Summer is getting closer, which means Americans are buckling up. According to AAA, 80% of people plan to take a road trip this summer, which could mean it’s time to upgrade your wheels. Parents Magazine and Edmunds released their annual list of 10 Best Family Cars for 2017, just in time to hit the road.
They looked at thousands of cars, and considered value, family-friendly features, and vehicle performance – including safety features and fuel efficiency – in determining which cars would make the cut.
BEST ECO-FRIENDLY CAR
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is an electric car that starts at $29,995, after a $7,500 federal tax credit. It can travel up to 238 miles on one charge. The car also has a wi-fi hotspot, and has the capability to connect up to seven devices at once.
BEST BUDGET VEHICLE
The Kia Soul starts at $16,100. It has a spacious interior, fits five and comes with a six-speaker audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a voice-activated entertainment system.
BEST HATCHBACK
The Subaru Crosstrek is an all-wheel drive hatchback and starts at $21,695. It’s equipped with voice control and can be upgraded to include adaptive cruise control. It also has an easy-to-clean interior.
BEST SMALL SEDAN
The Honda Civic starts at $18,740 and has ample trunk and seating space for families. It also comes with safety features like a multi-angle rearview camera.
BEST SEDAN
The Hyundai Sonata starts at $21,950 and has a variety of luxury features like Apple CarPlay and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. It’s affordable, spacious, and easy to drive.
BEST MIDSIZE CROSSOVERS
The Mazda CX-5 starts at $24,045 and comes with a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen. Its roomy interior includes a folding rear-seat, which provides an extra seat in the back with enough space for cargo.
The Honda CR-V starts at $24,045 and includes new features like a large storage bin, roomy door pockets and two device-charging ports.
BEST WAGON
The Subaru Outback starts at $25,645 and is designed for off-roading family adventures. They’ve upgraded the interior to include luxury features like user-friendly touchscreens and plush seating.
BEST MINIVAN
The Chrysler Pacifica starts at $28,595 and fits up to eight passengers. Additional features include active noise cancellation for a quiet cabin and the Uconnect infotainment system.
BEST SUV
The Toyota Highlander starts at $30,630 and has a V6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It also includes five charging ports and a safety bundle that includes a collision-avoidance system and pedestrian detection.
