Finding the best SUV for your family is no small task, especially if you live in NJ with our dense population, potholed roads, intense traffic, and, let's not forget, the attitude that is somewhat unique to New Jersey drivers.
We’ve gathered information on eight of the best SUVs for NJ moms and families from various media sources. Of course, as a large NJ auto group supporting many new car brands, we’ve added in some of our own experienced opinions.
The Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Kia EV9, Mitsubishi Outlander, Chevrolet Equinox EV, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet Tahoe, and Ford Mustang Mach-E. All of these SUVs are seen on NJ roadways and have impressive safety features, comfort, expansive seating, all the necessary tech features, and even some features and comforts that we’re fond of calling “SUPER MOM FEATURES.” Any one of these family-friendly SUVs ticks all the boxes required to be considered the best SUV for NJ families.
Let’s start with two SUVs that have been on the top of everyone's best SUV list for the last couple of years.
The Kia Telluride, and the Hyundai Palisade. These two amazing SUVs have fast become the top of everyone's best SUV list, and for good reason.
#1 Kia Telluride - Family SUV 
A Head Turner Every Time, Every Day.
We’re from NJ, looks matter. You know when you see a Kia Telluride on the parkway, turnpike, or just on local New Jersey side streets, it makes you look twice (maybe three times) and say, what is that! It’s the Kia Telluride, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a better SUV in NJ for a better price than this family-friendly SUV.
Room for the entire family
Possibly one of the largest interiors in its category, the Kia Telluride's cavernous interior can carry up to eight passengers with its third row that accommodates adults with generous amounts of legroom and headroom.
Comfort Galore
Even though in NJ everything is just 20 minutes away, who does not want some comfort with their style? The seats in the Telluride are designed to be comfortable for long or short trips. They are both well-padded and supportive, with multiple power adjustments for the driver and front passenger. The Telluride also has memory settings so no matter who was driving before you, your seat positions go back to the perfect position with just a touch of a button.
The backseat also has a hearty amount of space for just about anyone. Apart from Shaquille O’Neal (he’d probably want to sit in the front anyway) being a passenger, you’ll never have to ask, “do you have enough room back there?” ever again.
Of Course, It’ll fit!
The Telluride also has a large cargo area, with 21 cubic feet of space with all seats in place and up to 87 cubic feet with the second and third-row seats folded down. What that means is, even with a full load of adults and kids, you can still put groceries, sports equipment, folding chairs, or any number of things in the back.
With the third row folded down, there’s room for almost anything you can think of. And if it won’t fit, the Kia Telluride has enough power and torque to tow a trailer, boat, or RV, making it a perfect SUV for going on long trips or camping (or glamping, depending on where you’re from in New Jersey).
Safety is the top priority
We’re reviewing the best SUVs in NJ for families; so safety features are the top priority. The Kia Telluride is easily considered a vehicle that puts safety first. With a range of advanced driver assistance features, including lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking, the Telluride is looking out for its occupants and sees the things you don’t.
The safety tech in the Telluride helps you avoid an accident, but just in case, the Kia Telluride also has a strong and rigid body structure, which, coupled with its suite of airbags, works to protect occupants during a collision.
Additionally, the Telluride has several safety technologies, such as a surround-view camera system, front and rear parking sensors, and rear cross-traffic alert, to make it easier to drive and park. All these features are a must in NJ parking lots or when parallel parking in town.
Power to merge and gas mileage too.
The Telluride's performance is impressive, with a 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivers 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which helps the SUV achieve an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. What does this mean to the average NJ driver? The Telluride's provides plenty of power for daily driving, which means it can easily accelerate onto the highway or merge into traffic without worrying, and in NJ, a state where nobody lets you in, you only get a moment to merge. You need an SUV that has the power to make it happen.
Baby shark never sounded so good!
The Kia Telluride has high-tech features for miles, such as a large touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and, of course, a premium sound system. The touchscreen display is easy to use and provides access to various features, including navigation, music, and phone controls. The Telluride’s premium sound system provides clear and powerful sound, with multiple speakers and even a subwoofer for deep bass.
