I’m a Car Expert: 6 Affordable and Reliable SUVs for Families of 4 or More
Written by
J. Arky
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
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It can be tricky to find the right vehicle when you are car shopping for yourself. If you are looking for a sport utility vehicle (SUV) for your family that includes four people or more, then you are faced with a quest to match affordability with reliability. It’s no easy feat, but there are some cars on the market that can fit your needs, your budget and all the members of your family.
GOBankingRates asked some car experts for their top affordable and reliable SUVs for families of four or more. Here’s what made their lists.
Toyota Highlander
- 2025 starting MSRP: $41,815
“If you’re looking for a budget and fuel-conscious option, then a Highlander is a wise decision,” said Alex Black, chief marketing officer of EpicVIN.
Black highlighted that the Toyota Highlander “can seat 7-8 passengers, has a high dependability rating and keeps its value in resale.”
It also has a hybrid model. “It can go 36 mpg with its hybrid model, and that will save a lot of fuel,” Black said.
Kia Telluride
- 2025 starting MSRP: $37,885
According to Melanie Musson, an auto industry expert with CarInsurance.org, the Telluride is one of the more affordable midsize SUVs.
“It comes with an excellent manufacturer warranty, providing peace of mind to owners,” Musson said. “Families with older kids appreciate that the passenger seating is spacious and kids don’t feel like they’re squished into their seats.”
Ford Explorer
- 2025 starting MSRP: $41,745
“The Ford Explorer has a lot of versatility with seating and cargo space,” Musson said. “You can haul kids and their friends across the state for sporting events, but you can also maximize cargo space by folding down the third row and filling the area with suitcases and coolers.”
Musson also highlighted that the Explorer is loaded with safety features, one of the most important aspects to consider when choosing a car for a family.
Honda Pilot
- 2025 starting MSRP: $41,695
“The Pilot is an excellent choice for families because it comes with Honda Sensing, a full suite of safety features that help ensure your passengers stay as safe as possible,” Musson explained.
Not only that, but this car has a slow depreciation rate, which could save you money over the long run. “It depreciates more slowly than most competitors because it lasts longer than the average vehicle, making it a great choice for families putting on many miles each year,” Musson said.
Ford Expedition
- 2025 starting MSRP: $64,515
Black called the Ford Expedition a “solid mix of capability, value and size.”
Because of these features, it’s a great option for a family vehicle. “It accommodates 8, has a spacious interior, and a V8 with a lot of horsepower,” Black said. “It even features best-in-class safety technology, and thus, is a safe bet for family driving”
Chevrolet Suburban
- 2025 starting MSRP: $65,095
“It’s basically a larger Tahoe, with increased cargo room in the rear of the third row — just ideal for family vacation trips or transporting gear for your kids’ activity,” Black said. “It’s a winner when it comes to second-row legroom and comfort, too.”
Editor’s note: All 2025 starting MSRP figures were sourced from Car and Driver.
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