The Kelley Blue Book (KBB) tested several vehicles across different classes and brands in order to identify the best family vehicles on the market. The list KBB compiled provides a great starting point for families in the market for a new vehicle. It will help you find vehicles with features that are important to you, that have great safety ratings, and that suit your budget. Also check out our article discussing safe car buying tips.
KBB’s Quest for the Best Family Vehicles
KBB assessed 21 vehicles, including six small SUVs, five midsize SUVs, seven sedans, two minivans, and one hybrid wagon. Testers took into account that families differ on what’s most important to them; for some, cargo space is important, and for others, it might be style. KBB’s staff focused its evaluations on “domestic usability.”
During the testing process, the staff:
- Loaded and unloaded cargo
- Installed and removed child safety seats
- Had kids play in the car
- Consulted with families
- Had teens access the entertainment systems
- Tested comfort, drivability, and ease of parking
- Assessed outward visibility, build stability, interior storage space, and access to and size of cargo space
- Considered crash test results, safety features, and price
The Top 12 Family Vehicles for 2014
After they reviewed the information they collected, KBB first concluded that “crowning a single vehicle objectively as the best isn’t particularly helpful since the needs of car buyers vary so widely.” Instead, they decided to “highlight the vehicles that proved to be exceptionally family-worthy.”
Here are KBB’s top 12 picks for 2014 (and some of the primary reasons they made the list):
- Honda Odyssey (roominess, fuel efficiency, and abundance of LATCH points for child seats)
- Toyota Sienna (flexible seating, roomy cargo area, 4WD option, and optional reclining captain’s chairs with foot rests)
- Chevrolet Traverse (smart interior design, and adequate space for passengers and cargo)
- Ford Flex (style, spaciousness, good for child car seats, foldable seats, 4WD options, and a refrigerator)
- Honda Pilot (same features as the Traverse; smart interior design, and adequate space for passengers and cargo)
- Nissan Pathfinder (roomy, the Nissan Around View camera system, sub-$30k starting price, roomy passenger space, and good third row access)
- Honda CRV (all around good choice. “It pretty much did everything well,” explains KBB)
- Nissan Rogue (clever cargo management system and easy tire gauge alert system, but testers note, the Rogue does have a “comically cramped” third row)
- Subaru Forester (standard 4WD, vast cargo area, and great visibility)
- Chevrolet Impala (spacious cabin, vast trunk space, good handling, and style)
- Honda Accord (good leg room, smooth riding, optional “lane watch” feature, and fuel efficient)
- Nissan Altima (comfortable seats, and adequate seating for adults and car seats)
The Runners-Up
The KBB started with 21 cars that they had whittled down from a pool of 300. The nine cars that didn’t make the top 12 are listed below. They might not have overly impressed the testers, but each car might still offer certain benefits that may be valuable to you and your family.
The nine runners-up include the:
- Dodge Durango
- Jeep Cherokee
- Kia Sorento
- Mazda CX-5
- Mazda Mazda6
- Toyota Avalon
- Toyota Camry
- Toyota Prius V
- Volkswagen Passat
Do Your Research
It goes without saying that you should do thorough research before purchasing a vehicle for your family. Check safety ratings, as well as any pending recalls. Select a manufacturer that offers quality products and service; one with a good track record and high dependability.
For any legal questions or concerns regarding car accidents in Indiana, contact Hensley Legal Group. Call us today to set up a free case review.