Family road trips are where lifelong memories are made—singing along to favorite songs, scenic detours, and endless laughter. But the right vehicle can make a good road trip unforgettable. These family-friendly vehicles are designed for comfort, safety, and performance, ensuring you reach your destination with smiles. Here’s a deep dive into 22 road-trip-ready vehicles that excel in reliability, performance, and innovative features.
Honda Odyssey
Since its launch in 1994, the Honda Odyssey has been the standard for family minivans. The 2024 model has a 280 hp V6 and a top speed of 111 mph. Magic Slide® second-row seats and cavernous cargo space make it suitable for camping gear or restless kids. Honda engineering is impeccable, as is the reliability score. The Honda Odyssey has an in-car PA system known as CabinTalk®, so parents can easily stay in touch with kids in the back row—a lifesaver on long trips.
Toyota Sienna
Redesigned in 2021, the Toyota Sienna is now a hybrid-only minivan with a combined 245 horsepower and a rating of 36 mpg. So, with all-wheel drive, it suits whatever the weather brings. This is legendary for reliability, sometimes going over 200,000 miles without breaking down. Sienna is perfect, with a 5-star NHTSA safety rating, making it one of the safest options for families on the roads. The top-of-the-line trims come with built-in ottomans in the second-row seats, giving the passengers first-class comfort.
Kia Telluride
Since its inception in 2020, the Kia Telluride has been one of the favorite choices among families. Its 3.8L V6 engine generates 291 horsepower, making it a smooth and powerful drive. This car seats up to eight people, making it spacious, reliable, and with advanced safety features. The Telluride has the “Driver Talk” feature, which increases the driver’s voice for rear passengers so that everyone can hear you.
Ford Expedition
Since 1997, the Ford Expedition has been established as the ultimate road trip king. With a strong 3.5L EcoBoost V6 pushing 400 horsepower, the tow rating tops at 9,300 pounds, and the roominess inside will be impressive. There is a tech-advanced interior designed for planning and having lots of fun hauling your family adventure, boats and trailers, and best-in-class Expedition towing. The third row has more legroom than most competitors, ensuring even the tallest teens can stretch out.
Chrysler Pacifica
The Chrysler Pacifica has been redesigned for 2017 as the first-ever hybrid minivan. The plug-in hybrid version has 32 miles of electric range and a gas/electric range up to 520 miles. Its Stow ‘n Go seating system offers the ultimate family-owner flexibility. Pacifica has been a Consumer Guide Best Buy for six straight years.
Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a 1994 off-road-capable but family-friendly vehicle. Its 2024 version has a turbocharged 2.4L engine that is good for 260 hp and returns up to 32 mpg on the highway. Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive has made it a reliable companion for adventurous families. 97% of all Subarus sold during the past 10 years are still operational on roads, which is a testimonial of this company’s durability and performance.
Chevrolet Tahoe
Released for production in 1995, the Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV with unmatched space and power. The 2024 model is equipped with the powerful 355 hp 5.3L V8 engine, an example of a reliable workhorse for long trips. This vehicle is truly engineered to handle big families and lots of gear. It boasts a well-respected resale value, ranking the Tahoe among the top 10% of large SUVs.
Hyundai Palisade
Hyundai Palisade 2020 boasts a 3.8L V6, 291 HP, and an upscale interior, as good as any luxury SUV. This car is ideal for stress-free road trips, with features like ventilated seats and a quiet cabin. The third row in the Palisade comes with USBs to ensure there isn’t one last-minute space for charging during road trips.
Volvo XC90
The Volvo XC90 was launched in 2002 and epitomizes Scandinavian design and safety. The plug-in hybrid version delivers up to 455 hp and offers a 500-mile combined range. Its inside features leather seats rich in luxury, with the added attraction of a panoramic sunroof to look like it is styled. Of course, the XC90 is one of the safest SUVs on the market. It has earned top ratings from the IIHS for its crash tests.
Tesla Model X
The Model X was launched in 2015 and revolutionized the EV world with its falcon-wing doors and 1,020 hp from a dual-motor system. This is a family-friendly tech vehicle with 348 miles of range and Tesla’s Autopilot features. The Model X accelerates 0-60 in an astonishing 2.5 seconds, making it the speediest family-friendly SUV.
Honda Pilot
Introduced in 2002, the Honda Pilot is still an excellent family car. The 2024 model has a 285 hp V6 engine and a max towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. There is also roomy interior space and a user-friendly infotainment system to prepare for road trips. Its reliability scores are among the best in class. The underfloor storage compartment in the Pilot’s trunk is ideal for stowing extra gear.
Toyota Highlander
Launched in 2001, the Toyota Highlander balances efficiency with performance. The hybrid version achieves a class-leading 36 mpg and delivers a combined output of 243 hp. A quiet cabin and comfortable seating make it an excellent car for family road trips. It is one of the most reliable cars, proven by the fact that 12% remain on the road after 15 years. The Highlander has an intercom system that allows the driver to talk directly to passengers in the rear seats.
