Like many others, you’re probably interested in getting a new family car in 2023. This year, there are many excellent options to choose from in the minivan, SUV, and crossover categories. Family cars are at their best when there is plenty of interior space for passengers and cargo, family-friendly features, and, most importantly, safety. When experts formulate lists based on quality, value, and more crucial metrics, it’s easy to find the best models. Here are the three best family cars of 2023, according to Cars.com: Subaru Outback, Kia Telluride, and Kia Carnival.

Finalist: 2023 Subaru Outback

According to Cars.com, the first finalist for best family car is the 2023 Subaru Outback. With a starting price just under $30,000, the Outback is an excellent choice for value-seeking customers. The publication says it’s a perfect choice “for families with a bit of a wild side.” This is due to the Subaru model’s off-road capability, adventurous styling, and excellent features. Moreover, the brand and model are well-known for impressive safety ratings and reliability, which are always a massive plus for families.

Next, the expert says upgrades for the 2023 Outback enhanced the model in a few ways. For example, a light styling update and including more features in the Subaru EyeSight safety system. The safety features and excellent crash test ratings are enough to earn the Outback high marks from the IIHS. In addition, the rear seat is roomy enough for two car seats or to sit adults comfortably. Moving further back, the cargo area is spacious enough to accommodate shared family storage.

Finalist: 2023 Kia Telluride

We’re not surprised to see the 2023 Kia Telluride near the top of any list. The midsize three-row SUV continues to rake in awards year after year. Starting at $37,255, Cars.com says the family car is “anything but (boring).” It easily fits many people of any size with its excellent passenger space and tremendous cargo room. Moreover, the model can come with seven or eight seats across three rows, whichever the owner prefers.

Like the Outback, it also has off-road variants, giving families the extra push they need to take on camping, hiking, or other outdoor activities. The publication says the standard 3.8-liter V6 is excellent, offering a composed ride that stays comfortable on long road trips. Not to mention, the 5,500-pound towing capacity isn’t bad for boat or camper haulers either. Lastly, the rear seats are easy to install with car seats.

The 2023 Kia Carnival is the best family car of 2023

Finally, Cars.com says the best family car of 2023 is the 2023 Kia Carnival. Although the other finalists are various-sized SUVs, the Carnival is closer to a minivan. However, it separates itself from the minivans segment by claiming to be a “Multi-Purpose Vehicle” (MPV). The expert says it “adds a few more much-needed comfort and convenience goodies that make parenting less of a chore.” It has plenty of interior space, ample safety features, and of course, plenty of value. The Carnival starts at $34,465 for the base model.

The only available powertrain is a 3.5-liter V6 that makes 290 horsepower, which provides punchy acceleration even with a carload of people inside. Next, the Slide-Flex seating system allows owners to slide the second row in more directions, making accessing children in the rear and middle seats easier for adults. Additionally, there’s a rear-passenger-view camera for first-row passengers to watch kids in the back. Furthermore, the Carnival received an excellent crashworthiness rating from the IIHS and excellent marks from Cars.com for its Car Seat Check. The expert also measured more cargo room than rivals in the minivan and three-row SUV segments.

Lastly, the long list of standard safety features is impressive. Every 2023 Kia Carnival comes with a blind spot monitor, a rear-seat alert system, safe exit assist, rear parking sensors, and more.

Cars.com: Best family cars of 2023

In conclusion, the 2023 Kia Carnival is the best family car of 2023. Other excellent options are the Subaru Outback and Kia Telluride. Each model provides ample cargo space, passenger comfort, and plenty of family-friendly features. More importantly, all are filled with standard safety features and earned a great crash test rating. For the price, each one provides a high value for its class. Which of the best family cars of 2023, according to Cars.com, do you like the most?