Top Features to Look for in a Family SUV

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Introduction

When choosing the right family car in terms of SUVs, the choice goes beyond cool looks and powerful engines. Families require a car that offers a near-perfect blend of safety, comfort, space, and technology and the ability to handle the hustle of daily school runs as much as the bustle of weekend getaways and everything in between. There are a lot of models of smartwatches on the market, so it’s important to find out which features really make a difference. Here’s a closer look at some of the most important features to consider when you’re looking for a family SUV.

Safety Features

For families, SAFETY IS THE NUMBER ONE ISSUE. Thankfully, today’s SUVs are chockablock with sophisticated safety tech. Find models that receive high marks from safety groups like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Key safety features include:

AEB: Automatically brakes to prevent a collision.

Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) warns the driver when there is a vehicle in the blind spot.

Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) provide a warning to the driver if the vehicle is too close to lane markers and help the driver stay within lanes.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Keep distance between the car in front while on the highway.

Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: a crucial feature to help you reverse out of crowded parking lots safely.

Surround-View Camera: Offers a bird’s-eye view around the SUV, which helps when parking in tight spaces.

Spacious and Flexible Seating

Space is important when you are raising kids with car seats and a friend every once in a while is along for the ride. Look for SUVs that offer:

Three rows of seats: This is now readily available in most midsize and large SUVs, with room for 6 or 8 passengers.

Adjustable second and third rows: With sliding and reclining second-row seats, passengers will enjoy more legroom, or there’s space for cargo.

Easy access to the 3rd row: Walk-in access or hands-free fold makes it easier to let the kids in.

Child’s play The SUV could double as a jungle gym: Just make sure it has at least a couple of easy-to-access LATCH anchors for the little ones.

There are some family-friendly SUVs that even have captain’s chairs in the second row, which offer more comfort and a clear pathway to the third row.

Cargo Space and Storage Solutions

A family SUV needs to be able to contain groceries, strollers, sports equipment, and travel luggage without a sweat. For instance, compare capacities with the seats both up and folded down.

Split-folding seats: A 60/40, or even 40/20/40, split makes it easier to load long cargo, yet leaves over a portion of that rear-passenger space.

Concealed storage areas: Concealed storage in the form of underfloor bins or seat back pockets also helps reduce interior clutter.

Hands-free lift gate: A must for when your arms are full with groceries or a child.

Comfort and Convenience Features

When it comes to long road trips and daily commuting, a cabin space that keeps everyone satisfied is crucial.

Tri-zone climate control: Allows the driver, front passenger, and rear passengers to set their ideal temperature.

Could come with heated and ventilated seats: perfect for all-year comfort.

Panoramic sunroof: Lets the cabin feel bright and open.

Whisper-quiet cabin in design: All-round double-paned windows and sound-deadening materials keep road noise outside to let you enjoy peaceful drives.

Rear seat sunshades: Shading kids from the sun during comfortable travel for both parents and babies.

Advanced Infotainment and Connectivity

Today, family life is connected, and your SUV should be, too. Today’s SUVs provide tech that entertains children and keeps parents focused on driving.

Touchscreen infotainment system: Seek out an easy-to-use system with a big, clear display.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: The two finally become one with a smartphone by way of navigation, music, and calling.

Rear-seat entertainment systems: Available on select SUVs, these screens provide a welcome distraction for the kids on long drives.

All-row USB ports: Make sure everyone’s devices stay charged.

Wi-Fi hotspot: Everyone onboard can have fun, even on road trips.

Fuel Efficiency and Powertrain Options

Family SUVs no longer need to guzzle gas. Instead, many models offer hybrid or plug-in hybrid versions that can put money back in your pocket at the pump.

Fuel-stingy powertrains: Turbocharged four-cylinders and hybrids serve up a healthy dose of power and efficiency.

All-wheel drive (AWD): Offers improved grip in rain and snow, a must for families in cold climates.

Towing capacity: If your family loves boating or camping, make sure your SUV can pull your toys.

Ride Quality and Handling

A family SUV should be so smooth and comfortable that it doesn’t make passengers feel every bump in the road.

Independent suspensions: These offer improved handling and ride comfort.

Selectable drive modes: Certain SUVs come with snow, mud, or sport modes that can adjust how the car performs depending on the road ahead.

Cozy steering and brakes: The steering and brakes make parents feel more comfortable when their kids take an adventurous ride on the town.

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