Best Used Cars for Families in 2025

When shopping for a family-friendly used car, safety, reliability, and interior space are top priorities. Whether you need a spacious SUV, a fuel-efficient sedan, or a minivan with kid-friendly features, there are plenty of affordable and reliable options in the used car market.

This guide highlights the best used cars for families in 2025, focusing on safety ratings, affordability, comfort, and practicality.

What to Look for in a Family Car

• High safety ratings – Check crash-test scores from NHTSA and IIHS.
• Spacious interior – Enough room for kids, car seats, and cargo.
• Good fuel efficiency – Keeps long trips budget-friendly.
• Easy-to-use technology – Infotainment systems, rear-seat entertainment, and safety features.
• Affordable maintenance – Reliable models with low-cost repairs and parts.

Best Used Sedans for Families

1. 2018-2022 Honda Accord

• Why It’s Great: Spacious, reliable, and fuel-efficient.
• Safety: 5-star NHTSA rating, standard Honda Sensing safety features.
• Best For: Families who want a practical and affordable sedan.

2. 2019-2023 Toyota Camry

• Why It’s Great: Long-lasting with low maintenance costs.
• Safety: Standard Toyota Safety Sense, high crash-test ratings.
• Best For: Families needing a dependable, everyday car.

3. 2017-2022 Subaru Legacy

• Why It’s Great: Standard all-wheel drive (AWD) for better winter handling.
• Safety: EyeSight driver-assist technology.
• Best For: Families who live in areas with snow and ice.

Best Used SUVs for Families

4. 2016-2021 Honda CR-V

• Why It’s Great: Reliable, fuel-efficient, and tons of cargo space.
• Safety: 5-star NHTSA rating, available AWD.
• Best For: Small families needing a versatile SUV.

5. 2018-2023 Toyota Highlander

• Why It’s Great: Spacious, with a third-row option for larger families.
• Safety: Toyota Safety Sense suite.
• Best For: Families needing more seating without a minivan.

6. 2016-2022 Subaru Outback

• Why It’s Great: AWD and rugged design make it great for road trips.
• Safety: Advanced driver-assistance features.
• Best For: Families who travel often or live in rural areas.

Best Used Minivans for Families

7. 2017-2022 Honda Odyssey

• Why It’s Great: Best-in-class cargo and seating options.
• Safety: Advanced safety tech, high crash-test ratings.
• Best For: Larger families needing the most interior space.

8. 2016-2021 Toyota Sienna

• Why It’s Great: Available AWD and hybrid options.
• Safety: Toyota Safety Sense, strong reliability.
• Best For: Families looking for fuel efficiency and comfort.

Budget-Friendly Family Cars Under $15,000

For families looking to save money, these models offer safety and reliability at a lower price:

• 2015-2019 Mazda CX-5 – Sporty and fuel-efficient compact SUV.
• 2014-2018 Ford Escape – Budget-friendly with AWD options.
• 2013-2017 Nissan Rogue – Spacious small SUV with good safety ratings.
• 2013-2016 Chevrolet Traverse – Affordable three-row SUV for large families.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right family car doesn’t have to be expensive—many safe, reliable, and budget-friendly used cars are available for families of all sizes. If you’re looking for an affordable, family-friendly car with flexible financing, check out our Buy Here Pay Here dealership options today.