Best Vans for Families of 2023

There are plenty of cars in the US that can haul a family around town without breaking a sweat, but when it comes to Cheaper by the Dozen families or long road trips where you might want a little personal space from time to time, then family vans are one of the best choices. The best van for a family of 5 or 6 can often be a minivan, but if you want the best van for a family of 8, then full-size passenger vans are more appropriate.

This is a list of the top vans for families in the USA for 2023:

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7.9

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7.9

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7.6

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6.5

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Characteristics of the Best Passenger Vans For Large Families

Since a few different body styles can fall into this category, the characteristics that define them can be varied. However, there are certain things any van meant for big families should have.

They must have plenty of space, not just for people but also for stuff
They should be able to tow a small trailer for road trip luggage
They need to be comfortable for a large group over a long time
They ought to have a high safety rating and offer several driver assists

What to Consider When Buying a Family Van

Vans are seldom at the top of any shopping list for a new vehicle, but they offer certain benefits above and beyond what you’d get from other good family cars. Of course, there are drawbacks you need to consider, too.

Pros

Unparalleled levels of passenger space
Very easy access to the rear-most seats
Good safety ratings
Comfortable over long jaunts
Powerful engine options for towing

Cons

Often seen as unattractive
Not fun or easy to drive
Limited feature availability
Heavy on gas

FAQ

What is the best passenger van for a large family?

When it comes to moving your family, safety and comfort are often top of mind, which is why the Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van is a top choice. It boasts an upscale interior and more features than you’d find in many rivals. The Ford Transit Connect and Ram Promaster City models are cheaper alternatives but still very good ones. Ford and Mercedes both offer larger variants of their vans if you need even more space.

What family van gets the best mileage?

Smaller vans can achieve respectable fuel economy, similar to that of minivans. The Ford Transit Connect Passenger Wagon manages 24/28 mpg city/highway, while the Ram Promaster City Passenger Wagon gets 21/28 mpg.

How much do the best vans for large families cost?

While you won’t find a large van for less than $30,000, the starting price is not usually much higher, with Ford and Ram both having products in the mid-$30k region. Mercedes vans start at around $40,000.

How reliable are 7-seater family vans?

Often based on their cargo-hauling siblings, passenger vans can take a real beating, and even without meticulous maintenance, they manage long lifespans. Take care of them, though, and they will help you transport your kids from kindergarten all the way through to college.