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Traveling with family can be stressful, very stressful. The planning, snacks, and children…
And let’s face it, with a family, space in the car is crucial!
So, without further ado, here are the top 3 cars in each of the categories below. Note that the categories are very specific, and sometimes the mentioned cars were the only ones available on the market at the time of writing these lines.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
For a highly practical choice, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid will meet your needs. It’s very reliable and fuel-efficient. The resale value is quite good. However, the active safety systems (obstacle avoidance, pre-collision detectors, etc.) can sometimes be unreliable. Unfortunately, the feeling of safety is low in emergency situations in this vehicle.
Strengths: Reliability, Fuel Efficiency
Weaknesses: Safety, Space (trunk), Multimedia system
Ford Explorer Hybrid
Unlike the Highlander, the hybrid version of the Explorer primarily adds extra power. Thus, it maintains a high towing capacity and offers well-thought-out interior design. On the downside, fuel consumption remains high despite being a hybrid. Additionally, hybridization is only available in the Limited version, one of the most equipped variants.
Strengths: Towing capacity, Driving enjoyment, Multimedia system
Weaknesses: Fuel consumption, Average reliability
Kia Sorento Hybrid
In the absence of direct competition, the Kia Sorento Hybrid is a good alternative if you only need 6 seats. It is even available in a plug-in hybrid version. For the traditional hybrid version, the $400 extra cost is really cheap for reduced fuel consumption! However, seating space is limited, and space is tight.
Strengths: Fuel consumption, Safety
Weaknesses: Space (6 seats), Driving pleasure
Luxury 7-passenger family cars
Acura MDX
Well-equipped for the asking price, the largest Acura comes with a smooth and powerful V6 engine and seats that provide princely comfort for long journeys. It also features one of the industry’s best all-wheel-drive systems (SH-AWD). On the other hand, the previous generation (2014-2020) showed its age both inside with the dual-screen system and in its exterior styling.
Strengths: Comfort, Safety
Weaknesses: Multimedia system
Lexus RX-L
The RX-L is the extended version of the RX, accommodating 7 seats instead of the RX’s 5 seats. Lexus’ SUV represents the pinnacle of reliability. It’s a quiet vehicle with soft suspension. Even the interior finish is splendid. However, the driving experience is almost non-existent, as the vehicle prioritizes comfort. Additionally, access to the third-row seats is difficult, and space is limited.
*Lexus GX and LX can also be considered, but they are more expensive and larger in size.
Strengths: Reliability, Comfort, Interior aesthetics
Weaknesses: Driving pleasure, Space
Infiniti QX60
This vehicle retains relatively low resale value, making it a good deal on the used market. It offers plenty of space for occupants and luggage. In fact, the QX60 is more like a minivan than a “true” SUV due to its vast interior. Equipped with one of the industry’s top 10 engines (3.5 L V6), the CVT (continuously variable transmission) is not suitable for a 7-passenger luxury SUV. Infiniti has improved with the new generation QX60 (2021 to present).
*The Infiniti QX80 can also be considered, but it’s more expensive and larger in size.
Strengths: Aesthetics, Space, Used price, Versatility
Weaknesses: Resale value, Improvable autonomous driving
Reliable 7-passenger family cars
Mitsubishi Outlander
This may not be your first choice, and you may not even be familiar with it. You should be, as it offers one of the best warranties and one of the best all-wheel-drive systems on the market! Its V6 engine remains almost indestructible with good maintenance and provides good towing capabilities (3,500 pounds). We recommend avoiding the 4-cylinder engine. However, it’s true, it’s not very popular. It’s not modern or refined, and the quality of materials leaves something to be desired. Additionally, maintenance costs can be higher than average, and parts may be more difficult to find in case of repairs. The V6 is also quite fuel-hungry.
Strengths: Comfort, Warranty, Towing capacity, All-wheel drive
Weaknesses: Material quality, Potential maintenance costs
Honda Pilot
The Pilot comes with a reliable and powerful engine, the same 3.5L V6 as the Acura MDX mentioned earlier. The third-row bench is tight for adults but comfortable for young children. The price-to-quality ratio for all versions is very good. You will have a versatile and efficient vehicle without frills. On the downside, the interior layout and presentation are aging. Additionally, the infotainment system is somewhat challenging to use.
