When it comes to transporting your most precious cargo—your family—safety and space are non-negotiable. Fortunately, the SUV market in 2024 is brimming with outstanding choices that offer the perfect blend of cutting-edge safety tech, roomy interiors, and family-friendly convenience. Whether you’re navigating city streets, carpooling to soccer practice, or embarking on a cross-country road trip, the right SUV can transform your journey from stressful to seamless.
We’ve researched crash-test ratings, interior dimensions, standard safety features, and comfort levels to bring you the Top 10 Family SUVs for Safety and Space in 2024. This guide covers everything you need to make an informed decision that suits your family’s lifestyle and priorities.
1. 2024 Toyota Highlander
Why It’s Great for Families:
The Toyota Highlander continues to be a leader in the three-row midsize SUV segment. With a spacious interior, user-friendly infotainment system, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability, it’s a go-to for many families.
Safety Highlights:
- Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+
- Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
- Lane departure alert with steering assist
- Top IIHS Safety Pick+
Space & Comfort:
- Seating Capacity: Up to 8
- Cargo Space: 16.0 cu ft (behind third row), 84.3 cu ft (maximum)
2. 2024 Honda Pilot
Why It’s Great for Families:
The redesigned 2024 Honda Pilot offers a rugged new look and more interior space than ever. It’s one of the most practical choices with a comfortable ride and clever storage solutions.
Safety Highlights:
- Honda Sensing Suite standard across all trims
- Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
- Excellent NHTSA crash test ratings
Space & Comfort:
- Seating Capacity: Up to 8
- Cargo Space: 18.6 cu ft (behind third row), 87.0 cu ft (maximum)
3. 2024 Kia Telluride
Why It’s Great for Families:
Still one of the most stylish and best-value SUVs on the market, the Telluride offers upscale features and an expansive interior. It combines affordability with a luxury feel.
Safety Highlights:
- Forward collision-avoidance assist
- Highway driving assist
- Surround-view monitor and safe exit assist
Space & Comfort:
- Seating Capacity: Up to 8
- Cargo Space: 21.0 cu ft (behind third row), 87.0 cu ft (maximum)
4. 2024 Hyundai Palisade
Why It’s Great for Families:
Essentially the corporate cousin of the Telluride, the Palisade adds a refined cabin, intuitive tech, and powerful V6 performance. Perfect for families who want upscale amenities without a premium price.
Safety Highlights:
- SmartSense driver-assistance tech standard
- Ultrasonic Rear Occupant Alert
- Excellent crash test scores
Space & Comfort:
- Seating Capacity: Up to 8
- Cargo Space: 18.0 cu ft (behind third row), 86.4 cu ft (maximum)
5. 2024 Subaru Ascent
Why It’s Great for Families:
Subaru’s largest SUV is a solid pick for safety-minded families, especially those in areas with harsh weather. Standard all-wheel drive and EyeSight driver assistance are major pluses.
Safety Highlights:
- EyeSight 4.0 system standard
- Lane centering, adaptive cruise control
- IIHS Top Safety Pick+
Space & Comfort:
- Seating Capacity: Up to 8
- Cargo Space: 17.8 cu ft (behind third row), 86.5 cu ft (maximum)
6. 2024 Ford Explorer
Why It’s Great for Families:
With plenty of engine options and tech upgrades, the Explorer is versatile for families needing performance and utility. It also comes in hybrid form, offering better fuel economy.
Safety Highlights:
- Ford Co-Pilot360 suite
- Rearview camera with washer
- Active park assist and evasive steering assist
Space & Comfort:
- Seating Capacity: Up to 7
- Cargo Space: 18.2 cu ft (behind third row), 87.8 cu ft (maximum)
7. 2024 Chevrolet Traverse
Why It’s Great for Families:
With one of the most cavernous interiors in the midsize SUV segment, the Traverse is ideal for large families or those who regularly haul sports gear, strollers, or luggage.
