Ready for a new car?

The family car has certainly changed over the years. From the woodie station wagon to the occasional funky vehicle (we’re thinking of you Partridge Family and the re-vamped school bus)  to the Volvo station wagon to the minivan. Each one screamed FAMILY  ON BOARD, not that there’s anything wrong with that.

Today’s family car is different. It can be an SUV to an electric car for energy efficient errand patrol around town to a luxury vehicle. Whatever version you want, here are several fantastic options for the much loved family car.

Once you have narrowed your search it is time to test drive your top choices. Do not skip the test drive. You need to make sure you are comfortable and the new car-to-be is right for you. Most dealers will bring the vehicle to your home. Sanitizing protocols and mask wearing are a must. Ask about their procedures if they are not clear. Once a vehicle is selected most paperwork can be accomplished online including the loan application.

Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback seems to be the family car choice for today’s families and there’s good reason. The Subaru Outback features lots of power, good fuel economy and is fun to drive while the kids in the back have plenty of room.

Genesis G70

Not every family wants a traditional family car. If that’s the case, check out  the, which has collected a bunch of awards since it was introduced to the market in 2019. This car is elegant, subtle and a joy to drive or ride in. Even a 10-year-old can appreciate quality.

Mercedes-Benz GLB250 SUV

Is there anything better than a Mercedes-Benz? How about a reasonably price one? Yes, the GLB250 SUV offer the luxury you expect but a price tag of around $36,000. This compact crossover offers everything you want in a car — and more.

Kia Seltos SX Turbo AWD

Kia’s Seltos SX Turbo AWD is a quirky car for the family that wants to stand out. The new crossover has a big design, technology and plenty of room and cargo space. You get a lot for the $29,000 price tag.

Chevy Bolt

The Chevy Bolt is a game changer with a range of 259 miles on a full charge with an impressive 200 horsepower of energy behind it. The Bolt is an ideal car for doing errands around town in a car that is safe, reasonably price and gives you a gold star with environmental-friendly crowd.

Cadillac XT4

This car offers a lot of pep for a four-cylinder turbocharged engine. The Cadillac is bigger than most subcompact crossovers, and certainly more upscale, but it won’t be a budget buster.

Jeep Compass Latitude 4X4

The Jeep Compass Latitude 4X4 is a solid car that brings a lot to the table — especially for a price that starts around $25,000. This bargain has lots of space for families and safety features to ensure everyone arrives home in one piece.

Infiniti QX50 Autograph AWD

The Infiniti QX50 Autograph AWD is a crossover whose design is more of a sedan but offers the space needed for a modern family. There’s plenty of safety features to make even the most nervous mom comfortable driving the soccer team.

Cadillac CT6 AWD

The high-end Cadillac CT6 AWD is perfect for the family that loves all the bells and whistles of a 500 horsepower vehicle that also delivers such a comfortable ride that no one will be asking “Are we there yet?” because they’re enjoying the ride too much.

— Mary Welch