The Car Mom 2024 Car of the Year
It’s been another exciting year for the family car market, and 2024 has truly raised the bar. Now that we’re entering 2025, it’s time to announce The Car Mom 2024 Car of the Year!
This is the second year of the award, and I’m thrilled to highlight some of the most impressive family car redesigns we’ve seen over the past year.
Let me clear something up right away: this isn’t just a list of my favorite cars. The Car Mom Car of the Year is about recognizing newly redesigned family vehicles that stand out where it really matters—practicality, safety, comfort, and family-friendly features. Not every redesign this year was a game-changer, but a few truly caught my attention. And yes, I know people love to nominate their own cars (I see you!), but only new or significantly redesigned models are eligible for this award.
If you’ve been part of the Carpoolers community for a while, you already know I don’t hand out The Car Mom Approval stamp lightly. When I recommend a car, it’s with full awareness of what a big deal buying a car is—it’s not something most families do often, and it’s definitely not cheap. So when I highlight a car, it’s because I genuinely believe it’s worth your time and money. And trust me, these redesigns earned their place on this list.
So why this post? It’s here to introduce the award, break down the contenders, and—most importantly—give you a voice. After all, you’re the ones driving these cars every day and living with them in real life. Once you’ve checked out the options, you’ll have the chance to vote for the car you think had the most impressive redesign of 2024.
If you’re new here—welcome! I’m Kelly Stumpe, better known as The Car Mom. I’m a CPST (Child Passenger Safety Technician), mom of four, and an unapologetic car enthusiast. My goal is simple: to help families make informed decisions when it comes to finding the right car. In 2025, I’ll continue focusing on helping you discover vehicles that fit your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs, and budget.
Let’s get into it—these are the 2024 redesigns worth talking about!
Vote for Car of the Year RIGHT HERE!
2024 Car of the Year Category Breakdown
Before diving into the award details, I want to highlight that there are so many factors to consider when buying a car. If you’ve already bought a car this year and it’s not on this list, I’m so happy for you—and I’m sure it’s a great choice for your family!
But for those of you who ask, “Kelly, what car do you recommend for families?”—I’m here to share the top family-friendly redesigns of 2024 that stood out for their standout features.
Our categories for judging the vehicles remain consistent, and these core aspects help ensure that every vehicle on the list is a practical and reliable option for families. As you look at your choices, make sure your priorities are aligned with your family’s unique needs and not just the trendy features.
Our judging criteria are as follows:
Comfort
Safety
Technology
Car Seat Capabilities
Overall Value
We’re not judging the cars head-to-head, but rather evaluating each based on these critical categories. While these are the 2024 models, many of the qualities that make these cars exceptional have been refined over previous years.
2024 Car of the Year Candidates
While I thought 2023 was a great year for family cars, 2024 proved to be even better! I had a really tough time narrowing down the candidates in the running, but this shows truly how great of a car market we’re in right now.
For a bit of context, some of the cars on this list may say 2024 and some say 2025. While they are all released in the 2024 calendar year, some manufacturers like to round up as a way to make them feel even more like the latest and greatest model.
Going from 4 cars in the running last year to 10 this time around, here are the 2024 Car of the Year candidates:
2024 GMC Acadia
2024 Hyundai Santa Fe - IIHS Top Safety Pick
2024 Kia EV9 - IIHS Top Safety Pick
2024 Lexus GX
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser
2024 Cheverolet Traverse
2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz
2025 Honda Odyssey - IIHS Top Safety Pick
2025 Infiniti QX80 - IIHS Top Safety Pick
2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid
2024 GMC Acadia
2024 GMC Acadia Highlights:
The 2024 GMC Acadia has not yet been tested by the IIHS.
Spacious Interior: Best-in-class legroom in the first and second rows ensures comfort for every passenger.
Family-Focused Car Seat Features: Second-row car seat-friendly tilt and a newly added third-row middle seatbelt enhances safety and accessibility.
Great LATCH System: Two sets of lower anchors in the second row, tether anchors for both third-row seats, and an optional tether anchor for the middle seat on second-row benches.
