Top 5 Family-Friendly Cars Redefining 2024's Driving Experience: Report Shared

Feb 24, 2024 12:23 AM EST

FAMILY AT THE BACK OF A CAR — (Photo : PEXELS/KAMPUS PRODUCTION)

Cars that are suitable for families are necessary for them to travel in comfort, safety, and convenience. When selecting the ideal family-friendly vehicle, comfort, safety, and practicality must be carefully taken into account.

Furthermore, amenities like plenty of cargo room and entertainment systems can improve both adults' and children's overall travel experiences. Reliability and fuel efficiency are also important considerations, particularly for lengthy journeys or everyday commuting. One may make an informed choice and locate a family-friendly vehicle that fits particular requirements while putting everyone's safety and comfort first by carefully weighing these factors.

Best Family-Friendly Cars: Top 5

9News provided a list of Drive's best family-friendly cars. The Drive Car of the Year winners are formally unveiled, presenting the best cars that will still be reasonably priced for families in 2024. A diverse array of automobiles, including high-end models, three-row SUVs, hybrids, electric vehicles, medium SUVs, and reasonably priced alternatives, were included in this year's list of family-friendly winners. The automobiles that are listed are as follows:

Top Family - Friendly Vehicle Below $80,000: Kia Carnival

The complete Carnival lineup is priced below $80,000, with a starting price even below $50,000. Furthermore, the standard equipment is comprehensive even at the base level, and Kia provides capped-price servicing for the initial seven years.

The standout choice for Drive is the Carnival SLi, featuring an efficient diesel engine and luxurious additions such as leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver's seat, power sliding doors, a power tailgate, and three-zone climate control, all available for $59,780 excluding on-road expenses.

Top Electric Family-Friendly Vehicle Below $100,000: Kia EV9

As per Electrek, Kia refers to the EV9's beginning price below $55,000 as a "signal to the industry." As sales have risen from 1,118 in December to 1,408 last month, the brand is already importing models to the US. Kia anticipates selling approximately 2,000 EV9 units per month in the future.

Boasting an extensive range of over 400km and rapid charging capabilities, the EV9 is a versatile electric vehicle that doubles as a convenient family car. Children will delight in the EV9's vehicle-to-load feature, enabling it to power various amenities from a hair dryer to decorative lights.

Additionally, parents will value the four ISOFIX-equipped seats, alongside five top-tether points and a middle seat that conveniently moves forward to facilitate access to the third row.

Top Midsize Family -Friendly SUV Priced Below $50,000: Honda CR-V

As reported by Drive as shared in 9News, the new Honda CR-V represents a resurgence for the Japanese automaker, offering increased size, enhanced technology, an expanded array of safety features, and improved cabin comfort. The CR-V lineup includes five and seven-seat variants priced under $50,000, as well as the option of petrol or hybrid powertrains. The 589-liter boot can be expanded to 1072 liters with the rear seats folded, and the vehicle is equipped with 11 airbags for added peace of mind. Additionally, Honda offers some of the lowest servicing costs in the market, charging just $199 every 12 months or 10,000km.

Top Midsize Family-Friendly SUV Priced Below $80,000: Lexus NX

According to Drive, as shared by 9News, the Lexus NX offers a choice between full-petrol or hybrid powertrains. The hybrid system not only ensures fuel efficiency, with an estimated 5-6L/100km on a combined cycle, but also provides the added advantage of smooth electric power at city speeds. Regardless of the NX trim level purchased, it includes features such as heated seats, dual-zone climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and active cruise control.

Top Full-Size Family-Friendly SUV Priced Below $80,000: Toyota Kluger

According to a report on 9News citing Drive, the Toyota Kluger has secured its third Drive Car of the Year award and continues to be a strong contender in the competitive full-size SUV market. This is attributed to a recent update that enhanced the infotainment system. The Kluger's spacious exterior translates to a roomy interior, featuring a convenient third row for unexpected guests.

Despite its size, it remains maneuverable in urban environments due to its light steering, excellent visibility, and elevated ride height. Additionally, Toyota's Safety Sense suite comes as a standard feature across all variants, and the brand's cost-effective capped-price servicing amounts to just $265 per annual visit for the first five years.