Juggling life as a new parent comes with enough challenges—finding the right car shouldn’t be one of them. With car seats, strollers, and endless baby gear in tow, you need a vehicle that’s spacious, safe, and built for family life.
Luckily, automakers are delivering with smart features, top-tier safety, and plenty of room for all your parenting essentials. This guide highlights the best cars for new parents in 2025, from spacious minivans to compact SUVs and everything in between.
Here’s a breakdown of the top 15 cars that strive to help make life easier for new families.
1. Toyota Sienna
Starting MSRP: $39,185
Estimated combined MPG: Up to 36
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
IIHS Top Safety Pick
Safety features:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Warns of potential collisions and can apply emergency braking.
- Lane Tracing Assist: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane during highway driving.
The Toyota Sienna is the ultimate minivan for busy parents. Its hybrid-only powertrain provides excellent fuel efficiency, cutting down on gas station visits—something every new parent can appreciate. The generous trunk space ensures that even larger strollers or extra gear have a designated spot. Plus, the hands-free liftgate makes it easy to load up with baby gear without having to juggle keys or a baby in your arms.
Explore the full details of Toyota Sienna insurance costs and learn what affects your rates.
2. Kia Carnival
Starting MSRP: $38,600
Estimated combined MPG: Up to 22
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Safety features:
- Driver Attention Warning: Monitors driving behavior and suggests breaks if signs of fatigue are detected.
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist: Automatically applies braking if another vehicle is detected in your blind spot.
The Kia Carnival combines SUV styling with minivan practicality, making it a stylish yet functional choice for new parents. The rear seats slide forward for easy access, even with a car seat in place. The spacious trunk and underfloor compartments provide ample room for strollers, diaper bags, and extra baby gear. For added convenience, the VIP second-row seating ensures your little one is comfortable, and it’s easy for you to tend to your baby.
Get a comprehensive look at Kia Carnival insurance costs and see how to find the best coverage.
3. Subaru Outback
Starting MSRP: $29,010
Estimated combined MPG: Up to 29
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Safety features:
- Rear Automatic Braking: Helps prevent collisions by detecting obstacles behind the vehicle.
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering: Maintains a set distance from the car ahead while keeping the vehicle centered in its lane.
The Subaru Outback is ideal for parents who want a car that’s both practical and adventurous. The all-wheel-drive system ensures that you can confidently navigate through rain or snow, while the large backseat area fits infant car seats with ease. With the Outback, you can take your baby on family adventures without compromising on comfort or safety. Plus, the vehicle’s thoughtful design and generous cargo space allow you to bring everything you need for your baby.
Find out how much Subaru Outback insurance costs and what factors impact your premium.
4. Honda CR-V Hybrid
Starting MSRP: $34,650
Estimated combined MPG: Up to 40
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Safety features:
- Traffic Jam Assist: Helps with steering, braking, and acceleration in congested traffic.
- Forward Collision Warning: Alerts the driver of an impending front-end collision.
The Honda CR-V Hybrid is an excellent choice for new parents who want to maximize both efficiency and convenience. The spacious rear seats provide ample room for infant car seats, and the back trunk offers plenty of space for a stroller and diaper bags. The hybrid powertrain ensures excellent fuel economy, which is essential for those long trips to the pediatrician or quick visits to the store. The CR-V Hybrid’s cargo space can easily accommodate larger strollers.
Discover the key factors that influence Honda CR-V Hybrid insurance costs and how to save on coverage.
5. Subaru Forester
Starting MSRP: $29,810
Estimated combined MPG: Up to 29
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
IIHS Top Safety Pick+
Safety features:
- Reverse Automatic Braking: Detects obstacles behind the vehicle and applies the brakes if needed.
- Lead Vehicle Start Alert: Notifies the driver when the car ahead has started moving in traffic.
The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV that doesn’t sacrifice space for comfort. The back seat fits rear-facing car seats with ease, and the trunk area provides ample room for strollers and baby essentials. The Forester’s higher ground clearance makes loading heavy baby gear from the trunk easier, and the flat cargo floor helps with organizing all the little items you need. Parents will appreciate the large side windows for easy visibility of baby in the back.
Learn about Subaru Forester insurance costs and how to get the most affordable policy.
6. Chevrolet Traverse
Starting MSRP: $40,700
Estimated combined MPG: Up to 23
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Safety features:
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Warns of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space.
- Following Distance Indicator: Displays the gap time between your vehicle and the one ahead to encourage safe driving distances.
The Chevrolet Traverse offers plenty of room for new parents and their growing families. With three rows of seating and a spacious trunk, this vehicle is perfect for those who need extra room for baby gear. The rear seats slide forward to allow easy access to the third row. The Traverse also offers thoughtful touches like an easy-to-clean interior, making it perfect for messy situations that can come with babies.
See a full breakdown of Chevrolet Traverse insurance costs and what determines your premium.
7. Hyundai Santa Fe
Starting MSRP: $34,200
Estimated combined MPG: Up to 24
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
IIHS Top Safety Pick
Safety features:
- Safe Exit Assist: Prevents passengers from opening doors if a vehicle is approaching from behind.
- Highway Driving Assist: Adjusts speed and steering input based on navigation data and traffic conditions.
The Hyundai Santa Fe is an excellent SUV for new parents looking for a balance of comfort and practicality. The rear seats are spacious enough to comfortably fit infant car seats, and the large trunk provides ample space for strollers and diaper bags. The low cargo floor makes it easy to load and unload baby gear without any hassle, and the wide rear opening ensures your stroller fits without any awkward maneuvering.
Uncover Hyundai Santa Fe insurance costs and learn how to lock in the best deal.