Massive Trunk Space: 80% larger than the previous generation, accommodating strollers and gear with ease.
High-End Tech: 11-inch driver display and a 15-inch central touchscreen for intuitive infotainment.
Semi-Autonomous Driving: Available GMC Super Cruise for hands-free highway driving.
Luxury Finishes: Premium trims with ambient lighting, wood details, and upscale materials throughout.
The 2024 GMC Acadia is redefining what a family SUV can be with its impressive redesign and enhanced features. As one of the largest mid-size SUVs, it bridges the gap between mid-size and full-size models, offering families the space they need without sacrificing maneuverability.
The Acadia shines with its family-friendly design, including a car seat-friendly tilt in the second row and the long-awaited addition of a third-row middle seatbelt. For parents juggling multiple car seats, the Acadia’s LATCH system includes lower anchors on the second-row outboard seats and tether anchors for all third-row seats, with an optional tether for the middle seat in bench configurations.
Practicality meets luxury with the Acadia’s new features, such as an 80% larger trunk, perfect for strollers and road trip essentials, and a suite of cutting-edge technology, including an 11-inch driver display and a 15-inch infotainment screen. The Denali trim takes the experience further with GMC’s Super Cruise, offering semi-autonomous driving capabilities, and a thoughtfully designed interior with ambient lighting, wood details, and premium finishes.
Kelly’s Take: Which Families Is The GMC Acadia Best For?
The 2024 GMC Acadia is great for families with up to four kids, especially if you’re juggling car seats and need plenty of space for strollers or gear. Its roomy second row, car seat-friendly tilt, and improved third-row middle seat make it a solid pick for families with younger kids or a mix of ages.
However, if you’ve got tall teens or adults who’ll regularly use the third row, they might find it a bit tight. Also, larger families who prefer a second-row bench seat will find that option limited to the base trim, which may not meet all their needs.
2024 Hyundai Santa Fe - IIHS Top Safety Pick
2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Highlights:
The 2024 Hyundai Sante Fe is an IIHS Top Safety Pick.
Completely Redesigned Exterior and Interior: A bold, modern look paired with a user-friendly and spacious interior.
Third Row Addition: This was previously a two-row SUV but now has a third row with lower anchors and tethers for both seats, perfect for occasional use.
Second Row LATCH System: Lower anchors on both outboard seats and tethers across the back for secure car seat installation.
Tilt-and-Slide Second Row: Easy access to the third row without removing car seats.
Versatile Trunk Space: Functional with the third row up, with ample room for strollers and gear when folded down.
Standard Power Tailgate: Adds convenience to the base trim, a rare feature in its class.
Top-Tier Infotainment System: Curved screen angled toward the driver, with physical climate and volume controls.
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe’s dramatic redesign makes it one of the most innovative and family-friendly SUVs in its segment. With a square, rugged exterior and a completely overhauled interior, this original five-passenger SUV now offers a third row for occasional use. Despite its compact size, the Santa Fe provides impressive flexibility, with a Tilt-and-Slide second row for easy third-row access and thoughtful storage solutions throughout the cabin.
Key family-focused upgrades include an exceptional LATCH system: the second row features lower anchors on both outboard seats and tethers across the back, while the third row has lower anchors and tethers on both its two seats. The trunk remains functional even with the third row up, and the power tailgate adds a touch of convenience at every trim level.
Kelly’s Take: Which Families Is The Hyundai Santa Fe Best For?
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe is a great option for smaller families with one or two kids who occasionally need a third row. Its compact size, easy-to-use tilt-and-slide second row, and impressive car seat setup—complete with LATCH anchors in both the second and third rows—make it family-friendly without feeling oversized.
However, it’s not ideal for families needing regular third-row use or those with three kids requiring a three-across car seat setup, as the middle seat in the second row is too narrow and has seatbelt overlap issues.
2024 Kia EV9 - IIHS Top Safety Pick
2024 Kia EV9 Highlights:
The 2024 Kia EV9 is an IIHS Top Safety Pick.
Versatile Electric Family SUV: A truly flexible electric option for families, combining spaciousness, comfort, and advanced tech.
