Okay so here’s the deal—shopping for a Best SUVs for families in 2025 is kinda like trying to pick a favorite kid. You say you don’t play favorites… but deep down? You know which one’s the golden child. Or at least the one who won’t scream at you because the cupholder isn’t “big enough for the slushie.” (Actual quote. From my actual child.)
I’ve test-driven, borrowed, begged, and possibly bribed a dealership employee with Starbucks just to get a feel for what’s actually worth your money this year.
So if you’re out here trying to juggle school drop-offs, soccer cleats, snack explosions, and the occasional rogue hamster (don’t ask), here’s my messy, brutally honest rundown of the best SUVs for families in 2025.
🚙 My Criteria: Safety, Space & Sanity
So here’s what I was actually looking for:
- Can it fit all the kids and their weird-shaped backpacks?
- Is it safe enough that I won’t spiral at every intersection?
- Does it have enough cupholders to prevent sibling wars?
- Can I open the trunk with one elbow and a grocery bag in my teeth?
I’m not out here trying to impress the valet guy. I’m just trying not to cry at Costco.
1. 2025 Honda Pilot
Listen—I used to think Pilots were for PTA moms who label their spice racks. And then I drove one. And… I get it now.
Why it’s amazing:
- That Magic Slide second-row seat? It SLIDES SIDEWAYS. This should not be as thrilling as it is.
- Seats 8 comfortably (or 6 with enough “don’t-touch-me” space to preserve sibling relationships).
- The trunk can fit: 1 stroller, 1 folding wagon, 4 backpacks, and 6 impulse Target buys. I tested.
Downside: The infotainment system kinda feels like a microwave interface. It works… but it’s not cute.
2. 2025 Kia Telluride
Aka: The Hot Dad SUV
Okay so I drove this around and actually felt… kind of cool? Like the kind of mom who remembers to bring reusable grocery bags and makes her own granola (I don’t, but I looked like I could).
Why it’s family gold:
- Standard safety features that make me less of a neurotic wreck.
- So. Much. Room. It’s like a living room on wheels.
- Feels way more expensive than it is. Like, trick-your-neighbors level of classy.
Downside: Good luck finding one. Everyone and their cousin wants one.
3. 2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Aka: The Earth Mom mobile
This one’s for all my eco-conscious, budget-stretching warriors who also have three kids and a labradoodle.
Things I love:
- 36 MPG. Let me repeat: THIRTY. SIX. Miles. Per. Gallon. That’s unheard of for a 7-seater.
- Doesn’t scream “look at me!” but more like, “yeah I compost and make oat milk… what of it?”
- Smooth as butter, even with a trunk full of science fair disasters.
Con: You’re giving up some third-row space. So if your kids are tall… maybe not ideal for the long haul.
4. 2025 Ford Explorer
Aka: The Everything SUV
It’s like the SUV version of sweatpants with pockets—reliable, comfy, always there when you need it.
What made me say “YES”:
- Tons of trim options, which means you can go bougie or basic.
- Handles like something way smaller, which is helpful when you’re late and yelling “BUCKLE UP!” while reversing.
- The second-row captain’s chairs feel kind of fancy.
Tiny gripe: Some tech feels a little too techy. Like the rotary gear dial? I miss a good ol’ fashioned gear shift.
5. 2025 Subaru Ascent
I trust this car the same way I trust my grandma’s meatloaf recipe—wholeheartedly and without question.
Reasons it’s perfect for anxious drivers (hi, it me):
- Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist is like having a co-pilot who’s never distracted by their phone.
- AWD standard—aka, peace of mind when it randomly snows in April.
- So many cupholders. I counted 19. That’s enough for every kid, their water bottle, your coffee, and 14 backup snacks.
Drawback: Interior design is very… practical. But honestly? Same.
🍼 Baby Seat Tetris: Who Wins?
Spoiler: Not all SUVs are baby-seat friendly, no matter what the salesperson says.
Here’s what actually worked for car seat chaos:
- Telluride: 3 across? Surprisingly yes.
- Pilot: Easy LATCH access and tons of space.
- Highlander: Great for 2 car seats. Third gets tight.
- Explorer: Good in second row, awkward in third.
- Ascent: Multiple tethers and anchors made it stress-free.
🛠️ Random Features That Saved My Life
These aren’t deal-breakers, but they’re definitely sanity-savers:
- Hands-free tailgate (Pilot, Highlander): When you’re carrying 400 bags and a child clinging to your ankle.
- Built-in sunshades (Ascent, Telluride): Because sunscreen is a lie and toddlers always fall asleep when it’s BRIGHTEST.
- Rear seat reminder: Bless every engineer who made this standard now.
🚫 SUVs I Wanted to Love but… Nah
Okay listen, I really wanted to love the 2025 Chevy Traverse. It’s huge, pretty slick inside, and actually fits 8. But the infotainment was slow, and the third-row seats made my knees weep.
Also tried the 2025 Hyundai Palisade, which everyone says is great—but the ride felt kinda floaty, like a marshmallow on rollerblades. (Is that just me?)
TL;DR – My Top Picks (and Why): Best SUVs for families in 2025
🏆 Best All-Arounder: Honda Pilot
💰 Best Value: Toyota Highlander Hybrid
💅 Most Stylish: Kia Telluride
🛡️ Safest Feeling: Subaru Ascent
🚗 Most Fun to Drive: Ford Explorer
🧃Final Thoughts about Best SUVs for families in 2025
Picking the best SUV for families in 2025 isn’t just about features. It’s about survival. It’s about minimizing tantrums, snack spills, and “MOM SHE’S BREATHING ON ME” moments.
So test drive a few. Climb in the third row yourself. Shove a stroller in the trunk. Bring the kids (or at least a rogue Goldfish cracker bag to simulate the vibe).
And if you’re really torn? Just pick the one with the most cupholders.
