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Are you tired of settling for bland family haulers that lack excitement? Do you dream of a car that can keep up with your adventurous spirit while still being practical for your family’s needs?
Table of Contents
Look no further! In this article, I’ll unveil four cool family cars, all priced under $60,000, that combine style, performance, and innovation to make every family outing memorable.
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Whether you’re a dad who loves a sporty drive or a mom who values comfort and tech, these vehicles are sure to impress.
From cutting-edge electric vehicles to luxurious SUVs with state-of-the-art technology, these cars are designed to stand out.
Whether you’re searching for the best family car SUV, a vehicle perfect for a family of 4, or simply awesome family cars that bring excitement to the daily grind, there’s something here for everyone.
Join me as I dive into the details of each model, sharing my insights and experiences to help you find the best cool family cars for your needs.
Kia EV9: The Electric Game-Changer
Overview
The Kia EV9 is a bold step into the future of family SUVs. As an all-electric vehicle, it offers zero emissions and an impressive range, making it one of the best family car SUVs for eco-conscious families.
With seating for up to seven and a host of advanced features, it’s both practical and futuristic. It’s perfect for cool family cars for dads who want to combine sustainability with style.
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Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $56,395 (2026 Light RWD trim) |
| Powertrain | Electric, with 76.1-kWh or 99.8-kWh battery |
| Horsepower | 215 hp (Light RWD), up to 379 hp (AWD models) |
| Torque | Varies by trim |
| Seating | 6–7 seats |
| EPA Est. Range | 230–304 miles |
| Charging | DC fast-charging up to 230 kW, adds 100 miles in 13 minutes |
| Safety Features | Automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring |
| Infotainment | Large touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging |
Source: Car and Driver
What Makes It Cool Family Cars
The Kia EV9 is undeniably cool with its sleek, futuristic design that turns heads. Its electric powertrain delivers instant torque for a thrilling yet quiet ride, perfect for interesting family cars.
The interior is spacious, with available second-row captain’s chairs that swivel 90 degrees—ideal for family picnics or chats.
With fast-charging capabilities and a range of up to 304 miles, it eliminates range anxiety, making it a top pick for 7-seater family cars.
Genesis GV80: Luxury Without the Price Tag
Overview
The Genesis GV80 redefines what a luxury SUV can be under $60,000. With its elegant design and sporty performance, it feels like a high-end European SUV but at a fraction of the cost. Offering seating for up to seven, it’s a versatile choice for families who want sophistication without breaking the bank.
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $59,695 (base trim) |
| Powertrain | Gas, turbo 2.5L 4-cylinder or 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 300 hp (4-cylinder), 375 hp (V6) |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft (4-cylinder), 391 lb-ft (V6) |
| Seating | 5–7 seats |
| Cargo Space | 12.7 cu-ft (3rd row), 43.6 cu-ft (2nd row), 86.2 cu-ft (1st row) |
| Safety Features | Forward collision avoidance, blind-spot collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert |
| Infotainment | 14.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation |
| Fuel Economy | 19–21 combined mpg |
Source: Car and Driver
What Makes It Cool Family Cars
The Genesis GV80 is cool because it offers premium luxury at an accessible price. Its sleek exterior and plush interior, complete with Nappa leather options, rival brands like BMW and Mercedes.
The available V6 engine provides sporty performance, making it a favorite for cool family cars for dads. Its advanced tech, like the 27-inch OLED display, adds a futuristic touch, making it one of the best cool family cars on the market.
Volvo XC90: Safety Meets Style
Overview
The Volvo XC90 is a benchmark for family SUVs, combining Scandinavian design with unmatched safety features. With seating for up to seven, it’s ideal for larger families or those seeking a best vehicle for family of 4 with extra room. Its elegant yet practical design makes it a standout in the 7-seater family cars category.
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $58,695 (Core trim) |
| Powertrain | Gas, B5 (turbo 2.0L 4-cylinder) or B6 (turbo/supercharged 2.0L 4-cylinder) |
| Horsepower | 247 hp (B5), 295 hp (B6) |
| Torque | 253 lb-ft (B5), 310 lb-ft (B6) |
| Seating | 6–7 seats |
| Cargo Space | 13.5 cu-ft (3rd row), 35.5 cu-ft (2nd row), 65.3 cu-ft (1st row) |
| Safety Features | Pilot Assist, 360-degree camera, lane-keeping aid, blind-spot monitoring |
| Infotainment | 9.0-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Google-based system |
| Fuel Economy | 22–23 combined mpg |
Source: Car and Driver
What Makes It Cool Family Cars
The Volvo XC90 is cool for its minimalist yet luxurious design and industry-leading safety features. Its interior feels like a Scandinavian retreat, with premium materials and a crystal gear shifter.