Strengths: Price-to-quality ratio, Reliability, Versatility
Weaknesses: Multimedia system, Aging interior
Toyota Highlander
Appearing for the second time in our Top 20, the Highlander is known for its unwavering reliability. Moreover, the durability of this vehicle is truly impressive. Due to a high resale value (the vehicle maintains a high price), it may be more expensive to purchase than its direct competitors for the same model year. So, you may need to choose an older one. Despite that, the Highlander remains at the top of the reliability chart with a reputation that needs no further proof.
Strengths: Reliability, Resale value, Comfort, Fuel efficiency
Weaknesses: Purchase price (popular!), Rear space
7-passenger family cars with the lowest fuel consumption
Dodge Grand Caravan / Chrysler Grand Caravan / Chrysler Pacifica
Without mixing things up, we recommend the Dodge Grand Caravan, Chrysler Grand Caravan, and Chrysler Pacifica. No, there is no mistake! The Dodge Grand Caravan (2008 to 2020) became the Chrysler Grand Caravan over time (2021 to present). Thus, the Chrysler Grand Caravan became the base version of the Chrysler Pacifica (2017 to present). Therefore, for a small budget, you should get a used Dodge Grand Caravan. For a moderate budget, opt for the Chrysler Grand Caravan, which is more modern. Finally, for larger budgets, you can choose the Chrysler Pacifica. These three models consume approximately 13 L/100 km in the city and 9 L/100 km on the highway.
Strengths: Versatility, Comfort, Fuel consumption
Weaknesses: Reliability, Price
Toyota Highlander
The Highlander has already been mentioned for its hybrid version and as one of the most reliable options. This vehicle does almost everything well, and that still holds true in this category. The traditional (non-hybrid) engine, a 3.5L V6, does an excellent job of achieving good fuel consumption. Achieving 12 L/100 km in the city and 9 L/100 km on the highway is excellent for a vehicle that can comfortably carry up to 8 people!
Strengths: Reliability, Resale value, Comfort, Fuel consumption
Weaknesses: Purchase price (popular!), Rear space
Nissan Pathfinder
This one is surprisingly fuel-efficient at the pump. It offers 12 L/100 km in the city and 9 L/100 km on the highway, which is roughly the same consumption as the Toyota Highlander. It is offered at a very competitive price (quite low) and has a spacious and versatile interior. We can also mention its good towing capacity of 6,000 pounds. However, for the rest, it’s a product that has stretched its career too long (from 2013 to 2020). It’s old, and you’ll feel it fairly quickly! Additionally, the performance and reliability of its continuously variable transmission (CVT) have been a problem. We recommend the new generation (2022) in new, which replaced the CVT with a standard automatic transmission.
Note that the 2021 model year does not exist.
Strengths: Fuel consumption, Price, Spacious and versatile interior
Weaknesses: Comfort, Somewhat outdated aesthetics
7-passenger electric family cars
Tesla Model X
The standout feature of this vehicle is its rear “falcon-wing” doors that open upward, giving you the impression that they are bird wings! Tesla’s large SUV is very spacious, equipped with state-of-the-art technology (a massive central screen and almost autonomous driving), and faster than many sports cars. Also, its electric range is excellent for an electric SUV. However, the quality of materials disappoints given the high price (over $100,000 when new). Even in the used market, it’s quite expensive, going for over $70,000, which may not suit all budgets.
Strengths: Advanced technology, Range, Performance
Weaknesses: Price, Material quality
Tesla Model Y
Just like its big brother, the Model X, the Model Y also provides lightning-fast acceleration! However, it’s cheaper and offers 7 seats. Its range surpasses expectations since the vehicle shares the battery with the Model 3, the automaker’s sedan. The Model Y can be faulted for its finish, not befitting a luxury vehicle, the absence of a rear wiper for a hatchback, and a less than ideal after-sales service (at the dealership).
Note that no other 100% electric 7-passenger competitors were available at the time of publication.
