The Best Family Cars

For anyone with kids, finding a family car that is functional, safe, comfortable and will handle the everyday wear and tear of commuting can be a mind numbing experience. Instead of dragging the entire family for a fun filled day of test driving cars at the local dealer showroom, here are the best family cars that will make everyone happy.

Chevrolet Cruze
For families on a budget that need a great reliable family car that teenagers won’t be embarrassed to be seen in, the Chevrolet Cruze tops the list. In fact, it was named as “The Best Compact Car for Families” by U.S. News and World Report in 2013. Plus, the Cruz received a 5-star safety rating from the National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration. With 15.4 cubic feet of cargo volume, there is plenty of room to haul the family’s gear around. Its MSRP is $17,250 and at over 45 mpg, it is one of the most fuel efficient family cars in its class.

Toyota Prius
Although it may not be quite as comfortable as the Chevrolet Cruze, but for families who prefer a hatchback to a trunk and where fuel efficiency is important, the Prius won’t disappoint. It’s 51 mpg fuel rating on the highway is due to its hybrid engine technology that automatically switches to gasoline when the battery needs to be recharged. In addition to its outstanding fuel efficiency, it sports an impressive amount of cargo space, a roomy back seat and Toyota reliability. Plus, its standard features include Bluetooth, USB and audio inputs so everyone can bring their toys along for the ride. MSRP starts at $23,215.

Acura TL
The Acura TL is about half as fuel efficient as the Toyota Prius, but what it lacks in fuel economy it makes up with in the power of a V6 high performance engine, outstanding reliability and luxurious interior which is why it is one of the best upscale mid size family cars on the market. In addition, it received the “Top Safety Pick” from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Although its MSRP starts at $36,030, it was ranked number one for having the highest resale value of any luxury car brand by ALG.

Mercedes-Benz E-class
The award-winning Mercedes-Benz E-class is one of the most sought after luxury cars for families. In fact, it was ranked as the number one luxury large car by U.S. News and World Report. It’s opulent interior, exceptional reliability, roomy trunk and an outstanding safety rating makes it one of the best family cars that money can buy. And, with a starting MSRP of $51,000, you’re going to need plenty of cash. However, you will soon forget all about it when you’re listening to your favorite satellite radio station on the Harman-Kardon stereo system. There is ample room for my teenagers, the little tyke with his car seat and all of their gear. Plus, the rear seat entertainment system keeps kids of all ages occupied and quiet. That alone is worth the price.

Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is making station wagons cool again. But, don’t let its looks fool you. It is more like a rugged SUV that drives like a car. In fact, it has everything you would expect in an SUV for the price of a car. Its impressive safety features earned it the “Top Safety Pick” from IIHS for rollover crash performance. In addition to being on the list as one of the best family cars to buy, it also won an award for being the best wagon for the money. Overall, the Outback is a superb handling vehicle with spacious interiors, plenty of cargo room and a great safety record. MSRP $23,495.