4 Best Family Cars Under $50K, According to Doug DeMuro

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Car enthusiasts with children face a challenge when it comes to selecting their vehicle. On one hand, they need a car that can fulfill their familial duties, such as driving their kids to soccer practice, taking vacations and keeping everyone safe. On the other hand, they want something that will give them a thrill behind the wheel. Finding an affordable, reliable vehicle that fulfills both of these needs can be a challenge.

Doug DeMuro, an author, YouTuber and car aficionado, knows which excellent family cars you would love to drive around and can buy for under $50,000. In a recent YouTube video, he shared his top four suggestions for cars that are both fun to drive and can support a family.

Cadillac CTS-V Wagon

While it made it onto DeMuro’s list, he acknowledged this vehicle may run over the $50,000 threshold. On Edmunds, a used 2012 Cadillac CTS-V Wagon is selling for $45,950 with around 70,000 miles, but most of the other options from later years sell for $60,000 or more. However, even if it’s over your budget, Demuro pointed out that the Cadillac CTS-V Wagon isn’t losing value after 12 years.

The Cadillac CTS-V Wagon can seat five and offers up to 58 cubic feet of cargo volume, powered by a 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 engine. DeMuro said if you have a big family, there are better options out there. However, this is one of the best options for a reliable family car that’s fun to drive.

Jeep Wrangler

Another suggestion for a niche-type car is the Jeep Wrangler. These vehicles have the iconic Jeep shape and style. You can reconfigure the roof, doors and windscreen to suit your needs and preferences. Many used Wranglers sell for under $50,000. A 2019 model with nearly 85,000 miles goes for $15,500 on Edmunds, for example, and even some 2024 vehicles are under $50,000.

DeMuro pointed out that it’s one of the most practical cars for family use. It’s also an excellent off-road car, even though most owners don’t use the car for that purpose. However, DeMuro said Jeeps are fun regardless of how you use them, pointing to the fact that you can take the roof off and kids tend to like them.

Lexus IS F

When most people think of Lexus, they think luxury. That’s one reason owning a Lexus IS F as a family car is an enticing option. The Lexus IS F is a sedan model that ran from 2007 to 2014. Because Lexus produced only around 12,000 cars, it can be challenging to find used models. However, if you can find one, DeMuro believes it could be an excellent choice.

DeMuro acknowledged this car would work only for small families, and his own family wouldn’t be able to fit inside a Lexus IS F. However, he loves it as a compact entry-level sports sedan, and called it a great driving car. Also, compared to similar models like the M3 and M5, DeMuro feels the Lexus IS F has been more reliable and held up better over time. A used 2012 Lexus IS F with 97,000 miles is going for around $36,990 on Edmunds.

Porsche Panamera

DeMuro recommended Porsche’s four-door hatchback, endorsing it as extremely fun to drive. The Porsche Panamera launched in 2009 and has continued its run with new styles and tech. The vehicle prioritizes rear seat space, comfortably seating four adults and offering plenty of room for a family.

DeMuro pointed out that this car has depreciated a great deal over the years, making it more affordable, but he added that it continues to be reliable, with mileage reaching up to 175,000. One thing to keep in mind before jumping at the chance to buy one is that maintenance and ownership costs are often higher for Porches than other types of vehicles.

A used 2020 Porsche Panamera with around 30,000 miles is available online for $49,900. Older models, such as a 2012 with 95,000 miles, can go for as low as $17,500.

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