What’s the best family vacation car? Our top 3 picks
So you’re road tripping it with
the family this summer, but you’re tempted to invest in that new car you’ve
been wanting before you make the cross-country trek. Well, here are our top 5
picks for the best family vacation (and family anywhere!) vehicles.
1. The BuickEnclave. The 2014 Buick Enclave is rated #1 for families by U.S. News & World Report. In their words, “The 2014 Buick Enclave impresses test drivers with its refined handling and
classy interior. Those traits, combined with an excellent safety score, make
the Enclave highly recommended among affordable midsize SUVs. For having
the best combination of factors that appeal to families, we named the Enclave
our 2014 Best 3-Row Midsize SUV for Families.”
Attractions include: 9.7
safety rating, powerful V6 engine, smooth transmission, an EPA-estimated
17/24 mpg city/highway, premium cabin, three rows—seats up to 8, standard
entertainment system, IntelliLink infotainment system with screen, satellite
radio and an optional rear entertainment system.
2. The Buick Encore. The 2014 Buick Encore is rated #2 in Affordable Compact SUVs by U.S. News & World Report. The Encore’s attractions include an 8.9 safety rating, a stylish
cabin, noise cancellation system (completely quiet highway drive), great fuel
economy (EPA-reported 25/33 mpg city/highway), comfy and spacious front
and back seats, satellite radio and an IntelliLink infotainment system, which
features a 7-inch color display. Because the Encore only offers two rows of
seats, it’s perfect for families of four.
3. The GMCTerrain. The 2014 GMC Terrain is rated #6 in Affordable Compact SUVs by U.S.
News & World Report. Attractions include a 9.3 safety
score, a luxurious, upscale
interior, spacious back seats with leg room, high-tech standard features and
high-performance V6 engine. The Terrain also offers plenty of high-tech bling,
including a rearview camera, a touch-screen stereo, heated mirrors and
Bluetooth.