Hunting for the right used car for your family in 2025 is no walk in the park. You need something that won’t break down, keeps everyone safe, and won’t drain your bank account. At American Auto Insurance in Chicago, we’ve done the homework to help you sort through the best family vehicles available, with solid picks for all budgets and setups. From small cars to big SUVs, we’ve got you covered.
Key Features To Look For in Family Cars
Although you should list your needs based on reliability and features when shopping for the best family car, put safety first. Find vehicles with strong crash ratings and newer tech, such as automatic braking, lane alerts, and blind-spot warnings — all now common in everyday cars. Find seats that adjust easily.
Fuel economy counts, especially when gas prices spike. Consider your passenger count and weekend activities. Do you need space for groceries, sports equipment, and strollers, or will something smaller work? Tech features such as screens and charging ports make long trips bearable.
The Best Used Cars by Category
We’ve picked cars across different types and price points to match what families in 2025 need. Our choices are vehicles that score high on crash tests, sip gas reasonably, deliver good value, and don’t break down. Since the average car on the road is 12.5 years old, most of our picks come from 2013-2020 — new enough to have decent features but old enough to be affordable.
Best Full-Size Sedans
Large sedans offer car-like handling with better fuel economy than many SUVs. The 2010 Toyota Avalon shines here. It feels like a luxury ride without the price tag. Expect a smooth drive, spacious interior, and legendary Toyota reliability. Used 2010 Avalons typically cost $4,600-$10,700, yielding about 23 mpg combined.
Consider the 2011 Buick Lucerne, too. This American sedan offers a whisper-quiet cabin with ultracomfy seats, ideal for family road trips. Its V-6 provides good power with 20 mpg efficiency. The 2011 Lucerne comes with six standard airbags and optional blind-spot alerts, with prices ranging from $4,700-$8,000. Both vehicles accommodate car seats or lanky teens equally well, serving families at any life stage.
Most Reliable Compact Cars
If you have a smaller family or need a second vehicle, compacts should be your priority in your search for reliable and affordable used cars. The 2018 Toyota Corolla stands out with smooth riding and 32 mpg efficiency. Its back seat surprises with space, the controls are simple, and crash-prevention features come standard. Expect to pay $10,400-$16,000. It’s not cheap, but you’re getting modern safety tech.
Don’t overlook the 2012 Scion xD. This underdog boasted Bluetooth and HD Radio as standard, fancy for 2012. You can expect rock-solid reliability, cheap maintenance, 29 mpg, and good safety ratings. They sell for around $7,100-$7,400. Both vehicles offer surprising space for car seats and groceries.
Top-Rated Minivans
For hauling kids and gear, minivans rule. The 2014 Honda Odyssey features a built-in vacuum cleaner in some versions. It offers massive space for passengers and cargo with flexible seating configurations. It delivers 22 mpg combined and has strong safety ratings. Budget $7,500-$13,800 depending on trim and mileage.
The 2014 Toyota Sienna also deserves a look. All-wheel drive makes it perfect for winter weather, and its safety ratings excel. With prices at around $11,700-$16,000, it comfortably fits eight without cramping and delivers about 21 mpg. Both vans feature kid-proof sliding doors, entertainment systems, and plenty of charging ports to prevent backseat battles.
Family-Friendly Hybrid and Electric Options
The 2019 Toyota Camry Hybrid gets a stunning 52 mpg. It has a smooth ride, a roomy interior, collision warnings, and smart cruise. Models from 2019 sell for $21,200-$23,900 — pricier up front, but savings at the pump add up.
The 2011 Chevrolet Volt is a plug-in hybrid that goes 50 miles on electricity before gas kicks in. It fits four comfortably, drives whisper quiet, and feels surprisingly modern despite its age. You can find one for around $4,750.
Used SUVs: Ideal for Family Adventures
SUVs mix space and comfort. The 2015 Honda Pilot meets these family needs with eight seats, car-like handling, and trusted reliability. It offers 18 cubic feet behind the third row or 87 cubic feet with seats down. It also achieves 20 mpg and has good crash ratings. A 2015 Pilot costs $12,000-$16,000, varying by condition.
Make sure you don’t miss the 2013 Toyota Highlander. This seven seater’s second row converts from bench to captain’s chairs for easy third-row access. With available all-wheel drive, it has 10 cubic feet behind the third row or 95 cubic feet when you fold it flat. At 22 mpg and $11,400-$14,000, it balances daily needs and weekend trips.
Budget-Friendly Options
The 2016 Mazda CX-5 combines practicality with fun driving. Its 2.4-liter engine with a continuously variable transmission provides good power at 24 mpg. It’s enjoyable to drive yet roomy for kids and gear. Well-maintained 2016 models cost $11,000-$14,300.
The 2016 Toyota Prius v is also worth considering. It achieves 42 mpg combined, and its wagon shape offers flexible cargo space that beats compact cars. The 2016 range typically costs $13,800-$15,100. Both vehicles prove you don’t need big money for a practical family car with modern features.
The Best SUVs for Long-Distance Travel
The 2016 Mazda CX-9 blends hauling with luxury. Its 2.5-liter turbo provides passing power at 24 mpg. For $13,100-$16,300, expect a quiet cabin, smooth ride, and 14.4 cubic feet behind the third row (71.2 with seats down).
Costing around $8,000-$17,200, the 2014 Chevrolet Suburban accommodates nine and tows 8,100 pounds. A massive 137.4 cubic feet opens up when you lower its seats. It gets 18 mpg with a 31-gallon tank, rides well despite its size, and often includes DVD systems.
Tips for Buying a Used Family Car
Choosing a used family car requires balancing needs, budget, and safety. Set a practical budget covering purchase and maintenance costs, and focus on long-term reliability and features matching how your family lives. Check consumer sites for what real owners say about reliability and skip the surprise repair bills. You can complete 95% of the car buying process online now, so great value without compromising what matters isn’t hard to find.
Bring your family to test-drives — they spot things you miss — and drive for 30 minutes on various roads. Don’t forget your license, phone (to check connectivity), and feature checklist. Consider a certified preowned vehicle if your budget allows; they include warranties and thorough checks. Study repair histories, and get that $150 mechanic inspection. Walk away if something feels off. Your ideal car exists; be patient and thorough in your search.
Find the Right Policy at American Auto Insurance
While searching for the right vehicle, don’t overlook proper insurance. Good cars need good coverage. For family-friendly rates that fit your needs, our dedicated team at American Auto Insurance in Chicago is here to help. Contact us online, or call 773-286-3500. We’ll help you find a policy that works for your family and budget.
Family at the Back of a Car by Kampus Production is licensed with Pexels License
