If you're a parent shopping for an SUV right now, I feel your pain. There are literally dozens of options, each promising to be the perfect family hauler. I've driven them all so you don't have to.
After spending six months testing every family SUV on the market — schlepping kids to soccer practice, loading bikes, and surviving road trips — here are my top seven picks.
NUMBER ONE: Kia Telluride SX ($47,490) — The Telluride remains the three-row SUV benchmark. The 291-hp V6 provides confident acceleration, the second row is genuinely spacious, and the third row can actually accommodate humans.
NUMBER TWO: Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max ($46,210) — The Hybrid Max powertrain delivers 362 hp AND 35 mpg combined. That's witchcraft.
NUMBER THREE: Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy ($52,470) — This rolling living room features quilted Nappa leather, a digital side mirror system, and second-row captain's chairs that recline, heat, and ventilate.
NUMBER FOUR: Honda Pilot TrailSport ($44,815) — Steel skid plates, all-terrain tires, and a terrain management system. It's also the best-driving three-row SUV you can buy.
NUMBER FIVE: Chevrolet Traverse RS ($38,100) — Vastly improved interior quality, a punchy 315-hp 2.5-liter turbo, and one of the largest cargo areas in the class.
NUMBER SIX: Mazda CX-90 PHEV ($49,950) — 26 miles of electric-only range and interior design that rivals luxury brands costing $20,000 more.
NUMBER SEVEN: Subaru Ascent Touring ($45,690) — Standard all-wheel drive and EyeSight safety system make the Ascent the safest choice on this list.
The bottom line? The Kia Telluride remains my overall top pick, but you genuinely can't go wrong with any SUV on this list. The family SUV segment has never been this good.