The American road trip remains a beloved family tradition, with 80% of families choosing to explore the country by car rather than plane, according to recent travel industry data. “The vehicle you choose can make or break a family road trip,” says automotive expert Maria Rodriguez. Finding the perfect SUV means balancing spacious interiors, comfort features, reliability, and fuel efficiency—all while keeping everyone entertained during those long stretches of highway. Whether you’re planning a cross-country adventure or weekend getaways, we’ve researched and ranked the best SUVs that transform ordinary family travel into extraordinary road trip experiences.
What Makes an SUV Road Trip-Worthy?
A truly road trip-worthy SUV transcends basic transportation and becomes your family’s trusted travel companion. The difference between simply reaching your destination and enjoying the journey hinges on several critical features.
Cargo space stands as perhaps the most fundamental requirement. The ideal road trip SUV offers not just abundant volume but thoughtfully designed storage that accommodates everything from luggage to recreational gear. Flexible cargo configurations allow you to adapt the vehicle to your specific needs, whether that’s maximizing passenger space or prioritizing storage.
Seating configuration directly impacts everyone’s comfort over long distances. The best road trip SUVs feature seats with proper lumbar support, adequate cushioning, and enough width to prevent fatigue. Multi-way adjustability ensures drivers of different heights can find their optimal position, reducing strain during extended driving sessions. For passengers, spacious second and (when applicable) third rows with recline functionality make a substantial difference in comfort.
Climate control systems deserve careful consideration, particularly multi-zone options that allow different temperature settings throughout the cabin. This seemingly small feature can prevent endless thermostat battles and keep everyone comfortable regardless of personal preferences.
Fuel economy impacts both your travel budget and the frequency of refueling stops. An SUV with superior range means fewer interruptions and more efficient progress toward your destination. Modern hybrid and plug-in hybrid options have transformed the market, offering impressive efficiency without sacrificing capability.
Safety features provide essential peace of mind, particularly during long journeys through unfamiliar territory. Advanced driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking reduce driver fatigue and enhance overall safety. Additional features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts prove particularly valuable when navigating busy highway traffic or unfamiliar parking facilities.
Technology and entertainment options transform potentially tedious hours into enjoyable family time. Contemporary infotainment systems with smartphone integration, multiple USB ports, and wireless charging capabilities keep everyone’s devices powered and connected. For families with children, rear entertainment systems with streaming capabilities can make the difference between pleasant travel companions and constant complaints from the back seats.
Spacious Three-Row Champions for Large Families
The Kia Telluride has rapidly established itself as the benchmark for three-row family SUVs. Its boxy design maximizes interior volume, resulting in a genuinely adult-friendly third row—a rare feature even among full-size SUVs. The second-row captain’s chairs (available on higher trims) slide and fold with simple one-touch operation, making third-row access remarkably straightforward. With all seats in place, the Telluride still offers 21 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to an impressive 87 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.
The Ford Expedition takes spaciousness to another level for families requiring maximum capacity. This true full-size SUV offers cavernous interior proportions with a highly configurable cabin. The Expedition’s power-folding third row creates a flat load floor within seconds, transforming passenger space into cargo room effortlessly. In the extended-length Max variant, cargo capacity expands to a class-leading 121.5 cubic feet, accommodating even the most ambitious family packing lists.
Chevrolet’s Traverse distinguishes itself through thoughtful storage solutions integrated throughout the cabin. Beyond its competitive overall cargo volume (23 cubic feet behind the third row, 98.2 cubic feet maximum), the Traverse features numerous small-item storage compartments, including a hidden storage area beneath the rear cargo floor. The Smart Slide second row facilitates easy third-row access even with child seats installed—a significant advantage for families with younger children.
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid delivers a compelling balance of space and efficiency. While its third row remains best suited for children or smaller adults, the hybrid powertrain achieves an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined—remarkable efficiency for a vehicle of this size. This translates to fewer fuel stops and reduced travel costs without sacrificing the versatility families need.
The Subaru Ascent combines the brand’s legendary all-weather capability with accommodations for up to eight passengers. Standard all-wheel drive provides confidence in challenging conditions, while the flat-folding seats offer flexibility for varying passenger-to-cargo ratios. The Ascent includes thoughtful details like 19 cup holders and available Wi-Fi connectivity, making it well-suited for extended family journeys regardless of weather conditions.
