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As a parent, you probably spend a lot of time behind the wheel. Whether you are dropping the kids off at school, soccer practice, or summer camp, you’re going to need a reliable ride. And with gas prices on the rise, it’s okay to skip the SUV or minivan for a family-friendly sedan. They’re especially great if you have older children who don’t need help buckling in.

Technology has advanced over the past few years. Some of the most popular items you’ll see on most new cars are:

  • Advanced driver assist systems, or ADAS
  • More horsepower/better fuel economy with smaller engines
  • Electric versions of cars (hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and full electric vehicles)
  • Tax incentives for electric cars and PHEVs

Parents created a shopping guide that features the top sedans on the market for families in 2022.

Best sporty hybrid: Toyota Camry Hybrid

MSRP: $27,980

Engine: 208 horsepower 4-cylinder hybrid engine estimated to get 53 mpg

The Toyota Camry Hybrid is the perfect combination of sporty and roomy. Best of all, it has outstanding fuel economy ratings thanks to its hybrid engine. Inside, there are two LATCHes (sets of metal car seat anchors), rear air vents, and cupholders. The center seat has a fold-down armrest for added comfort.

Best Luxury Sedan: Lexus ES 350

A silver 2022 Lexus ES parked beside a blue 2022 Lexus ES in the driveway of an upscale home.
2022 Lexus ES | Lexus USA

MSRP: $41,875

Engine: 302 horsepower V6 engine estimated to get 26 mpg

The Lexus ES 350 is available in eight trim levels and four different hybrid models, so your options will seem endless. Parents, if you’re big on performance, you’ll love the sport mode. Just like the gas-powered Camry, there’s more than enough room for children, car seats, and anything you need to pack up in the trunk.

Best sporty sedan: Nissan Maxima

2022 Nissan Maxima driving at speed on a two lane highway in the desert.
2022 Nissan Maxima | Nissan USA

MSRP: $37,840

Engine: 300 horsepower V6 engine estimated to get 24 MPG

According to Parents, “Nissan has relegated budget driving to its smaller sedans and focused on practical luxury in the Maxima. It incorporates Nissan’s best design details, from a sporty perforated leather steering wheel to leather seats and a driver-focused cockpit.” Other standard features include chrome trim details, navigation, and Nissan Safety Shield 360.

Best all-weather option: Subaru Legacy

Blue 2023 Subaru Legacy midsize sedan. There are five Legacy trim levels this year
2023 Subaru Legacy | Subaru

MSRP: $23,495

Engine: 182 horsepower 4-cylinder engine estimated to get 30 mpg

Owning a sedan with all-wheel drive is rare but it’s a big part of the Subaru Legacy. In fact, all 2022 Legacy models come standard with all-wheel drive. You can also upgrade your options to the 4-cylinder turbo for 260 horsepower and you’ll have a lot more fun on your weekend camping adventure. Passengers will have access to rear seat air vents, cupholders, and USB ports.

Best sedan redesign: Honda Civic

MSRP: $22,550

Engine: 158 horsepower 4-cylinder engine estimated to get 35 mpg

You can’t go wrong with this classic sedan! The Honda Civic has been completely redesigned for the 2022 model year, so it’s bigger and more spacious. Inside, the Civic is more modern, thanks to the spanned dashboard with a mesh grille. It’s an easy and fun car to drive, making it an excellent option if you live near a busy city.

If an SUV or minivan isn’t a good fit with your family’s style or budget, there are plenty of options for your clan to enjoy this season of life comfortably.

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