, and clever storage solutions enhance convenience for families.
Safety in the CX-9 is robust, with standard features including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The SUV has consistently earned high safety ratings, reinforcing its suitability for family use. The combination of driver assistance technologies and Mazda’s attentive engineering creates a vehicle that feels secure and manageable, even in challenging driving conditions.
The driving experience sets the CX-9 apart from most family SUVs. Its turbocharged engine provides responsive acceleration without sacrificing fuel efficiency, while the suspension and steering create an engaging and controlled ride.
Cargo space is sufficient for daily tasks and moderate trips, and folding the second and third rows allows families to accommodate larger items. By combining style, enjoyable driving dynamics, and functional space, the Mazda CX-9 demonstrates that families can have practicality without feeling like they are in a minivan.
7. Volkswagen Atlas
The Volkswagen Atlas is a family SUV designed to offer spacious interiors and a commanding presence while maintaining SUV styling that appeals to parents seeking versatility without the minivan image.
Its exterior design features bold lines, a prominent grille, and a boxy-yet-refined shape that communicates both practicality and strength. The vehicle’s wide stance gives it a confident on-road appearance, signaling a blend of family-oriented functionality and style.
Inside, the Atlas is remarkably spacious, accommodating up to seven passengers comfortably. The third row is adult-friendly, making it one of the few SUVs in its class to offer genuine three-row usability for larger families.
Thoughtful interior design ensures that each passenger has access to cup holders, storage bins, and ventilation controls. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with large touchscreen options and seamless smartphone integration, ensuring entertainment and connectivity are available for everyone.
Safety technology is extensive, with features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist included.
The Atlas also offers a confident driving experience with precise steering and stable handling, even when fully loaded or towing heavy cargo. These attributes enhance the family-friendly appeal by combining space, technology, and a secure driving experience.
Performance-wise, the Atlas offers a comfortable ride with sufficient engine power for highway driving and city commuting. Cargo flexibility is another advantage, as the second and third rows fold flat to create an expansive storage area for groceries, sports gear, or luggage.
The Atlas demonstrates that families can have the utility and space of a traditional minivan while maintaining SUV styling and driving dynamics that appeal to adult drivers.
8. Chevrolet Traverse
The Chevrolet Traverse is a three-row SUV that emphasizes space and versatility while avoiding the minivan appearance. Its exterior features a bold, wide stance and a sculpted design, making it look substantial on the road without appearing overly utilitarian.
The Traverse has a commanding presence, signaling both capability and style, which appeals to families who want practicality without sacrificing a polished look.
Inside, the Traverse excels at passenger comfort and cargo flexibility. It seats up to eight passengers with a third row that accommodates adults for shorter trips and children comfortably for longer journeys.
The second-row seats slide and recline, providing easy access to the back row, while the cabin features multiple storage solutions, cup holders, and USB ports. Its infotainment system is intuitive and integrates easily with smartphones, allowing passengers to access music, navigation, and apps conveniently.
Safety is a highlight of the Traverse, with features such as forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. It has strong crash test ratings and includes advanced driver assistance options that enhance peace of mind on long trips or during daily commutes. The SUV’s stability and braking performance also add to the confidence of the driving experience.
Performance is characterized by a V6 engine that balances power and efficiency. The Traverse offers a smooth ride, responsive handling, and ample cargo capacity when the second and third rows are folded down. This combination makes it a practical family SUV that delivers the utility of a minivan without the boxy styling or diminished driving experience.
9. Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is a well-established family SUV that balances rugged capability with spacious interiors suitable for multiple passengers. Its exterior design conveys strength and modernity, featuring a bold grille, angular headlights, and a sculpted body that avoids the soft, rounded look of minivans.
This SUV appeals to families who want a visually engaging vehicle, commanding on the road, and still capable of practical daily use. Its ground clearance and size make it suitable for light off-road excursions, giving adventurous families additional flexibility for weekend trips or outdoor activities.
Inside, the Explorer emphasizes both passenger comfort and driver convenience. The cabin can seat up to seven people, with a third row that is ideal for children or occasional adult use. Storage options are plentiful, with bins, cup holders, and under-seat compartments thoughtfully integrated into the interior.
The infotainment system is large and responsive, featuring smartphone connectivity and a user-friendly interface that keeps passengers entertained and informed. The cabin layout is designed to ensure that everyone has access to controls, ventilation, and comfort features without crowding the space.
Safety has long been a priority for the Explorer, with standard and optional systems such as blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
The SUV’s structural integrity and stability contribute to high crash-test ratings, providing peace of mind for families during daily commuting and long-distance drives. Its advanced safety technology ensures that parents can focus on the road while maintaining protection for passengers.
Performance-wise, the Explorer offers multiple engine options, including a turbocharged four-cylinder and a V6, allowing for a balance of power and efficiency. Its handling is composed for a vehicle of its size, and its suspension absorbs road imperfections effectively.
Cargo space is flexible, with fold-flat second and third rows accommodating large items such as sports equipment or luggage. By combining style, performance, safety, and space, the Explorer proves that a family SUV can meet the needs of modern families without feeling like a minivan.
10. Nissan Pathfinder
The Nissan Pathfinder has evolved from its rugged off-road roots into a refined, family-friendly SUV that emphasizes comfort, technology, and versatility. Its exterior is sleek and contemporary, avoiding the boxy and purely functional look associated with minivans.
Strong lines, a pronounced grille, and well-sculpted surfaces give it a presence on the road that is both stylish and assertive. Families who want a vehicle that communicates capability and modern design without sacrificing practicality will find the Pathfinder appealing.