Family-Friendly Space: Generous space in the first and second rows, perfect for long trips with kids.
Impressive LATCH System: Lower and tether anchors for both the second and third-row seats, making car seat installation a breeze.
Third-Row Access: Tilt-and-slide feature in the second row ensures easy access to the third row.
Tech Forward: Beautiful semi-curved display, Heads Up Display, and an intuitive infotainment system.
Practical Trunk: Roomy cargo space and a traditional trunk layout—although the frunk is limited in storage.
Heated and Ventilated Seats: Luxury features like built-in sun shades, USB-C ports, and ventilated seats in the second row.
The 2024 Kia EV9 is the latest entry into the electric SUV market, and it’s built with families in mind. It combines sleek, futuristic styling with family-friendly features that make it a standout choice among EVs. From the moment you step inside, the EV9 impresses with its spacious first and second rows—offering significantly more room than traditional gas-powered SUVs due to the absence of an engine. The second row comes with optional captain's chairs or a bench seat, both equipped with lower and tether anchors, ensuring car seats can be installed with ease. The LATCH system extends to the third row as well, which is a rarity in many SUVs.
While the EV9 excels in comfort and technology, its third row is best suited for occasional use or smaller passengers due to the limited space. Accessing the third row is easy thanks to the Tilt-and-Slide feature in the second row, though adult passengers may find the space tight with the seats pushed all the way back. However, the tech offerings in the EV9 are exceptional, with a beautiful semi-curved display and a heads-up display that makes driving a breeze. Plus, with luxury features like heated and ventilated seats in the second row, USB-C ports, and built-in sunshades, the EV9 is both high-tech and family-focused.
When it comes to cargo, the EV9’s trunk offers decent space for a double stroller and other essentials, though the frunk (front trunk) is surprisingly small. Despite this, the rear cargo area is still practical for families.
Kelly’s Take: Which Families Is The Kia EV9 Best For?
The 2024 Kia EV9 is a solid pick for families with up to three kids who want an electric SUV with plenty of space and advanced features. The first and second rows are roomy and comfortable, making it great for everyday use, while the car seat-friendly LATCH system in both the second and third rows adds flexibility.
However, the third row is tight and better suited for occasional use or smaller passengers, so it’s not ideal for families who need regular third-row seating for older kids or adults. If you’re looking for a spacious, tech-forward EV with family-friendly touches, this one checks a lot of boxes—but don’t expect it to handle large families or heavy cargo needs as well as some gas-powered SUVs.
2024 Lexus GX
2024 Lexus GX Highlights:
The 2024 Lexus GX has not yet been tested by the IIHS.
Third Row: Available as three-row SUV, but this minimizes the trunk space.
Powerful Performance: 3.4L twin-turbo V6 engine with 349 horsepower and over 9,000 lbs of towing capacity.
Distinctive Design: Boxy, sporty exterior with G-Wagon vibes at a more accessible price point.
Tech Upgrades: Modern infotainment system with digital climate controls, wireless charging, and USB-C ports.
Comfort Features: Heated/ventilated second-row seats, ceiling vents for better airflow, and plenty of head clearance throughout.
Family-Friendly LATCH System: Lower anchors on second-row outboard seats and three top tether anchors across the bench seat.
The 2024 Lexus GX blends luxury, ruggedness, and practicality in a way that makes it stand out in the SUV market. With its bold, boxy design it reminds me of high-end off-roaders like the G-Wagon. Inside, the GX impresses with its high-tech yet user-friendly infotainment system. The driver’s seat is spacious and comfortable, though the cabin feels slightly narrow overall. Second-row passengers benefit from heated/ventilated seats, ceiling vents, and USB-C ports, though fitting three car seats across may be challenging. The LATCH system is well-designed for flexibility, but built-in sunshades are notably absent.
For families looking for the third row, it offers decent legroom for older kids or adults but compromises trunk space significantly when all seats are in use. Folding down the third row reveals a flat cargo area that’s perfect for strollers or sports gear. However, the lack of LATCH anchors in the third row limits its suitability for younger children in car seats.
Kelly’s Take: Which Families Is The Lexus GX Best For?
