Cars.com released its annual list of the best family vehicles for 2020. Each year, the automotive website gathers input from expert on-staff reviewers and parents about the best family cars on the market for the current model year. There are many criteria — including safety, value, and versatility — to meet, so you know the vehicles on the list are among the best. The one that topped all others is a Volkswagen.

The best family SUV

The top vehicle on Cars.com‘s list of the best 2020 family vehicles is the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas. The three-row German SUV was a favorite among Cars.com’s editorial staff for its spacious cabin, generous list of comfort features, and performance on long road trips. It also has a nice array of standard and available advanced safety features, a must for any family.

The team also liked that the SUV accommodated several child car seats, which is important for growing families. 

Cars.com points out that the 2021 models will be even better. There’s new styling at the front and rear. Also expect a new turbocharged 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine offered with all-wheel-drive.

About the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas is a popular choice among families. The three-row midsize SUV can haul lots of people and their stuff. The fact that it can tote everyone and everything is a huge bonus for most families. Adults can ride comfortably in all three rows, and there’s plenty of cargo space too.

Only 3 years old, the Volkswagen Atlas keeps getting better. There were no major changes in 2020. But it gained standard features that were available only as options in 2019. The additional standard features help justify the cost. The Atlas is a little pricey in its segment, and its fuel economy for its class is average at best.

When it comes to driver-assist features, the Atlas offers automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and rear cross-traffic alerts standard. It comes equipped with VW’s Car-Net 2.0 infotainment system with a Wi-Fi hotspot. 

You get 20-inch wheels with the SE with Tech. There are also a foot-activated liftgate and rear parking sensors with SE with Tech R-Line. The SEL Premium models boast 21-inch wheels.

The bumper-to-bumper warranty covering six years and 72,000 miles was cut to four years or 50,000 miles in 2020, which appears to be the biggest change. To help compensate for that loss, the 2020 models now come with two years of free regularly scheduled maintenance.

The runners-up

Cars.com’s reviewers liked other 2020 SUVs immensely. They favored the three-row Hyundai Palisade, which they also named Best of 2020 overall vehicle. They also liked the Kia Telluride, the three-row Ford Expedition, and the two-row Hyundai Santa Fe.

The team didn’t forget the minivan and its proud heritage as a popular family vehicle. They explained that much depends on the needs of individual families. And sometimes, a minivan is a better choice than an SUV.

When it comes to minivans, the Cars.com reviewers were impressed with the 2020 Chrysler Pacifica because of its comfort, spaciousness, and a number of family-friendly features. They also really liked the Honda Odyssey for its tech features and roominess. They’re excited about the forthcoming 2021 models, which will add more features and safety systems. 

At the end of the day, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas stands out among its peers in the midsize SUV segment. It offers an abundance of space for people and cargo. With its comfortable ride and impressive slate of features, it’s a good choice for growing families who like to stay connected on the road.