Choosing the right family car is a monumental decision, often weighed down by endless considerations, from practicality and spaciousness to long-term value. However, one factor consistently rises above all others for concerned parents and caregivers: safety. In 2025, the automotive landscape is more competitive and advanced than ever, offering an impressive array of vehicles designed to protect your most precious cargo.
Gone are the days when safety features were exclusive to high-end luxury models. Through government mandates, essential features like antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, rearview cameras, and tire-pressure monitors now come standard on all new cars. Beyond these basics, an incredible number of advanced safety and driver-aid features are standard or available on most newer models, pushing the boundaries of vehicle protection.
This year, we’re cutting through the marketing jargon and diving deep into the real data that drives informed decisions. We’ll explore the vehicles that truly stand out in the rigorous testing conducted by leading safety organizations, helping you understand not just *which* cars are safe, but *why* they earn their accolades. Whether you’re navigating car seats, managing busy commutes, or planning cross-country adventures, this guide will provide the factual insights you need to make a confident choice for your family.
### How We Evaluate if a Car is Truly Safe for Families
Before we delve into our top picks, it’s crucial to understand the benchmarks used to determine a vehicle’s safety. Safety ratings are far more than mere stars on a spec sheet; they represent how well a car performs when it truly matters – during a crash. For 2025, both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have continued to push automakers toward even higher standards, making their evaluations indispensable for any family car shopper.
#### IIHS Testing: Beyond the Basics
The IIHS, a not-for-profit trade organization funded by automotive insurance companies, is renowned for its stringent crash tests and comprehensive evaluation criteria. Its core safety findings stem from a battery of six crash tests designed to simulate various real-world collision scenarios. These include the driver-side small overlap front, passenger-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side impact, roof strength, and head restraints and seats tests.
To earn the IIHS’s coveted Top Safety Pick (TSP) or Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) designation, a vehicle must not only achieve a “Good” rating – the highest possible score – in these crashworthiness tests, but also excel in other critical areas. These areas include headlight efficiency, which must provide good visibility without excessive glare, and vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention, where systems are scored as Superior, Advanced, or Basic. For 2025, a significant new addition is Rear-Seat Protection, a critical evaluation introduced in 2024 that is already reshaping which vehicles make the cut for top honors. This comprehensive approach ensures that a Top Safety Pick vehicle offers protection across a wide range of potential hazards.
#### NHTSA Testing: The 5-Star Standard
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides consumers with a clear, easy-to-understand 5-star safety rating system. This system evaluates a vehicle’s performance in frontal crashes, side impacts, and rollover resistance. While not all new 2025 models may have complete NHTSA scores available as of late May 2025, historical data strongly indicates that vehicles that achieve IIHS Top Safety Pick+ status are highly likely to perform exceptionally well in NHTSA’s assessments, often earning a 5-star overall safety rating. Both organizations complement each other, offering a holistic view of a vehicle’s protective capabilities.
#### What Should You Look for Beyond Crash Tests?
While crash tests are paramount, a holistic view of family car safety extends beyond impact performance. Other crucial considerations include value, encompassing not just the transaction price but also Kelley Blue Book’s 5-Year Cost to Own ratings, which factor in insurance, fuel, maintenance, repair expenses, and depreciation. Reliability and durability also play a significant role, influencing both maintenance costs and resale value, and contributing to peace of mind for families on the go. Driving experience, including ease of use, steering precision, and visibility, combined with modern driver aids, boosts confidence behind the wheel.
Comfort and convenience, with adjustable seating, easy third-row access, seamless infotainment, and power liftgates, are essential for daily family life. Cargo capability, assessing available load space and flexibility for all the gear a family accumulates, is another vital aspect. Finally, child seat considerations, evaluating LATCH tether accessibility and overall room for various child safety seats, are critical. The IIHS even uses LATCH ease-of-use as a criterion for its TSP and TSP+ awards, underscoring its importance. Kelley Blue Book’s editorial staff rigorously tests these aspects year-round, ensuring our selections meet the diverse needs of families.
