Planning a family road trip is exciting, but for mums, it comes with a to-do list that rivals any packing challenge. Beyond snacks and playlists, the car you choose can make or break the experience.
A great road trip vehicle balances space for the kids and luggage, top-notch safety features, and comfort that keeps everyone in a good mood for hours on the highway.
In 2025, the automotive market is packed with options tailored to family life, from fuel-efficient hybrids to luxurious SUVs that feel like mobile living rooms.
After reviewing safety ratings, cargo space, fuel economy, and family-friendly features, here are the top 10 mum cars for hitting the road this year.
A Quick Look
Car Model
Base Price
Seating
Cargo (cu. ft.)
Fuel Economy (MPG)
Key Safety Features
Acura MDX
$51,200
7
95
22 combined
Collision-mitigation braking, pedestrian det.
Toyota RAV4
$29,250
5
69.8
30 combined
Blind-spot monitoring, pre-collision
Honda CR-V Hybrid
$34,650
5
76.5
40 combined
Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist
Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
$33,465
5
38 (rear up)
38 combined
Forward collision avoidance, blind-spot
Kia Sorento Hybrid
$38,690
6
75.5
36 combined
Forward collision avoidance, blind-spot warning.
Ford Explorer
$39,625
7–8
85.8
21 combined
Rear parking sensors, lane-keeping assist
Lincoln Aviator
$58,995
7
77.7
22 combined
Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist
Audi Q7
$60,500
7
69.6
22 combined
Front-collision alert, auto emergency braking
Buick Enclave
$43,900
7
97.5
22 combined (TBA)
Adaptive cruise control, forward collision
Honda Pilot
$43,200
7–8
111.8
22 combined
Forward-collision warning, auto emergency
For families near Indiana looking for one of these models, visiting a reliable used car dealership in Indiana can make finding the perfect fit easier and more affordable.
1. Acura MDX
The Acura MDX is a luxury midsize SUV that blends style, reliability, and practical family features. It comfortably seats seven, offers 95 cubic feet of cargo space, and provides a smooth, quiet ride ideal for long journeys.
Key Features
- Engine: 3.5L V6 (290 hp) or 3.0L Turbo V6 (355 hp)
- Cargo Space: 95 cu. ft.
- Safety: Collision-mitigation braking, pedestrian detection
- Fuel Economy: 22 MPG combined
- Base Price: $51,200
2. Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 remains a family favorite for its dependability and ease of ownership. It’s a compact SUV that seats five, making it ideal for smaller families who still want comfort and cargo flexibility.
Key Features
- Engine: 2.5L I4 (203 hp)
- Cargo Space: 69.8 cu. ft.
- Safety: Blind-spot monitoring, pre-collision detection
- Fuel Economy: 30 MPG combined (41 MPG highway for hybrid)
- Base Price: $29,250
3. Honda CR-V Hybrid
View this post on Instagram
The Honda CR-V Hybrid combines family comfort with excellent fuel economy, offering up to 40 MPG combined. With 76.5 cubic feet of cargo space and reclining rear seats, it’s a road trip champ.
Key Features
- Engine: Hybrid (204 hp)
- Cargo Space: 76.5 cu. ft.
- Safety: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist
- Fuel Economy: 40 MPG combined
- Base Price: $34,650
4. Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
The Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is a tech-savvy compact SUV that seats five and offers an impressive 38 MPG combined. It’s packed with modern features, including a large touchscreen and plenty of charging ports.
Key Features
- Engine: Hybrid (227 hp)
- Cargo Space: 38 cu. ft. (rear seats up)
- Safety: Forward collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring
- Fuel Economy: 38 MPG combined
- Base Price: $33,465
5. Kia Sorento Hybrid
@cyclecarriagesg The Kia Sorento Hybrid really said “you deserve comfort AND style”. #CycleCarriageSG #ExceptionalJourneys #SGCars #Kia ♬ original sound – Cycle & Carriage Singapore
The Kia Sorento Hybrid strikes a great balance between space and efficiency. Seating six with 75.5 cubic feet of cargo room, it’s an excellent option for midsize families.
Key Features
- Engine: 1.6L Turbo I4 Hybrid (227 hp)
- Cargo Space: 75.5 cu. ft.
- Safety: Forward collision avoidance, blind-spot collision warning
- Fuel Economy: 36 MPG combined
- Base Price: $38,690
6. Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is a versatile option for large families, seating up to eight. With 85.8 cubic feet of cargo space and strong towing capacity, it can handle everything from camping gear to small trailers.
