Best Family SUVs for Safety and Space (Under $40k)

When shopping for a family SUV, two factors reign supreme: safety and space. Families need vehicles that protect passengers in an accident, offer ample room for car seats, strollers, and gear, and stay within a budget. After analyzing crash-test ratings, cargo capacity, and expert reviews, here are the top 5 family SUVs under $40k that deliver on safety, practicality, and value.

1. 2024 Honda CR-V

Price: $30,850–$39,600
Safety Rating: 5/5 stars (NHTSA) | Top Safety Pick+ (IIHS)
Key Safety Features:

• Honda Sensing® Suite (standard): Collision Mitigation Braking, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control.
• Front and rear side curtain airbags.
  Space:
• Passenger Volume: 105.9 cubic feet.
• Cargo Space: 39.3 cubic feet (75.8 with seats folded).
  Why It Stands Out:
  The CR-V’s spacious interior, intuitive infotainment, and hybrid option (41 MPG combined) make it ideal for families. Its rear-seat legroom (40.4 inches) outperforms rivals like the Toyota RAV4.
  Expert Praise:
  “The CR-V’s combination of safety, fuel efficiency, and cargo space makes it a no-brainer for families.” – Consumer Reports.

2. 2024 Toyota Highlander

Price: $38,880–$48,355
Safety Rating: 5/5 stars (NHTSA) | Top Safety Pick (IIHS)
Key Safety Features:

• Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (standard): Pedestrian Detection, Lane Tracing Assist.
• Available Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
  Space:
• Seating: 8 passengers (standard).
• Cargo Space: 16 cubic feet (behind third row) | 84.3 cubic feet (max).
  Why It Stands Out:
  The Highlander’s standard third row and legendary reliability (predicted 85/100 reliability score from J.D. Power) cater to large families.
  Expert Praise:
  “Few SUVs balance practicality and durability as well as the Highlander.” – Kelley Blue Book.

3. 2024 Hyundai Palisade

Price: $37,735–$51,785
Safety Rating: 5/5 stars (NHTSA) | Top Safety Pick (IIHS)
Key Safety Features:

• Hyundai SmartSense: Highway Driving Assist, Safe Exit Warning.
• Rear Occupant Alert (prevents leaving children/pets in the car).
  Space:
• Passenger Volume: 154.2 cubic feet (best-in-class).
• Cargo Space: 18 cubic feet (behind third row) | 86.4 cubic feet (max).
  Why It Stands Out:
  The Palisade’s premium cabin, user-friendly tech, and 10.25-inch touchscreen appeal to tech-savvy families.
  Expert Praise:
  “The Palisade offers luxury-level features at a mainstream price.” – Edmunds.

4. 2024 Subaru Outback

Price: $29,620–$41,895
Safety Rating: 5/5 stars (NHTSA) | Top Safety Pick+ (IIHS)
Key Safety Features:

• Standard Symmetrical AWD and EyeSight® Driver Assist.
• DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System.
  Space:
• Cargo Space: 32.5 cubic feet (75.7 max) – largest in its class.
• Ground Clearance: 8.7 inches (great for snowy roads).
  Why It Stands Out:
  The Outback’s wagon-like design provides best-in-class cargo room for road trips, while standard AWD ensures safety in harsh weather.
  Expert Praise:
  “No SUV rivals the Outback’s blend of versatility and safety tech.” – Car and Driver.

5. 2024 Kia Telluride

Price: $38,735–$53,435
Safety Rating: 5/5 stars (NHTSA) | Top Safety Pick (IIHS)
Key Safety Features:

• Kia Drive Wise: Lane Following Assist, Smart Cruise Control.
• Available Surround View Monitor.
  Space:
• Third-Row Legroom: 31.4 inches (generous for adults).
• Cargo Space: 21 cubic feet (behind third row) | 87 cubic feet (max).
  Why It Stands Out:
  The Telluride’s upscale interior and quiet ride make it a favorite among families seeking refinement.
  Expert Praise:
  “The Telluride continues to set the standard for three-row SUVs.” – MotorTrend.

How We Chose These SUVs

• Safety: Prioritized NHTSA/IIHS ratings and standard driver-assist features.
• Space: Evaluated cargo room, passenger volume, and third-row usability.
• Budget: Focused on trims priced under $40k (base or mid-trim configurations).

Honorable Mentions

• 2024 Mazda CX-90: Upscale interior but starts at $40,000 (slightly over budget).
• 2024 Ford Explorer: Strong towing capacity but lower reliability scores.

Final Tips for Buyers

1. Test Third Rows: Ensure adults can fit comfortably (e.g., Telluride > Highlander).
2. Check Insurance Costs: SUVs with advanced safety tech (e.g., Subaru EyeSight) may qualify for discounts.
3. Consider CPO Models: Certified Pre-Owned SUVs like the 2023 Palisade offer savings under $40k.

Monetization Disclosure

USTVtrends.com is partner with any.

FAQ:
Q: Which SUV has the most cargo space under $40k?
A: The Subaru Outback (75.7 cubic feet max) and Kia Telluride (87 cubic feet).

Q: Are these SUVs good for car seats?
A: Yes! The Honda CR-V and Hyundai Palisade offer LATCH anchors and wide rear doors for easy installation.

Q: Do any of these SUVs offer hybrid options?
A: The Honda CR-V Hybrid ($34,850) achieves 40 MPG combined.

Updated: Jan, 2025