The 2024 Lexus GX is a strong option for families with one or two kids who want a mix of luxury and rugged capability. The second row is comfortable, with heated/ventilated seats and a solid LATCH system, but it’s not wide enough for three car seats across. The third row works for older kids or adults on occasion, but it eats up most of the trunk space, making it less practical for larger families or those with lots of gear. If you’re after a stylish, off-road-capable SUV for smaller families, this one delivers—but it’s not ideal if you need consistent third-row use or ample cargo space.
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Highlights:
The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser has not yet been tested by the IIHS.
Five-Passenger SUV: No third-row seating, focusing on a spacious trunk instead.
Rugged Design: Boxy, bold styling reminiscent of the FJ Cruiser with fun two-tone color options.
Improved Tech Features: Heads-up display, wireless charging, and a rearview camera for modern convenience.
Second-Row Comfort: Ceiling vents for better airflow and two USB-C ports for charging devices.
Massive Trunk Space: Ideal for strollers, sports gear, and other large items.
The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser marks the return of an iconic nameplate with a fresh, rugged look and a more affordable price tag. Its bold, boxy design feels like a throwback to the FJ Cruiser while also channeling vibes from competitors like the Ford Bronco. Inside, the Land Cruiser’s first row is small but cozy with plenty of head clearance for taller drivers. The infotainment system combines sleek digital features like a heads-up display with Toyota’s signature oversized buttons for essential controls.
The second row in the Land Cruiser is frustrating for families. It lacks sliding seats for adjustable legroom or cargo flexibility, making it less accommodating for those juggling passengers and gear. While wide enough to fit most car seats comfortably, rigid buckles in the middle seat can make installation tricky. Ceiling vents improve airflow—especially for rear-facing car seats—but built-in sunshades are notably absent. Three-across seating is unlikely unless you’re using narrow car seats.
Where this SUV truly excels is in trunk space. Without a third row, the cargo area is massive and perfect for families needing room for strollers or sports equipment. The grab window on the trunk door adds convenience for quick access when your hands are full. However, remnants of its shared platform with the Lexus GX—like cup holders and ceiling vents meant for non-existent third-row passengers—feel out of place.
Kelly’s Take: Which Families Is The Toyota Land Cruiser Best For?
The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is a good fit for smaller families with one or two kids who prioritize rugged style and massive trunk space over passenger capacity. The second row is comfortable for car seats and has ceiling vents for airflow, but it’s tight on legroom and doesn’t slide, making it less flexible for growing families or taller passengers. Without a third row, the trunk is huge—perfect for strollers, sports gear, or road trips—but the overall cabin feels narrow, and three-across seating isn’t realistic.
If you’re looking for a stylish, off-road-capable SUV with plenty of cargo space, this works well, but it’s not the best option for larger families or those needing more interior room.
2024 Chevrolet Traverse
2024 Chevrolet Traverse Highlights:
The 2024 Chevy Traverse has not yet been tested by the IIHS.
Spacious Design: Larger midsize SUV that feels close to a full-size, perfect for growing families.
Flexible Seating: Available with captain’s chairs or a bench (though benches are rare in higher trims).
Car Seat-Friendly Features: Car Seat-Friendly Tilt is now on both sides for easy third-row access.
Massive Trunk Space: Best-in-class cargo area, even with the third row up.
Tech Upgrades: Huge infotainment screen with manual climate controls and Chevy’s Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving tech.
Family Comforts: Ceiling vents in all rows, heated second-row seats, and adjustable second-row seating.
The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse has been transformed into one of the most family-friendly midsize SUVs, offering a spacious, versatile option that bridges the gap between midsize and full-size models. Starting at $55,000 for the RS trim, it’s priced slightly above the Honda Pilot but below premium options like the Toyota Grand Highlander.
Chevy has upgraded the interior with sporty details, ample storage, and a massive, user-friendly infotainment system. Families can choose between captain’s chairs or a bench (rare in higher trims), with excellent clearance for car seats and adjustable second-row seating for added flexibility. The third row features Chevy’s Car Seat Friendly Tilt on both sides for easy access and now includes middle head restraints for improved safety.
