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Used Cars for Families: Top Picks for Safety, Comfort, and Affordability

Are you in the market for a great used car for your family this year? You’re in luck. Experts predict the price of used cars to drop by 10% by the end of 2023, making it a great time to swap out your current vehicle for a newer (used) one.

Don’t go buying the first used car you see, though. Finding reliable used cars for families can be tricky, especially since you can’t trust just any dealership or online seller. To help make this task easier, we’ve compiled our top picks for families looking to purchase quality used vehicles.

Our list below includes tips on choosing the right family car and what to look for when testing a used car. Then, we’ve provided information on each car’s affordability, safety ratings, and comfort features to ensure you get the perfect vehicle for your family’s needs.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

Buying a used car can be a great way for families to save money. However, there are a few important things to consider before purchasing.

Start by researching the make and model of the car you’re interested in. Find out the car’s history and previous owners, as well as its specific maintenance needs.

For example, some cars require more frequent maintenance. Other cars have parts that are difficult to find in some auto shops. Consider these factors when making your decision. While it might be a great deal, you want to ensure the car is fairly easy to maintain and repair for years to come.

It’s also important to take the car for a test drive and look for any visible signs of damage or wear that could signal an issue. Do basic checks such as tire pressure, fluid levels, and brakes. Listen for knocking noises when turning corners or braking. Examine all parts of the engine for any rust or leaks that could indicate problems in the future.

Finally, have an independent mechanic inspect the car if possible so you can find out about potential hidden issues that you wouldn’t otherwise know about. Oh yeah, and always check the vehicle’s title to ensure it’s clear of any liens or other legal issues.

The Best Used Cars for Families

Parents have unique needs regarding their family cars. You want something durable and reliable yet spacious and safe for the whole family. Here are a few of our top picks that check all those boxes. Stay tuned until the end to see which family car ranks best in each category.

Kia K5

Are you looking for a value-packed mid-size sedan for your family? Look no further than the Kia K5! This car is ranked as one of the best mid-sized cars, offering a winning combination of quality and value.

With many standard tech and driver-assistance features, the K5 has everything you need to stay safe and entertained on the road. It also boasts supportive seats that will keep you (and the little ones) comfortable on long rides.

Additionally, the K5 is known for its reliability and value, which can save you money in the long run. Kias are notorious for being long-lasting cars; if something breaks and requires repair, it’s easy to find parts and technicians who can help you fix the issue quickly and cost-effectively.

Toyota Camry Hybrid

The Toyota Camry Hybrid is your best bet if you’re in the market for a used car that will give you a lot of bang for your buck. This mid-size sedan is known for its spacious interior and is a great choice for smaller families.

Your family will be comfortable and entertained on long rides with two LATCHes, rear air vents, and cupholders in the center seat fold-down armrest.

The best part about this used car option? With each model year, the Camry keeps getting sportier. If you’re worried about how you’ll look driving a “minivan,” this is a great option as it’s sporty and modern yet spacious enough on the inside to fit car seats. Plus, the hybrid factor means you’ll save on gas.

Chevrolet Equinox

The ever-popular Chevrolet Equinox has recently been redesigned and is better than ever. With exterior style details that will turn heads and tons of features inside, the Equinox is the perfect go-to SUV. No compromises on style here.

Plus, with 170 HP, the Equinox can handle in-town driving easily, while its roomy cabin provides a comfortable ride for road trips. You can even upgrade to AWD for just $1,600.

But that’s not all. You also get access to features that include the following:

  • Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto capabilities
  • WiFi
  • Active noise cancellation
  • A touchscreen multimedia system

OnStar connected services and a teen driver system let parents set parameters and get reports on their teenage drivers. All this at an affordable price? It doesn’t get much better than that.

Hyundai Santa Fe

Need a two-row SUV? The Hyundai Santa Fe is one of the year’s best used cars for larger families. The SUV boasts a lavish and roomy interior, making it a great family option. You’ll be able to fit plenty of kiddos and family members comfortably without sacrificing fuel economy.

One of the major advantages of the Santa Fe is that its low starting price doesn’t reflect its long list of amenities. With useful technology like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, this car has everything you need to stay connected on the road. Additionally, the lengthy warranty gives you peace of mind.

Kia EV6

Looking for a capable used EV that won’t leave you stranded? Check out the 2023 Kia EV6.

This five-seater boasts an impressive 300-mile driving range, deft handling, and brisk acceleration that will make your daily commute more exciting. With plenty of tech and comfortable seating, the cabin is perfect for entertaining the whole family.

Plus, you can rest easy knowing that the EV6 has a wide range of safety features and has passed impressive crash-test results. Just be prepared for the high price tag. If you can get past the initial price, you’ll enjoy savings, as this is a fully electric car.