Inside, the Pathfinder seats up to seven passengers, with a third row suitable for children and occasional adult use. Its cabin prioritizes comfort and accessibility, with sliding second-row seats for easier entry into the back row.
Storage compartments are abundant, and the dashboard layout is intuitive, featuring a responsive touchscreen infotainment system, multiple USB ports, and smartphone integration. Rear passengers benefit from climate controls and entertainment options, ensuring longer trips remain comfortable and enjoyable for all.
Safety is a central feature of the Pathfinder, with advanced systems such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Combined with a solid chassis and stable suspension, these technologies enhance the vehicle’s safety profile, making it a reassuring choice for families. Parents can feel confident knowing the SUV can handle a variety of driving situations, from busy city streets to highway travel.
The Pathfinder also offers a capable and smooth driving experience. Its V6 engine delivers adequate power for everyday driving, while fuel efficiency remains reasonable for a three-row SUV. The ride is balanced, providing comfort even on longer journeys, and the steering is responsive, ensuring a confident driving experience.
Cargo space is flexible, with fold-flat rear seats allowing families to transport everything from groceries to sports equipment. The Pathfinder demonstrates that a three-row SUV can provide the functionality of a minivan without adopting its conventional appearance or driving characteristics.
11. Volkswagen Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a mid-size family SUV that combines European styling, practicality, and versatility for parents who want space without compromising aesthetics. Unlike larger three-row SUVs, the Tiguan offers a compact yet efficient footprint while still providing the option for a third row.
Its exterior design is modern and understated, with sharp lines, a confident grille, and an elegant silhouette that appeals to families seeking a vehicle that does not resemble a minivan.
Inside, the Tiguan provides a comfortable cabin that seats five passengers in standard configuration, with an optional third row for occasional use. Its interior is cleanly designed, with high-quality materials and intuitive controls that ensure both driver and passengers have a pleasant experience.
Infotainment options, USB ports, and climate controls are thoughtfully placed, providing convenience for families during everyday commuting or longer trips. The cabin also offers clever storage solutions for small items, helping to keep the interior organized and clutter-free.
Safety is a key consideration for the Tiguan, with features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist available. The SUV’s solid build and stable ride enhance passenger protection, giving families confidence in various driving conditions.
Its European engineering ensures that handling is composed, and the suspension smooths out uneven roads, making city and highway driving equally comfortable.
The Tiguan offers an enjoyable driving experience for a family SUV. Its turbocharged engine provides responsive acceleration and sufficient power for highway driving, while fuel efficiency remains competitive for its class.
Cargo space is versatile, especially with the third row folded down, accommodating larger items such as luggage, strollers, or sports equipment. By combining stylish design, flexible interiors, and a safe driving experience, the Volkswagen Tiguan proves that families can enjoy SUV practicality without the traditional minivan feel.
12. Buick Enclave
The Buick Enclave is a three-row family SUV that emphasizes luxury, comfort, and spaciousness while maintaining a refined exterior that does not resemble a minivan.
Its exterior design is smooth, elegant, and sophisticated, featuring a bold grille, sleek headlights, and sculpted body panels. For families who value both function and a polished appearance, the Enclave offers a strong visual presence without sacrificing usability or practicality.
Inside, the Enclave provides a premium cabin with seating for up to seven passengers. The second row is roomy and comfortable, while the third row accommodates children and smaller adults for longer trips.
High-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and attention to detail create a refined interior environment that enhances the driving experience. Families benefit from multiple storage compartments, cup holders, USB ports, and a large, user-friendly infotainment system that keeps passengers connected and entertained.
Safety technology in the Enclave is robust, with standard and optional features including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, forward collision alert, and automatic emergency braking.
The SUV’s solid build quality and stable ride contribute to high safety ratings, giving parents confidence in daily driving and longer trips. Its quiet cabin also enhances comfort, reducing road noise and providing a serene environment for passengers.
Performance is smooth and reliable, with a V6 engine that delivers adequate power for highway driving and merging, while the suspension absorbs road imperfections for a comfortable ride. Cargo space is flexible, with the second and third rows folding flat to create a large storage area for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment.
The Buick Enclave demonstrates that families can have luxury, comfort, and practicality all in one SUV without feeling like they are driving a minivan.
13. Acura MDX
The Acura MDX is a luxury three-row SUV that balances performance, style, and family practicality. Its exterior design emphasizes athleticism and elegance, featuring sharp lines, a distinctive grille, and aerodynamic proportions.
Unlike traditional minivans, the MDX conveys sophistication and capability, appealing to families who want a high-end SUV that looks and feels engaging on the road. Its size is manageable for city driving while still offering sufficient space for passengers and cargo.
Inside, the MDX is designed for comfort and functionality. Seating for up to seven passengers includes a spacious second row and a third row that is suitable for children or occasional adult use.
The cabin combines premium materials with practical storage solutions, ensuring that families have easy access to cup holders, compartments, and charging ports. Its infotainment system is advanced yet intuitive, allowing parents and passengers to enjoy entertainment, navigation, and connectivity features seamlessly during trips.
Safety is a highlight of the MDX, with AcuraWatch offering a suite of advanced systems including adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
The SUV’s strong build and safety engineering make it a reliable choice for families, providing peace of mind during both short commutes and long-distance travel. Its smooth ride and precise handling further enhance confidence behind the wheel.
Performance is robust, with a capable V6 engine that delivers ample power for highway driving while maintaining good fuel efficiency. The suspension is tuned to balance comfort and agility, making it enjoyable to drive even when fully loaded. Cargo space is versatile, with fold-flat seating allowing for flexible storage solutions.
The Acura MDX proves that a family SUV can combine luxury, performance, and practicality without adopting the appearance or feel of a minivan.
