Finding the ideal family SUV can be stressful, but reviews and roundups can help sort through the many options. But if you’re looking at Kelley Blue Book, you’ll find only one American SUV on its list of the best family cars of 2023. It’s the 2023 Ford Expedition, and there are several reasons why this full-size SUV stands out.

How did Kelley Blue Book choose the winners in its best family cars roundup?

The primary goal of Kelley Blue Book’s “12 Best Family Cars of 2023” is to provide an option for everyone. KBB took into consideration the fact that no family is the same. So it recommends a wide range of models.

Safety, roominess, and functionality top the list of features that make a family vehicle desirable, but KBB dug deeper to examine other factors. They include historical reliability and predicted resale value. That allows consumers to better plan if they upgrade to another vehicle five years later.

No luxury vehicles appear on KBB’s list because four out of five families pick mainstream models. That excludes excellent vehicles ideal for growing families. However, the cars that appear on the list provide plenty of value. Also, KBB didn’t select any sedans because families are more drawn to larger vehicles such as SUVs and minivans.

The 2023 Ford Expedition is the only American SUV on KBB’s best family cars list

The 2023 Ford Expedition won Kelley Blue Book’s award for Best Full-Size SUV. Its superb interior and powertrain played pivotal roles in this win.

The one significant drawback is its size — something families should consider. Getting in and out can be a hassle, especially for children, and it’s easy to slam the large doors into other vehicles in cramped parking areas.

But the 2023 Ford Expedition provides plenty to love, including its potent yet fuel-efficient EcoBoost twin-turbo V6. In addition, this hulking SUV can seat up to eight, and the cargo area has plenty of room for groceries, luggage, toys, or sporting gear. Families will also appreciate the 15 drink holders, generous legroom in the third row, and comfortable seats.

Ford optimized the Expedition for off-roading, so this SUV could be ideal for families interested in hitting the trails. The Timberline trim is the best for off-roading, thanks to the High-Output EcoBoost engine and standard four-wheel drive.

The other models on KBB’s best family cars list are from foreign automakers

Eleven other vehicles make Kelley Blue Book’s list, all from foreign automakers. They aren’t ranked; instead, KBB placed them in categories by seating capacity and listed them alphabetically by brand. 

Honda, Hyundai, and Toyota each bost three vehicles in the roundup. The other two brands are Kia and Subaru.

The Honda CR-V, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Hyundai Santa Fe, Subaru Outback, and Toyota RAV4 took spots in the two-row SUV category area. Families needing three rows might consider the Honda Odyssey, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Toyota Highlander, and Toyota Sienna. 

The cheapest model in the roundup is the RAV4, starting at $27,975. The Ford Expedition is the most expensive, with a starting MSRP of $55,125. Still, it’s clear why KBB considers this American SUV one of the top family cars.