What do we love about this electric car? It’s not only family-friendly, but it also looks incredibly sleek and futuristic. It’s large enough for a family but doesn’t come with a traditional minivan build.

Honda Odyssey

If you’re looking for the ultimate family-friendly used minivan, the Honda Odyssey should be at the top of your list. With the ability to customize and adjust the cabin to your exact needs, this versatile vehicle can easily accommodate your family’s ever-changing needs.

Need to monitor your kids? No problem! The Cabin Watch system and Cabin Talk speaker make it easy to keep an eye on everyone and communicate effectively without turning around. Plus, the Odyssey makes every drive enjoyable with plenty of storage and a smart media system that lets passengers share their music.

Talk about family-friendly.

Volkswagen Atlas

Finally, if you’re a large family on the hunt for large cars with impressive tech, check out the Volkswagen Atlas. With room for up to seven passengers and ample cargo space, this versatile vehicle can handle your family’s needs.

Plus, with full-size seats in the third row and the ability to fit three car seats in the middle row, every passenger will be comfortable and secure. And with two engine choices and various luxury options, there’s an Atlas to fit every budget.

Don’t forget about the convenient LATCH system for easy access to the third row. It can be a lifesaver for parents needing to easily reach back for kiddos in the last row as you pick up or drop them off for school or other activities.

The Best Used Car for Families: Category Winners

What happens if you love all the used cars mentioned above? You’ll likely want to narrow your choices based on your desired features. Here is a breakdown of the best cars in each category (including a few we didn’t mention above, just to keep you on your toes).

Safety

We’ll kick the category winners off with a pick that wasn’t included above. If your main goal is safety, we suggest investing in a used Volvo XC90 Recharge. With a rigorous safety design and top-of-the-line tech features, this car truly prioritizes the protection of its passengers.

And that’s just the beginning. Not only does the XC90 Recharge offer ample seating for up to seven passengers, including the coveted third-row seat, but it boasts luxury details like a cooled glove box and a large vertical multimedia screen.

And with the bonus of Recharge models allowing you to skip the gas station, the XC90 Recharge is the perfect combination of luxury and practicality for families seeking the safest and most stylish ride.

Space

Are you looking for a spacious used car that can easily accommodate your entire family and all your gear? We ranked the Volkswagen Atlas as one of the best used cars for families above for its value and space; it’s the clear winner for families looking for a spacious vehicle.

With room for up to seven passengers, including a third row made for full-sized adults, the Atlas is the perfect choice for large families. And with options ranging from various engine choices to AWD and different levels of luxury, there’s an Atlas to fit every budget.

While it may feel more like a truck than a car, you can rest assured that the Atlas features cutting-edge safety technology, including VW’s IQ Drive ADAS suite. With the Atlas, your family will ride in spacious comfort wherever the journey takes you.

Eco-Friendly

The Toyota Sienna is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a family car that prioritizes fuel efficiency. The Sienna boasts 40% better fuel economy with its gas-electric hybrid engine than its non-hybrid predecessor. Adding AWD is also an option for those looking for a versatile vehicle that can handle any terrain or weather conditions.

Plus, with the Woodland Edition’s higher ground clearance, larger wheels, and 3,500-pound tow capacity, you’ll be ready for any wilderness adventure. And don’t forget about the ample storage space, including a deep cargo well, storage in the center console and door panels, and even a space under the front center console for your large handbag.

Finally, with Toyota Safety Sense standards and USB ports for every passenger, the Sienna truly has it all.

Affordability

What about the best budget-friendly used cars? We believe the Hyundai Santa Fe is one of the most affordable cars for those interested in the perfect balance between high-quality features, safety, comfortability, and price.

With superior quality materials and design features that stand out, the Santa Fe is an excellent value for the price. And even the top-tier Calligraphy trim level offers an efficient and quick powertrain, all while being more affordable than similarly equipped competitors.

Plus, with Hyundai’s industry-leading warranty and generous free scheduled maintenance offer, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best quality car for your money. With the Santa Fe, you’ll never have to sacrifice quality for affordability. This offers most families peace of mind and long-term cost savings.

Where to Buy Used Cars for Families

Are you looking for the best place to find a used car for your family’s needs? We can help.

With the most comprehensive selection of pre-owned cars, SUVs, and pickups in the area, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your family. Many of our used vehicles come from satisfied customers who have traded in their cars to upgrade to a newer model, making them a reliable choice for your family’s needs.

And when it comes to quality, you can trust that our rigorous inspection process ensures that every vehicle meets our high standards. From mechanical systems to exterior and interior qualities, we’ve got you and your family covered.

Buy a Car Today!

Are you ready to browse cars for families? We’re here to offer you the best of the best.

Click here to view the showroom hours at each of our four locations in New Jersey. Or call us with any questions. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the right car with the best features to suit your family’s needs.