Key Features
- Engine: 2.3L Turbo I4 (300 hp) or 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 (400 hp)
- Cargo Space: 85.8 cu. ft.
- Safety: Rear parking sensors, lane-keeping assist
- Fuel Economy: 21 MPG combined
- Base Price: $39,625
7. Lincoln Aviator
With the all-new Lincoln Digital Experience, a fresh design, and more, the new 2025 #LincolnAviator has made its eye-catching arrival.
Who do you think would look good in this SUV? Tag them below, and learn more about the updates here: https://t.co/bDhzesPcvO pic.twitter.com/Ypg2xjniBT
— Lincoln (@LincolnMotorCo) February 7, 2024
The Lincoln Aviator is a luxury midsize SUV designed for mums who want the finer touches on long drives. Its cabin is refined and quiet, perfect for keeping kids relaxed.
Key Features
- Engine: 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 (400 hp)
- Cargo Space: 77.7 cu. ft.
- Safety: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist
- Fuel Economy: 22 MPG combined
- Base Price: $58,995
8. Audi Q7
The Audi Q7 blends luxury, technology, and performance. With three rows of seating and 69.6 cubic feet of cargo space, it’s ready for long-distance family trips.
Key Features
- Engine: 2.0L I4 (261 hp) or 3.0L V6 Hybrid (335 hp)
- Cargo Space: 69.6 cu. ft.
- Safety: Front-collision alert, automatic emergency braking
- Fuel Economy: 22 MPG combined
- Base Price: $60,500
9. Buick Enclave
The Buick Enclave is all about space, offering seating for seven and up to 97.5 cubic feet of cargo room. Optional Super Cruise adds hands-free highway driving, easing the load on long trips.
Key Features
- Engine: 2.5L Turbo I4 (328 hp)
- Cargo Space: 97.5 cu. ft.
- Safety: Adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation
- Fuel Economy: 22 MPG combined (TBA)
- Base Price: $43,900
10. Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot is a trusted family SUV that combines reliability with sheer space. With room for up to eight and a massive 111.8 cubic feet of cargo, it’s built for big family adventures.
Key Features
- Engine: 3.5L V6 (285 hp)
- Cargo Space: 111.8 cu. ft.
- Safety: Forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking
- Fuel Economy: 22 MPG combined
- Base Price: $43,200
Honorable Mentions
- Volvo XC90: Seven seats, excellent safety scores, and a versatile cabin.
- Kia Carnival: A minivan with adult-friendly third-row seating and easy-to-clean materials.
- Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: 32-mile electric range with family-focused tech like Amazon Alexa integration.
- Hyundai Palisade: Spacious and comfortable, with optional second-row captain’s chairs.
- Toyota Sienna Hybrid: Minivan efficiency meets eight-passenger practicality at 36 MPG.
What Makes a Mum Car Perfect for Road Trips?
Space
Every mum knows that kids and luggage take up more room than expected. Strollers, car seats, snack coolers, and “just-in-case” items can fill a boot quickly. Ample cargo capacity and flexible seating are non-negotiable.
Safety
Advanced driver-assistance systems, like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, provide extra peace of mind, especially on long stretches of motorway.
Comfort
Road trips mean hours behind the wheel. Features like quiet cabins, supportive seats, and smooth suspension can keep everyone happier for longer.
Fuel Efficiency
Hybrids and fuel-conscious SUVs save money and cut down on fuel stops, which is always a relief with restless kids in the back.
Family-Friendly Features
Easy-to-clean interiors, multiple USB ports, and entertainment options make the drive smoother for kids and parents alike.
Tips for a Smooth Family Road Trip
- Plan Your Route: Identify family-friendly rest stops to break up long drives.
- Pack Smart: Use cargo organizers to maximize space in SUVs and minivans.
- Keep Kids Busy: Entertainment systems and multiple USB ports are lifesavers.
- Check Safety Features: Make use of adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping tools.
- Do a Pre-Trip Check: Inspect tire pressure, fluids, and brakes to avoid roadside surprises.
Final Thoughts
The perfect mum car for road trips is more than just transport. It’s a mobile hub for snacks, naps, games, and memories.
Whether you want the fuel-sipping Honda CR-V Hybrid, the ultra-spacious Honda Pilot, or the luxury comfort of the Lincoln Aviator, the 2025 lineup offers something for every family size and budget.
Pick a car that keeps your family safe, comfortable, and happy on the road, and those miles will turn into memories worth every kilometre. Safe travels!