### Safest Sedans for Families in 2025
For families prioritizing fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and a tighter budget, sedans continue to be a sensible choice for small to medium-sized households. The 2025 model year sees some remarkable standouts that demonstrate a full commitment to both passenger protection and everyday practicality.
1. **Honda Accord**
The 2025 Honda Accord consistently earns high praise for its well-rounded performance, and its safety credentials are no exception. It has achieved “Good” ratings across the board in IIHS crash tests, a testament to its robust structural design. This includes exceptional performance in the notoriously challenging small overlap tests, which simulate impacts with a narrow object like a tree or utility pole, as well as strong performance under the new moderate overlap evaluation for rear-seat occupants.
Beyond its impressive crashworthiness, the Accord comes standard with Honda Sensing, a comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies. This includes collision mitigation braking, designed to help bring the vehicle to a stop when it detects an unavoidable front collision, as well as lane-keeping assist, which helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane. Adaptive cruise control is also part of this package, enhancing safety and reducing driver fatigue on longer journeys.
For families, usability is key, and the Accord delivers with LATCH anchors rated “Good+” for ease of use, ensuring secure and straightforward installation of child safety seats. Its 16.7 cubic feet of trunk space provides ample room for strollers, groceries, or sports gear, making it a practical choice for daily family life. With a starting price around $29,445 and impressive fuel economy of up to 48 combined MPG, it’s tough to beat the Accord’s combination of reliability, safety features, and affordability.
Read more about: Unleash Your Inner Engineer: Top 14 Crate-Build Cars You Can Assemble Today
2. **Toyota Camry**
The 2025 Toyota Camry continues its legacy as a pillar of reliability and safety, consistently acing all the IIHS crash tests. Its steadfast performance in these critical evaluations reinforces its position as a top contender for families seeking peace of mind on the road. The Camry’s engineering prioritizes passenger protection, providing a secure cabin in various collision scenarios.
Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, the brand’s integrated suite of active safety technologies, comes standard on the Camry. This includes dynamic radar cruise control, which adjusts vehicle speed to maintain a preset distance from the car ahead, and a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, designed to alert the driver to potential frontal collisions and, in some circumstances, automatically apply the brakes. These features work in concert to reduce the likelihood and severity of accidents.
Inside, the Camry offers easy-to-use child seat anchors, contributing to its family-friendly appeal. The trunk provides 15.1 cubic feet of space, which, while slightly tighter compared to the Accord, remains perfectly manageable for most family needs. Starting roughly at $29,835 and boasting an impressive fuel economy of up to 51 combined MPG, the Camry is a standout choice for its bulletproof reliability, strong resale value, and some of the lowest maintenance costs available in its class.
Car Model Information: 2019 Toyota Camry LE
Name: Toyota Camry
Caption: 2018 Toyota Camry Ascent (ASV70, Australia)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Production: March 1982 – present
Aka: ubl
Class: ubl
Layout: ubl
Predecessor: ubl
Successor: Toyota Avensis (T250)
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles
Summary: The Toyota Camry (; Japanese: トヨタ・カムリ Toyota Kamuri) is an automobile sold internationally by the Japanese auto manufacturer Toyota since 1982, spanning multiple generations. Originally compact in size (narrow-body), the Camry has grown since the 1990s to fit the mid-size classification (wide-body)—although the two widths co-existed in that decade. Since the release of the wide-bodied versions, Camry has been extolled by Toyota as the firm’s second “world car” after the Corolla. As of 2022, the Camry is positioned above the Corolla and below the Avalon or Crown in several markets.
In Japan, the Camry was once exclusive to Toyota Corolla Store retail dealerships. Narrow-body cars also spawned a rebadged sibling in Japan, the Toyota Vista (トヨタ・ビスタ)—also introduced in 1982 and sold at Toyota Vista Store locations. Diesel fuel versions have previously retailed at Toyota Diesel Store. The Vista Ardeo was a wagon version of the Vista V50.
