Road trip season is always around the corner, and for families, the journey is just as important as the destination. Choosing the right vehicle—one that can swallow luggage, handle car seats, and keep everyone comfortable for hours—is the foundation of a successful family adventure.
To help you navigate the crowded market, Kelley Blue Book (KBB) has compiled its list of the best family vehicles for hitting the road in 2025. We break down the top picks from roomy three-row SUVs to hybrid minivans, ensuring your next family ride matches your specific needs and budget.
Best 2-Row SUVs for Families (2025)
Two-row SUVs are sport utility vehicles (SUVs) that can seat up to five passengers across two rows of seats. Sometimes called compact SUVs or crossover SUVs, they combine the benefits of a traditional SUV, like higher ground clearance and cargo space, with a car’s maneuverability and fuel efficiency.
2025 Honda CR-V
A benchmark compact SUV that remains a top pick for its balance of comfort, class-leading cargo space, and efficiency. A reliable choice for most families.
2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5
A fantastic all-electric option with an ultra-spacious, lounge-like interior and ultra-fast charging capability, making EV road trips practical.
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe
Fully redesigned for 2025 with a bold, boxy look, offering a much larger interior and a surprising amount of luxury features for its price.
2025 Subaru Outback
A wagon-like SUV offering the benefit of better fuel efficiency than most competitors. It features a spacious interior and standard all-wheel drive for peace of mind in any weather.
2025 Toyota RAV4
A consistently top-selling compact SUV known for legendary reliability, excellent safety ratings, and available hybrid efficiency (which accounts for a large percentage of its sales).
Best 3-Row Vehicles for Families (2025)
Three-row vehicles are larger SUVs and minivans designed to seat up to seven or eight passengers. They offer the necessary blend of passenger and cargo space, making them ideal for larger families and those who frequently transport people or gear.
2025 Ford Expedition
A full-size SUV that offers top-tier towing and seating for up to eight passengers with great comfort. The Expedition MAX offers cavernous cargo space even with the third row in use.
2025 Honda Pilot
A great balance of comfort, safety, and a highly spacious interior that can handle eight passengers. The Pilot is celebrated for its long-term reliability.
2025 Hyundai Palisade
Continues to be one of the highest-rated 3-row SUVs, combining luxurious interior materials and a comfortable, quiet ride with a great price point.
2025 Kia Carnival MPV
Though technically an MPV, it offers the space and sliding doors of a minivan with the styling of an SUV. It features an upscale cabin and flexible seating options.
2025 Kia Telluride
It remains the class leader, consistently ranked at the top for its style, quality, comfortable ride, and value. Its third row is genuinely usable for adults.
2025 Toyota Sienna
The ultimate family hauler, now offered exclusively as a hybrid with excellent fuel economy and available All-Wheel Drive (AWD). It’s known for its reliability and clever interior touches.
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