When shopping for a family car, practicality is just as important as style and performance. One of the most crucial factors for families is trunk space—enough room to fit strollers, groceries, sports equipment, and luggage for road trips. Choosing a car that combines ample cargo capacity with comfort, safety, and reliability ensures that family travel is stress-free and enjoyable.
This guide highlights the best family cars with large trunk space, key features to consider, and tips for choosing the right model for your household.
Why Trunk Space Matters for Families
Families often juggle multiple items during daily routines or trips:
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Grocery runs and shopping trips
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School and sports equipment
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Weekend or holiday luggage
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Baby gear like strollers and diaper bags
A spacious trunk prevents cramming items, protects them from damage, and keeps the cabin clutter-free. Cars with adjustable seating, foldable rear seats, and flat loading floors provide added flexibility.
Top Family Cars with Large Trunk Space
1. Honda CR-V
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Cargo Space: 39.2 cubic feet (rear seats up), 75.8 cubic feet (seats folded)
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Features: Comfortable seating, fuel-efficient, reliable performance
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Why It’s Great: Combines roomy trunk space with a smooth ride and advanced safety features
2. Toyota Highlander
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Cargo Space: 16 cubic feet (rear seats up), 84.3 cubic feet (all rear seats folded)
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Features: Three-row seating, modern infotainment, strong reliability
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Why It’s Great: Ideal for larger families needing both passenger and cargo capacity
3. Subaru Outback
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Cargo Space: 32.5 cubic feet (rear seats up), 75.7 cubic feet (seats folded)
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Features: Standard all-wheel drive, rugged build, excellent for outdoor trips
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Why It’s Great: Provides versatile storage with off-road capability
4. Kia Telluride
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Cargo Space: 21 cubic feet (rear seats up), 87 cubic feet (seats folded)
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Features: Luxurious interior, three-row seating, top-notch safety ratings
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Why It’s Great: Spacious and family-friendly with a premium feel
5. Volkswagen Atlas
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Cargo Space: 20.6 cubic feet (rear seats up), 96.8 cubic feet (seats folded)
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Features: Large cabin, flexible seating, advanced driver aids
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Why It’s Great: One of the largest trunks in its class, ideal for bulky family gear
Features to Look for in a Family Car
When choosing a family car, trunk size is just one consideration. Look for:
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Foldable Rear Seats: Allows for expanded cargo space when needed.
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Flat Load Floor: Easier to load strollers, luggage, and heavy items.
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Rear Hatch Access: Power liftgates or wide-opening trunks improve convenience.
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Safety Features: Airbags, stability control, and modern safety tech enhance family protection.
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Interior Versatility: Adjustable seats, under-floor storage, and organizers maximize utility.
Families who prioritize safety may also want to explore vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems, similar to those found in Luxury Cars with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, which offer adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automated braking.
Family Car Comparison Table
| Car Model | Cargo Space (Seats Up / Folded) | Seating | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda CR-V | 39.2 / 75.8 cu ft | 5 | Fuel-efficient, reliable, spacious |
| Toyota Highlander | 16 / 84.3 cu ft | 7–8 | Three-row seating, advanced safety |
| Subaru Outback | 32.5 / 75.7 cu ft | 5 | AWD, versatile storage, rugged |
| Kia Telluride | 21 / 87 cu ft | 7–8 | Luxurious interior, family-friendly |
| Volkswagen Atlas | 20.6 / 96.8 cu ft | 7 | Largest trunk, flexible seating, safety tech |
Tips for Choosing the Right Family Car
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Assess Daily Needs: Consider grocery runs, carpooling, and weekend trips.
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Test Trunk Access: Open the hatch, load large items, and check rear seat folding ease.
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Think Long-Term: Growing families may need three-row seating or expandable cargo.
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Prioritize Safety: Look for high crash-test ratings and modern driver assistance features.
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Balance Fuel Efficiency and Space: Some larger SUVs may have great cargo but lower fuel economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is a good minimum trunk size for a family of four?
A trunk of at least 35–40 cubic feet is ideal for everyday needs, expandable with foldable seats for larger trips.
Q: Are SUVs better than sedans for family storage?
Yes, SUVs generally provide more cargo space, flexible seating, and easier access for bulky items.
Q: Can minivans compete with SUVs in trunk space?
Absolutely. Minivans often have slightly more cargo capacity and better sliding-door access, making them convenient for families with young children.
Q: Do foldable seats reduce comfort?
Modern designs maintain comfort while offering versatility; always test passenger space when seats are in use.
Q: Should I prioritize trunk space over fuel efficiency?
Balance is key. Choose a vehicle that meets storage needs without excessively compromising fuel economy.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a family car with large trunk space is essential for convenience, comfort, and stress-free travel. Whether you need a compact SUV, three-row SUV, or a versatile wagon, paying attention to cargo capacity, seating flexibility, and safety features ensures your family can travel comfortably.