When shopping for your next new SUV (sport utility vehicle), or considering an SUV when making car rentals reservations for your next family road trip, it’s important to consider safety and crash test ratings. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, SUVs are twice as likely to roll over than vehicles, so you want to be sure you and your family are in one of the safest and most trusted SUV models out there. If you’re concerned about financing, be sure to look into auto loans from Wells Fargo, LightStream, Captial One, and CarsDirect. So whether you’re buying new or from Schneider finance used trucks and SUVs, here are the top five SUVs for families:

1. Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride has excellent crash test scores; it has received a 5-star safety rating from NHTSA in multiple tests, 4 out of 5 stars in rollover resistance tests, and 5 out of 5 stars for roof strength. This SUV is equipped with 8 airbags, stability control, and traction control to help you avoid or recover from a collision as quickly as possible. Plus, this vehicle comes with the added safety feature of lower anchors and tethers for car seats (LATCH system) to keep children and pets even safer.

2. Jeep Grand Cherokee

Jeep is a brand that’s known for building rugged and strong vehicles. The Jeep Grand Cherokee fits into that mold; it can handle most weather conditions with ease, and it comes equipped with several safety features. It has five-star ratings from both US News & World Report and Forbes. For its 2019 version, it was rated Best Overall by Consumer Reports, according to Kelley Blue Book. With all the classic off-terrain benefits of a Jeep, the Grand Cherokee offers more cargo space and a more comfortable ride for the entire family.

3. Ford Escape

The Ford Escape was recently redesigned and has been re-certified by IIHS. In 2018, it earned a TOP SAFETY PICK rating when equipped with optional forward collision prevention. It also received a top score of “Good” in all crash tests, with the exception of an “Acceptable” rating in roof strength testing. The Escape’s optional pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection earned a 2017 Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS. On top of the safety features, two spacious rows of passenger seating means there is plenty of room for the kids to stretch out. 

4. Mercedes Benz G-Class

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class has received good scores from both NHTSA and IIHS. It has standard electronic stability control (ESB), anti-lock brakes, a traction control system, front seat side airbags, side curtain airbags, and active front head restraints. It also has a “Good” rating in frontal crash tests. Overall, it is a great SUV that can get your family anywhere safely. 

5. Hyundai Santa Fe

The Hyundai Santa Fe earned top marks in all three crash categories and was named a Top Safety Pick. It was also rated highly in rollover tests and received 5 stars overall. The 2021 model received only minor updates with an improved backup camera being added to mid-range models. Overall, it remains one of America’s safest SUV options. Overall, the Hyundai Santa Fe is the ideal example of a two-row midsize crossover that can accommodate a family of 5 comfortably, safely, and affordably.  

Make sure you compare safety ratings before making a final decision on which SUV is right for you. Consider passenger space for comfort and cargo room for transporting the kids from various activities and family road trips. For more information on SUV safety and insurance needs, speak to a Nationwide Insurance Agency auto representative near you.

Obtaining Financing and Auto Loans

For some, obtaining financing and auto loans is a crucial step in achieving ownership of their dream vehicle. So, if you’re concerned about financing a new vehicle, brand-new or used, you should look into the various financing options that are available to you. To do so, you’ll firstly want to evaluate your personal financial health—this includes reviewing your income, credit score, and existing debt. Your credit score is especially important as it opens doors to more optimal loan terms. Once your financial situation has been assessed, you can go ahead and explore different lending institutions, whether that’s a bank, credit union, or an online lender, to find the best offer. Be sure to take your time and shop around before settling, you want to compare rates and ensure you’re getting the most competitive deal. After selecting your lender, they will have you complete an application with personal and financial information—once approved, the lender will disburse the loan amount, and you can happily purchase your desired vehicle (perhaps one of the above mentioned choices)!