When it comes to choosing the right car for a growing family, one of the most important factors is ensuring that everyone fits comfortably while still having room for all the essentials. A family of six requires a family vehicle that not only accommodates passengers but also provides ample storage space for family trips, sports gear, and other necessities. In 2025, there are numerous excellent choices for families looking for a spacious, safe, and comfortable family vehicles that meets all their needs.
Whether you’re looking for a versatile SUV, a roomy minivan, or a large crossover, there are plenty of options that can provide the space and functionality you need. In addition to spaciousness, safety features and technology options have become paramount in today’s family vehicles, helping to make longer drives more enjoyable and ensuring peace of mind on the road. Features like advanced driver-assistance systems, infotainment screens, and adaptive cruise control have become increasingly standard, further enhancing the driving experience.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 cars to consider when buying a family vehicle for a family of six in 2025. Each model has been selected based on its capacity, comfort, safety features, and overall value. From full-size SUVs to family-friendly minivans, there’s something for every family’s unique needs and preferences. Whether you’re heading on a road trip or navigating daily commutes, these vehicles have been thoroughly reviewed for their space, ease of use, and reliability, making them the perfect candidates for a family vehicles.
1. 2025 Honda Pilot
Overview: The 2025 Honda Pilot is an ideal choice for families of six, offering three spacious rows of seating with room for up to eight passengers. This family SUV is designed to provide ample comfort for long trips while maintaining versatility for everyday use. The Pilot boasts a strong reputation as a reliable family vehicle, offering a smooth ride and plenty of cargo space. Its high-quality interior, user-friendly infotainment system, and generous suite of safety features make it a standout in the mid-size SUV category.
With 22 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, the Pilot balances family needs with the ability to carry extra gear for vacations or sports activities. The new model in 2025 also introduces a more refined design, with improved driving dynamics, better fuel efficiency, and the latest in tech features, making it a great all-around family vehicle for large families.
Positives:
- Spacious interior with ample legroom across all three rows.
- Strong safety features, including the Honda Sensing suite.
- Excellent reliability and resale value.
- Towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.
Considerations:
- Fuel economy could be better for a large SUV.
- Standard trim may lack some of the higher-end features.
- Larger size may be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
Overall Assessment: The 2025 Honda Pilot is a strong contender for families who need a spacious, reliable, and safe vehicle. With solid tech offerings, ample cargo room, and strong performance, it’s an excellent option for families of six.
Estimated Price: Starting at $38,000
Edmunds Rating: 4.5/5
Publishing Date: January 2025
2. 2025 Toyota Highlander
Overview: The 2025 Toyota Highlander is another top choice for large families. This mid-size SUV offers three rows of seating for up to eight passengers and has earned high marks for safety, comfort, and reliability. It strikes a balance between utility and sophistication with a smooth ride and a high-tech interior. Families of six will appreciate the roomy cabin, especially with the second-row captain’s chairs available in certain trims that make accessing the third row easier.
Toyota has made improvements in the 2025 model to enhance its fuel efficiency with a hybrid version available, offering better mileage for families who do a lot of driving. The Highlander also provides a refined driving experience, combining power and efficiency with a range of family-friendly features. If you’re looking for a family vehicle that excels in safety while offering a well-rounded performance, the Toyota Highlander is an excellent option.
Positives:
- Hybrid option for better fuel economy.
- Comfortable, quiet ride.
- Strong reputation for reliability and safety.
- Excellent safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense.
Considerations:
- Less cargo space than some competitors.
- Not as powerful as some full-size SUVs.
- Price can climb quickly with higher trims.
Overall Assessment: With its excellent reliability and safety features, the Toyota Highlander remains a solid choice for families seeking comfort and technology. While it might not have the cargo space of some larger SUVs, it offers a great balance for families who prioritize fuel economy and everyday practicality.
Estimated Price: Starting at $39,000
Edmunds Rating: 4.4/5
Publishing Date: January 2025
3. 2025 Kia Carnival
Overview: The 2025 Kia Carnival is an exceptional option for families of six, offering the versatility of a minivan with a stylish, SUV-like design. With seating for up to eight passengers, the Carnival provides plenty of space for both passengers and cargo. Unlike many traditional minivans, the Carnival features a sleek, modern look that may appeal to families who want the functionality of a minivan without sacrificing style. The spacious cabin includes a wide variety of configurations to ensure comfort for every passenger.
Inside, the Kia Carnival is equipped with a range of tech features, including an easy-to-use infotainment system and ample USB ports. It also includes a suite of safety features, such as forward collision warning and lane departure warning, helping to give parents peace of mind. The 2025 model has been updated with enhanced driving dynamics and improved fuel efficiency, making it a great option for road trips and daily use.
Positives:
- Spacious and versatile seating arrangements.
- Sleek and modern design, unlike traditional minivans.
- Impressive standard technology features.
- Excellent safety ratings and features.
Considerations:
- Not as powerful as some large SUVs.
- Cargo space may be limited when all seats are in use.
- Higher trims can get expensive.