Get more information about: Toyota Camry
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Toyota Model: Camry
Price: $19,591 Mileage: 55,419 mi.
Read more about: The Top 14 Vehicles Built to Go the Distance: Your Guide to 350,000+ Mile Reliability
3. **Hyundai Ioniq 6**
For families venturing into the electric vehicle market, the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 6 emerges as a compelling option that doesn’t compromise on safety. This sleek EV has earned its stripes as another IIHS Top Safety Pick+ winner, demonstrating its commitment to advanced protection. Its electric architecture often allows for a lower center of gravity, which can contribute to enhanced stability and crash performance.
The Ioniq 6’s comprehensive safety suite includes advanced features like highway driving assist, which combines adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist to offer semi-autonomous driving capabilities on supported roads. Forward collision avoidance systems and blind-spot monitoring are also standard, providing crucial alerts and interventions to help prevent accidents. These technologies exemplify Hyundai’s dedication to equipping its vehicles with cutting-edge protective measures.
From a family perspective, the Ioniq 6 offers a remarkably smooth and quiet EV ride, making long trips more enjoyable for all passengers. However, prospective buyers should note its slightly limited trunk space of 11.2 cubic feet compared to some gasoline-powered sedans. With a starting price ranging from $38,000 to $42,000 and an impressive range of up to 361 miles, it’s a superb choice for eco-conscious families ready to embrace electric mobility, provided the trunk space aligns with their needs.
### Top SUVs for Family Safety and Space
SUVs continue to be the dominant choice for many families, offering a blend of versatility, space, and a commanding driving position. In 2025, several SUV models have truly distinguished themselves by excelling in rigorous safety evaluations while providing ample room for growing families and their gear.
Car Model Information: 2023 Mazda Mazda3 FWD w/Select Package
Name: Hyundai Ioniq 6
ModelCode: CE
Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
Production: July 2022 – present
ModelYears: 2023–present (North America)
Assembly: unbulleted list
Designer: SangYup Lee
Class: Mid-size car
BodyStyle: fastback,Sedan (automobile)
Layout: unbulleted list
Platform: Hyundai E-GMP
Related: unbulleted list
Motor: Permanent magnet synchronous motor
Battery: Lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxides
ElectricRange: Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure
Charging: unbulleted list
Wheelbase: 2950 mm
Abbr: on
Length: 4855 mm
Width: 1880 mm
Height: 1495 mm
Weight: convert
Categories: All Wikipedia articles written in British English with Oxford spelling, All articles lacking reliable references, Articles containing Korean-language text, Articles lacking reliable references from December 2024, Articles with short description
Summary: The Hyundai Ioniq 6 (Korean: 현대 아이오닉 6) is a battery electric mid-size fastback sedan produced by Hyundai Motor Company. It is the second vehicle marketed under the electric car-focused Ioniq sub-brand after the Ioniq 5, and the fourth model developed on the Hyundai Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). The vehicle was first sold in South Korea in late 2022, with deliveries in the United States beginning in March 2023.
Get more information about: Hyundai Ioniq 6
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Hyundai Model: Ioniq 6
Price: $17,197 Mileage: 57,859 mi.
Read more about: Navigating Hyundai Ownership: A Comprehensive Guide to Maintenance, Models, and Premier Dealership Services for Informed Consumers
4. **Kia Telluride**
The 2025 Kia Telluride has consistently ranked at the top for family SUVs, and its safety performance is a major reason why. This three-row midsize SUV has achieved “Good” ratings on everything in IIHS crash tests, showcasing its exceptional structural integrity and occupant protection. Importantly, it has also earned high marks in the newest rear-seat safety tests, ensuring that passengers in all rows are well-protected in the event of a collision.
