DriveCosts

Family vehicles

Best Road Trip Cars for Families

A family road-trip car needs three rows of seats (or two with serious cargo), strong IIHS safety scores, and at least 25 MPG so a cross-country trip doesn't drain the vacation budget. These picks balance all three.

  • Updated for 2026
  • US units
  • US avg fuel prices
  • EPA-style MPG
  • Transparent assumptions

How to read this guide

Examples
Numbers shown in this guide are illustrative estimates, not personalized quotes.
Use the calculators
For exact figures use the linked calculators with your real MPG, miles and local fuel price.
Updated periodically
Content is reviewed against recent EPA, DOE, AAA and EIA references.

Minivan vs 3-row SUV

Minivans (Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica) win on space, sliding doors and loading kids. The Sienna hybrid even gets 36 MPG combined — better than most sedans. 3-row SUVs (Highlander, Telluride, Pilot) look better in the driveway but typically lose 5–8 MPG and are harder to load.

Safety and tech features that matter

Look for IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, standard adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and rear-seat reminder alerts. All 2024+ Toyota, Honda, Hyundai and Kia 3-row vehicles include these.

Real-world family fuel costs

For a 1,500-mile family road trip at $3.45/gal: Toyota Sienna Hybrid (~$144), Honda Pilot (~$235), Chevy Suburban (~$345). The Sienna saves $200+ vs a full-size SUV on a single trip. Run your route in the Trip Cost Calculator.

Vehicles to consider

minivan · regular

Toyota Sienna

36 MPG combined

See fuel cost
minivan · regular

Honda Odyssey

22 MPG combined

See fuel cost
suv · regular

Toyota Highlander

25 MPG combined

See fuel cost
suv · regular

Honda Pilot

21 MPG combined

See fuel cost
suv · regular

Kia Telluride

23 MPG combined

See fuel cost
minivan · regular

Chrysler Pacifica

22 MPG combined

See fuel cost

Browse all 180+ vehicles →

Popular routes

Orlando → Miami

Los Angeles → San Diego

Atlanta → Nashville

Dallas → Houston

Chicago → Indianapolis

Seattle → Portland

Browse all road trip routes →

Frequently asked questions

What is the most fuel-efficient family vehicle?

The Toyota Sienna Hybrid at 36 MPG combined leads all 7-seaters by a wide margin.

Are 3-row SUVs worth it over a minivan?

Only if you tow, off-road, or need AWD. For pure family hauling, minivans win on space, MPG and loading ease.

What's the safest family road-trip vehicle?

The Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride and Toyota Sienna all carry IIHS Top Safety Pick+ ratings as of 2024.

How much extra does a 3-row SUV cost vs a sedan on a road trip?

Typically 35–60% more in fuel. A 1,000-mile trip costs ~$110 in a Camry vs ~$170–$220 in a Highlander or Tahoe.

Calculators

Vehicle categories

Guides & collections