Your family vehicle serves multiple roles beyond just transportation. It functions as a mobile playroom, a convenient spot for quick diaper changes, a quiet place for naps, an entertainment hub, a nursing space, a singalong stage, a personal retreat, and, most importantly, a reliable way to get you and your loved ones where you need to go.
When searching for a new car, you might wonder which model can handle all these responsibilities while sifting through an overwhelming number of options.
To make the decision process smoother, extensive research has been conducted using expert reviews and ratings to identify the top choices for family-friendly vehicles.
Whether you’re in the market for a spacious sedan, an all-round SUV, or a people-mover with room for eight, the following are some of the best family cars available for 2025.
1. Kia EV9 (SUVs)
Capacity: Seats seven with three rows
Expert Reviews: The Kia EV9 has generated a lot of excitement, and for good reason. It was awarded both World Car of the Year and World Electric Vehicle at the 2024 World Car Awards.
According to Car and Driver, this electric SUV stands out for its well-thought-out design, exceptional comfort, and roomy third-row seating.
Edmunds describes it as an ideal option for families considering an electric vehicle without sacrificing practicality. Compared to similar models, the EV9 is also competitively priced, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Key Features: This all-electric SUV is loaded with amenities tailored for families, from a roomy third-row to heated seats and customizable ambient lighting.
Long drives become more enjoyable with a 14-speaker Meridian Premium Audio System that delivers high-quality sound throughout the cabin, perfect for everything from Kidz Bop playlists to beloved movie soundtracks.
Safety is also a priority, with automatic emergency braking, a blind-spot view monitor, parking sensors, and highway driving assist. Charging is efficient, allowing the battery to go from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes.
Starting MSRP: $54,900
2. Toyota Sienna (Minivans)
Capacity: 7 or 8 passengers across three rows
Expert Reviews: Those looking for the ultimate family hauler will find the Toyota Sienna at the top of the list, recognized as the best minivan for 2025 by Kelly Blue Book.
Reviewers at KBB describe it as “infinitely practical and ever-dependable,” highlighting its impressive resale value and spacious third row that easily accommodates adults. With a hybrid-only powertrain, Car and Driver has crowned it the most fuel-efficient minivan available.
Key Features: Inside, the Sienna is packed with modern conveniences, from multiple USB-C ports to an intercom system and tri-zone climate control, ensuring comfort for every passenger.
Safety technology is cutting-edge, featuring an advanced rear seat reminder that alerts you if a child is left inside, even sending a notification via text or call if ignored. Additional features include all-wheel drive, radar cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking, all contributing to its IIHS top safety rating.
For those who value convenience, higher trims include a built-in vacuum and fridgebox—ideal for keeping snacks fresh and tackling inevitable messes from on-the-go snacking.
Starting MSRP: $39,185
3. Kia Telluride (SUVs)
Capacity: Seats eight across three rows
Expert Reviews: With its blend of style, space, and durability, the 2025 Kia Telluride earns high marks from Edmunds, receiving an 8.4 out of 10. Reviewers highlight its luxurious feel, comparing it to vehicles that cost more.
Its smooth yet powerful braking system offers reliable stopping power, and the interior is designed for comfort, with well-cushioned seats and excellent noise insulation—ideal for keeping things peaceful during long trips when little ones need rest.
Key Features: This SUV is a top performer in safety, having earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick designation in 2024. It boasts 17 standard collision-avoidance and driver assistance features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, a backup camera, and stability control.
Functionality is another strong suit, with USB ports distributed across all three rows to keep every passenger’s devices charged. Remote start and climate control can be adjusted via a smartphone, and an integrated voice assistant enhances hands-free convenience.
Starting MSRP: $36,190
4. Toyota Camry Hybrid (Minivans)
Expert Reviews: Holding the title of America’s best-selling sedan for more than 20 years, the Toyota Camry remains a top choice due to its affordability, fuel efficiency, and reliability.
Car and Driver highlights its “practicality and spacious interior,” while Edmunds commends its smooth ride and well-insulated cabin, making it a strong contender for families in need of a comfortable daily driver.
Key Features: The hybrid model offers an excellent 51 mpg, making it an appealing option for those prioritizing fuel savings. Toyota’s Safety Sense-3.0 system is included, featuring automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, and lane departure alerts with steering assist. Additional options include blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts.