The Telluride’s robust tech suite includes a wide array of active safety features designed to prevent accidents before they happen. Forward collision avoidance, which can detect potential frontal impacts with vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists, is standard. Blind-spot monitoring provides alerts for vehicles in hard-to-see areas, while its solid night pedestrian crash prevention demonstrates its capability to protect vulnerable road users even in low-light conditions. These technologies make the Telluride a highly attentive co-pilot for family journeys.
When it comes to family fit, the Telluride is incredibly accommodating, offering seating for up to eight passengers with comfortable and versatile configurations. It provides a generous 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which expands to an impressive 87 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down – more than enough for vacations, sports equipment, or large shopping hauls. With a starting price of $37,805, the Kia Telluride embodies affordable luxury without making any compromises on crucial safety features, making it a perennial favorite.
Car Model Information: 2021 Kia Telluride SX
Name: Kia Telluride
Caption: 2022 Kia Telluride EX (US)
Manufacturer: Kia
Production: February 2019 – present
ModelYears: 2020–present (North America)
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Related: Hyundai Palisade
Predecessor: Kia Mohave
Sp: us
Categories: All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description, Cars introduced in 2019, Commons category link from Wikidata, Crossover sport utility vehicles
Summary: The Kia Telluride is a mid-size crossover SUV with three-row seating manufactured and marketed by Kia since 2019. Positioned above the smaller Sorento, the Telluride was previewed as a concept car in 2016, with the production model debuting in early 2019 as a 2020 model. It shares components and specifications with its sister model, the Hyundai Palisade, including its engine, transmission, and wheelbase. Named after the town of Telluride, Colorado, the Telluride is the largest vehicle Kia has manufactured in the United States.
Get more information about: Kia Telluride
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Kia Model: Telluride
Price: $27,990 Mileage: 94,312 mi.
Read more about: Buyer’s Remorse Hits Hard: 15 Cars Drivers Regretted Purchasing According to Latest Survey Findings
5. **Mazda CX-90**
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 enters the family SUV segment as another Top Safety Pick+ performer, blending Mazda’s signature driving dynamics with robust safety credentials. Its strong performance in IIHS crash tests underscores a commitment to protecting occupants in a variety of impact scenarios. The CX-90’s design incorporates advanced materials and engineering to create a secure passenger cell, a hallmark of its top safety ratings.
Equipped with Mazda’s i-Activsense system, the CX-90 offers a sophisticated suite of safety technologies. This system includes adaptive cruise control, which helps maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, and smart braking support, designed to detect obstacles and apply the brakes automatically if a collision is imminent. These features not only contribute to accident prevention but also enhance driver confidence and reduce fatigue during everyday driving and longer trips.
The interior of the CX-90 exudes a premium feel, providing a comfortable and refined environment for families. It offers room for up to eight passengers, making it suitable for larger households, and boasts a maximum cargo capacity of 74.2 cubic feet, offering plenty of space for luggage, groceries, or recreational gear. With a starting price around $40,000, the Mazda CX-90 stands out by combining performance, a polished driving experience, and top-tier safety credentials that directly meet and exceed family expectations.
Continuing our journey into the safest family vehicles of 2025, this section delves deeper into the SUV category, including innovative electric options that seamlessly blend cutting-edge technology with uncompromised safety. We’ll also take a balanced look at popular minivans, understanding their unique position in the market, before concluding with a comprehensive value comparison and practical buying insights to empower your family’s next vehicle choice.
