As the modern family’s requirements evolve, so does the automotive market. Mid-size SUVs have emerged as the go-to choice for many families due to their spacious interiors, advanced safety features, and impressive tech integrations. Whether you’re navigating school drop-offs, weekend getaways, or everyday errands, they provide room and comfort without sacrificing maneuverability or fuel efficiency.
Mid-Size SUVs For Families
- Toyota Highlander
- Pros: Reliable, good resale value, comfortable interior, and an advanced suite of safety features with Toyota Safety Sense™.
- Cons: Some may find its exterior design conservative.
- Honda Pilot
- Pros: Spacious third-row seating, a plethora of standard safety features, and a robust infotainment system.
- Cons: Its transmission can be a bit hesitant during heavy acceleration.
- Ford Explorer
- Pros: Athletic handling for its size, a potent optional V6, and user-friendly SYNC® infotainment system.
- Cons: Some competitors offer more upscale cabin materials.
- Chevrolet Traverse
- Pros: A large cargo area, comfortable seating throughout, and intuitive technology inclusions.
- Cons: Some rivals have more advanced safety features as standard.
- Subaru Ascent
- Pros: Standard all-wheel drive, renowned Subaru safety features, and a comfortable ride in all conditions.
- Cons: Not as sporty as some competitors.
- Kia Telluride
- Pros: A premium interior, plenty of standard tech, and safety features, and smooth ride quality.
- Cons: Limited availability can make it harder to find on dealer lots.
- Hyundai Palisade
- Pros: Upscale design, spacious interior, packed with tech features, and shares many of the qualities of its cousin, the Telluride.
- Cons: Some may not prefer its unique front grille design.
- Mazda CX-9
- Pros: Nimble handling, a turbocharged engine, and an upscale interior.
- Cons: The third row and cargo space are a bit more cramped than some rivals.
Features to Look For
When shopping for a mid-size SUV for your family, consider some key features.
- Safety: Look for vehicles equipped with advanced safety features such as forward collision warning, lane departure alert, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.
- Space: Ensure there’s ample legroom, especially if you’re going to use the third-row seats frequently. A spacious trunk is also essential for strollers, sports equipment, and groceries.
- Infotainment and Connectivity: A good system will be intuitive and feature smartphone integration like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
- Fuel Efficiency: A family car likely means many miles, so better gas mileage can save a significant amount over time.
Mid-size SUVs cater to the multifaceted needs of contemporary families. They balance the spaciousness of large SUVs with the maneuverability and fuel efficiency closer to sedans. When shopping for one, prioritize safety, space, and tech features to ensure the best experience for the entire family. Always test drive multiple vehicles to determine the best fit for your unique needs.