What Are the Best 2020 SUV Models for Families?

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Remember when minivans were the must-have vehicles of families across America? Although minivans still hold a special place in the hearts of some drivers, many modern parents have refocused their attention on roomy SUVs to get the space they need for their kids and all their gear — but with a heftier dose of style to appease their own tastes.

When you’re ready to shop for a new family vehicle, SUVs are popular choices, especially when they combine the space of a minivan with the comfort and style of a luxury sedan. Whether you need a third row seat to accommodate a growing family or a large cargo area for all that soccer gear, you can find the right SUV for the job. Here’s a look at some of the top SUV models for families in 2020.

2020 Mazda CX-5

Thanks to premium interior styling, the Mazda CX-5 feels like a luxury sedan in a compact SUV body. The smaller size allows for smooth handling that grips the road like a sedan, but you still have plenty of cargo space for transporting common items like groceries, luggage and sports equipment. The sporty yet practical SUV comes in all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive models and comfortably seats up to five people.

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2020 Honda CR-V

If you want a compact SUV to save on fuel costs, you can’t go wrong with the Honda CR-V. The sleek vehicle may look small on the outside, but it’s roomier than expected on the inside, with seating for five people and ample cargo room for hauling groceries, strollers and more. The fuel economy is an impressive 27-28 mpg in the city and 32-34 mpg on the highway. Even better, the Honda Sensing safety suite — a group of alert systems designed to improve driver safety — comes standard on the 2020 models.

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2020 Mazda CX-9

If you’re in the market for a mid-size SUV but still budget conscious, the Mazda CX-9 with its fuel-efficient engine might be the right choice for your family. Besides good fuel economy, it provides many features that normally cost extra, such as heated seats, as standard equipment. The manufacturer’s iActivsense suite of safety features now come standard on every vehicle as well. Seating in this model accommodates six to seven people, depending on the interior features selected.

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2020 Ford Edge

Although the Ford Edge only seats up to five people (no third row option), it’s classified as a mid-size SUV for its otherwise roomy interior. It comes in slightly larger than the CR-V and has a stylish appeal that is reminiscent of a luxury vehicle. In fact, the list of standard features on the Edge is impressively long and includes dual-zone climate control, remote engine start, rear parking aid and rain sensing wipers. With a 9.8 J.D. Power safety rating, this SUV is one you can drive with confidence.

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2020 Honda Pilot

The spacious overall size of the Honda Pilot makes it a popular choice for those transporting teenagers or other adults — seven to eight total — although fully loaded models can stretch some families’ budgets to the breaking point. Even passengers sitting in the third row tend to find this roomy SUV to be quite comfortable. The cargo space in the Honda Pilot provides plenty of storage space in the rear, while storage cubbies and a bin below the main armrest help out passengers during the ride.

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2020 Toyota Highlander

Families keep choosing the Toyota Highlander for very good reasons, and the fully redesigned 2020 model doesn’t let them down. The mid-size SUV is stylish, comfortable and reliable, with features like keyless start and heated mirrors provided as standard equipment. Keeping your family’s safety in mind, Toyota includes its trademark Safety Sense, which includes Lane Departure Warning, Traction Control and Brake Assist, in every vehicle as well.

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2020 Nissan Armada

Moving up to the large SUV category, the Nissan Armada provides the perfect entry level vehicle for those moving beyond midsize to get their hands on more space. It seats eight people but doesn’t provide quite as much third row legroom as other full-size SUVs, but it boasts more than enough room for average size families. Built-in safety features include Brake Assist and Traction Control.

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2020 Ford Expedition

One of the largest SUVs on the road, the Ford Expedition features interior accents and perks that immediately distinguish it from other full-size SUVs on the market. Powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, it has all the power you need to tackle any kind of road trip as well as all the cargo space necessary to store all your luggage. With ample second- and third-row legroom, the passenger space in the Expedition is among the best on the market. Other amenities include Co-Pilot360 Driver Assist technology for maximum safety and control on the road.

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2020 Chevrolet Tahoe

If you want to keep everyone entertained on the road, the Chevrolet Tahoe has a premium, user-friendly entertainment system that can help. As a full-size SUV with plenty of space to accommodate up to eight passengers, the Tahoe is an ideal choice for large families who do a lot of driving. Additionally, if you and your family enjoy boating or camping, this SUV has all the power you need — and a helpful trailer hitch — to make towing a breeze.

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2020 Toyota Sequoia

If you want plenty of family-friendly features, the Toyota Sequoia is for you. The comfy SUV includes a rear USB port for charging devices to ensure your kids never run out of juice on long road trips. Other options include a rear entertainment system and rear heated seats for extra soothing comfort on those long trips. Safety features include Brake Assist, Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Departure Warning.

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