The Traverse shines with best-in-class trunk space, accommodating strollers even with all three rows up. With its thoughtful design, car seat-friendly features, and modern tech, the 2024 Traverse is an excellent choice for families needing more room without moving to a full-size SUV.
Kelly’s Take: Which Families Is The Chevrolet Traverse Best For?
The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse is an excellent choice for families with two to four kids who need lots of space and flexibility without stepping up to a full-size SUV. It offers a roomy second row with car seat-friendly tilt on both sides, making third-row access easy even with car seats installed. The third row is spacious enough for kids or smaller adults, and the best-in-class trunk space can handle strollers, sports gear, or road trip essentials—even with all three rows in use.
However, families needing a bench seat for maximum seating may be disappointed since it’s rare in higher trims, and there are no lower LATCH anchors in the third row. If you’re looking for a large midsize SUV that’s practical, tech-savvy, and family-focused, the Traverse is hard to beat.
2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz
2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz Highlights:
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz has not yet been tested by the IIHS.
Retro-Inspired Design: A modern homage to the iconic VW Bus, featuring bold two-tone color options, a massive VW logo, and LED light bars.
Spacious Interior: High roofline and airy cabin design gives generous head clearance and a sense of openness.
Family-Friendly Features: Second-row bench seat with lower anchors on the outboard seats and tether anchors across all three positions for versatile car seat configurations.
Electric Efficiency: Fully electric powertrain with a 91 kWh battery offering approximately 282 horsepower.
Cargo Versatility: Ample trunk space with USB ports in the rear and additional storage options in the second row, though it lacks the deep drop floor typical of minivans.
Sliding Doors: Convenient sliding doors for easy access to the rear seats, though visible tracks could be refined for a cleaner look.
Panoramic Roof Innovation: The largest roof Volkswagen offers, featuring frosted-to-clear glass technology instead of a traditional shade.
The 2024 Volkswagen ID. Buzz is a bold reimagining of the classic VW Bus, blending nostalgia with modern electric vehicle innovation. While the European model was reviewed, the U.S. version will feature an extended wheelbase and a third row of seats, making it more suitable for families. The exterior design stands out with its oversized Volkswagen logo, dramatic two-tone paint options, and retro-inspired styling that stays true to its roots.
Inside, the ID. Buzz impresses with its bright pastel color schemes and spacious layout. The bench seat is wide and versatile, featuring car seat-friendly tilt functionality similar to the Atlas, allowing easy third-row access even with installed car seats. However, some practical concerns arise: rigid seatbelt buckles make car seat installation slightly trickier, and there are no second-row air vents—a significant drawback for families in warmer climates.
The third row offers two wide and deep seats that are car seat-friendly and can be removed entirely for more cargo space. Both the second and third rows are on tracks for flexible legroom and trunk configurations. The trunk itself features clever storage solutions like an implemented shelf system with Volkswagen-branded storage cubes but lacks the depth of traditional minivans.
Kelly’s Take: Which Families Is The Volkswagen ID. Buzz Best For?
The 2024 Volkswagen ID. Buzz is a fun, family-friendly option for smaller families with two or three kids who want something unique and electric. Its spacious interior, sliding doors, and car seat-friendly tilt make it practical for families, while the retro design and modern tech add personality. The third row is roomy and car seat-friendly, with both rows on tracks for flexible legroom and cargo setups, but the trunk lacks the deep storage of traditional minivans, making it less ideal for large strollers or bulky gear.
However, the middle seat in the second row has no LATCH anchors or tether, which limits its functionality for car seats. If you’re looking for an EV with character and solid family features—and don’t mind a few quirks—the ID. Buzz is worth considering.
2025 Honda Odyssey - IIHS Top Safety Pick
2025 Honda Odyssey Highlights:
The 2025 Honda Odyssey is an IIHS Top Safety Pick.
Versatile Family-Friendly Minivan: The Odyssey remains one of the top family minivans, with incredible flexibility, especially when it comes to car seat configurations.
Magic Slide Seats: The second row's Magic Slide seats easily slide forward, backward, and side-to-side, making third-row access a breeze, even with car seats installed.