So Much Bang for Your Buck
Overall, the Kia Telluride is an excellent choice for families and moms in NJ who need a spacious, comfortable, powerful, and safe SUV with performance and high-tech features that are as helpful as they are impressive.
It also helps that you’d be hard-pressed to find a better SUV deal than the Kia Telluride. With its favorable financing options, choosing the Telluride as your next family SUV is pretty easy.
Get a closer look at the family-friendly Kia Telluride at a NJ Kia dealership.
Hyundai Palisade
The head-turning Hyundai Palisade is one of the best SUVs for families and moms for numerous reasons. If you’ve seen one on the road, you know this beauty turns heads, but to make the Nielsen Auto Group list, it has to be more than another pretty face.
Have a Seat and Stow Your Gear.
Since we’re talking about the best SUV for families and moms, we need to start with the seating arrangements. The Hyundai Palisade offers seating for seven to eight people, so taking the clan, or even most of the Lacrosse team, anywhere just got a lot easier.
Throughout the Hyundai Palisade, you’ll find places to store just about anything, from phones to snacks. There is an abundance of well-thought-out storage for everything a family on the move needs.
Lifting the power tailgate reveals space for grocery shopping or family adventures. Even with the third row in use, there is plenty of space for cargo.
Cleanup On Aisle Three!
Another notable thing about the third row of seats, they can be adjusted for comfort, and the seats are easy to clean, which is useful for families with young children who may be prone to messes. We are talking about families in New Jersey, so we need to make sure a dropped slice of pizza doesn’t ruin the ride.
Safety Features Galore
This is one of the reasons the Hyundai Palisade is on so many best SUVs in New Jersey for families lists. There is no skimping on safety features. The Hyundai Palisade is equipped with a variety of features that make it a must for family driving. All-wheel drive with Multi-Terrain Control modes, Rear Occupant Alert, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Front and Rear Parking distance warning with 360-degree camera, and a Nielsen favorite, cameras that show the blind spot in the gauge cluster. This feature takes blind spot safety to a new level.
With all you have to worry about on NJ roads, the safety features in the Hyundai Palisade sure do help parents feel safe and secure driving with their loved ones anywhere the day takes them.
SUPER MOM FEATURES
Must-have plethora of USB ports that allow for many devices to charge at once and a power tailgate that can be adjusted to open just the right amount, but let’s talk in-vehicle intercom! An in-vehicle intercom? That’s right, an intercom that projects the voice of the front passengers to the rear seats. Now, when you’re driving down the parkway and tell the kiddos you’re going to turn this car around if they don’t behave, they will hear you loud and clear!
Another super mom feature, your phone is the key (literally). Add your car key to your Apple Wallet, then hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near the door handle to unlock it. It’s such an amazing perk for parents who always find their hands full. With the phone key, you can even share it with friends so they have access when you’re not around.
Is the Hyundai Palisade the best SUV for families in NJ? Get a closer look at the Hyundai Palisade at a NJ Hyundai dealership.
Kia EV9
Meet the future of family SUVs. The Kia EV9 is a fully electric, three-row SUV that’s actually built for real-life parenting. This thing turns heads, hauls kids, and doesn’t stop for gas. Ever.
Room for everyone - and then some.
The EV9 offers seating for six or seven, depending on your setup. The second-row seats can even swivel to face backward (yes, for real), which makes buckling in toddlers or playing snack-passer-in-chief way easier. It’s spacious, flexible, and surprisingly upscale for an SUV that doesn’t burn a drop of gas.
Bonus Super Mom Feature: The front seats can project your voice to the third row, so when you say “Don’t make me turn around,” everyone hears it the first time.
Cargo space where it counts. Even with all three rows in use, there’s still solid cargo room in the back. Strollers? Sports bags? Costco haul? No problem. Fold down the third row, and the space opens up even more. And if you’re really trying to max out utility, the frunk (front trunk) gives you bonus storage under the hood — perfect for wipes, emergency goldfish crackers, or a backup beach towel.
