I’m a Mechanic: 5 Japanese Cars Recommended for Families in 2025
Written by
G. Brian Davis
Edited by
Cory Dudak
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Japanese cars have a well-deserved reputation for reliability and safety, which makes them ideal for families.
But which models offer the best combination of durability, affordability, safety, comfort and performance?
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
- Starting Price: $47,770 (Kelley Blue Book)
For larger families that need a three-row SUV, the Highlander Hybrid is hard to beat. It also delivers exceptional fuel efficiency for a larger vehicle.
“The three-row seating in the Toyota Highlander Hybrid provides family advantages without the future maintenance complications that affect European SUVs,” explained Alan Gelfand, mechanic and owner of German Car Depot. “The straightforward maintenance needs of this vehicle benefit from Toyota’s broad distribution network of available parts.”
Honda CR-V
- Starting Price: $31,495
Like most Honda models, the CR-V offers top notch dependability. But it’s also comfortable, and performance has improved, especially among higher trims.
Mark Skirvin founded Cash Auto Salvage to repair older cars, and he raved about the CR-V. “For smaller families, the Honda CR-V has proven reliable and strong in safety and value retention. The CR-V also feels a bit more comfortable for everyday use over its fiercest competitor, the RAV4.”
Subaru Outback
- Starting Price: $31,415
Contrary to the prevailing assumption among American parents, not every family needs to drive an SUV.
In fact, the Outback is safer than most SUVs, with its all-wheel drive grippiness and lower center of gravity. It also happens to be comfortable and fun to drive. “The latest Subaru models have achieved exceptional improvements in reliability and technological capabilities,” added Gelfand.
Toyota Sienna Hybrid
- Starting Price: $40,635
If you want more room than an Outback and more fuel efficiency than an SUV, test drive the Sienna Hybrid minivan.
No, it’s not the sexiest car on the road, but since when was sexiness the first priority in a family car?
“The Toyota Sienna is a minivan hero through its dependable performance and efficient operation and generous interior space,” noted Gelfand.
Mazda CX-50
- Starting Price: $31,995
All right, so maybe you don’t have to sacrifice sexiness for a family car after all. The CX-50 is a slightly larger, sportier, more rough-and-tumble sibling of the CX-5, with some off-road chops.
Gelfand had nothing but praise for this family-friendly ride that puts the “sport” back in SUV. “This crossover delivers exciting driving dynamics and combines reliable performance with secure safety features and pleasant interior amenities.”
If you want sporty performance without luxury prices, take the CX-50 out for a spin.
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