Exceptional Car Seat Compatibility: Accommodates multiple car seats in various configurations, making it the best choice for families with young children.
Thoughtful Third-Row Comfort: The third row features removable headrests, USB ports, cup holders, and built-in sunshades—ideal for longer trips.
Impressive Trunk Space: Deep cargo area with a simple strap mechanism for folding the third-row seats flat, offering maximum trunk space.
Tailgate Mode: A fun and functional feature that allows you to comfortably sit at the back during outdoor events, with built-in cup holders and charging ports.
Updated Infotainment System: Larger 9-inch screen with family-friendly features like CabinWatch and CabinTalk to keep an eye on and communicate with passengers.
The 2025 Honda Odyssey continues to be a family-friendly powerhouse, even with its subtle redesign. While it doesn't introduce any major changes, this minivan remains a top pick for families who value practicality, comfort, and flexibility. The second-row Magic Slide seats are a standout feature, making it easy to access the third row without moving car seats. Its incredible car seat compatibility, spaciousness, and thoughtful touches like sunshades, USB ports, and cup holders make it a top choice for parents.
Although it lacks a hybrid option and AWD, features that some competitors like the Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica offer, the Odyssey’s space and versatility still make it an outstanding family vehicle. The trunk space is perfect for strollers and groceries, and the simple, non-powered folding third-row seats create even more room when needed.
Kelly’s Take: Which Families Is The Honda Odyssey Best For?
The 2025 Honda Odyssey is the ultimate family minivan for those with three or more kids, offering unmatched flexibility and car seat compatibility. Its Magic Slide second-row seats are a game-changer, allowing side-to-side and forward-backward movement even with car seats installed, making third-row access a breeze. With LATCH anchors and tethers across nearly every seat, built-in sunshades, and a deep trunk for strollers or gear, it’s perfect for families juggling multiple car seats or needing versatile seating arrangements.
However, it lacks a hybrid option or all-wheel drive, which competitors like the Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica offer. If you prioritize space, practicality, and seamless car seat setups over hybrid efficiency or AWD, the Odyssey remains one of the best choices on the market.
2025 Infiniti QX80 - IIHS Top Safety Pick
2025 Infiniti QX80 Highlights:
The 2025 Infinity QX80 is an IIHS Top Safety Pick.
Luxurious Family SUV: A redesigned, full-size SUV that combines luxury features with family-friendly design, offering both style and comfort for those with older kids.
Improved Car Seat Accessibility: The new tilt feature in the second-row captain's chairs allows for easier third-row access even when car seats are installed.
Removable Headrests: The third-row seats offer removable headrests, making car seat installation easier and providing more flexibility.
Enhanced Tech and Comfort: Dual 14.3-inch connected displays, a rearview camera mirror, and a full-color heads-up display bring both safety and convenience.
Adjustable Cabin for Comfort: The second-row seats are now on tracks, offering more flexibility to adjust the cabin space for better comfort.
Heated Third-Row Seats: The third row now includes heated seats, cup holders, and charging ports, adding to the overall comfort for passengers.
The 2025 Infiniti QX80 is a full-size SUV that offers a combination of luxury and functionality. It offers a TON of high-end features with an impressive redesign, but it’s not the most family-friendly option for those with young children or those needing easy access to the third row.
The second-row captain’s chairs, while upscale and comfortable, create a barrier to the third row due to a large built-in console, making it harder for younger kids or passengers to access the back seats. Additionally, the third-row seating, although spacious, requires some effort to get into, which could be cumbersome for daily use.
The trunk space is also limited with the third row up, making it less ideal for families with heavy cargo needs. That being said, for families with older children who want a luxurious, tech-packed SUV, the QX80 excels with its stunning interior, advanced infotainment, and premium features.
Kelly’s Take: Which Families Is The Infiniti QX80 Best For?
The 2025 Infiniti QX80 is a luxurious, full-size SUV best suited for families with older kids who want premium features and comfort. The redesigned second-row captain’s chairs now slide on tracks, improving legroom flexibility, and the new power tilt feature allows third-row access even with car seats installed. Trunk space is limited with the third row up, making it less ideal for families with lots of gear or strollers.
