Best Used SUVs for Family Road Trips

When it comes to family road trips, having the right vehicle can make all the difference. Long drives require plenty of passenger space, cargo room, comfort features, and reliability. Fortunately, many used SUVs offer everything families need without the higher price tag of a brand-new vehicle.

At Stone Road Auto, we help Rochester-area families find dependable SUVs that are ready for everything from weekend getaways to cross-country adventures. Here are some of the best used SUVs for family road trips in 2026.

1. Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander consistently ranks among the top family SUVs thanks to its reliability, spacious interior, and comfortable ride.

Why It's Great for Road Trips:

  • Available third-row seating

  • Excellent reliability ratings

  • Smooth highway driving

  • Ample cargo space

  • Available AWD for New York weather

Best for: Families who need seating for up to eight passengers.


2. Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot is one of the most spacious midsize SUVs available and offers plenty of room for passengers and luggage.

Top Features:

  • Large third-row seating area

  • Comfortable ride quality

  • Strong safety ratings

  • Generous cargo capacity

Best for: Larger families and long-distance travel.


3. Subaru Ascent

For families who travel year-round, the Subaru Ascent offers standard all-wheel drive and excellent safety features.

Highlights:

  • Standard AWD

  • Spacious cabin

  • Excellent winter driving capability

  • Advanced driver-assist features

Best for: Rochester families who frequently travel during all seasons.


4. Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride has become one of the most popular family SUVs thanks to its upscale interior and outstanding value.

Benefits:

  • Comfortable seating in all three rows

  • Modern technology

  • Excellent ride comfort

  • Large cargo area

Best for: Families wanting premium features at an affordable price.


5. Chevrolet Traverse

The Chevrolet Traverse offers one of the largest cargo areas in its class, making it ideal for road trips with lots of luggage.

Why Families Love It:

  • Massive cargo space

  • Comfortable third-row seating

  • Smooth highway performance

  • Family-friendly interior layout

Best for: Families who pack a lot of gear.


What to Look for in a Road Trip SUV

When shopping for a family SUV, consider these important features:

Passenger Space

Everyone should have enough room to stay comfortable during long drives.

Cargo Capacity

Road trips often require extra luggage, coolers, sports equipment, or strollers.

Fuel Economy

Better fuel efficiency can save hundreds of dollars during extended travel.

Safety Features

Look for:

  • Blind spot monitoring

  • Lane departure warning

  • Adaptive cruise control

  • Automatic emergency braking

Reliability

A dependable vehicle helps reduce the risk of unexpected repairs while traveling.

Why Buy a Used Family SUV?

A used SUV allows families to enjoy premium features at a lower cost.

Benefits include:

  • Lower purchase price

  • Reduced depreciation

  • Affordable financing options

  • Access to higher trim levels

Many late-model used SUVs offer modern safety systems, smartphone integration, and advanced comfort features at a fraction of the cost of buying new.

Find the Perfect Family SUV at Stone Road Auto

At Stone Road Auto, we offer a wide selection of quality used SUVs that are perfect for family road trips. Whether you need extra seating, all-wheel drive, or plenty of cargo space, our team can help you find the right vehicle for your family's needs.

Browse our inventory online or visit our Rochester-area dealership today to explore our selection of family-friendly SUVs.