Strengths: Range, Performance
Weaknesses: Space
Ford Expedition Max
Being larger than a Ford Explorer, you will certainly not run out of space in the trunk. This Ford offers a comfortable ride, user-friendly multimedia system, and robust capabilities. However, it’s worth noting the absence of a V8 engine (which the competition offers) and a relatively low resale value due to the model’s lack of popularity. Opt for the Max version for using the third row (up to 8 seats) and an even larger trunk. The regular version offers 2,962 liters of trunk volume, while the Max version offers 3,439 liters.
Strengths: Space (3 real rows), Comfort
Weaknesses: Multimedia system, Fuel consumption, Resale value
Cadillac Escalade
The most expensive of the three in this category has everything to please you. It’s a luxurious, ostentatious, and imposing SUV. The comfort provided by this vehicle is worthy of a lounge. It’s no wonder it’s part of the fleet of vehicles for the President of the United States! Its reputation is well established, making it expensive to buy in the used market. On the flip side, its V8 engine is very thirsty, and you must use premium gasoline, unlike its competitors with other engine options. The short version offers 3,089 liters of volume, while the long version offers 3,585 liters of volume.
Note that the trunk volume figures for this vehicle are based on the 2021 model year.
Strengths: Luxurious, Comfort Weaknesses: Price, Fuel consumption, No electric version
Chevrolet Suburban / GMC Yukon XL
The interior of these two SUVs is cavernous. Moreover, they are known for being very durable vehicles. It’s not surprising to see one with over 200,000 km on the odometer! The choice of engines, two V8s of 5.3L and 6.2L, is powerful. This duo of vehicles will provide you with a great sense of security behind the wheel, guaranteed. On the downside, the third-row bench is not very comfortable, and it’s advisable to go for the long versions (Suburban and Yukon XL) because space is more limited on the Tahoe and Yukon. The Suburban and Yukon XL offer the same trunk volume of 4,097 liters.
Note that the trunk volume figures for this vehicle are based on the 2021 model year.
Please note that the trunk volume mentioned in this section represents the total volume of the trunk when the second and third-row benches are folded down.
Strengths: Durability, Safety, Space, Comfort
Weaknesses: Fuel consumption, Reliability
7-passenger family cars with standard all-wheel drive
Subaru Ascent
A preferred family vehicle, the Ascent is Subaru’s largest vehicle. Featuring the excellent EyeSight driver assistance system as standard, you can feel confident behind the wheel! This vehicle offers a well-thought-out interior (19 cupholders!) and a polished finish. Let’s not forget the standard symmetrical all-wheel drive system, which performs impeccably on all types of surfaces. The downside can be found in the third-row seats, which are not the largest in the segment. Additionally, the steering could be more precise.
Strengths: Safety, Quality finish
Weaknesses: Steering, Towing capacity
Volkswagen Atlas
With a successful design, it’s probably the most enjoyable to drive among 7-passenger vehicles with its precise steering. Another of its nice qualities is its very rigid chassis. It feels solid, with no creaking sounds. It also offers standard all-wheel drive and two engine choices: a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder and a 3.6L V6. Avoid the first engine, the 2.0L, as it is less reliable and too weak for the vehicle’s size. Furthermore, although the Atlas is expensive to buy, the quality of the finish disappoints a bit. Volkswagen had accustomed us to better quality in recent years. The consumption, especially with the V6 engine, is high, even higher than the competition.
Strengths: Robust, Pleasure to drive
Weaknesses: Fuel consumption, Price
Dodge Durango
A choice that finds its place here somewhat by default due to its standard all-wheel drive, the Durango remains an intriguing option for towing. It outperforms all its competitors, yes, truly all of them, with an impressive towing capacity of 8,700 pounds. However, it’s advisable to opt for the smaller of the V8 engines, the 5.7L. The Durango provides a comfortable ride, and you’re sure to enjoy a certain level of exclusivity as there aren’t many on the road, and there are some reasons for that. Despite offering high-performance and very high-performance versions, it is technologically outdated. Its design is over a decade old. Moreover, the base V6 engine is not powerful enough for the vehicle’s mass.
Note that there are pricier alternatives available to you, such as the Mercedes-Benz GLS, BMW X7, or Land Rover Discovery.
Strengths: Highest towing capacity, Performance Weaknesses: Outdated technology and design, Fuel consumption