Another Super Mom Feature? Your phone is your key. Just tap your iPhone or Apple Watch near the handle to unlock — perfect for when your hands are full of groceries, gear, or toddlers.
Quietly confident - and safe.
he EV9 is so quiet, it might be the only place your toddler finally takes a nap without protest.
It’s loaded with Kia’s latest driver assistance tech, including lane-following assist, blind-spot view monitor, smart cruise control, and a 360-degree camera system that makes parallel parking in tight NJ towns way less stressful. It’s one of the safest ways to haul your whole crew — and it does it in near silence.
Power and range for the real world With up to 300 miles of electric range, available AWD, and fast-charging capability, the EV9 is ready for commutes, road trips, or spontaneous “let’s just drive to the Shore” Saturdays. It has plenty of power for merging onto the Parkway, and charging is quick enough that you’ll still have time for that Wawa stop.
No gas, no guilt, all comfort. No gas, no guilt, and yes — it still has cup holders for everyone. The EV9 skips the pump, saves on fuel, and may even qualify for federal tax credits. It’s an EV that makes sense — not just for the planet, but for your calendar, your wallet, and your sanity.
Get a closer look at the fully electric Kia EV9 at a NJ Kia dealership.
Mitsubishi Outlander
Mitsubishi vehicles have been dominating NJ roads for decades. They should not be overlooked as a choice when considering what the best SUV in NJ is. Don’t think for a second the award-winning Mitsubishi Outlander is not competing for the top spot of best SUV for NJ families and moms.
For several reasons, the Mitsubishi Outlander is a solid, safe choice for NJ families.
Mitsubishi is known for reliability, with a long history of producing vehicles that can be trusted, and you can still see them on NJ roads today. You won’t have to worry about longevity; this is one you can pass down to the kids.
The Outlander Sport, in particular, is one of the most reliable SUVs on the market. It is perfect for families or anyone who wants a vehicle they can count on.
One of the Safest Cars on the Market
Regarding safety, the Mitsubishi Outlander has several features that make it a must-have choice for NJ drivers that make safety a top priority in their choice of SUVs.
A blind spot warning almost goes without saying, as well as a sophisticated and reliable automatic emergency braking system. But not every SUV is an IIH top safety pick; the Mitsubishi Outlander is, and that matters.
Easy on the Eyes and Other Body Parts
The interior is breathtaking. Soft, supple seats are beyond comfortable even when you hit those winter potholes on NJ roads (and you will). The interior styling exudes elegance and style from the front seat to the back.
From behind the wheel, the simplicity and intuitiveness of the controls make it a joy to drive. From a large touchscreen to simple selection and voice controls, Mitsubishi has gone to great lengths to tackle the complexities of vehicle operation and accessing features and make it simple, just as it should be.
Overall, the Mitsubishi Outlander is a reliable, safe, and practical choice for NJ families. It offers a range of features that make it an excellent option for those looking for a dependable and stylish SUV. It’s got fantastic fuel economy, has amazing options, is available in a hybrid model, and maybe best of all, the Mitsubishi Outlander has some of the most favorable financing options in the industry.
Get a closer look at the reliable and affordable Mitsubishi Outlander at a NJ Mitsubishi dealership.
Chevrolet Equinox EV
The Chevy Equinox EV is the electric version of one of the most popular SUVs in New Jersey — and now, it’s quieter, cleaner, and more affordable to drive than ever. If you’re not ready for something that looks like a spaceship, but you’re tired of gas prices and oil changes, this SUV makes going electric feel totally normal (and kind of awesome).
Same Equinox feel, now fully Electric The Equinox EV keeps the same practical vibe as the gas-powered version — room for five, a flexible rear cargo area, and a layout that works great for car seats, strollers, or a backseat full of sports gear. But under the hood? There’s no engine. Just smooth electric power and instant acceleration.
