2020 Mazda CX-5
Starting a $25,190, the Mazda CX-5 comes in with a sporty and affordable option for those hauling precious cargo. The base model runs on a 2.5-liter, SKYACTIV-G engine with 187 horsepower, 186 pound-feet of torque and 2,000-pound towing capacity. With two rows of seating, the CX-5 can carry up to five passengers with a good sense of style. While smaller than others on this list, it still boasts 60 cubic feet of cargo volume. There are enough comfort and safety features included in this vehicle to warrant a second look from parents shopping for a family-friendly ride.
2020 Honda Passport
Starting at $31,990, the Honda Passport was named the best two-row SUV for families in 2020 by U.S. News and World Report for its roominess, safety (NHTSA 5-Star rating) and family features. The base model runs on a 3.5-liter engine with 280 horsepower, 262 pound-feet of torque and 3,500-pound towing capacity. It seats up to five, and with the second row folded down it can offer 100 cubic feet of cargo volume.
The Passport comes with neat features like underfloor storage compartments, heated and ventilated seats and tri-zone climate control. Every model comes with the Honda Sensing Suite, which is an array of tech-driven safety features and many tech accessories that are aftermarket items in other vehicles.
2021 Kia Telluride
Starting at $31,990, the Kia Telluride packs a lot of SUV value. The LX model comes with a 3.8-liter, V6 engine with 291 horsepower, 262 pound-feet of torque and 5,000-pound towing capacity. It offers three rows of seating for up to eight passengers, and conveniences like a touchscreen with rear camera and a smart key with push-button starting.
The Telluride has the distinction of being chosen as the New England Motor Press Association’s 2020 Winter SUV of the Year for its cold-weather handling, safety and comfort features. It was also Motor Trend’s SUV of the Year. Drivers can expect more of the same with the new model.
2020 Ford Expedition
Starting at $52,810, the Ford Expedition is an SUV for the family who wants it all. The 3.5-liter, EcoBoost V6 engine produces 375 horsepower and a best-in-class 470 pound-feet of torque, along with up to 9,300 pounds of towing capacity. There’s lots of legroom with 171.9 cubic feet of cargo volume in the passenger area, which seats up to eight.
As powerful as the mechanical side is, the comfort and utility of the Expedition is turned up a notch as well. A voice recognition communications system, Wi-Fi hotspot and four 12-volt power points are among the standard inclusions. Add in a safety package packed with child-specific details and you have a premiere vehicle ready for a family road trip.