Overall Assessment: The Kia Carnival is a standout in the minivan category for 2025, offering great versatility and a modern design that appeals to families. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking ample space and tech features while still enjoying a smooth and efficient ride.
Estimated Price: Starting at $35,000
Edmunds Rating: 4.6/5
Publishing Date: January 2025
4. 2025 Chevrolet Traverse
Overview: The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse is a full-size SUV that offers three rows of seats, with space for up to eight passengers. It combines comfort and utility with a smooth ride and powerful engine options. Families of six will appreciate the Traverse’s spacious interior, which is designed with plenty of headroom and legroom for all passengers. The cabin is also equipped with high-end materials, making long drives more enjoyable.
The Traverse’s 2025 update includes improved technology, including an easy-to-navigate infotainment system and available driver-assistance features. It also offers generous cargo space, making it suitable for both family outings and road trips. For those in need of a powerful SUV with ample seating, the Chevrolet Traverse is a great option.
Positives:
- Spacious interior with ample room for passengers and cargo.
- Strong V6 engine providing solid performance.
- User-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- High safety ratings and available advanced driver assistance features.
Considerations:
- Fuel economy is below average for the class.
- Third-row seating may be tight for adults.
- Larger size may make parking challenging in tight spots.
Overall Assessment: The Chevrolet Traverse provides excellent value for families who need a full-size SUV with plenty of space, a powerful engine, and modern tech features. While it could improve on fuel efficiency, it offers solid performance and reliability for growing families.
Estimated Price: Starting at $38,000
Edmunds Rating: 4.4/5
Publishing Date: January 2025
5. 2025 Ford Expedition
Overview: The 2025 Ford Expedition is a top choice for families seeking an ultra-spacious full-size SUV. With room for up to eight passengers, it offers generous seating and cargo capacity, making it ideal for large families or those who frequently travel with lots of gear. The Expedition is available in both standard and extended-length versions, allowing families to choose the best fit for their needs. Additionally, the Expedition’s powerful engine options and towing capabilities set it apart from many competitors.
Inside, the Expedition offers a high-tech, comfortable cabin with features like an advanced infotainment system and numerous USB ports. The 2025 model includes updated safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control, ensuring that families stay safe on the road.
Positives:
- Spacious interior with abundant seating and cargo space.
- Strong towing capabilities, ideal for RVs or boats.
- Available in both regular and extended lengths for added flexibility.
- Advanced tech and safety features.
Considerations:
- Large size can make it challenging to park or maneuver in tight spaces.
- Higher trims can get pricey.
- Below-average fuel economy for a large SUV.
Overall Assessment: For families who prioritize space and towing capacity, the Ford Expedition is a top contender. It provides a smooth ride, a comfortable interior, and plenty of power, making it an excellent choice for larger families or those who need extra capacity for gear and trailers.
Estimated Price: Starting at $55,000
Edmunds Rating: 4.6/5
Publishing Date: January 2025
Read More:
- Tesla Unveils Refreshed 2025 Model Y in China
- The Top 10 Luxury Cars for 2025 and Their Estimated Prices
- Why Should You Test-Drive the 2025 Genesis GV70 Turbocharged SUV?
6. 2025 Chrysler Pacifica
Overview: The 2025 Chrysler Pacifica remains one of the top minivans for families, offering incredible versatility and practicality. With seating for up to eight passengers and a reputation for comfort, the Pacifica excels in providing ample space and a smooth ride. For 2025, Chrysler has upgraded the Pacifica with new technology features, including a larger touchscreen and improved driver-assistance systems.
In addition to its spacious interior, the Pacifica stands out for its hybrid option, offering better fuel efficiency compared to traditional minivans. The 2025 Pacifica also provides plenty of cargo space, even when all seats are in use, thanks to its clever Stow ‘n Go seating system, which allows the second and third rows to fold flat into the floor.
Positives:
- Spacious and flexible interior with Stow ‘n Go seating.
- Hybrid option for better fuel economy.
- Strong safety features, including automatic emergency braking.
- Comfortable ride with plenty of tech features.
Considerations:
- Less powerful engine compared to some SUVs.
- Higher trims can become quite expensive.
- A larger size may be difficult to park.
Overall Assessment: The Chrysler Pacifica is a fantastic choice for families of six who need both space and efficiency. Its hybrid option is a major bonus for families who prioritize fuel economy, while its flexible seating and cargo space make it one of the most versatile family vehicles on the market.
Estimated Price: Starting at $37,000
Edmunds Rating: 4.5/5
Publishing Date: January 2025
7. 2025 Nissan Pathfinder
Overview: The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder is a solid choice for families of six, offering three rows of seating with ample space for passengers and their belongings. With seating for up to eight, the Pathfinder provides a comfortable and spacious ride, especially for longer journeys. The 2025 model introduces a new, more rugged design, appealing to families who enjoy both city driving and outdoor adventures. The Pathfinder also comes with upgraded tech features, making it easier to stay connected while on the road.
In terms of performance, the Pathfinder is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, providing enough power for highway driving and light towing. The cabin offers a variety of smart storage solutions, and the third-row seats are easy to access, making it a family-friendly option. With its combination of practicality, comfort, and advanced features, the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder is an excellent all-around choice for a family vehicle.