Car Model Information: 2025 Mazda CX-90 SE
Name: Mazda CX-90
Caption: 2024 Mazda CX-90 in Deep Crystal Blue Mica
Manufacturer: Mazda
ModelCode: unbulleted list
Aka: Mazda CX-70 (two-row version)
Production: unbulleted list
ModelYears: unbulleted list
Assembly: Hōfu
Class: Full-size car,crossover SUV
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Platform: Skyactiv#Large Product Group
Related: unbulleted list
Engine: Unbulleted list
Motor: unbulleted list
Powerout: unbulleted list
Drivetrain: unbulleted list
Transmission: Skyactiv#Skyactiv-Drive,Automatic transmission
Battery: unbulleted list
ElectricRange: cvt
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: cvt
Predecessor: Mazda CX-9
Sp: us
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description, CS1 Hebrew-language sources (he), CS1 Mexican Spanish-language sources (es-mx)
Summary: The Mazda CX-90 is a full-size crossover SUV with three-row seating produced by Mazda, introduced in 2023. A two-row version, marketed separately as the Mazda CX-70, was introduced in 2024, featuring the same dimensions and engine options with minor styling variations. It is the largest SUV produced by the company and is built on the Large Product Group platform, which features a longitudinal engine and rear-biased all-wheel-drive system shared with the smaller CX-60.
The CX-90 replaced the CX-9 in North America, and like its predecessor, it is not marketed in Japan or Europe, despite being manufactured in Japan. Engine options include turbocharged, mild hybrid, inline-six engines (gasoline or diesel) and a plug-in hybrid gasoline inline-four. All powertrains are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that uses a wet clutch in place of a conventional torque converter.
Get more information about: Mazda CX-90
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Mazda Model: CX-90
Price: $32,228 Mileage: 13,964 mi.
Read more about: Steer Clear: These 14 SUVs Often Become Costly Money Pits After 80,000 Miles, According to Expert Analysis
6. **Hyundai Santa Fe (Post-Nov. 2024 Builds)**
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe, particularly models built after November 2024, has swiftly earned its place as a Top Safety Pick+ recipient. This recognition is a testament to Hyundai’s commitment to refining its vehicles for optimal passenger protection, incorporating structural enhancements and advanced safety features that meet the latest, more rigorous IIHS standards. It represents a significant step forward, offering families a robust and secure option in the competitive midsize SUV segment.
Beyond its impressive crashworthiness, the Santa Fe is equipped with a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies designed to proactively prevent accidents. Key features include lane-following assist, which helps maintain the vehicle’s position within its lane, and safe-exit alerts, providing crucial warnings to occupants before opening doors into approaching traffic. Its strong night-time pedestrian crash prevention capabilities further underscore its dedication to protecting not just its occupants but also vulnerable road users, making it a thoughtful choice for urban and suburban driving.
Inside, the Santa Fe offers versatile seating configurations for six to seven passengers, adapting effortlessly to various family sizes and needs. With up to 79.6 cubic feet of cargo space, it provides ample room for luggage, sports equipment, or everyday essentials, making it highly practical for family adventures. For eco-conscious families, a hybrid version of the Santa Fe is available, boasting an impressive 36 MPG, which strikes a smart balance between size, feature richness, and fuel savings, minimizing trips to the pump while maximizing utility.
### Electric SUVs That Don’t Compromise on Safety
For families ready to embrace the future of mobility, the electric vehicle market now offers compelling SUV options that not only eliminate tailpipe emissions but also deliver top-tier safety. These vehicles prove that going green doesn’t mean sacrificing protection.
7. **Ford Mustang Mach-E**
The 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E might carry an iconic name, but it redefines expectations as a surprisingly family-ready electric SUV with bold technology and rock-solid crash protection. It has been awarded the IIHS Top Safety Pick+, a clear indicator of its structural integrity and advanced protective measures. This accolade is further supported by its high pedestrian crash prevention ratings, showcasing Ford’s holistic approach to safety design in its electric lineup.
At the heart of its safety package is the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, a collection of driver-assist technologies that includes features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot information system, and cross-traffic alert. For those seeking an even more advanced driving experience, the optional BlueCruise hands-free driving system offers enhanced convenience and reduced driver fatigue on compatible highways, leveraging sophisticated sensors and software to keep the vehicle safely on track.
Practicality for families is well-addressed in the Mach-E, which offers a commendable 29.7 cubic feet of storage in the rear, expanding to a generous 59.7 cubic feet with the back seats folded down. A distinctive “frunk” (front trunk) provides additional, secure storage space, perfect for charging cables or smaller items. With a starting price around $43,000 and a range of up to 312 miles, the Mustang Mach-E stands out as a high-tech EV that doesn’t compromise on the space and protection families need.