Though not an SUV, the Camry provides ample space for families, accommodating two car seats comfortably in the back row. Its 15.1 cubic feet of cargo space ensures there’s room for a standard stroller along with other essentials. For those who want a better look at its storage capacity, a luggage test review demonstrates its practicality in real-world use.
Starting MSRP: $28,855
5. Honda CR-V/CR-V Hybrid (SUVs)
Capacity: Seats five across two rows
Expert Reviews: As Honda’s best-selling model since 2017, the CR-V remains a standout in the compact SUV category. Reviewers praise the 2025 edition for its refined driving dynamics, durable construction, and well-balanced mix of touchscreen controls and physical buttons. Car and Driver ranks it as the top compact SUV, commending its easy handling and suite of driver assistance technologies.
Key Features: Safety is well-addressed with standard blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a driver-attention monitoring system designed to detect drowsiness. A traffic sign recognition system and rear-seat reminder provide additional security.
For those prioritizing fuel efficiency, the hybrid model offers up to 40 mpg, which offsets its slightly higher cost. Storage space is another advantage, with over 39 cubic feet of cargo capacity—one of the most generous in its segment—making it easy to transport groceries and baby gear simultaneously.
Starting MSRP: $30,100 (standard) / $34,650 (hybrid)
6. Honda Accord (Minivans)
Capacity: 5 passengers across two rows
Expert Reviews: For families who don’t need the cargo space of a minivan, the Honda Accord delivers a balance of practicality and affordability.
Autoweek describes it as “exceptionally spacious,” offering more room than expected, while Car and Driver places it at the top of their midsize family sedan rankings, calling it a “slam dunk” for its well-designed interior, precise handling, and excellent fuel economy.
Key Features: Those looking to cut down on fuel costs should consider the hybrid model, which achieves an impressive 51 mpg in the city and 48 mpg on the highway.
Even the standard gasoline variant performs well, reaching 29 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. The Accord’s technology package includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity, ensuring seamless integration with modern devices.
Safety is another highlight, with features such as automated emergency braking, lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot indicators all included as standard.
According to Kelly Blue Book, the rear seating area is spacious enough to fit three car seats, while the trunk provides ample room for both a stroller and additional cargo.
Starting MSRP: $28,295
Also Read: Minivans Aren’t Protecting Priceless Cargo Well, According to IIHS Crash Tests
7. Subaru Crosstrek (SUVs)
Capacity: Seats five across two rows
Expert Reviews: Subaru’s most compact and budget-friendly SUV, the Crosstrek, is well-regarded for its impressive off-road capabilities, as noted by Car and Driver.
It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, ensuring peace of mind whether heading on a family adventure or running daily errands. Subaru was named Consumer Reports’ top-rated car brand last year based on reliability, owner satisfaction, safety, and road-test results.
Key Features: The 2025 model brings an upgraded multimedia system with an 11.6-inch screen, along with Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, which includes blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, and stability control. An added seatbelt alert system provides progressively louder reminders if passengers remain unbuckled.
Starting MSRP: $25,810
8. Kia Carnival Hybrid (Minivans)
Capacity: 7 or 8 passengers, depending on trim level, across three rows
Expert Reviews: Hesitant about making the switch to a minivan? The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid stands out with its upscale interior and bold, boxy styling that gives it a more SUV-like presence.
According to Edmunds, it offers “distinctive styling” alongside a wealth of features at a competitive price, while Car and Driver praises its refined ride quality, comfortable seating, and smooth handling. The cabin remains quiet, and passengers will appreciate its stable, composed driving dynamics.
Key Features: Step inside, and the Carnival’s upscale interior might make you forget all about your SUV aspirations. Luxurious touches include optional leather trim, a massive infotainment display that spans the dashboard (with a standard 8-inch screen or an available 12.3-inch dual-screen setup), and a generous center console for stashing road trip essentials out of sight.
With seven USB ports throughout the cabin, no device will run out of charge. Second-row captain’s chairs can be equipped with a one-touch relaxation mode, offering full recline, power footrests, heating, and ventilation, all while passengers enjoy media on available 14.6-inch rear screens.
Storage is another strong suit—Car and Driver testers managed to fit 14 carry-on suitcases behind the third row and a staggering 48 with the seats folded down.
Kia equips the Carnival with an array of standard safety technologies, including blind-spot monitoring, automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high-beam headlights.
Parents can keep an eye on rear passengers with the available Passenger View Night Vision feature, displayed on the touchscreen. The front-to-back intercom system ensures kids in the third row can’t pretend they didn’t hear instructions.