8. Kia Forte
Starting MSRP: $19,900
Estimated combined MPG: Up to 35
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Safety features:
- Lane Keeping Assist: Gently corrects steering if the vehicle begins to drift from its lane.
- Driver Attention Warning: Detects drowsy or inattentive driving and alerts the driver to take a break.
The Kia Forte is a compact and budget-friendly option for parents who need a reliable, fuel-efficient car. The rear seats are spacious enough to accommodate rear-facing car seats, and the trunk offers room for smaller strollers and diaper bags. This car is perfect for new parents looking for a smaller vehicle without compromising on safety or space for baby gear. With its impressive fuel economy and solid safety features, the Kia Forte is a great option for daily commutes or quick errands around town with your baby.
Find out how Kia Forte insurance costs are calculated and what you can do to lower your rates.
9. Toyota Highlander
Starting MSRP: $39,520
Estimated combined MPG: Up to 25
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
IIHS Top Safety Pick
Safety features:
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Maintains a safe following distance by adjusting speed automatically.
- Automatic High Beams: Switches between high and low beams depending on surrounding traffic.
The Toyota Highlander is a compact and budget-friendly option for parents who need a reliable, fuel-efficient car. The rear seats are spacious enough to accommodate rear-facing car seats. This car is perfect for new parents looking for a smaller vehicle without compromising on safety or space for baby gear. With its impressive fuel economy and solid safety features, the Kia Forte is a great option for daily commutes or quick errands around town with your baby.
Get insights into Toyota Highlander insurance costs and the factors that shape your rates.
10. Chevrolet Tahoe
Starting MSRP: $59,000
Estimated combined MPG: Up to 17
Drivetrain: Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
Safety features:
- Front Pedestrian Braking: Detects pedestrians ahead and applies emergency braking if necessary.
- Auto High Beams: Automatically adjusts high beams for oncoming traffic.
For new parents with larger families or those who need extra space, the Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV that provides ample room for everyone. The spacious third-row seating allows for extra room when needed, while the large cargo area ensures that even larger strollers and baby gear fit easily. The Tahoe also features a power lift gate. Whether you’re running errands or heading on a family vacation, the Tahoe is built to handle all your baby’s essentials.
Take a closer look at Chevrolet Tahoe insurance costs and ways to maximize your savings.
11. Mazda CX-30
Starting MSRP: $25,195
Estimated combined MPG: Up to 29
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
IIHS Top Safety Pick+
Safety features:
- Smart Brake Support: Detects potential collisions and applies brakes to reduce impact.
- Lane Departure Warning System: Alerts the driver if unintentional lane departure is detected.
The Mazda CX-30 is a stylish and compact SUV that still delivers on space for new parents. Its comfortable rear seats can fit car seats with ease, while the cargo space is perfect for everyday family needs. Its sleek design makes it a fun yet practical choice.
Learn about Mazda CX-30 insurance costs and how different factors influence your premium.
12. Hyundai Kona
Starting MSRP: $24,550
Estimated combined MPG: Up to 32
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
IIHS Top Safety Pick
Safety features:
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning: Warns if a vehicle is in your blind spot when changing lanes.
- Rear Occupant Alert: Reminds the driver to check the back seat for passengers before exiting.
The Hyundai Kona is a small SUV that offers big value for families. Despite its compact size, it has a roomy interior and a well-designed cargo space that makes traveling with kids easier. It’s an ideal option for parents looking for an affordable yet versatile vehicle.
Get a detailed breakdown of Hyundai Kona insurance costs and what goes into determining your rates.
13. Nissan Rogue
Starting MSRP: $29,230
Estimated combined MPG: Up to 33
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Safety features:
- Rear Automatic Braking: Detects stationary objects behind the vehicle and can apply brakes if needed.
- ProPILOT Assist: Assists with steering, braking, and acceleration during highway driving.
The Nissan Rogue is a well-rounded family vehicle with a spacious cabin and comfortable rear seats that make installing car seats hassle-free. Its generous cargo area provides plenty of room for strollers, groceries, and all the essentials that come with parenting.
See what Nissan Rogue insurance costs might look like and how you can get the best value on coverage.
14. Volvo XC90
Starting MSRP: $58,450
Estimated combined MPG: Up to 26
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Safety features:
- Oncoming Lane Mitigation: Detects oncoming vehicles and assists with steering to avoid collisions.
- Run-Off Road Protection: Adjusts seatbelts and activates energy-absorbing seats if the vehicle leaves the road.
The Volvo XC90 blends luxury with family-friendly practicality. With a spacious third row and an integrated booster seat, it’s built for parents who want premium features without sacrificing convenience. The sustainable interior materials add an eco-conscious touch.
Explore Volvo XC90 insurance costs and learn how to find the right coverage at the best price.
15. Honda Accord
Starting MSRP: $28,295
Estimated combined MPG: Up to 33
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
IIHS Top Safety Pick
Safety features:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System: Automatically applies brakes if a frontal collision seems imminent.
- Road Departure Mitigation System: Alerts and assists if the vehicle unintentionally leaves the roadway.
The Honda Accord proves that sedans can still be a great choice for families. Its hybrid engine offers outstanding fuel efficiency, while the roomy back seat provides ample space for car seats. With excellent reliability and resale value, it’s a smart long-term investment for parents.
Discover Honda Accord insurance costs and how to get the most competitive rate.
Before we go…
Choosing the right car as a new parent can make life so much easier. From spacious interiors to advanced safety features, the options on this list are designed to support your growing family.
And don’t forget, protecting your new car with the right insurance is just as important as picking the perfect vehicle. Lemonade car insurance offers hassle-free coverage that keeps your family protected on the road. Get a free quote today!
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.
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