For those who love road trips, the car you drive is crucial. Not too long ago, as we planned our summer getaways—whether this summer, next year, or in the future, including college visits and eventual dorm move-ins—we had to consider our vehicle. Could it handle the people, luggage, and miles ahead?
The more we thought about it, the more we realized that SUVs are the perfect choice for road trips. They offer the freedom to explore further with more flexibility than air travel allows.
The best road trip SUVs share a few key characteristics: for families, a three-row layout is ideal, as it provides ample space for luggage, coolers, shopping, and gives passengers room to spread out comfortably. Many families also prefer rear-seat entertainment systems, though they aren’t as common anymore, so it’s important to check if it’s included. Additionally, reliability, fuel efficiency, and driver-assistance features are key for a smooth trip. Keeping all that in mind, and excluding minivans (because we know how well they perform), here are some of the best SUVs for road trips with families.
Reliable, Spacious, and Comfortable: Toyota Grand Highlander
For families that need ample space and comfort without compromising on fuel efficiency, Toyota’s 2024 Grand Highlander fits the bill. It comes with three powertrain options: a 4-cylinder hybrid that delivers 265HP, a regular hybrid with 245HP, and a high-performance hybrid max that generates 362HP. Larger than the Highlander but smaller than the Sequoia, it offers a spacious third row, good cargo capacity, and optional all-wheel drive.
The new Toyota Grand Highlander starts at around $41,000, with some used 2024 or 2025 models priced starting at $45,000.
Jeep Grand Cherokee L: All the Jeep Power with Extra Seating
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is already known for its rugged 4WD capabilities, luxurious interiors, and decent cargo space. But for years, Jeep enthusiasts have longed for a version with a third row. In 2021, Jeep answered with the Grand Cherokee L—an extended wheelbase model with room for two extra passengers. Adding the third row and 4WD increases the price by only about $2,000.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L starts at around $41,000 with 4WD and a third row, and used 2021 or 2022 models can be found starting around $30,000.
The Best for Space and Flexibility: Chevy Traverse
Chevrolet introduced the Traverse in 2009 as a spacious SUV alternative to the minivan. This model quickly became popular for families needing plenty of seats, including taller passengers, and inspired other automakers like Toyota and Jeep to create similar SUVs. The newest Traverse, launched last year, boasts a sleek front screen, voice-activated Google Assistant, and new tech features.
The new Chevrolet Traverse starts at $41,000, with AWD adding $2,000. Used models from recent years are priced starting around $28,000.
The Most Flexible Road Trip SUV: Honda Pilot
Honda knows how to make family-friendly vehicles, and the Pilot is one of the few SUVs offering both center-row bench seating and captain’s chairs. The middle bench seat can even be removed for extra cargo space. For road trips, it’s perfect, and for carpools, the bench comes in handy. Honda has also added features like a passenger camera system and a "Social Playlist" for shared music.
The Honda Pilot starts at $40,200, with AWD adding $2,100. Keep in mind that the removable middle seat is only available on higher trims, not the base or Trailsport models. Used models start around $30,000.
A Larger, Classier Option: Mazda CX-90
Mazda’s new flagship, the CX-90, is the replacement for the CX-9 and takes flexibility and luxury to the next level. Available with 6, 7, or 8 seats and a variety of interior materials (including leatherette or leather), the CX-90 combines performance with elegance. Its three engine options include a 280HP 6-cylinder, a 340HP more powerful variant, and a 323HP plug-in hybrid with 26 miles of electric-only range.
The Mazda CX-90 starts at $38,000, offering a perfect mix of comfort and power for road trips.
The Classic Road Trip SUV: Volvo XC90
Volvo has long been known for its safety and family-friendly vehicles, and the XC90 is no exception. For 2025, the XC90 gets subtle exterior updates, new captain’s chairs (with cup holders!), and a new multimedia touchscreen with voice assistance. The XC90 is powered by a mild-hybrid 4-cylinder engine producing 247HP and can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
The Volvo XC90 starts just under $60,000, with used models from newer years priced starting at $30,000.
Smart, Stylish, and Comfortable: VW Atlas
When Volkswagen launched the Atlas in 2018, it immediately stood out for its sharp looks, roomy interior, and family-centric design. Since then, updates have made it even better, with more exterior lighting, leatherette seating, and voice-activated tech. Powered by a 4-cylinder turbo engine with 269HP, it’s an excellent choice for road trips.
The VW Atlas starts at $38,200, with AWD adding around $1,900. Used models from recent years can be found for around $25,000.
The Stylish and Practical Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride, introduced in 2020, brought a breath of fresh air to the SUV market with its mix of rugged appeal and modern comfort. Offering spacious seating and a high-tech interior, the Telluride quickly became a favorite. With a V6 engine delivering 291HP and an AWD option, it’s perfect for road trips.
The Kia Telluride starts at about $36,000, with AWD adding $2,000. Used models with low mileage start at around $30,000.
Elegant and Affordable: Hyundai Santa Fe
Hyundai redesigned the Santa Fe into a 3-row SUV, adding both ruggedness and modern comfort. Its spacious interior, top-notch tech, and optional luxury features like a panoramic sunroof make it an excellent choice for families. Powered by a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 277HP and an available hybrid version, it offers both performance and efficiency.
The Hyundai Santa Fe starts at $34,300, with AWD available for $1,800. Used models from the previous generation (without the third row) are not yet common on the market.
The Ultimate Full-Size SUV: Ford Expedition
Ford’s 2025 redesign of the Expedition not only makes it an ideal road trip vehicle but also positions it as a great off-road and overland SUV, especially in the Tremor edition. Features like a picnic table, work lights, and flexible seating make it perfect for long trips and camping adventures.
The Ford Expedition starts at $62,000, powered by a 400HP V6 engine and capable of towing up to 9,600 pounds. Used 2020 models with around 60,000 miles start at approximately $36,000.
The Iconic Family SUV: Chevy Suburban
The Chevy Suburban, a true classic, has been a staple for families for decades. Built on the same platform as the Silverado, it offers three spacious rows of seating and a powerful V8 engine generating 355HP. Redesigned for 2024, the Suburban features updated screens, additional comfort features, and improved tech.
The 2025 Chevy Suburban starts at $62,000, with 4WD adding about $3,000. Used models start at around $40,000.
The Resilient Nissan Armada
The Nissan Armada is a powerful full-size SUV with the name to match—"Armada" evokes strength and reliability. The redesigned 2025 Armada offers great legroom, a new multimedia system, and a fresh exterior look. It’s powered by a turbocharged V6 engine with 425HP and a towing capacity of 8,500 pounds.
The Nissan Armada starts at $56,500, with newer used models starting around $25,000.
The Return of the Classic: Jeep Wagoneer
Jeep brought back the Wagoneer in 2022, reintroducing the original family SUV. The Wagoneer delivers luxury, space, and practicality, perfect for families on the go. It includes a 420HP 6-cylinder engine and a towing capacity of 5,890 pounds, along with plenty of fun features hidden in its luxurious interior.
The Jeep Wagoneer starts at around $63,000, with 4WD available for an extra $3,000. Used models from the past few years can be found starting in the high $30,000 range.
Now you’ve got plenty of options for your next road trip. With so many great SUVs to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your family adventures!