The Pilot Assist system offers semi-autonomous driving, adding a futuristic edge. For families prioritizing safety and style, it’s one of the awesome family cars that delivers on all fronts.
Lexus TX: Affordable Luxury for Families
Overview
The Lexus TX is a newcomer that brings luxury to the masses. With seating for up to seven and a starting price under $60,000, it’s a compelling choice for families seeking a premium experience without the premium price. Its spacious interior and advanced tech make it a strong contender in the best family car SUV category.
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $56,490 (2025 TX350 FWD) |
| Powertrain | Gas, turbo 2.4L 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 275 hp |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft |
| Seating | 6–7 seats |
| Cargo Space | 20 cu-ft (3rd row), 57 cu-ft (2nd row), 97 cu-ft (1st row) |
| Safety Features | Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (pre-collision, lane tracing, adaptive cruise) |
| Infotainment | 14-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging |
| Fuel Economy | 23 combined mpg |
Source: Car and Driver
What Makes It Cool Family Cars
The Lexus TX is cool because it offers Lexus’ signature luxury at a price that competes with mainstream brands. Its bold design and spacious interior make it perfect for 7-seater family cars.
The turbocharged engine delivers smooth power, and the 14-inch touchscreen is a tech lover’s dream. For families wanting a premium yet affordable SUV, the TX is a standout among interesting family cars.
Comparison and Verdict
Here’s how these four cool family cars stack up:
| Feature | Kia EV9 | Genesis GV80 | Volvo XC90 | Lexus TX |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $56,395 | $59,695 | $58,695 | $56,490 |
| Powertrain | Electric | Gas (4-cyl/V6) | Gas (B5/B6) | Gas (turbo 4-cyl) |
| Horsepower | 215–379 hp | 300–375 hp | 247–295 hp | 275 hp |
| Seating | 6–7 seats | 5–7 seats | 6–7 seats | 6–7 seats |
| Cargo Space | Not specified | 12.7–86.2 cu-ft | 13.5–65.3 cu-ft | 20–97 cu-ft |
| Fuel Economy | 80–89 MPGe | 19–21 mpg | 22–23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Cool Factor | EV technology, design | Luxury, performance | Safety, design | Luxury, value |
My Verdict
After diving deep into these options, my top pick for my family is the Kia EV9. Its electric powertrain aligns with my desire to reduce my carbon footprint, and its range of up to 304 miles ensures we can tackle long road trips without worry.
The swiveling captain’s chairs are a unique feature that my kids would love, and the modern design makes it a joy to drive. It’s the perfect blend of practicality and excitement for a car enthusiast like me.
That said, the Genesis GV80 is a close second for its luxurious interior and sporty performance, ideal for those who prefer a traditional gas-powered SUV. The Volvo XC90 is unbeatable for safety-conscious families, with its Scandinavian charm and top-tier safety ratings.
The Lexus TX offers incredible value for a luxury brand, making it a great choice for budget-conscious families who still want a premium experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best family car for long road trips?
The Kia EV9 is ideal for long road trips due to its 304-mile range and fast-charging capabilities. Its spacious interior and comfortable seating ensure everyone stays happy on the journey.
Are there any hybrid options under $60,000?
While the base Lexus TX is gas-powered, its hybrid versions (TX500h and TX550h) start above $60,000. The Kia EV9 offers a fully electric alternative for eco-conscious families within the budget.
Which of these cars has the best safety ratings?
The Volvo XC90 consistently earns top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, thanks to features like Pilot Assist and a 360-degree camera. All four cars, however, offer robust safety suites.
How do these cars compare in terms of fuel efficiency?
The Kia EV9 leads with 80–89 MPGe, followed by the Lexus TX and Volvo XC90 at 22–23 mpg combined. The Genesis GV80 is slightly less efficient at 19–21 mpg.
What are the maintenance costs like for electric vs. gas-powered family cars?
Electric vehicles like the Kia EV9 typically have lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts and no oil changes. Gas-powered SUVs like the GV80, XC90, and TX have standard maintenance needs but benefit from widespread service networks.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a family car doesn’t mean sacrificing style or excitement. These four cool family cars under $60,000 prove you can have it all—space, safety, and a thrilling drive.
Whether you’re drawn to the eco-friendly Kia EV9, the luxurious Genesis GV80, the safe Volvo XC90, or the value-packed Lexus TX, you’re sure to find a vehicle that makes every family adventure unforgettable.
For car lovers and family men, these SUVs offer the perfect blend of practicality and panache.