While it shines in luxury and tech—like massaging seats and dual displays—the fixed center console in the captain’s chairs restricts walk-through access to the third row, which could be frustrating for families with younger kids. If you’re looking for a high-end SUV for older children or teens and don’t need maximum cargo capacity, the QX80 delivers a stylish and comfortable ride.
2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid
2025 Kia Carnival Highlights:
The 2025 Kia Carnival has been tested by the IIHS, but did not receive any awards.
Hybrid Option: New for 2025, the hybrid version offers up to 33 mpg combined and 627 miles of range.
Sleek Exterior: SUV-inspired design with a larger grille and modern styling, offering a sporty look.
Updated Camera System: 360-degree cameras and a full-display rearview mirror enhance visibility and parking ease.
Advanced Rear Entertainment: Dual 14.6-inch screens for streaming, Bluetooth headsets, and HDMI ports for external devices.
Relaxation Mode: Second-row seats now feature recliners with footrests for maximum comfort.
Family-Friendly Features: Includes "Passenger View" to monitor kids, "Passenger Talk" to communicate, and ample storage space for gear.
Convenient Seating: Easy-to-remove second-row seats for better access to the third row, with lower and tether anchors for car seats in all rows.
Spacious Trunk: Deep trunk space easily accommodates strollers, groceries, and family gear.
The 2025 Kia Carnival is an exceptional family car that blends the best of both worlds: minivan practicality with an SUV-like design. Kia has added a hybrid option, offering up to 33 mpg combined, and a remarkable 627 miles of range, making it an even more appealing option for families who need efficiency without sacrificing space. The exterior continues to feature its sleek, SUV-inspired look with a larger grille and modern styling, while the interior is packed with thoughtful updates like a revised center console, improved cameras, and rear entertainment systems.
With second-row seats now offering a relaxation mode with recliners and footrests, and a new rear entertainment system with dual 14.6-inch screens for streaming, the Carnival provides both comfort and convenience for families on the go.
Inside, the Kia Carnival impresses with a TON of family-friendly features. The rear sliding doors and easy-to-remove second-row seats make loading kids in easy, while the ample trunk space ensures there's enough room for strollers and gear. The updated camera systems, including a 360-degree view and full-display mirror, offer a clearer and safer driving experience. For parents, the "Passenger View" and "Passenger Talk" features make it easy to monitor and communicate with kids in the back, while the rear seats provide ample legroom and comfort for even adult passengers.
However, it's important to note that the Carnival doesn’t offer AWD, and the glossy black trim can easily show fingerprints.
Kelly’s Take: Which Families Is The Kia Carnival Hybrid Best For?
The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid is an excellent choice for families with three or more kids who need a spacious, efficient, and versatile vehicle. With its hybrid powertrain offering up to 33 mpg combined and 627 miles of range, it’s perfect for families looking to save on fuel without sacrificing space. The second-row seats are easy to remove, allowing for flexible setups, and the Carnival provides LATCH anchors and tethers in all rows, making it ideal for families juggling multiple car seats.
While it lacks AWD, the Carnival Hybrid’s sliding doors, ceiling vents in all rows, and family-focused tech make it a standout option for parents who want minivan practicality with a sleek SUV-inspired design. If you’re prioritizing efficiency, comfort, and car seat compatibility, this is a top-tier choice.
So… Which Car Wins The 2024 Car Mom Car Of The Year Award? Get Ready To Have YOUR Say!
I’m thrilled to announce the contenders for The Car Mom 2024 Car of the Year! This year’s lineup features some truly incredible family cars, each offering standout features designed to make your family’s life easier, safer, and more comfortable. But here’s the best part—you have the chance to vote for your favorite!
Yes, you read that right. While I’ve shared my thoughts on these car redesigns I believe pushed the market forward this past calendar year, I want to hear from YOU. After all, who knows better than the families driving them daily?
So, take a closer look at the contenders and help decide which one deserves the title of The Car Mom 2024 Car of the Year. Let’s make this decision together!