Mid-Size SUVs with Outstanding Comfort Features
Honda’s CR-V exemplifies ergonomic excellence with a design prioritizing human comfort over flashy aesthetics. The front seats offer exceptional support for drivers of various body types, with extended thigh support reducing fatigue during long stretches behind the wheel. The rear seats recline to multiple positions and offer class-leading legroom despite the CR-V’s compact exterior dimensions. Honda’s attention to noise insulation creates a notably quiet cabin, facilitating conversation without raised voices even at highway speeds.
The Mazda CX-90 delivers near-luxury appointment at mainstream pricing. Materials throughout the cabin exceed expectations, with genuine wood trim, available Nappa leather seating surfaces, and thoughtful touch points wherever occupants interact with the vehicle. The driver-focused cockpit incorporates Mazda’s human-centric design philosophy, positioning controls precisely where hands naturally fall. The CX-90’s front seats feature pressure distribution designed to maintain natural spinal alignment during extended drives, substantially reducing driver fatigue.
Hyundai’s Santa Fe incorporates innovative features specifically engineered for road trip comfort. The Calligraphy trim includes premium touches like quilted Nappa leather upholstery and microsuede headliner materials typically found in luxury brands. The available Relaxation Mode front seats recline to a near-flat position during stops, allowing drivers to rest comfortably during break periods. USB ports strategically positioned throughout all three rows ensure device charging remains convenient for all occupants.
The Toyota RAV4 Prime combines comfort with remarkable efficiency. This plug-in hybrid delivers 42 miles of all-electric range before transitioning to hybrid operation—sufficient for many daily drives and eliminating fuel consumption during short segments of longer journeys. The Prime’s powertrain produces a combined 302 horsepower, delivering confident acceleration even when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. The SofTex upholstery resists staining and cleans easily, a practical consideration for families traveling with food and beverages.
Volkswagen’s Atlas Cross Sport sacrifices the third row found in its Atlas sibling to create exceptionally generous accommodations for five passengers. The additional interior volume translates to limousine-like rear legroom and a significantly expanded cargo area. The panoramic sunroof bathes the cabin in natural light, creating an airy, spacious environment appreciated during long journeys. The Cross Sport’s wide stance contributes to excellent stability, particularly appreciated during highway driving in crosswinds or when passing larger commercial vehicles.
Fuel-Efficient Options for Budget-Conscious Travelers
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid dominates fuel efficiency discussions among three-row SUVs, achieving an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined (35 city/35 highway). This remarkable efficiency stems from Toyota’s fourth-generation hybrid system, which seamlessly transitions between electric and gasoline power sources. For perspective, the Highlander Hybrid’s fuel economy represents approximately 30% improvement over comparable non-hybrid three-row SUVs. With its 17.1-gallon fuel tank, the Highlander Hybrid offers a theoretical range exceeding 600 miles under optimal conditions—potentially covering entire interstate corridors without refueling.
Ford’s Escape Hybrid leverages the company’s extensive experience with electrification to deliver impressive efficiency in the compact SUV segment. The front-wheel-drive variant achieves 44 mpg city/37 mpg highway, while even the all-wheel-drive configuration maintains 43 mpg city/37 mpg highway. The Escape Hybrid’s 14.2-gallon fuel tank enables a potential range exceeding 550 miles, minimizing stops on long-distance journeys. Additionally, the hybrid system’s components position beneath the floor, preserving cargo capacity compared to the standard model.
The Lexus NX Hybrid represents the luxury approach to efficiency, combining premium appointments with responsible fuel consumption. The NX 350h model achieves 41 mpg city/37 mpg highway/39 mpg combined with standard all-wheel drive. Unlike some efficiency-focused vehicles, the NX Hybrid sacrifices nothing in terms of comfort or luxury features, offering climate-controlled seats, premium audio, and supple materials throughout. The available F SPORT Handling model even delivers engaging driving dynamics for enthusiast drivers seeking both efficiency and performance.
