An SUV can be considered family-friendly if it has important features, such as advanced safety technology, a spacious cabin, sufficient cargo room, and a third row of seats at the back. While many models in the market tick these boxes, they often have a high price tag. Those looking for reliable and affordable SUVs for families may, therefore, have to spend more time comparing options to find something suitable for them.
Hyundai Venue
Priced at around $21,650, the Hyundai Venue is among the top cheap SUVs for families. It is powered by a 1.6-liter inline-four engine that can produce around 121 hp of power. While the cargo capacity is slightly lower, the cabin is comfortable. The infotainment system provided by the manufacturer on the dashboard is standard. The Venue is also a good choice for those looking for fuel-efficient SUVs for families.
Chevrolet Trax
Chevrolet has some of the most rugged yet reliable SUVs in the market. The heavy-lifters not only make for trustworthy workhorses but also safe SUVs for kids and families. With a starting price of around $20,500, the Chevy Trax offers a comfortable and spacious interior and an engine with steady performance. Its rear seats are well-designed to comfortably seat average-sized adults as well as kids and their car seats. The cargo space is generous at about 25.6 cu-ft, sufficient to fit car seats, groceries, and luggage for longer journeys and road trips. Generous cabin and cargo space make the Trax one of the most spacious SUVs under budget.
Kia Sportage
With a base price of about $30,085, the Kia Sportage’s sticker price is more affordable than many other SUVs in the same segment. The price is worth its value because of the features offered, especially for families. Under the hood, car buyers have the option to choose between three engines, as well as a hybrid and plug-in hybrid. Each has an efficient fuel economy, making the Sportage a reliable midsize SUV for families. The car also has a high safety rating from IIHS and a 10-year powertrain warranty, features that make it a good investment for the long term. Besides, the newer models have an upgraded look, giving them a modern and stylish exterior.
Honda CR-V Hybrid
At around $36,045, the Honda CR-V Hybrid can seem like an expensive car. But for families that do not need a large SUV with three rows, this vehicle offers value for money. The gas-electric hybrid model can deliver around 40 miles per gallon, leading to superior fuel efficiency. Besides, the cabin is roomy enough for a compact SUV despite not appearing too big from the outside. It can easily fit car seats, which is a massive advantage for families with kids. Also, the car’s strong resale value can help one get a good trade-in offer, especially if one is considering buying a bigger three-row SUV in the future.
Hyundai Tucson
For those looking for a compact SUV, the Hyundai Tucson is a good option. Priced at approximately $30,985, the vehicle offers several standard features and a long warranty of 10 years/100,000 miles. The car has earned good safety ratings from the IIHS, making it suitable for families. The design is practical and functional, with the interior cabin providing a relaxed ride. It is especially suitable for families that like going on outdoor adventures and camping trips and need extra space for gear. The Hyundai Tucson has a decent EPA-estimated 28 mpg for both combined city and highway.
Toyota Corolla Cross
One of the cheapest SUVs from Toyota, the Corolla Cross is priced at around $25,680. It is designed to be a functional crossover with good mileage. The cabin is slightly compact compared to other SUVS in the same segment, but it is roomy enough for small families with children. The interior is spacious, with enough room for gear, groceries, child car seats, and everything in between. All the components under the hood give a reliable and robust performance, making the Corolla Cross a good purchase for those on a budget.
Mazda CX-90
With a starting price of around $38,045 for the base model, the Mazda CX-90 is a good choice for a family-friendly SUV. With the exterior undergoing a makeover recently, the car looks elegant and stylish. It is powered by inline-six-cylinder powertrains placed under a long hood. The engine is a standard turbocharged 3.3-liter, providing a power of around 280 to 340 hp. The passenger cabin is designed to be spacious and comfortable for seven to eight people, making it suitable for a large family. The third row can be folded back to get a spacious cargo hold for all essentials during a road trip.
Since a car is a long-term investment, one should take time to select a model and not decide in haste. It’s advisable to seek the recommendations of everyone in the family and make an informed choice.