Best Midsize SUVs for Families of 2025
We drove 12 midsize SUVs with car seats installed, strollers in tow, and kids in the back to find the best family haulers of 2025.
5 items ranked · Last reviewed January 2025
Toyota Highlander
The most dependable family hauler you can buy
If you're buying a family vehicle to drive for 150,000+ miles, the Highlander's reliability record is unmatched. Toyota's long-term quality data and the Highlander's 20-year track record make it the smart choice for families who want to buy once and never think about it again.
PROS
- ✓Toyota reliability reputation backed by 20 years of Highlander data
- ✓Available hybrid version gets 35+ mpg combined
- ✓Toyota Safety Sense driver assistance standard on every trim
CONS
- ✕Third row less spacious than Kia Telluride
- ✕Interior design is conservative compared to newer competitors
Honda Pilot
Completely redesigned for 2023 — and it shows
The redesigned Honda Pilot is the best version of this legendary family SUV. The third row genuinely fits adults, the TrailSport adds outdoor adventure credibility, and Honda's reliability record makes it a confident long-term buy.
PROS
- ✓Redesigned 2023+ model has a genuinely adult-usable third row
- ✓Available TrailSport trim for light off-road capability
- ✓Honda Sensing driver assistance suite is among the best
CONS
- ✕Infotainment system has a steeper learning curve
- ✕Slightly less cargo space than Telluride with all seats up
Kia Telluride
The family SUV that beats vehicles costing twice as much
The Telluride has won more awards than any family SUV in recent memory: luxury-brand interior quality, the class's best third row, and top-tier safety ratings at a price that undercuts comparable competitors by thousands. An extraordinary value.
PROS
- ✓IIHS Top Safety Pick+ with best available ratings
- ✓Genuinely usable third row for adults — best legroom in class
- ✓Luxury-brand interior quality at a non-luxury price
CONS
- ✕Dealer markups remain common in high-demand markets
- ✕Infotainment has a learning curve for first-time Kia buyers
Subaru Ascent
Standard AWD and 19 cupholders — no joke
The Subaru Ascent's standard AWD and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating make it the logical choice for families in snowy climates. The lowest entry price in the 3-row class and Subaru's strong safety culture round out a compelling package.
PROS
- ✓Symmetrical AWD standard on every trim — no extra charge
- ✓IIHS Top Safety Pick+ across all trims
- ✓Lowest entry price of any 3-row SUV in this class
CONS
- ✕Turbocharged engine feels underpowered when fully loaded
- ✕Fuel economy lags behind competitors
Ford Explorer
America's best-selling 3-row SUV, now significantly better
The Ford Explorer has improved substantially in recent years. Its large Ford dealer network makes service convenient, the redesigned cabin is genuinely appealing, and the ST trim offers a sporty alternative for parents who don't want to completely surrender driving enjoyment.
PROS
- ✓Redesigned interior is a major improvement over prior generation
- ✓Available ST performance trim adds driving excitement
- ✓Large dealer network for service and availability
CONS
- ✕Reliability ratings below Toyota and Honda
- ✕Cargo space with third row up is tight compared to competitors