Sports utility vehicles are particularly practical for the busy family woman who has her hands full transporting the kids, their stuff, and everything needed to create domestic and professional magic - so what is the best SUV for mom, then? Which ute on the market is reliable, versatile, safe, has a competent engine, and has some luxury to boot? For a full overview of which SUVs are best for moms, read on.

2024 Kia Sorento Hybrid
Base MSRP
$36,990
Fuel Economy
39/35 MPG
Horsepower
227 hp
2023 Volvo XC90 Recharge
Base MSRP
$71,900
Fuel Economy
TBC
Horsepower
455 hp
2024 Kia Telluride
Base MSRP
$36,190
Fuel Economy
20/26 MPG
Horsepower
291 hp
2024 Hyundai Palisade
Base MSRP
$36,650
Fuel Economy
19/26/22 mpg (FWD) | 29/24/21 mpg (AWD)
Horsepower
291 hp
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
Base MSRP
$40,035
Fuel Economy
19/26 MPG
Horsepower
293 hp
2024 Volvo XC90
Base MSRP
$56,600
Fuel Economy
22/27 MPG
Horsepower
247 hp
2023 Jeep Grand Wagoneer
Base MSRP
$90,495
Fuel Economy
13/18 MPG
Horsepower
471 hp
2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Base MSRP
$40,970
Fuel Economy
36/35 MPG
Horsepower
243 hp
2024 Acura MDX
Base MSRP
$50,150
Fuel Economy
19/26 MPG
Horsepower
290 hp
2024 Lincoln Aviator
Base MSRP
$53,340
Fuel Economy
18/26 MPG
Horsepower
400 hp
2023 Chevrolet Traverse
Base MSRP
$34,520
Fuel Economy
18/27 MPG
Horsepower
310 hp
2024 Chevrolet Traverse Limited
Base MSRP
$34,520
Fuel Economy
TBC
Horsepower
310 hp
2024 Toyota Highlander
Base MSRP
$39,270
Fuel Economy
22/29 MPG
Horsepower
265 hp
2024 Infiniti QX60
Base MSRP
$49,650
Fuel Economy
21/26 MPG
Horsepower
295 hp
2024 Nissan Pathfinder
Base MSRP
$36,080
Fuel Economy
20/27 MPG
Horsepower
284 hp
2023 Audi SQ7
Base MSRP
$90,200
Fuel Economy
14/20 MPG
Horsepower
500 hp
2023 GMC Acadia
Base MSRP
$36,800
Fuel Economy
22/29 MPG
Horsepower
228 hp
2024 Ford Explorer
Base MSRP
$36,860
Fuel Economy
21/28 MPG
Horsepower
300 hp
2023 Ford Explorer Hybrid
Base MSRP
$54,060
Fuel Economy
20/27 MPG
Horsepower
318 hp
2023 Mazda CX-9
Base MSRP
$38,750
Fuel Economy
20/26 MPG
Horsepower
227 hp
2024 Audi Q7
Base MSRP
$59,500
Fuel Economy
19/25 MPG
Horsepower
261 hp
2023 Rivian R1S SUV
Base MSRP
$78,000
Fuel Economy
TBC
Horsepower
600 hp
2024 Honda Pilot
Base MSRP
$37,090
Fuel Economy
19/27/22 mpg (FWD) | 19/25/21 mpg (AWD)
Horsepower
285 hp
2024 Cadillac XT6
Base MSRP
$48,795
Fuel Economy
21/27 MPG
Horsepower
235 hp
2023 Subaru Ascent
Base MSRP
$33,895
Fuel Economy
20/26 MPG
Horsepower
260 hp
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2024 Buick Enclave
Base MSRP
$43,900
Fuel Economy
18/26/21 mpg FWD | 17/25/20 mpg AWD
Horsepower
310 hp
2024 Volkswagen Atlas
Base MSRP
$37,995
Fuel Economy
20/27 MPG
Horsepower
269 hp
2023 Land Rover Discovery
Base MSRP
$58,400
Fuel Economy
19/22 MPG
Horsepower
296 hp
2024 Dodge Durango
Base MSRP
$41,670
Fuel Economy
19/26 MPG
Horsepower
293 hp - 360 hp
2024 Kia Sorento
Base MSRP
$31,990
Fuel Economy
24/29 MPG
Horsepower
191 hp
2024 Lexus GX
Base MSRP
$62,900
Fuel Economy
15/21 MPG
Horsepower
349 hp
2025 Volvo EX90
Base MSRP
$76,695
Fuel Economy
TBC
Horsepower
496 hp

Best SUVs for Moms

With so many options available, there is a model for every type of mom - the young, hip lady wanting a ride that is stylish as well as adaptable, or sophisticated women who won’t settle for anything less than an iconic nameplate. But moms also desire more than just brand power and good looks. They also require capable yet frugal powertrains, sufficient towing capacity, and enough real estate for the kids to spread out.

Pros

  • Space: SUVs are set apart for their ability to fit up to eight passengers, while still having adequate cargo volume for bags, groceries, or even the pets. There are also abundant small-item storage solutions to make life easier.
  • Convenience: Models in this category, especially top-end trim levels, are usually equipped with technology and features such as hands-free liftgates, keyless entry and ignition, and voice-activated navigation.
  • Safety: Autos in this class are generally equipped with advanced safety suites and a long index of driver aids to keep your precious little ones out of harm’s way.
  • Fuel economy: Although the segment is broad and encompasses utes with large-displacement mills, there are lighter-sipping motors to note, and hybridized models for even smarter gas mileage.

Cons

  • Price: If you’re leaning towards a more plush and opulent model, you’re probably going to pay more. While the best SUV for mom is unlikely to be dirt-cheap, there are variations with modest figures that are just as conducive to carrying larger groups.
  • Specification: If it is your first child, especially, chances are good your priorities will center around child-friendly accouterments such as car-seat tethers and anchors, assistance tech, and easy-to-use infotainment systems. Some automakers offer these niceties only on upper trim levels at a heftier expense. It might be in your interest to shop for a used derivative with all the bells and whistles that the best SUVs for new moms are expected to have.

What is the best, affordable new SUV for moms?

While everyone looks for the best of both worlds in terms of extensive benefits for the lowest cash outlay, there are some bargains to peruse. Lower-cost variants are plentiful, and if you’re keen on more luxurious brands at a lower tariff, there are numerous 2018 and 2019 iterations to put on your shortlist. On our list of best SUVs for mom, the best-rated models include the following, all with entry-level fares under $50k.

FAQs

What is the most budget-friendly 2024 SUV suitable for a mom?

The Kia Sorento effortlessly earns a spot in our top ten. Its MSRP of around $29k is palatable and, in exchange, you get a spacious cabin, excellent stock-fitted features, quiet, pleasant ride quality, and an upscale atmosphere.

Can I sell my SUV to upgrade to a better model?

Industry leaders estimate that the used-car arena in the USA shows a 51.6% depreciation rate for SUVs after five years. However, with the standard of modern cars at an all-time high, we are convinced there will always be a for passing on your people-mover with ease.Be sure to look over our individual reviews to compare specs, costs, and overall ratings in this category.