Plenty of range for the Garden State. With up to 326 miles of range, the Equinox EV can handle anything from your daily commute to a weekend trip down the Shore without blinking.
This is an SUV that can go from Bergen County to Cape May (and back) on a single charge. And if you ever do need a top-up, fast-charging capabilities can get you back on the road while you’re still sipping your coffee.
Tech that keeps up with your life. This is one smart SUV. The Equinox EV includes Chevy’s latest infotainment system with a huge touchscreen, available Super Cruise™ hands-free driving tech, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. You also get the safety features NJ drivers expect, including automatic emergency braking, blind spot alerts, lane-keep assist, and more.
And here’s a Super Mom Feature for you: Use the myChevy app to check the battery levels, unlock the car, or pre-condition the cabin — all from your phone before you wrestle kids out the door.
Budget-friendly, family-approved. The Equinox EV has an affordable starting price (especially compared to most EVs), and it may be eligible for federal and state incentives. That means you’re not just saving on gas — you’re saving at signing, too. It’s the SUV that says “we’re going electric” without also saying “we’re skipping vacation this year.”
Get a closer look at the all-electric Chevrolet Equinox EV at a NJ Chevrolet dealership.
Nissan Pathfinder - the most Jersey of all Jersey SUVs?
Few SUVs are more Jersey than the Nissan Pathfinder. Like so many great things, the Pathfinder was born in the eighties. In 1987, the first Nissan Pathfinder appeared in NJ Nissan dealerships and quickly became the most popular SUV in NJ.
It has been recognized as a recent Parents' Best Adventure SUV for families, thanks to its spacious interior and reputation for reliability.
Like the other SUVs on this list, the Nissan Pathfinder offers plenty of cargo space and seating for eight passengers, making it perfect for family outings, road trips, or taking a chunk of the team to soccer practice.
Let's Talk Safety
Equipped with advanced safety features, such as intelligent forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and intelligent driver alertness, which, as far as we’re concerned, is a must-have safety feature since so many accidents on New Jersey’s roadways are related to driver distraction.
Creature Comforts Abound
The Pathfinder offers a huge panoramic moonroof, wireless connectivity, a bumping 13-speaker BOSE® premium audio system, and connectivity to Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™; trust us, the family is not going to want to get out of this SUV.
One of the Best Deals Among NJ SUVs.
Even with all the features, styling, and safety, the Nissan Pathfinder is still one of the best new car deals in NJ. The Pathfinder has a very desirable starting price point as well as great financing and leasing options.
Get a closer look at the legendary Nissan Pathfinder at a NJ Nissan dealership.
Chevrolet (Chevy) Tahoe
The Mack daddy of SUVs. If you don’t consider this popular family SUV, you’re missing out on one of the best SUVs to roll down NJ roadways.
The Chevy Tahoe is the largest family-sized SUV in this list, with (wait for it) seating for up to NINE PEOPLE! And the cargo room goes on for days.
A View From Above it All
You sit up high, you have a view of the traffic and road ahead, and you’re wrapped in luxurious appointments and protected by best-in-class safety features. The options on the Tahoe are impressive to say the least. From air-ride suspension to handling the New Jersey roads like a pro, to collision and pedestrian avoidance, to Chevy’s hands-free driving tech and up to 13 cameras! The Chevy Tahoe is the ultimate combination of safety, technology, and comfort.
Passenger Nirvana
Available rear-seat media systems are available to entertain the backseat dwellers. Room for up to nine (acres of room) without sacrificing space for additional cargo. Multiple places to stow just about anything, plenty of USB charging ports and cup holders everywhere you look.
Safety is a Chevrolet Priority
Starting with power retractable steps to super bright LED headlights to show you everything going on down the road, to the Chevy Tahoe’s standard Chevy Safety Assist systems that come standard with the popular family SUV. The Safety systems include lane keeping and departure warnings, front pedestrian braking, forward collision alert with automatic emergency braking, and so much more, including optional police-grade tires!
