Chevrolet has been a trusted name in the car world for generations, and their SUVs are a big part of why. Known for their practicality, family-friendly features, and a lineup that truly offers something for everyone, Chevy SUVs have become a go-to choice for families of all sizes. But with so many options available, how do you decide which is the best for your family?

If you’re new here – welcome! I’m Kelly the Car Mom, and helping families find the best car for their needs is my thing. I’m a Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST), mom of four, and if there’s one thing I know better than anything else – it’s family cars. My goal is to help you make sense of your options so you can feel confident in your decision, regardless of the manufacturer.

Whether your family has remained loyal to Chevrolet, or you’re just exploring the options out there that could work for your family, I want to help highlight which models work best. That being said, there is so much innovation happening in the car market, so try other brands as well.

Today, let’s work through the best Chevrolet models and which families they work best for.

Some Families Are Loyal To Chevrolet. Here’s Why…

For over a century, Chevy has been delivering cars that are practical, innovative, and built to handle the demands of everyday life. Whether it’s their spacious SUVs, family-friendly features, or commitment to affordability, Chevrolet has earned its place as a trusted name in the automotive world. When I tour Chevy cars, it’s not just about how much I can fit into a Traverse or Suburban (though the trunk space is incredible)—it’s about finding a car that grows with your family and makes life easier. Chevrolet SUVs do exactly that.

What’s exciting about Chevrolet is how they continue to offer SUVs for a wide range of families without pricing them out of the market. Whether you’re looking for an affordable subcompact like the Trax, a spacious midsize option like the Traverse, or a full-size powerhouse like the Suburban, Chevy’s lineup is diverse and thoughtfully designed to meet a variety of needs. They’ve also embraced innovation in a big way, with electric models like the Bolt EUV and Equinox EV making it easier for families to go green without sacrificing practicality or comfort.

Another reason people love Chevrolet is its deep connection to American culture. Many of their SUVs are assembled in the U.S., plus, there’s a sense of nostalgia tied to the brand.

Let’s Talk About Reliability

Chevrolet SUVs have earned their reputation for being practical and family-friendly, but like any car brand, there are some reliability factors to consider before making your purchase. Here’s what you need to know:

Infotainment Improvements: In older models, some Chevy cars were criticized for having glitchy infotainment systems that could freeze or lag. However, newer models have addressed these concerns with upgraded touchscreens that are faster and more user-friendly.
Recalls: Chevrolet has had recalls on certain parts in past years—like transmissions or electrical components—but this is common across most manufacturers. To avoid issues when shopping pre-owned, always check the recall history for the specific model year you’re considering.
Interior Quality: While Chevy has made significant strides in interior design (especially in the latest Traverse and Tahoe), some older models were noted for using less durable materials compared to competitors.

Despite these occasional concerns, Chevrolet remains a top choice for families because of its consistent focus on practicality and innovation. Their SUVs are designed to handle the wear and tear of daily life while offering features that make parenting on-the-go easier.

If you’re considering a Chevrolet SUV, there are ways to feel confident in your choice. Start by focusing on newer models that have addressed past issues—like the redesigned Traverse or Tahoe. Take advantage of factory warranties or consider extended coverage for added peace of mind. And as always, prioritize regular maintenance to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

For families researching specific Chevrolet SUV models and years, resources like Consumer Reports or Kelley Blue Book are invaluable tools for understanding reliability ratings and owner feedback. With so many great options in Chevy’s lineup, you’re sure to find an SUV that fits your family’s needs perfectly!

Here Is The Entire Chevrolet SUV List:

Chevrolet Trax
Chevrolet Trailblazer

Chevrolet Equinox
Chevrolet Equinox EV

Chevrolet Blazer
Chevrolet Blazer EV
Chevrolet Traverse

Chevrolet Tahoe
Chevrolet Suburban

Chevrolet has a wide range of SUVs, but not every model is equally suited for families. Many of their two-row SUVs, like the Trax, Trailblazer, and Equinox, share similar features and functionality, that are great for smaller families or those who don’t need as much space. However, the real differences emerge in Chevy’s three-row lineup, where you’ll find a variety of options designed to meet the needs of growing families.

For this reason, I’m focusing on the models that offer the greatest flexibility, space, and practicality for the widest range of families. This way, you can zero in on the SUVs that truly stand out without feeling overwhelmed by too many similar choices.

If You’re Interested In A Chevy SUV, These Are The Cars I Recommend Test Driving:

Chevrolet Trax
Chevrolet Traverse
Chevrolet Tahoe
Chevrolet Suburban

Chevrolet Trax

LATCH Setup:

Second Row: Two sets of lower LATCH anchors and three top tether anchors.

Who It’s Best For:

Families with 1–2 kids who primarily need a compact SUV for daily errands and car seat use in the second row.
Ideal for smaller families or new drivers looking for an affordable and practical option.

Who It’s Not Ideal For:

Families needing more space or flexibility for additional car seats or larger cargo loads.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax is a fantastic option for small families or new drivers looking for an affordable and efficient SUV. Starting at just $21,000, it’s one of the most budget-friendly choices on the market. Despite its compact size, the Trax offers surprising interior space and thoughtful features.

The redesigned Trax comes with a sleek exterior and a sporty look that appeals to teens and young families alike. Inside, the Activ trim level includes an 11-inch infotainment display—an upgrade from the standard 8-inch screen—and advanced safety features like pedestrian warning and emergency braking. With excellent fuel economy at 30 MPG combined, it’s perfect for city driving or weekend getaways.

The rear seat provides ample legroom for its class, making it suitable for car seats, though it lacks rear air vents. The trunk space is impressive for a subcompact SUV, easily accommodating strollers or groceries. However, it’s worth noting that the Trax is front-wheel drive only and lacks all-wheel drive (AWD) options.