Positives:
- Spacious three-row interior with easy access to the third row.
- Strong V6 engine for reliable performance.
- Great for outdoor adventures with available all-wheel drive.
- Enhanced safety features, including forward-collision warning and blind-spot monitoring.
Considerations:
- Below-average cargo space with all seats in use.
- Fuel economy could be better for its size.
- Third-row seating may be cramped for adults.
Overall Assessment: The Nissan Pathfinder is an excellent option for families seeking a reliable, comfortable SUV with off-road capabilities. While it could improve on fuel efficiency and cargo space, it excels in providing a spacious cabin and strong performance, making it perfect for both city commutes and weekend getaways.
Estimated Price: Starting at $38,500
Edmunds Rating: 4.3/5
Publishing Date: January 2025
8. 2025 Hyundai Palisade
Overview: The 2025 Hyundai Palisade stands out as a premium midsize SUV with seating for up to eight passengers. It boasts a refined, luxurious interior, making it a great choice for families who want both space and style. The 2025 model features a redesigned front end and a more modern, upscale look while maintaining the spacious cabin that families love. The Palisade offers a host of tech features, including a large touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, making it easy for families to stay connected on the go.
Inside, the cabin is quiet and comfortable, with high-quality materials and a well-thought-out layout. The third row is spacious enough for adults, and the second-row seats offer an option for captain’s chairs, providing easy access to the third row. With its smooth ride, strong safety features, and luxury touches, the Hyundai Palisade is a great option for families seeking both function and flair.
Positives:
- Upscale interior with high-quality materials and tech.
- Spacious third-row seating, even for adults.
- User-friendly infotainment system with advanced connectivity.
- Strong safety ratings and available driver assistance features.
Considerations:
- Cargo space is somewhat limited when all seats are in use.
- Higher trims can get expensive.
- The V6 engine could feel underpowered for some drivers.
Overall Assessment: The Hyundai Palisade is a fantastic family SUV that offers a luxury experience at a more affordable price. Its spacious and upscale interior, combined with strong safety features, makes it an excellent option for families of six who want both practicality and comfort.
Estimated Price: Starting at $44,000
Edmunds Rating: 4.7/5
Publishing Date: January 2025
9. 2025 Subaru Ascent
Overview: The 2025 Subaru Ascent is a midsize SUV that offers three rows of seating, with the capacity to hold up to eight passengers. Known for its all-wheel-drive system and rugged design, the Ascent is an ideal family vehicle for those who love outdoor adventures. It offers ample space in both the passenger and cargo areas, making it a well-rounded family vehicle. The 2025 model comes with updated safety features and a refined interior, ensuring that families stay safe and comfortable on their journeys.
The Ascent is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, providing a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. It offers generous standard features, including Subaru’s EyeSight safety suite, which includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. With its blend of performance, safety, and spaciousness, the Subaru Ascent is a top choice as a family vehicle for those who enjoy both city driving and off-road excursions.
Positives:
- Standard all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and stability.
- Spacious interior with ample cargo room.
- Strong safety features, including Subaru EyeSight.
- Good balance of power and fuel efficiency.
Considerations:
- Third-row seating can be tight for adults.
- Cargo space is limited when all seats are in use.
- Turbocharged engines may feel underpowered for some drivers.
Overall Assessment: The Subaru Ascent is a strong contender for families who need an all-wheel-drive SUV with ample space and excellent safety features. While it may not have the most powerful engine in its class, it provides a comfortable and capable driving experience for families who love outdoor adventures.
Estimated Price: Starting at $38,000
Edmunds Rating: 4.4/5
Publishing Date: January 2025
10. 2025 Mazda CX-9
Overview: The 2025 Mazda CX-9 is a stylish midsize SUV that offers three rows of seating, with room for up to seven passengers. It stands out in its class for its sporty handling, luxurious interior, and sleek design. The 2025 model has been updated with more advanced tech and safety features, including a redesigned infotainment system and a suite of driver-assistance features. The CX-9 is perfect for families who want a combination of performance, style, and comfort.
Inside, the CX-9 offers a high-quality cabin with upscale materials, comfortable seating, and ample space for passengers. The third-row seats are best suited for children or shorter adults, but the overall ride quality and driving dynamics are exceptional. The CX-9’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides a nice balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a fun-to-drive family vehicle.
Positives:
- Stylish design with a premium interior.
- Sporty handling and driving dynamics.
- Strong tech features and an advanced safety suite.
- Comfortable second-row seats with ample legroom.
Considerations:
- Third-row seating may be cramped for adults.
- Less cargo space than larger SUVs or minivans.
- Turbocharged engines may not appeal to all drivers.
Overall Assessment: The Mazda CX-9 is a great option for families seeking a more engaging driving experience while still enjoying a spacious interior. Its upscale design, advanced features, and sporty handling make it a standout, though families needing more third-row space or cargo capacity may want to look elsewhere.
Estimated Price: Starting at $42,000
Edmunds Rating: 4.5/5
Publishing Date: January 2025
