Best two-row SUVs for families in 2025: Kelley Blue Book's top picks
Is KBB's list of best two-row SUVs spot-on or way off the mark?
Charles Singh- Kelley Blue Book released its list of 12 best family cars for 2025.
- The Honda CR-V, Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Subaru Outback ranked in the two-row SUV category (in no specific order).
- These SUVs appeal to different types of drivers, but they all have strong value propositions in their own right based on specs.
The term "best" is subjective, but some car, truck and SUV models offer more value than their competitors in terms of affordability, reliability, comfort and performance. Kelley Blue Book, an American vehicle valuation and automotive research company, recently compiled a list of its 12 best family cars of 2025.
The company's methodology for compiling the list includes comparing Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) testing scores, driving experience notes from expert reviews, cargo capability, and many other factors.
So, which two-row family SUVs does Kelley Blue Book consider to be the best of 2025, and are the SUVs worth their high KBB rankings?
These are the best two-row SUVs for families in 2025, according to Kelley Blue Book

The best two-row SUVs for families in 2025, according to Kelley Blue Book, are:
- 2025 Honda CR-V
- 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5
- 2025 Subaru Outback
Each model listed has its own appealing characteristics, each distinct enough to grant drivers plenty of variety.
The 2025 Honda CR-V is a top dog in its segment
The CR-V frequently competes against best-selling models in its segment like the Toyota RAV4. It's best known for its smooth ride quality and practical interior.
The 2025 Honda CR-V starts at $30,100. It uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine to produce 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. The small SUV achieves 28 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway.
2025 Honda CR-V standard features
- Adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow
- Driver attention monitor
- Collision mitigation braking system
The CR-V features a suite of standard driver assistance and safety features that make driving safer and more convenient. "Honda reliability means years of trouble-free driving," said Kelley Blue Book Executive Editor Brian Moody.
Hyundai's Ioniq 5 SUV is a strong contender for best electric SUV
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is an affordable and futuristic small electric SUV that challenges the best in its class. It has won multiple awards for its innovative design and overall value.
The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 starts at $42,600. It produces 168 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The Ioniq 5 SE Standard Range base model has 245 miles of driving range.
2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 standard features
- Heated front seats
- 12.3-inch touchscreen display
- Dynamic voice recognition
Hyundai's small electric SUV comes standard with plenty of innovative technology. "For those wanting an electric option, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is about the best you can get in its segment," Moody said. It would be remiss not to mention the Tesla Model Y in the small electric SUV segment, but the Ioniq 5 provides enough value to justify its position on KBB's list.
The Subaru Outback boasts reliability and capability
The 2025 Subaru Outback is an affordable midsize SUV with off-roading capability. Additionally, Subaru recently earned the title of most reliable new car brand from Consumer Reports.
The 2025 Subaru Outback starts at $29,995. It uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to make 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. The Outback achieves 26 miles per gallon in the city and 32 miles per gallon on the highway.
2025 Subaru Outback standard features
- Raised roof rails
- Subaru X-Mode traction and stability enhancement
- All-wheel drive
Moody says the Outback "can handle some pretty aggressive off-roading, but it functions perfectly around town as a family car". The Outback's capability and versatility are well-documented and its placement of the list of best two-row SUVs for 2025 is justified.
The two-row SUVs mentioned on KBB's list of 12 best family cars for 2025 are fair picks based on reviews, value proposition, and overall appeal.