Car Model Information: 2023 Mazda Mazda3 FWD w/Select Package
Name: Ford Mustang Mach-E
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Production: 2021–present
ModelYears: 2021–present
Assembly: Unbulleted list
Designer: Unbulleted list
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: coupe SUV
Layout: Unbulleted list
Platform: Ford Global Electrified 1 platform
Motor: Synchronous motor#Permanent-magnet
Wheelbase: Convert
Length: Convert
Width: Convert
Height: Convert
Weight: Convert
ElectricRange: Convert
Battery: 68–98 kWh
Charging: unbulleted list
Powerout: Convert
Sp: us
ModelCode: CX727
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles needing additional references, Articles needing additional references from January 2023
Summary: The Ford Mustang Mach-E is a battery electric compact crossover SUV produced by Ford. Introduced on November 17, 2019, it went on sale in December 2020 as a 2021 model. The Mach-E is part of the Mustang series, with its name inspired by the Mach 1 variant of the first-generation Mustang. The car won the 2021 North American SUV of the Year Award.
Get more information about: Ford Mustang Mach-E
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Ford Model: Mustang Mach-E
Price: $17,197 Mileage: 57,859 mi.
Read more about: Gearhead God: A High-Octane Tour Through John Cena’s Legendary American Muscle Car Empire
8. **Kia EV9**
The 2025 Kia EV9 represents a significant leap forward for electric family vehicles, earning its stripes as another IIHS Top Safety Pick+ winner. This innovative three-row SUV has not only excelled in rigorous crash tests but also demonstrated outstanding performance in pedestrian safety evaluations, solidifying its position as a leading choice for families prioritizing electrification without sacrificing protection. Its robust architecture is specifically designed to absorb impact energy, creating a secure cabin environment.
Sharing much of its advanced safety system with the highly acclaimed Kia Telluride, the EV9 incorporates a comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies. This includes forward collision avoidance, which can detect potential frontal impacts with vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists, and lane-keeping assist, providing gentle steering inputs to help keep the vehicle centered. These systems work in concert to provide a vigilant guardian for every journey, reducing the likelihood of incidents and enhancing driver confidence.
The EV9 is engineered with families firmly in mind, offering comfortable seating for seven passengers within its sleek, futuristic interior. Its cargo capability is impressive, providing 81.7 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded down, making it exceptionally versatile for everything from daily commutes to long road trips with plenty of gear. While its starting price of $56,395 places it on the higher end, the Kia EV9 is one of the most advanced and family-friendly electric SUVs available, offering a premium, high-tech experience that truly elevates the family driving dynamic.
### Additional Top-Rated SUVs for Families
Beyond the detailed examples, several other mainstream SUVs consistently earn top safety accolades, balancing diverse family needs with robust protection. These options broaden the field for families seeking varying sizes and features without compromising on security.
Car Model Information: 2024 Kia EV9 Land
Name: Kia EV9
Caption: 2025 Kia EV9
Manufacturer: Kia
ModelCode: MV
Production: 2023–present
ModelYears: 2024–present (North America)
Assembly: Gwangmyeong
Designer: Karim Habib
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: ubl
Platform: Hyundai Electric Global Modular Platform
Related: unbulleted list
Battery: kWh,lithium-ion
Range: Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: cvt
Charging: Vehicle-to-grid
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, Articles containing Korean-language text, Articles with short description, CS1 Indonesian-language sources (id)
Summary: The Kia EV9 (Korean: 기아 EV9) is a battery electric mid-size crossover SUV produced by Kia. It is the second Kia model developed on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and the second model in the manufacturer’s “EV” electric car range after the EV6.
Get more information about: Kia EV9
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Kia Model: EV9
Price: $48,999 Mileage: 4,197 mi.