Kia’s Sportage Hybrid delivers value-oriented efficiency, with EPA ratings of 42 mpg city/44 mpg highway/43 mpg combined in front-wheel-drive configuration. The Sportage Hybrid maintains the standard model’s practical dimensions while incorporating a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor. The resulting 227 horsepower provides substantially more responsive acceleration than the standard model, enhancing both efficiency and drivability. The Sportage Hybrid’s starting price undercuts many competitors, making advanced hybrid technology accessible to more budget-conscious travelers.
The Hyundai Tucson PHEV takes efficiency further with its plug-in hybrid architecture, offering 33 miles of all-electric range before transitioning to hybrid operation. This dual-nature operation proves particularly advantageous during road trips with overnight stops, as the battery can be recharged at hotels or campgrounds equipped with Level 2 chargers. Once the battery depletes, the Tucson PHEV continues operating as a conventional hybrid, achieving 35 mpg combined. The 13.8 kWh battery qualifies for federal tax incentives, further enhancing the value proposition for frequent travelers.
Tech and Entertainment Features That Enhance Road Trips
Infotainment systems have evolved from simple radio controls to comprehensive command centers managing everything from navigation to climate settings. The Kia/Hyundai family currently leads mainstream brands with their intuitive interface, responsive touchscreens, and thoughtful integration of physical controls for frequently accessed functions. Ram’s Uconnect 5 system merits recognition for its customizable home screen and split-screen functionality that displays navigation and media simultaneously. Both systems support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, eliminating cable clutter.
Rear-seat entertainment has progressed dramatically from the DVD players of previous generations. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers an available rear entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV built in, allowing passengers to stream content, play games, and even control compatible smart home devices while traveling. The Chrysler Pacifica (though technically a minivan, not an SUV) sets the standard with dual 10.1-inch HD touchscreens that support streaming from numerous services, HDMI input, and even built-in games. These systems transform potentially tedious drives into enjoyable entertainment experiences for younger passengers.
Connectivity features now extend beyond simple smartphone integration. The Ford Expedition offers an available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot supporting up to 10 connected devices simultaneously, ensuring everyone maintains internet access regardless of cellular coverage. The GMC Yukon’s available 15-watt wireless charging pad accommodates larger smartphones with cases, eliminating the frustration of devices that won’t stay positioned on older charging surfaces. The Genesis GV80 incorporates USB-C ports delivering faster charging speeds for compatible devices, addressing the increased power demands of modern electronics.
Navigation systems have evolved beyond basic routing to incorporate contextual information enhancing travel experiences. Luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW offer augmented reality navigation overlaying directional graphics onto live camera views, eliminating confusion at complex intersections. More accessible SUVs like the Mazda CX-5 include integration with fuel price services, identifying the most economical refueling options along your route. Many current navigation systems incorporate weather data, adjusting routes to avoid severe conditions or suggesting additional stops when conditions deteriorate.
Driver assistance technology significantly reduces fatigue during extended highway driving. The Nissan Rogue’s ProPILOT Assist combines adaptive cruise control with lane-centering and traffic jam assist, maintaining safe following distances while keeping the vehicle positioned in its lane. The Subaru Outback’s DriverFocus system monitors for signs of driver distraction or drowsiness, providing alerts when attention appears to wane. The Lincoln Navigator’s Active Glide system (similar to Ford’s BlueCruise) allows truly hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways, though drivers must remain attentive with eye tracking ensuring they watch the road.
Storage Solutions and Cargo Capacity Champions
Strategic storage compartments transform an SUV from merely spacious to genuinely practical for road trips. The Honda Passport excels with its innovative underfloor storage in the cargo area, providing 2.5 cubic feet of hidden storage for valuables or rarely-needed emergency supplies. The Volkswagen Atlas features up to 17 cupholders and storage compartments, including door pockets large enough to accommodate full-size water bottles. The Hyundai Palisade incorporates dual glove compartments, seatback pockets with dedicated device pouches, and a floating center console design with storage beneath.
Roof rack compatibility significantly expands carrying capacity beyond internal dimensions. The Subaru Outback’s standard raised roof rails include swing-out crossbars that deploy without tools, eliminating the need for aftermarket solutions. These rails accommodate up to 150 pounds of cargo while driving and support 700 pounds when parked, sufficient for rooftop tents. The Jeep Grand Cherokee features optional roof rack systems specifically designed for specialized equipment like kayaks, bicycles, or ski/snowboard carriers, with accessory-specific attachments that install without tools.