Chevrolet Traverse

LATCH Setup:

Second Row: Two sets of lower LATCH anchors and two top tether anchors (captain’s chairs or bench seat options).
Third Row: Three top tether anchors but no lower LATCH anchors. Car seats in the third row must be installed using seat belts.

Who It’s Best For:

Families with 2–4 kids who need a midsize SUV with flexible seating and excellent second-row car seat compatibility. Great for those who occasionally use the third row for older kids or booster seats.

Who It’s Not Ideal For:

Families needing multiple car seats in the third row or those requiring a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse is one of the largest mid-size SUVs available on the market, making it an excellent choice for families of four or more who need flexible seating and ample cargo space. With its recent redesign, the Traverse now boasts a modern exterior, a massive 17.7-inch infotainment screen, and Chevy’s Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving system.

Inside, the Traverse shines with thoughtful family-friendly features. The second-row captain’s chairs offer easy car seat installation with plenty of clearance for rear-facing seats. The “Car Seat Friendly Tilt” feature allows access to the third row without removing installed car seats—a game-changer for parents juggling multiple kids. The third row is spacious enough for adults on short trips but best suited for older kids or boosters.

Chevrolet claims best-in-class trunk space in the Traverse, which can fit a full-size stroller even with all three rows in use. The turbocharged engine delivers solid performance with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.

Chevrolet Tahoe

LATCH Setup:

Second Row: Two sets of lower LATCH anchors (outboard seats) and three top tether anchors.
Third Row: No lower LATCH anchors but three top tether anchors under carpeted flaps on the seat backs.

Who It’s Best For:

Families with 3+ kids who primarily use the second row for car seats.
Ideal for families who need a full-size SUV with excellent towing capacity (up to 8,400 pounds) and advanced safety features like lane-keeping assist and forward collision alert.

Who It’s Not Ideal For:

Smaller families who will not use the full-size capabilities of the Tahoe.
Families needing multiple car seats in the third row or significant trunk space with all three rows in use.

The 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV built for families who need space and versatility. It offers seating for up to eight passengers and a spacious second row that can accommodate three car seats across, though it uses a 60/40 split bench rather than individual seats. While the second row is highly car seat-friendly, the third row lacks lower LATCH anchors, making it better suited for older kids in boosters or adults. Accessing the third row requires folding the second-row seat forward, which isn’t possible with a car seat installed.

The Tahoe’s ceiling vents in both rows enhance passenger comfort during long drives, while its robust towing capabilities make it an excellent choice for families who haul trailers or boats. However, trunk space is limited when all three rows are in use, so families needing more cargo room may want to consider the Suburban.

Chevrolet Suburban

LATCH Setup:

Second Row: Two sets of lower LATCH anchors (outboard seats) and three top tether anchors.
Third Row: No lower LATCH anchors but three top tether anchors under carpeted flaps on the seatbacks.

Who It’s Best For:

Large families with 3+ kids who need maximum passenger space and flexibility for car seats.
Perfect for those who frequently use all three rows but still require ample trunk space for strollers, luggage, or sports equipment.

Who It’s Not Ideal For:

Families who don’t need as much space as the Suburban offers or prefer easier maneuverability in tighter spaces.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban takes everything great about the Tahoe and adds an extended wheelbase, making it Chevy’s largest SUV. With an additional 15 inches of length compared to the Tahoe, the Suburban offers significantly more legroom in the third row and best-in-class cargo space—even with all three rows in use. This extra space makes it possible to fit multiple strollers or large gear without sacrificing passenger comfort.

Like the Tahoe, the second row of the Suburban is highly car seat-friendly with two sets of lower LATCH anchors and three top tether anchors. The third row lacks lower LATCH anchors but includes three top tethers, allowing for seatbelt installations if needed. The extra length also makes it easier to fit rear-facing car seats without impacting front-row legroom.

While its larger size provides unmatched space, it can make parking and maneuvering in tight spaces more challenging compared to smaller SUVs. However, for families needing maximum room for both passengers and cargo, the Suburban is hard to beat!

How To Choose The Right Chevrolet SUV For You

Choosing the right SUV (whether it’s a Chevrolet or not) depends on your family’s size, lifestyle, and specific needs.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly compact SUV for city driving or small families, the Chevrolet Trax is a great choice. It’s affordable, easy to park, and surprisingly spacious for its size. On the other hand, if you need a large midsize SUV with flexible seating and plenty of room for car seats, the Chevrolet Traverse is hard to beat. With its thoughtful car seat setups and best-in-class cargo space, it’s perfect for growing families.

For larger families or those who frequently tow heavy loads, the Chevrolet Tahoe offers a great balance of power and practicality. It’s spacious enough for three car seats in the second row and provides advanced safety features to keep everyone secure. If maximum space is your top priority, the Chevrolet Suburban takes it a step further with more third-row legroom and significantly more cargo capacity—ideal for road trips or hauling sports gear. To read even more about these two full-size SUVs, check out my post: Tahoe vs. Suburban: Which One Is Better? Here’s How To Choose!

Ultimately, test-driving these models is the best way to determine which one fits your family’s lifestyle. Bring along your car seats, strollers, or anything else you regularly transport to ensure it meets your practical needs. Whether you choose the Trax, Traverse, Tahoe, Suburban, or another Chevy SUV, you’ll be investing in a vehicle designed with families in mind—one that combines innovation with everyday practicality.

Which Chevrolet SUV would work best for your family? Let us know in the comments! And to keep up with all the latest car-buying tips for families, check out my recent posts: