The 7 Best SUVs for Family Road Trips

Benefits of an SUV for Family Road Trips

When it comes to embarking on an epic family road trip across Canada, an SUV offers numerous advantages that make the journey more comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable for everyone on board. Here are the key benefits of choosing an SUV for your cross-country adventure:

Spaciousness: SUVs are designed with ample interior space, providing a roomy cabin that ensures your family can stretch out and relax during those long hours on the road. With generous headroom and legroom, even taller passengers can travel in comfort, and there’s no need to feel cramped or confined.

Comfort: In addition to the spacious interior, SUVs often come equipped with a host of comfort features that make road trips more enjoyable. From plush, supportive seating to amenities like heated seats and climate control systems, you and your family can settle in and enjoy the journey. Many SUVs also offer a smooth, cushioned ride that helps minimize fatigue on those extended drives.

Convenience: SUVs are engineered with convenience in mind, making them ideal for road trips. Features like easy access to the cargo area, ample storage compartments, and a commanding driving position all contribute to a hassle-free experience. You’ll appreciate the ability to quickly load and unload luggage, as well as the added visibility and control that comes with a higher seating position.

Safety: With their larger size and higher ride height, SUVs provide a sense of security on the road. Many models come equipped with advanced safety features like all-wheel drive, electronic stability control, and a suite of driver-assist technologies that can help you navigate various road conditions and terrain with confidence. The added visibility and solid construction also contribute to a safer journey.

Capability: Canada’s diverse landscapes often present challenges, from winding mountain roads to rugged off-road trails. SUVs are designed to handle these varying terrains with ease, thanks to their robust suspension systems, higher ground clearance, and available all-wheel or four-wheel drive options. Whether you’re navigating a snowy mountain pass or exploring a remote camping spot, an SUV’s capability ensures you can tackle the journey with confidence.

Cargo Space: One of the most significant advantages of an SUV is its generous cargo capacity. With ample room for luggage, outdoor gear, coolers, and all the essentials your family needs for a road trip, you can pack everything you need without having to leave anything behind. Many SUVs also offer versatile seating configurations, allowing you to maximize cargo space when needed.

Key Factors When Choosing an SUV for Road Trips

When selecting an SUV for family road trips across Canada, there are several crucial factors to consider to ensure a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable journey. Passenger capacity is vital, as you’ll need enough seats to accommodate your entire family comfortably. Cargo capacity is equally important, as you’ll need ample space for luggage, gear, and any other essentials you’ll be bringing along.

Fuel efficiency is another key consideration, as you’ll be covering long distances, and a thirsty SUV can quickly become a financial burden. Look for models that strike a balance between power and fuel economy, ensuring you have enough muscle to handle various terrains while still delivering decent gas mileage.

Technology features are also essential for modern road trips. Look for SUVs with advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control, which can help make your journey safer and less stressful. Entertainment systems, such as built-in screens and Wi-Fi hotspots, can also help keep your family occupied during long stretches on the road.

Comfort features like heated and ventilated seats, adjustable lumbar support, and ample legroom can make a significant difference in your overall enjoyment of the trip. A smooth, quiet ride is also important, as you’ll be spending many hours behind the wheel.

Reliability is another critical factor, as the last thing you want is to be stranded on the side of the road with a broken-down vehicle. Research the reliability records of different SUV models and brands to ensure you’re choosing a dependable vehicle that won’t let you down in the middle of your adventure.

If your road trip plans include venturing off the beaten path or tackling rugged terrain, you’ll want to prioritize off-road capability and all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) systems. These features will give you the traction and ground clearance you need to navigate challenging conditions with confidence.

Finally, budget is always a consideration when making a major purchase like an SUV. Determine how much you can realistically afford to spend, factoring in not only the purchase price but also ongoing costs like fuel, insurance, and maintenance. By balancing your needs and wants with your financial constraints, you can find an SUV that meets your road trip requirements without breaking the bank.

Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that offers a well-rounded package for families seeking a reliable and comfortable vehicle for road trips across Canada. With seating for up to eight passengers and a spacious interior, the Highlander provides ample room for both people and cargo.

One of the standout pros of the Toyota Highlander is its reputation for reliability and dependability. Toyota is known for building vehicles that can go the distance, making the Highlander an excellent choice for long road trips. Additionally, the Highlander comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control, providing peace of mind for families on the road.

While the Highlander excels in many areas, one potential con is its somewhat limited cargo space compared to some of its competitors, particularly when the third row is in use. Additionally, base models may lack some of the amenities and comfort features that families desire for extended road trips.

The Toyota Highlander is an ideal choice for families looking for a dependable and comfortable road trip SUV that offers a balance of space, safety, and fuel efficiency. With its well-rounded capabilities and Toyota’s reputation for quality, the Highlander is a solid option for families planning epic road trips across Canada.

MSRP Range: The Toyota Highlander has an MSRP range of approximately $38,000 to $50,000, depending on the trim level and options selected.

Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV that offers a spacious interior, excellent safety ratings, and a host of available tech features, making it an appealing choice for families embarking on road trips across Canada. This SUV boasts a roomy cabin with seating for up to eight passengers, ensuring ample space for everyone to stretch out and stay comfortable during long drives.

One of the standout pros of the Honda Pilot is its impressive safety ratings. It has consistently earned top marks from safety organizations, thanks to its advanced safety features, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. This added peace of mind can be invaluable when navigating unfamiliar roads and terrain.

Additionally, the Pilot offers a wide range of available tech features to enhance the road trip experience. These include a user-friendly infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and rear-seat entertainment systems to keep passengers entertained during those long stretches of highway.

On the downside, the Pilot’s ride quality may not be as smooth as some of its competitors, and its fuel economy figures are not particularly impressive, especially with the larger engine option. However, for families prioritizing interior space, seating capacity, and advanced safety features, the Honda Pilot remains a compelling choice.

The Honda Pilot is an ideal SUV for budget-conscious families who require ample seating and cargo space for their road trip adventures across Canada. With its well-rounded capabilities and impressive safety ratings, it offers a practical and reliable option for those seeking a comfortable and secure journey.

The MSRP range for the Honda Pilot starts at around $38,000 for the base LX trim and can reach upwards of $50,000 for the top-of-the-line Elite trim, making it a relatively affordable choice in the midsize SUV segment.

Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer is a stalwart in the midsize SUV segment, offering a blend of power, technology, and interior refinement for families embarking on road trips across Canada. This iconic American SUV boasts a muscular presence and a range of potent engine options, ensuring a confident and capable driving experience.

Overview/Specs: The Explorer lineup includes several engine choices, including a standard turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine that delivers 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, Ford offers an optional 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that generates an impressive 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive is available for enhanced traction and control on various road surfaces.

Pros:

• Powerful engine options for confident acceleration and towing capability
• Abundance of high-tech features available, including Ford’s SYNC infotainment system, advanced safety technologies, and driver-assist features
• Well-appointed and spacious interior with premium materials and thoughtful design

Cons:

• Third-row seating can feel cramped, especially for adults on longer trips
• Recent reliability ratings from independent organizations have been below average for the Explorer
• Fuel efficiency could be better, especially with the more powerful engine options

Ideal For: The Ford Explorer is an excellent choice for families who prioritize powerful performance, cutting-edge technology, and a premium interior experience on their road trips across Canada. It’s well-suited for those who value a commanding driving experience and don’t mind sacrificing a bit of fuel efficiency for the sake of capability.

MSRP Range: The Ford Explorer’s starting price ranges from around $36,000 for the base model to over $60,000 for the top-of-the-line trim levels with all the bells and whistles.

Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride is a midsize SUV that has quickly become a standout in its class since its introduction in 2020. With seating for up to 8 passengers, this three-row SUV offers a spacious and well-appointed interior that belies its relatively affordable price point.

Overview/Specs: The Telluride is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It’s available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations. Fuel economy is respectable at an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for the FWD models.

Pros:

• Affordable pricing compared to many competitors, with an MSRP range of $32,790 – $43,690
• Upscale and well-designed interior with high-quality materials
• Generous cargo space of up to 87 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down
• Impressive 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty

Cons:

• As a newer model, long-term reliability is still unknown
• Some may perceive the Kia brand as lacking the prestige of more established luxury brands
• Third-row seating is a bit cramped for adults on longer trips

Ideal For: The Kia Telluride is an excellent choice for value-focused families who want an upscale SUV experience with plenty of space and features without the premium price tag of many competitors.

MSRP Range: $32,790 – $43,690

Subaru Ascent

The Subaru Ascent is a midsize three-row SUV that’s perfect for Canadian families who love the great outdoors. With standard all-wheel drive and generous ground clearance, the Ascent is ready to tackle rough roads and light off-road trails on your road trip adventures.

Overview/Specs: The Ascent comes powered by a 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 260 horsepower. It has a spacious interior with seating for up to 8 passengers across its three rows. Cargo space is ample at 86.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

Pros:

• Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for superior traction
• 8.7 inches of ground clearance for off-road capability
• EyeSight driver assist technology with advanced safety features
• Durable construction and long-lasting quality from Subaru

Cons:

• Third-row seating is cramped for adults
• Below-average fuel economy at 20 mpg city/26 mpg highway
• Lacks some premium amenities found in rivals

Ideal For: Outdoorsy Canadian families who frequently venture off the beaten path and want the security of standard AWD, as well as modern safety technologies.