Read more about: Navigating the Future: 14 Top New SUVs and Crossovers to Watch in 2025 for Savvy Buyers
9. **Honda CR-V**
The 2025 Honda CR-V is a perennial favorite in the compact SUV segment, consistently appearing on lists of top family vehicles due to its well-rounded performance, efficiency, and notably, its high safety ratings. As a testament to Honda’s engineering prowess, the CR-V typically earns top scores in crash tests from both the IIHS and NHTSA, often securing a Top Safety Pick+ designation. This ensures that its structural design provides excellent occupant protection in various collision scenarios, a critical consideration for any family.
Equipped with the standard Honda Sensing suite, the CR-V offers a comprehensive array of driver-assistive technologies designed to prevent accidents and mitigate their severity. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking, which collectively enhance driver awareness and reduce fatigue on both short commutes and extended journeys. These integrated systems reflect a commitment to proactive safety, providing families with an extra layer of confidence on the road.
From a family perspective, the CR-V excels in practicality. It offers a spacious and versatile interior for a compact SUV, providing comfortable seating for five and generous cargo capacity, which is easily expandable for larger hauls. Its intuitive infotainment system and accessible LATCH anchors make it highly user-friendly for parents managing child seats and connectivity needs. Blending efficiency, reliability, and strong safety performance, the Honda CR-V remains a smart and dependable choice for small to medium-sized families.
Car Model Information: 2019 Honda CR-V EX
Name: Honda CR-V
Caption: 2023 Honda CR-V e:HEV
Manufacturer: Honda
Aka: Honda Breeze (China, 2019–present)
Production: 1995–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Chassis: Unibody
Predecessor: Honda Crossroad
Successor: Honda ZR-V
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English
Summary: The Honda CR-V (also sold as the Honda Breeze in China since 2019) is a compact crossover SUV manufactured by Japanese automaker Honda since 1995. Initial models of the CR-V were built using the same platform as the Civic.
Honda began producing the CR-V in Japan and United Kingdom, for worldwide markets, adding North American manufacturing sites in the United States and Mexico in 2007, and Canada in 2012. The CR-V is also produced in Wuhan for the Chinese market by Dongfeng Honda, and also marketed as the Breeze in China for the version produced at Guangzhou by Guangqi Honda.
Honda states that “CR-V” stands for “Comfortable Runabout Vehicle,” while the term “Compact Recreational Vehicle” was used in a British car review article that was republished by Honda, associating the model name with the Sports Utility Vehicle abbreviation of SU-V.
As of 2022, the CR-V is positioned between the smaller ZR-V (marketed as HR-V in North America) — with which the CR-V shares a platform — and the larger North American market Passport/Pilot or the Chinese market Avancier/UR-V. It is currently Honda’s best-selling vehicle in the world, and the second best-selling SUV globally in 2020.
Get more information about: Honda CR-V
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Honda Model: CR-V
Price: $17,994 Mileage: 98,898 mi.
Read more about: The Top 14 Vehicles Built to Go the Distance: Your Guide to 350,000+ Mile Reliability
10. **Toyota Highlander**
The 2025 Toyota Highlander stands as a formidable contender in the three-row midsize SUV market, renowned for its unwavering reliability and exceptional safety profile. It consistently garners top marks in safety evaluations, including IIHS Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ awards and a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA. This strong performance underscores its robust construction and advanced design, engineered to provide a secure and protective environment for all occupants across its three rows.
Standard on every Highlander is Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a comprehensive package of active safety and driver-assist features. This suite includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian and cyclist detection, full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, and road sign assist. These technologies work in concert to provide situational awareness and intervention capabilities, significantly reducing the potential for accidents and enhancing overall driving safety for families.
For families, the Highlander offers a well-appointed and practical interior with seating for up to eight passengers, ensuring ample space for larger households or carpooling duties. Its cargo area, though typical for the segment with all three rows in use, becomes impressively cavernous when the second and third rows are folded, accommodating everything from groceries to vacation luggage. Known for its strong resale value and low ownership costs, the Toyota Highlander presents a compelling blend of safety, space, and long-term financial sensibility.