Nissan Pathfinder
The Nissan Pathfinder first appeared in 1986 and has transformed from a rugged off-road vehicle to a luxury family SUV. A 284 hp 3.5L V6 engine powers the 2024 model and features a 9-speed automatic transmission, making it smooth for long stretches on the highway. With three rows of seating, advanced ProPILOT Assist technology, and lots of cargo space, it’s an excellent vehicle for road trips. Pathfinder Towing Capacity: It has up to 6,000 pounds of towing capacity for campers or family-sized boats.
Volkswagen Atlas
The three-row Volkswagen Atlas debuted in 2017. Its turbo 2.0L brings 235 hp or has an available V6 and 276 hp. Both offer efficiency and loads of power. The family can travel comfortably with enough space in the cabin to give class-leading third-row legroom. It would not have problems in cargo due to 96.8 cu. ft. when using space by folding the second row to store family equipment. The Atlas features a “child lock” within the infotainment system, allowing parents to control rear-seat entertainment from the front remotely.
Mazda CX-9
Introduced in 2006, the Mazda CX-9 combines sporty driving with family-friendly capabilities. It is available with a 2.5L turbocharged engine that delivers up to 250 hp, and its agile handling ability surpasses all other midsize SUVs. The CX-9’s interior meets luxury standards with Nappa leather seats and a top-level premium Bose sound system for long-distance comfort. The CX-9 puts down an impressive 28 miles per gallon on highways, eliminating stops during your drives. The Kodo design philosophy behind Mazda translates into the CX-9 as looking as vibrant still in the parking lot as it is while moving.
Dodge Durango
Since the Dodge Durango launched in 1998, it has been praised for combining SUV capability with muscle car DNA. The 2024 model has the 3.6L V6 that produces 295 hp or a HEMI V8 for up to 475 hp. With a payload capacity of seven passengers and 8,700-pound towing capability, the Durango does not hold back in towing. The Durango SRT Hellcat trim is the most powerful three-row SUV, clocked at 3.5 seconds 0-60 mph.
Chevrolet Traverse
Launched in 2008, the Chevrolet Traverse boasts one of the largest interiors in its class, capable of seating up to eight passengers. Its 310 hp 3.6L V6 engine performs well, while a comfortable ride ensures a stress-free drive. The Traverse has a solid track record, making it an excellent choice for families that require space and durability. Cargo space in the Traverse is 98.2 cubic feet, making it one of the largest midsize SUVs. It has a hidden storage under the rear cargo floor, perfect for storing valuables during long drives.
Jeep Grand Cherokee L
Launched in 2021, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduces a third row to the legendary brand’s lineup. The base 3.6L V6 engine churns out 293 hp, while an optional 5.7L V8 is good for 357 hp. It’s as comfortable on highways as off-road, thanks to features like a McIntosh sound system and quilted leather upholstery. The Grand Cherokee L boasts a towing capacity of up to 7,200 pounds and advanced 4×4 systems for all terrains.
GMC Acadia
Introduced as early as 2007, the midsize SUV GMC Acadia brings premium touches. The 2024 model, with a turbo 2.5L, delivers power at 228 hp. The optional all-wheel drive can overcome even the worst weather. So durability stands out, and so does a thoughtful interior design. There is plenty of space for storing all your luggage, but the up to 79 cubic-foot cargo space is versatile when the fold-flat seats of an Acadia are adjusted accordingly.
Toyota Sequoia
Launched in 2000, the Toyota Sequoia combines rugged capability with family comfort. Its 2024 hybrid powertrain produces 437 hp, and fuel efficiency is enhanced compared to previous generation models. Built for reliability and with a capacity to seat up to eight passengers, this one’s for long trips. Most models go beyond 250,000 miles. The Sequoia has a sliding third row and an adjustable cargo shelf system, allowing customized storage configurations.
Mercedes-Benz GLB
This 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLB is a very peculiar breed of animal: Compact with three rows of seating. Its turbocharged 2.0L delivers 221 hp with seamless efficiency. The interior of this car is premium, with twin 10.25-inch screens and advanced driver assistance. The cargo space of the GLB is surprisingly commodious at 62 cu ft. The GLB includes voice-activated controls that respond to phrases like, “Hey Mercedes, I’m cold,” for ultimate convenience.
Audi Q7
Launched in 2005, the Audi Q7 remains a top choice for families to enjoy luxury and performance. The 2024 is available with a 261 hp 2.0L turbocharged engine or, as an option, an optional V6 with 335 hp. The well-refined interior, advanced infotainment, and Quattro all-wheel drive make it ideal for long, comfortable trips. Adapted air suspension ensures it rides smoothly even on rough roads, making it perfect for diverse road-trip routes.
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