Safety Highlights:
- Chevy Safety Assist standard
- Teen Driver technology
- Forward collision alert and automatic emergency braking
Space & Comfort:
- Seating Capacity: Up to 8
- Cargo Space: 23.0 cu ft (behind third row), 98.2 cu ft (maximum)
8. 2024 Mazda CX-90
Why It’s Great for Families:
The CX-90 adds a touch of sporty elegance to the family SUV world. With luxurious interior materials and responsive handling, it appeals to parents who don’t want to sacrifice fun.
Safety Highlights:
- i-Activsense safety suite
- Traffic jam assist and driver attention alert
- 360-degree monitor
Space & Comfort:
- Seating Capacity: Up to 8
- Cargo Space: 15.9 cu ft (behind third row), 75.2 cu ft (maximum)
9. 2024 Volkswagen Atlas
Why It’s Great for Families:
The Atlas has one of the roomiest third rows in its class and excellent tech offerings. It’s an underappreciated gem for families wanting German engineering at a reasonable price.
Safety Highlights:
- Travel Assist with lane centering
- Adaptive cruise and emergency assist
- Standard front assist with pedestrian detection
Space & Comfort:
- Seating Capacity: Up to 7
- Cargo Space: 20.6 cu ft (behind third row), 96.8 cu ft (maximum)
10. 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
Why It’s Great for Families:
While technically a minivan, the Pacifica Hybrid earns a spot for redefining family mobility with plug-in efficiency and clever interior design. If SUV space is what you need, this vehicle delivers—without the SUV feel.
Safety Highlights:
- 360-degree surround view camera
- ParkSense front and rear assist
- NHTSA 5-star overall safety rating
Space & Comfort:
- Seating Capacity: Up to 7
- Cargo Space: 32.3 cu ft (behind third row), 140.5 cu ft (maximum with seats down)
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| SUV Model | Max Seating | Max Cargo (cu ft) | AWD Option | Top Safety Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander | 8 | 84.3 | Yes | IIHS Top Pick+ |
| Honda Pilot | 8 | 87.0 | Yes | NHTSA 5-Star |
| Kia Telluride | 8 | 87.0 | Yes | IIHS Top Pick+ |
| Hyundai Palisade | 8 | 86.4 | Yes | IIHS Top Pick+ |
| Subaru Ascent | 8 | 86.5 | Yes (Std) | IIHS Top Pick+ |
| Ford Explorer | 7 | 87.8 | Yes | NHTSA 5-Star |
| Chevrolet Traverse | 8 | 98.2 | Yes | NHTSA 5-Star |
| Mazda CX-90 | 8 | 75.2 | Yes | IIHS Top Pick |
| Volkswagen Atlas | 7 | 96.8 | Yes | NHTSA 5-Star |
| Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid | 7 | 140.5 | Yes | NHTSA 5-Star |
What to Look for in a Family SUV
When shopping for a family SUV, prioritize these features:
✅ Safety First
Look for SUVs with excellent crash-test ratings, advanced driver-assistance systems, and pedestrian detection.
✅ Room for Everyone
Ensure there’s enough headroom, legroom, and cargo space—even in the third row.
✅ Connectivity & Entertainment
Built-in Wi-Fi, multiple USB ports, and rear-seat entertainment systems can make long trips enjoyable.
✅ Fuel Efficiency
Many 2024 family SUVs now offer hybrid or plug-in hybrid options to help reduce long-term fuel costs.
✅ Smart Storage
Hidden bins, fold-flat seats, and configurable cargo areas are key for modern family needs.
Final Thoughts
Family SUVs in 2024 have evolved far beyond just “big cars.” They’re now high-tech, safety-focused, and comfort-driven machines designed to support your lifestyle. Whether you want hybrid fuel savings, space for eight, or every crash avoidance system known to man, there’s an SUV on this list ready for the challenge.
From the Toyota Highlander’s balanced excellence to the Chevy Traverse’s cavernous capacity, these top 10 SUVs deliver both safety and space—ensuring your family’s peace of mind with every mile.
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