Versatile seating-to-cargo configurations provide flexibility for varying travel needs. The Honda CR-V’s rear seats fold completely flat with a single lever pull, creating a continuous cargo floor without awkward gaps or height differences. The Kia Telluride’s second-row seats slide forward while remaining upright, accommodating longer items while still carrying passengers. The Ford Expedition’s power-folding third row can be controlled via buttons in the cargo area, allowing reconfiguration without walking around to passenger doors.
Hidden storage areas provide security for valuables during tourist stops. The Toyota RAV4 incorporates a sizeable concealed compartment beneath the rear cargo floor, accommodating camera equipment, laptops, or other valuables out of sight. The Mazda CX-9 features a clever roll-top center console design that conceals contents without requiring the entire compartment to be closed. The Nissan Pathfinder includes under-floor storage behind the third row, providing secure storage even when all seats are occupied.
Loading ease represents a frequently overlooked aspect of cargo practicality. The Volkswagen Atlas features a hands-free power liftgate that opens with a foot motion beneath the rear bumper, invaluable when approaching with arms full. The Kia Sorento’s relatively low load floor height reduces the effort required to load heavy items. The GMC Acadia’s programmable liftgate height adjustment prevents contact with low garage ceilings while ensuring adequate clearance for taller users. These seemingly minor features significantly impact the daily usability of these vehicles, particularly when loaded with road trip supplies.
All-Weather and Off-Road Capable Family Haulers
The Jeep Grand Cherokee balances refined on-road manners with genuine off-road capability few competitors can match. The available Quadra-Lift air suspension provides up to 10.9 inches of ground clearance when needed, yet lowers for improved aerodynamics and easier entry/exit during normal driving. The Selec-Terrain system adjusts multiple vehicle parameters to optimize performance across conditions ranging from sand to snow to rocks. For families seeking maximum capability, the Trailhawk trim includes electronic limited-slip differential, disconnecting sway bar, and skid plates protecting vulnerable components.
Subaru’s Outback delivers all-weather reliability wrapped in a practical wagon-like package. The standard symmetrical all-wheel drive system continuously optimizes power distribution based on conditions, providing confident handling on wet or snowy roads. The X-Mode system, standard on most trims, incorporates hill descent control and optimized traction control calibration for unpaved surfaces. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance—exceeding many traditional SUVs—the Outback confidently navigates rutted dirt roads and modest trails while maintaining car-like handling on pavement.
The Toyota 4Runner represents old-school ruggedness in an era of car-based crossovers. Its body-on-frame construction and available part-time four-wheel drive system with low range deliver exceptional capability in challenging environments. The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims include Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control systems that automatically manage throttle and braking inputs across difficult terrain. While the 4Runner’s on-road manners reflect its truck-based heritage, its legendary durability makes it a compelling option for families whose adventures extend well beyond paved roads.
Ford’s Bronco Sport brings surprising capability to the compact SUV segment. While sharing underpinnings with the Escape, the Bronco Sport features significantly revised suspension tuning, increased ground clearance, and enhanced approach/departure angles. The Badlands trim includes an advanced all-wheel drive system with a twin-clutch rear differential that can direct torque to individual wheels. The G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) modes tailor vehicle systems to specific conditions, while the available front trail camera helps navigate obstacle-strewn paths.
The Land Rover Discovery Sport delivers premium appointments without sacrificing the brand’s off-road heritage. The Terrain Response 2 system automatically detects surface conditions and adjusts vehicle parameters accordingly, though drivers can also select modes manually.
Your Road Trip Adventure Awaits
The perfect family road trip SUV is ultimately the one that best matches your specific needs. Consider your typical passenger count, cargo requirements, and the terrain you’ll encounter most often. The SUVs we’ve highlighted excel in different categories, but they all share a commitment to family comfort, safety, and reliability. Before making your final decision, take extended test drives with your family to ensure everyone approves of the space and features. After all, the best memories aren’t just about the destinations—they’re about enjoying the journey together in a vehicle that feels like a second home on wheels.
