The 2021 Buick Envision
Photo: Buick
PARENTS magazine compiled its list of “The Best Family Cars of 2021,” which recognizes the most family-friendly models on the market. The Buick Envision and Chevrolet Equinox made the list, winning the Best Quiet Ride and Best Steering System categories, respectively.
The Best Buick and Chevy SUVs: Check out their lineups
How did PARENTS pick the winners?
Abbie Patterson, a certified passenger-safety technician, looked at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration safety scores for new models. They also took into consideration the contenders’ safety-restraint systems and seat measurements before choosing 35 semifinalists. PARENTS automotive expert and dad Rob Stumpf took these models out for test drives and helped pick the winners.
The 2021 Envision
Photo: Buick
According to PARENTS, the 2021 Buick Envision provides the Best Quiet Ride, thanks in part to its acoustic laminated windshield and sound-absorbing insulation. Some models also have mics that better keep unwanted noises at bay. In addition, Patterson notes that you can fit three car seats in the rear row, though a backless booster shouldn’t go in the middle seat.
The SUV’s suspension system creates a smoother drive by adjusting the shock absorbers. Its 2.0-liter Turbo four-cylinder engine also pairs with a nine-speed automatic transmission to provide lots of acceleration.
Chevy Equinox
The 2021 Chevrolet Equinox
Photo: Chevrolet
The 2021 Chevy Equinox is easy to steer and stay in control of, earning it the Best Steering System title. Its 1.5-liter Turbo four-cylinder engine also provides quick acceleration, according to PARENTS.
On the inside, Patterson recommends placing a backless booster behind the driver or front passenger seat. They also noted that the lower anchors and tethers are easier to find when installing car seats in the Equinox than in other vehicles.
Top Features of the 2021 Equinox: Learn more about the SUV
The 2021 Buick Envision and Chevy Equinox have starting prices of $31,800 and $23,800, respectively. They and the other two-row SUVs on the list of “The Best Family Cars of 2021” can accommodate up to five passengers and your gear.
Amanda Drago lives in West Chester, Ohio with her wonderful family, which includes her adorable dog, Coco. Amanda recently graduated from Miami University with degrees in both marketing and creative writing. However, if she was ever forced to change career paths, she imagines that she would train dogs for movies. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, writing, and watching Netflix. She also has a special place in her heart for theatre and purchases tickets to as many shows as she can. See more articles by Amanda.