Starting MSRP: $40,800
9. Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid (SUVs)
Capacity: Seats eight across three rows (or seven with captain’s chairs in the second row)
Expert Reviews: Designed for families in need of more space, the Grand Highlander Hybrid expands on Toyota’s well-known three-row SUV with a roomier interior, improved cargo capacity, and smooth handling.
Car and Driver ranks it as the top midsize hybrid SUV, describing it as a dependable option for everything from school drop-offs to long-distance travel.
Key Features: Performance-oriented drivers will appreciate the hybrid’s Max powertrain, capable of going from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds.
Standard safety features include panoramic camera views, a digital rearview mirror, emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and an innovative feature that highlights road markings beneath the vehicle.
Children will stay entertained on long trips thanks to an optional panoramic moonroof, in-car WiFi, multiple USB-C charging ports, and an impressive 13 cupholders for added convenience.
Starting MSRP: $45,380
10. Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid (SUVs)
Capacity: Seats seven or eight across three rows
Expert Reviews: Recognized by Autotrader as one of 2024’s top new cars, the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid has earned praise from Edmunds for its strong performance and enhanced fuel efficiency, achieving an estimated 36 mpg combined. Car and Driver notes its rugged aesthetic, while also emphasizing its comfort for road trips and daily commutes.
Key Features: Equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, the Santa Fe Hybrid ensures smooth operation. Inside, it features premium Nappa leather upholstery, two wireless charging pads, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. A digital key allows smartphone-based vehicle access.
Safety measures include a full-display digital rearview mirror, highway driving assist (allowing limited hands-free driving), lane-centering technology, and a rear occupant alert system.
Starting MSRP: $37,700
11. Honda Odyssey (Minivans)
Capacity: 8 passengers across three rows
Expert Reviews: When discussing minivans, the Honda Odyssey remains a staple, continuing its streak as America’s best-selling model for over a decade. Both Motor Trend and U.S. News & World Report rank it as the top choice for families, citing its innovative features and comfortable driving dynamics.
U.S. News praises its “good handling” and “abundance of standard safety features,” while Edmunds describes its ride quality as smooth and enjoyable, minimizing complaints from backseat passengers.
Key Features: Unlike many minivans, the Odyssey delivers impressive performance, with a 280-horsepower engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Its front-wheel-drive system ensures a steady, composed ride, whether going through city streets or mountain roads. For 2025, subtle styling updates include a redesigned grille and bumpers, along with upgraded tech such as a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen.
Safety is a priority, with Honda’s Sensing suite providing adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alerts.
The Cabin Watch and Cabin Talk system lets parents check in on second- and third-row passengers while speaking through an intercom. For families with multiple kids, the Magic Slide second-row seats allow easy reconfiguration, helping separate squabbling siblings.
Entertainment is also covered with an available 10.2-inch rear screen, which supports DVDs and streaming media, plus the “How Much Farther” app, which provides a visual trip tracker for young passengers. The built-in vacuum is a game-changer for keeping the interior clean from inevitable snack spills.
Starting MSRP: $41,920
Also Read: Top 10 Cars That Offer the Best Technology in 2025
12. Chevrolet Tahoe (SUVs)
Capacity: Seats eight across three rows
Expert Reviews: Those with large families—or multiple pets—may find the Chevrolet Tahoe to be an ideal fit. Car and Driver highlights its spacious interior, ample cargo room, and impressive towing capability.
The latest model introduces an upgraded infotainment system, with Edmunds praising its responsiveness and ease of use. It has also secured the top spot in C&D’s list of best large SUVs.
Key Features: One of the most exciting updates for 2025 is the larger dashboard display, now measuring 17.7 inches. It includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Google integration, with an angled design for better visibility. Additionally, a 15-inch head-up display keeps key information easily accessible.
The Tahoe’s advanced safety package features automatic emergency braking, blind-spot alerts, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera view. With an 8,400-pound towing capacity and power steps for easier entry and exit, it offers practicality alongside its spacious design.
Starting MSRP: $58,500
Choosing the right family vehicle depends on balancing space, comfort, safety, and efficiency. Minivans like the Toyota Sienna, Kia Carnival Hybrid, and Honda Odyssey offer spacious interiors and family-friendly features, while sedans such as the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry Hybrid provide practicality with strong fuel economy.
Each option caters to different family needs, from long road trips to daily commutes. With advancements in technology and safety, these models stand out as top choices for 2025.