The answer depends on how large your family is. If you have lots of kids, then you should consider getting a large SUV to make sure you have enough room, especially as they grow older. However, many crossovers on the market today have enough seating for seven passengers, which is often fine for seating the average family. If your family won't fit in a crossover, then you may even want to consider a more fuel-efficient minivan before going all-out for an expensive crossover car. Minivans are much less expensive than SUVs and are usually more reliable, plus they have a lot more room inside. They're not the most stylish vehicles, but they're very, very functional.

Sport utility vehicles are awesome, but they're best for people who intend to do more than commute back and forth from work, school and the grocery store. A crossover SUV would be a more than adequate family car for most people. They often have 4wd for rough road situations, and they usually have enough extra room for camping trips, sporting events and other fun outings. Plus, crossovers are a lot cheaper, leaving more money for other family purchases.