If you’re in search of the most popular family SUV in NJ, this family SUV from Chevy just may be what you’re looking for. The Tahoe lets you tick off so many boxes, including some you didn’t know you needed.
Get a closer look at the incredible Chevy Tahoe at a NJ Chevrolet dealership.
Ford Mustang Mach-E
If you’ve ever thought, “I need an SUV … but I don’t want to feel like I gave up,” the Mustang Mach-E is your sweet spot. It’s sporty, stylish, packed with tech, and fully electric — making it one of the most fun ways to get the kids to practice (or yourself to brunch).
Fast, but in a responsible parent kind if way. The Mach-E is everything you’d expect from a Mustang nameplate — but instead of loud exhaust, you get instant torque, smooth acceleration, and a whisper-quiet cabin. With up to 320 miles of range, it handles Parkway commutes, Target runs, and weekend drives to grandma’s house with ease — and no tailpipe emissions. Think of it as “carpool lane, but make it fun.”
Compact, but still family-capable. It’s a two-row SUV, so it’s best suited for smaller families or parents who want extra cargo space without lugging around a third row. There’s still plenty of room in the back for groceries, sports gear, and even a bulky stroller. The flat floor makes the rear seat extra comfortable, and the trunk space in the front (yes, it has a frunk!) is perfect for snacks, chargers, or the emergency wipes we all know you carry.
Super Mom Feature Alert: The hands-free power liftgate lets you open the hatch with a quick foot swipe. It’s perfect for when your hands are full of, well, everything.
Smart tech for smart driving. The Mach-E is loaded with Ford’s most advanced driver-assist systems, including BlueCruise hands-free driving (perfect for long Turnpike stretches), as well as a sleek touchscreen interface, wireless phone charging, and multiple user profiles — so everyone’s seat, mirrors, and settings are saved, even if your teenager “borrows” the car.
The electric edge You’ll save on gas, skip oil changes, and maybe even qualify for EV tax incentives — all while driving a head-turner that still hauls backpacks and bento boxes. It’s the SUV that says, “Yes, I packed the snacks ... but I still have good taste in cars.”
Get a closer look at the all-electric Ford Mustang Mach-E at a NJ Ford dealership.
Learn More from Nielsen Editorial:
- What are the Best Vehicles for a New Driver?
- What Are the Best-Selling SUVs in New Jersey?
- What are the Best Full-Size SUVs in NJ?
Helpful Links when Searching for Popular Family SUVs in NJ:
- New Kia Telluride for sale in NJ
- Used Kia Telluride for sale in NJ
- New Mitsubishi Outlander for sale in NJ
- Used Mitsubishi Outlander for sale in NJ
- New Nissan Pathfinder for sale in NJ
- Used Nissan Pathfinder for sale in NJ
- New Hyundai Palisade for sale in NJ
- Used Hyundai Palisade for sale in NJ
- New Chevy Tahoe for sale in NJ
- Used Chevy Tahoe for sale in NJ
- New Kia EV9 for sale in NJ
- Used Kia EV9 for sale in NJ
- New Chevrolet Equinox EV for sale in NJ
- Used Chevrolet Equinox for sale in NJ
- New Ford Mustang Mach-E for sale in NJ
- Used Ford Mustang Mach-E for sale in NJ
Nielsen Editorial is a division of Nielsen Automotive Group. All content is for editorial purposes only. Any reference to pricing, vehicle features, availability, programs, specials, etc., are for editorial purposes only and are non-binding. Dealerships (Nielsen and others) are not bound by or obligated to any claims, monetary or otherwise, within these articles. Articles are for reference purposes only. For specific questions about new cars in New Jersey, used cars in New Jersey, or other automotive, vehicle, or financial-related questions, contact the Nielsen Automotive Group directly.
SOURCES: Driving.ca, Motorbiscuit, Business Insider, Drive, Citygirlgonemom, todaysparent, autoweek, Nielsen Editorial
Categories:
SUVs
