Family SUVs in 2025: What’s New, What Matters

Let’s face it choosing the right family SUV in 2025 isn’t just about cargo space or the number of cupholders anymore. In my years covering the auto industry from New York, I’ve seen the family SUV category morph into a battleground where safety tech, hybrid powertrains, and clever packaging all fight for your attention. The faint hum of electrified drivetrains is more common now, but gasoline engines are far from extinct. Government regulations continue to nudge manufacturers toward better fuel economy and lower emissions, but consumer demand for space and comfort is as loud as ever. Here’s a practical, no-nonsense look at ten SUVs that stand out for families this year plus some grounded tips on what to actually look for when you’re comparing them.

Safety First: More Than Just Airbags and Acronyms

Every model on this list meets or exceeds current federal safety standards. Most offer standard automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. What sets apart the real winners? Usability. Some adaptive cruise control systems are smooth; others are so jumpy you’ll end up switching them off. For example, the Honda Pilot’s Honda Sensing suite is impressively intuitive no need to wade through a dozen submenus. The Kia Telluride, too, keeps its safety tech simple enough that even a distracted parent can use it without headaches. My advice: during your test drive, don’t just ask about features try them yourself and see how they feel.

Space for Real Life: Three Rows or Bust?

If you’re hauling kids, strollers, and sports gear, pay close attention to third-row access and cargo flexibility. The Toyota Grand Highlander surprised me with adult-friendly third-row seating rare at this price point and enough cargo room behind that row for a weekend’s worth of groceries (20.6 cubic feet). Compare that to the Mazda CX-90: stylish and upscale, yes, but with tighter rear quarters that may frustrate teens or taller adults on longer trips.

The Chevrolet Traverse (all-new for 2024 and largely unchanged for 2025) remains a favorite among big families thanks to its wide-opening doors and nearly minivan-like interior volume (over 98 cubic feet with seats folded). Not every SUV makes it easy to install three car seats across; the Traverse and Telluride both handle this challenge better than most.

The Rise of Hybrids (and Why They Matter for Your Wallet)

Hybrids have gone mainstream in this segment for a reason: they offer family-sized capability with less pain at the pump. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid, delivering up to 36 mpg combined (EPA estimate), costs more upfront but makes up ground with lower operating costs a big deal if you’re racking up miles between soccer practice and weekend road trips.

The Ford Explorer Hybrid offers more towing (up to 5,000 lbs) than most hybrids but doesn’t match Toyota’s frugality at the pump (mid-20s mpg in real-world use). For plug-in options, the Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid delivers around 32 miles of electric-only range a handy option for short commutes or errands if you can charge at home.

SUVs That Make Parenting Easier (Or At Least Less Messy)

Sensible storage cubbies, wipe-clean surfaces, and rear-seat entertainment aren’t just nice extras they’re sanity-savers. The Hyundai Palisade stands out here with deep door bins and USB ports everywhere you look. The Telluride’s quiet cabin noticeably quieter than an equivalent Chevy Traverse at highway speeds can make a difference on long drives when kids are trying to nap.

I’m mildly annoyed by some touch-sensitive controls that have crept into newer models; physical buttons (especially for climate control) are simply easier when you’re driving in winter gloves or distracted by backseat squabbles. Luckily, Honda and Toyota haven’t abandoned tactile knobs just yet.

The Top Ten Family SUVs for 2025 (In No Particular Order)

  • Kia Telluride: Continues to set benchmarks for value, space, and comfort. V6 engine delivers plenty of punch; ride quality is plush without being floaty.
  • Hyundai Palisade: Sibling to the Telluride but leans more upscale inside think quilted leather on higher trims.
  • Toyota Grand Highlander: Roomier than the regular Highlander; available hybrid powertrain offers class-leading efficiency.
  • Toyota Highlander Hybrid: Still one of the segment’s most efficient picks; reliability reputation is hard to beat.
  • Mazda CX-90: Sportier than most; turbocharged inline-six brings unexpected urgency but comes at a higher price point.
  • Honda Pilot: Redesigned in 2023; boxier look translates into more usable space inside.
  • Chevrolet Traverse: Huge interior, simple controls; not as plush as some rivals but arguably more practical.
  • Ford Explorer Hybrid: Best-in-class towing among hybrids; optional all-wheel drive is a plus for Northeast winters.
  • Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid: Only true plug-in on this list; third row is tight but electric range is handy around town.
  • Subaru Ascent: Standard AWD across all trims; safety features are abundant though cabin feels less premium than rivals.

What About Pricing? Read Beyond the Sticker

The average transaction price for a new three-row SUV now hovers around $48,000 according to Kelley Blue Book data from late 2023 a figure that shows no sign of dropping as demand remains high. Entry-level versions can start under $40K (like base Pilots or Traverses), but well-equipped family haulers with AWD routinely cross $50K these days. Remember: incentives and dealer markups vary wildly by region. In New York City suburbs last spring, I saw Tellurides selling above MSRP due to short supply something buyers should prepare for if shopping popular models during peak months.

A Few Real-World Tips When Shopping for Family SUVs

- Bring your car seats along when test-driving some LATCH anchors are buried deep or awkwardly placed. - Check rear visibility yourself; backup cameras help but some high beltlines create big blind spots. - Open every door and hatch: power liftgates sound convenient until you realize they open too slowly on busy school runs. - If you plan winter getaways upstate or frequent snow zones, insist on AWD/4WD not all models include it standard. - Don’t be afraid to cross-shop brands; warranty coverage varies widely (Kia/Hyundai lead here with 10-year/100K-mile powertrain warranties).

The Road Ahead: Trends Shaping Family SUVs in 2025 and Beyond

The shift toward electrification continues though full-electric three-row SUVs remain rare (the Kia EV9 is one exception, but widespread availability is still ramping up). Expect more hybrids across lineups as CAFE standards tighten further. Automakers are also pushing subscription services for features like navigation or remote start an annoying trend if you ask me but most basics remain standard where it counts. 

Ultimately, there’s no perfect answer: It’s about matching your needs with what’s truly practical in daily life. Try everything yourself the feel of the steering wheel, how quietly the doors close and trust your own impressions as much as any spec sheet. 

Happy hunting out there on the SUV lot it’s crowded but smarter choices await families who know what to look for.