Looking for a model that received top overall ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS crash testing programs? Something big enough to protect your precious cargo but with better handling and visibility than a full size, truck-based SUV? Something flexible enough to seat a big family and still have some room for cargo?
Here are two great options:
2011-2012 Honda Odyssey– Perfect crash scores all around and great seating flexibility for large families up to 8!
Don’t want a minivan?
2010-2012 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse or GMC Acadia: 5 star overall NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick!
We have a couple honorable mentions if you don’t need to seat more than 4-5 passengers:
2011-2012 Chevrolet Cruze– Compact car with good fuel economy and perfect crash test ratings all around if you don’t need a big family hauler.
The 2011-2012 Volvo XC60 with the innovative City Safety feature. Our tester was finally scheduled to arrive back in June, but due to factors beyond our control we could not obtain one for review and unfortunately we cannot recommend it outright.
Not coincidentally, www.informedforlife.org rates these models very well, too! There are plenty of other models that are very safe for your family. You can find more great choices by checking out their website along with results at www.iihs.org and www.safercar.gov . Looking for advice? Check out our Car Safety forum, too!
It makes me sad that GM didn’t put more than one top tether in the 3rd row of the Enclave/Acadia. That would have made it more family friendly!
I find similar compromises in many compact cars. For its class, though, the Cruze has stellar crashworthiness.
Having installed a couple hundred kids and seats (mostly boosters) in the Cruze, I can’t recommend it. The outboard seats are too narrow for the seats, with kids unable to buckle themselves and the seat ends up on top of the buckle. The center seat is even narrower and was unusable.