MSRP Range: $32,295 – $45,045

Hyundai Palisade

The Hyundai Palisade is a midsize three-row SUV that offers a compelling blend of style, space, and value. With seating for up to eight passengers, the Palisade boasts a cavernous interior with plenty of room for both people and cargo.

Overview/Specs: The Palisade is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available for improved traction and capability. It offers up to 86.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded down.

Pros:

• Stylish and modern exterior design
• Premium and well-appointed interior with high-quality materials
• Generous passenger and cargo space for its class
• Excellent value proposition with a long list of standard features
• Comprehensive warranty coverage for added peace of mind

Cons:

• Ride quality is less refined than some competitors
• Unproven reliability as a relatively new model
• Lacks some of the off-road capability of more rugged SUVs

Ideal For: The Hyundai Palisade is an excellent choice for design-conscious families who prioritize style, space, and value. It offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior, along with a generous cargo area, making it a practical choice for long road trips.

MSRP Range: The Hyundai Palisade has a starting MSRP of around $33,000 for the base model, with higher trim levels reaching around $47,000.

Mazda CX-9

The Mazda CX-9 is a midsize three-row SUV that delivers a more premium and athletic driving experience compared to many competitors. Under the hood is a punchy 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that provides ample power and responsiveness. The CX-9’s interior is upscale and well-crafted, with high-quality materials and a clean, modern design.

Pros:

• Athletic handling and engaging driving dynamics
• Upscale interior with premium materials and design
• Responsive turbocharged engine with good acceleration
• Available advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control

Cons:

• Third-row seating is cramped and best suited for children
• Infotainment system can be glitchy and unintuitive at times
• Fuel economy is average for the midsize SUV class
• Cargo space behind third row is limited compared to some rivals

Ideal For: Families who enjoy driving and want a more premium midsize SUV with athletic handling and an upscale interior, even if they have to sacrifice some third-row room and cargo space.

MSRP Range: $33,960 – $46,605

Outfitting Your SUV for Road Trips

To maximize the comfort, convenience, and preparedness of your family SUV for those long road trips across Canada, there are several key accessories to consider adding:

Car organizers and storage bins are essential for keeping the interior cargo area tidy and items easily accessible. Look for durable, collapsible bins that can be configured in various ways. Cargo boxes or roof racks provide additional exterior storage for bulkier items like camping gear.

Sun shades for the windows can help keep the cabin cooler and reduce glare on sunny days. Invest in high-quality, custom-fit sun shades for maximum coverage. Travel-friendly floor mats with deep grooves and raised edges will contain dirt, mud, and spills, protecting your SUV’s interior.

A well-stocked first aid kit should be standard equipment, containing bandages, antiseptic, medications, and other medical essentials. An emergency roadside kit with items like jumper cables, tools, warning triangles, and a tire inflator can be a lifesaver if your SUV has issues.

For keeping kids entertained on those long drives, consider mounting tablets or displays to the headrests and loading them with movies, games, and audio books. A high-capacity cooler is perfect for keeping snacks, drinks, and even meals fresh during your journey.

A portable jump starter can get your SUV’s battery recharged if it dies, without requiring another vehicle. Emergency supplies like blankets, warm coats, boots, and a shovel could prove invaluable if stranded in severe weather. If bringing pets along, equip your SUV with accessories like travel bowls, kennels, and seat covers.

Conclusion

With its spacious interior, excellent fuel efficiency, and reputation for reliability, the Toyota Highlander emerges as a top choice for families embarking on Canadian road trips. The Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer also offer compelling options with their ample seating, robust safety features, and available tech-savvy amenities. For those seeking exceptional value, the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade deliver premium interiors and abundant cargo space at a more affordable price point.

Meanwhile, the Subaru Ascent caters to adventurous families with its standard all-wheel drive and impressive ground clearance, while the Mazda CX-9 combines athletic handling with a luxurious cabin, appealing to those who prioritize driving dynamics. Regardless of your specific preferences, keep in mind factors such as passenger capacity, cargo room, fuel efficiency, technology features, comfort amenities, reliability records, and off-road capabilities when selecting the perfect SUV for your family’s needs.

Before embarking on your journey, be sure to thoroughly test drive and inspect your chosen SUV to ensure it meets your expectations. Proper packing and preparation are also crucial, including equipping your vehicle with essential road trip accessories like organizers, roof racks, sun shades, and emergency kits. Most importantly, prioritize safety by adhering to traffic laws, taking regular breaks, and remaining vigilant on the road.

With the right SUV and proper planning, your family can embark on an unforgettable road trip adventure across Canada’s breathtaking landscapes, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Use this comprehensive guide to select the perfect SUV and outfit it for maximum comfort, convenience, and peace of mind, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey from start to finish.