### The Minivan Dilemma
While minivans remain an undeniable champion of family utility and passenger comfort, it’s crucial to acknowledge their current standing in the most rigorous safety evaluations. Interestingly, none of the popular minivans, including segment stalwarts like the Toyota Sienna or Kia Carnival, achieved the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation in 2025. This doesn’t inherently deem them unsafe, as they still meet federal safety standards and generally perform well in traditional crash tests.
However, this outcome primarily stems from the IIHS’s continually evolving and stricter criteria, particularly the newer emphasis on rear-seat occupant protection and advanced performance in updated moderate overlap crash scenarios. It suggests that while minivans excel in space and convenience, they may be lagging slightly in these specific, cutting-edge rear-seat protection measures compared to the SUVs and sedans that made the top-tier IIHS lists.
For families prioritizing the unparalleled spaciousness, easy access via sliding doors, and flexible seating configurations that only a minivan can truly offer, models like the Toyota Sienna and Kia Carnival remain excellent choices. The Sienna, for instance, stands out with its standard hybrid efficiency, delivering an impressive 36 MPG, and offers radar-based rear-seat reminders for added peace of mind. The Kia Carnival, often lauded as a “MPV” or multi-purpose vehicle, is celebrated for its flexible seating and innovative in-cabin voice controls, making long journeys more manageable. When considering a minivan, families should weigh these undeniable space and convenience benefits against the slightly lower (though still competent) performance in the very latest, most stringent crash test scenarios.
### Who Wins on Value?
Beyond the initial purchase price, the true value of a family car unfolds over years of ownership, encompassing factors like fuel economy, long-term reliability, and especially, predicted resale value. Our comprehensive look at the top-rated family vehicles of 2025 reveals distinct advantages across the board, catering to diverse budgets and priorities.
The Honda Accord and Toyota Camry lead the pack for affordability and overall value, offering impressive combined MPG figures (up to 48 MPG and 51 MPG respectively) and robust resale values for under $30,000. These sedans are practical workhorses that minimize running costs. As we step into the SUV segment, the Kia Telluride emerges as a best all-around SUV, balancing generous cargo space (87 cu. ft.) and seating for eight with an attractive starting price of $37,805. The Mazda CX-90 offers a more premium feel for around $40,000, blending performance with a luxurious interior and solid cargo.
For those embracing electric mobility, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 provides a quiet EV ride with a substantial range of 361 miles, while the Ford Mustang Mach-E delivers bold tech and a flexible frunk for around $43,000. Stepping into the premium EV space, the Kia EV9, while starting higher at $56,395, offers a highly advanced seven-seater experience with expansive cargo capacity and an approximate 304-mile range. Finally, the Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid, at around $37,700, strikes a fantastic balance for eco-conscious families, blending three-row practicality with 36 MPG. Each of these vehicles not only excels in safety but also provides compelling long-term value, ensuring your investment pays off in both protection and practicality.
At the end of the day, selecting the safest family car is a deeply personal decision, one that extends far beyond a simple checklist of features. It’s about finding that perfect blend where top-tier safety, proven by rigorous testing, meets the unique demands of your family’s lifestyle, budget, and daily routines. The 2025 automotive market, with its impressive array of sedans, SUVs, and innovative electric options, offers more choices than ever for confident, secure family travel.
Read more about: The Top 14 Vehicles Built to Go the Distance: Your Guide to 350,000+ Mile Reliability
Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, expansive cargo space for a growing crew, or the latest in electric vehicle technology, the vehicles highlighted here represent the pinnacle of family protection and practicality. Drive smart, drive safely, and choose the vehicle that truly earns its indispensable spot in your family’s journey, delivering peace of mind on every mile. Make an informed decision, and hit the road knowing your most precious cargo is well-protected.
