Japanese and Korean Models Dominate Kelley Blue Book’s Best Family Cars of 2023
The Kelley Blue Book (KBB) experts have once again unveiled their choices for the best family vehicles of the year, with Japanese and Korean brands taking center stage. This year’s list predominantly includes two-row and three-row SUVs, alongside some versatile minivans, showcasing a wide range of options for family needs. Notably, Honda, Toyota, and Hyundai each have three entries on the list, while Ford stands as the sole representative of U.S. manufacturers with its highly regarded Ford Expedition.
Rigorous Evaluation Standards
KBB’s testers not only use Kelley Blue Book’s extensive data but also draw upon safety evaluations from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The evaluation focuses on safety, value, reliability, driving experience, comfort, and convenience to help families make the most informed purchasing decisions.
"When selecting a family car, it’s vital to take into account safety and tech features, seating and cargo capacity, and the ease of installing a child safety seat," notes Brian Moody, executive editor for Kelley Blue Book.
Best Two-Row SUVs for Families
Here’s a closer look at KBB’s top picks in the two-row SUV category:
- 2023 Honda CR-V: Redesigned for 2023, the Honda CR-V continues to excel as a family-friendly choice with enhanced features and capabilities.
- 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5: Offering up to 300 miles of range, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 boasts ample space for passengers and cargo, providing a quiet and comfortable environment.
- 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe: Known for its stylish design and advanced technology, the Hyundai Santa Fe delivers considerable value for a midsize SUV.
- 2023 Subaru Outback: This model stands out for its comprehensive standard safety features, all-weather reliability, and generous interior space.
- 2023 Toyota RAV4: The versatile Toyota RAV4 offers multiple powertrain options, including gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid, making it a practical choice for various family needs.
Best Three-Row Vehicles for Families
In the three-row category, KBB recommends:
- 2023 Ford Expedition: Ideal for families seeking comfort, capability, and convenience, the Ford Expedition ticks all the boxes.
- 2023 Honda Odyssey: This minivan remains a top pick for its family-friendly interior, outstanding safety ratings, and exceptional build quality.
- 2023 Honda Pilot: Redesigned for 2023, the Honda Pilot features a spacious, easily reconfigurable interior, making it a pleasure for family trips.
- 2023 Hyundai Palisade: With room for eight, the Hyundai Palisade offers an upscale interior, comprehensive safety features, and an excellent warranty.
- 2023 Kia Telluride: For the fourth consecutive year, the Kia Telluride wins KBB’s Best Buy Award in the 3-Row Midsize SUV category due to its practicality and overall excellence.
- 2023 Toyota Highlander: The best-selling three-row SUV in the U.S., the Toyota Highlander, is lauded for its dependable interior design, standard safety features, and superior hybrid option.
- 2023 Toyota Sienna: Earning KBB’s Minivan Best Buy for 2023, the Toyota Sienna combines minivan space and practicality with outstanding fuel efficiency and available all-wheel drive.
Conclusion
Kelley Blue Book’s comprehensive evaluation aims to guide families through the crowded market of over 300 new vehicle models available for 2023. By focusing on essential factors like safety, convenience, and value, KBB ensures that families can make confident, well-informed choices that meet their dynamic needs.
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Michael Cole, Editor of Automotive.fyi
