Best Back to School Cars 2025: Safe and Spacious Options for Families

As the school year kicks off, many families are thinking about more than just new backpacks and schedules—they’re thinking about transportation. Whether you’re navigating busy school drop-off lines, planning weekend soccer trips, or sending a new driver off to high school, especially if you have teenagers, choosing a vehicle that is safe and suitable for teenagers is crucial. At Kunes Chevrolet GMC of Lake Geneva, we’ve put together this back-to-school car buying guide to help you find the best vehicle for your family.

Choosing the right vehicle for your family means balancing a variety of important factors. Safety ratings should always be at the top of your list, as they reflect how well a vehicle can protect your loved ones in the event of a crash. Look for vehicles that perform well in crash prevention tests and offer advanced standard features like lane keep assist and rear automatic braking—these technologies can make a big difference in highway safety and everyday driving.

For families who need extra room, a three-row SUV is often the best choice. These vehicles provide generous cargo space and seating for up to seven or eight passengers, making them ideal for carpooling, road trips, and busy school mornings. Fuel efficiency is another key consideration, especially for daily commutes and weekend activities. Modern SUVs and minivans are designed to offer a combination of space, comfort, and impressive mpg ratings, so you don’t have to sacrifice efficiency for room.

When comparing family vehicles, pay close attention to features that enhance convenience and safety, such as flexible seating arrangements, ample cargo capacity, and advanced braking systems. The right combination of space, safety, and features will ensure your family travels comfortably and securely, no matter where the road takes you.

When selecting a vehicle for your family’s needs, prioritize these key features:

• Top safety ratings
• Spacious interiors and ample cargo space
• Fuel efficiency for daily driving
• Advanced driver-assist features
• Optional third-row seating for carpooling

These vehicles were selected based on authoritative rankings from trusted automotive and safety organizations, ensuring you get options recognized for their performance, safety, and overall quality.

Below are some of the top-rated family vehicles for back-to-school buyers in 2025.

One of the most reliable family-friendly SUVs of 2025, the CR-V offers excellent fuel economy, Honda Sensing® safety features, and plenty of legroom for growing kids.

For eco-conscious families, this hybrid SUV delivers excellent fuel efficiency without sacrificing interior comfort or cargo space. It’s a smart pick for school runs and weekend getaways alike.

Compared to the Hyundai Tucson, which boasts improved safety ratings and advanced safety features for 2025, the Santa Fe Hybrid remains a strong choice for those prioritizing both efficiency and family-friendly design.

This minivan for school commute is a top choice for parents juggling multiple drop-offs. With third-row seating and stow-and-go storage, it’s the ultimate family hauler.

If you’re looking for space and safety, these SUVs hit the mark:

• Ford Explorer – Ideal for larger families with third-row seating and advanced safety tech.
• Jeep Grand Cherokee L – Rugged enough for weekend adventures, refined enough for weekday drop-offs.
• Chevrolet Traverse – A favorite for school carpool vehicles, thanks to best-in-class cargo volume.

Compact SUVs are also a popular choice for families who want a balance of space, practicality, and maneuverability. Choosing a compact SUV offers the benefits of easier city driving and parking, while still providing ample room for passengers and cargo.

The automotive industry is constantly evolving, with new and updated models designed to meet the needs of modern families. For the upcoming model year, several manufacturers are introducing vehicles that raise the bar for safety, technology, and comfort. Look for three row SUVs and midsize SUVs that offer improved fuel efficiency, more spacious cabins, and the latest in crash prevention technology.

Many of these new models feature advanced safety systems as standard, including lane keep assist, rear automatic braking, and pedestrian detection. Updated moderate overlap crash tests and higher safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety are becoming the norm, giving parents extra peace of mind. In addition, automakers are focusing on flexible cargo space and innovative storage solutions, making it easier than ever to pack for school, sports, or family vacations.

Whether you’re interested in a hybrid SUV for better mpg or a tech-forward minivan with a luxurious interior, the latest vehicles offer a wide range of options to fit your family’s lifestyle and budget.

Shopping for a student driver or recent grad?

These models are not only safe and reliable but also affordable to purchase, making them practical choices for students and families.

Today’s best family cars for back-to-school include:

• Blind-spot monitoring & rear cross-traffic alerts
• Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto™ for easy navigation
• Hands-free liftgates for convenience
• Flexible seating and car seat-friendly design
• Built-in Wi-Fi for kids on the go
• Advanced wheel safety features such as tire pressure monitoring systems and enhanced wheel design for improved handling and safety

Shopping for a family vehicle can feel overwhelming, but a few key steps can help you make the best choice. Start by researching safety ratings from trusted sources like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and looking at crash prevention test results. These scores provide valuable insight into how well a vehicle will protect your family in real-world situations.

Next, consider your space needs. Test drive vehicles to see how comfortable the cabin feels, how easy it is to access the third row, and whether the cargo space meets your daily requirements. Don’t forget to check for standard features like lane keep assist, rear automatic braking, and flexible seating—these can make a big difference in convenience and safety.

Compare base prices and higher trims to find the best value for your budget. Look for models with a long list of standard features, good fuel efficiency, and a reputation for reliability. Finally, ask about available financing options and any special deals for back-to-school buyers. Taking the time to compare and test vehicles will help you find the perfect fit for your family.

Setting a realistic budget is a crucial step in the car buying process, especially for families. Start by determining how much you can comfortably spend on a monthly payment, factoring in the base price of the vehicle, potential upgrades to higher trims, and ongoing costs like insurance and maintenance. Remember to consider fuel efficiency, as a vehicle with better mpg can save you money over time.

Look for vehicles that offer a strong combination of value and features, such as a spacious cabin, advanced safety technology, and a competitive price point. Many of the best cars for families come with a long list of standard features, so you don’t have to stretch your budget for essential safety or convenience options.

Explore financing options through your dealership, and don’t hesitate to ask about special promotions or back-to-school deals. By balancing your needs for space, safety, and affordability, you can find a family vehicle that fits both your lifestyle and your budget.

At Kunes Chevrolet GMC of Lake Geneva, we understand the needs of busy families. Our dealerships offer:

• A wide selection of affordable family vehicles
• Flexible financing options
• Expert staff to help you compare trims and test drive with confidence
• Special back-to-school vehicle deals

From compact sedans for students to full-size SUVs with all the room you need, Kunes has your back-to-school car solution. Shop online or visit your nearest Kunes dealership to browse top family vehicles for 2025, and check out the latest winners in family vehicle categories.