Autotrader: The 10 comfiest cars for less than $30k

1. 2021 Chevrolet Traverse

The Chevrolet Traverse is a three-row SUV that can easily seat seven or eight people. It’s larger than other midsize SUVs like the Honda HMC, +0.98% Pilot or Toyota TM, +1.54% Highlander. In addition, it has a Fair Purchase Price that’s lower than $30,000. The Traverse is comfortable, quiet, and roomy, and its best-in-class interior space allows grumpy passengers to keep a little distance from the rest of the group. The Traverse’s SmartSlide second-row seats slide up and forward, making it easy for everyone on board to get to their seat. 

2. 2021 Chrysler Voyager

If you like the styling and interior of the Chrysler Pacifica, but want something a little less expensive, there’s the Chrysler Voyager minivan, the Pacifica’s value-minded sibling. They are based on the same foundation, so the Voyager has the quiet, smooth performance of the Pacifica with a lower starting price (and fewer features). The Voyager seats seven, meaning second-row passengers have more space to stretch out. This layout also makes it easier to get into the third row. And the Voyager’s Stow ‘n Go seats fold flat into the floor when not in use, allowing even more space inside. 

3. 2021 Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV that quietly does everything right. It is fuel-efficient, with a compliant ride, and it’s somewhat fun to drive. The CR-V’s interior is well laid out, with interior space that is among the best in class. There are smart storage spaces in both rows, which helps reduce clutter, and the cargo area is huge. 

4. 2021 Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 has a wide variety of models that can appeal to just about any family. If you want to lean toward luxury rather than off-road prowess, models like the XLE Premium and Limited have lux touches like a power moonroof, 11-speaker JBL audio system, and heated seats. Whatever model you choose, every RAV4 has a lot of legroom, most notably in the second row, as well as generous cargo space. Smartphone integration and a touch screen are standard, a larger touch screen and heated and cooled seats are optional. 

See: A first look at Toyota’s new RAV4 plug-in hybrid

5. 2021 Subaru Forester

Yes, the Subaru Forester is designed to have some off-road capability, thanks to 8.7 inches of ground clearance and a robust all-wheel-drive system that comes standard. However, it is not a purpose-built off-roader. It’s a compact SUV that can easily take families on backcountry excursions, but keeps everyone comfortable both on-road and off. The Forester has a fairly small footprint, but plenty of useful interior space. That means even taller passengers can sit comfortably in either row. In addition, there’s an expansive suite of advanced driver assists and safety features that come standard, plus strong resale values, all of which can put your mind at ease on your next family outing. 

6. 2021 Honda Accord

A perennial midsize sedan favorite, the Honda Accord can be sporty or relaxed, depending on what you prefer. Its responsive steering and handling give the Accord great response on twisting roads, but get it out on the highway and it has an easygoing nature that makes the miles fly by. Acceleration and braking are smooth and predictable, which will keep everyone aboard happily enjoying the scenery. The Accord has plenty of head- and legroom in both rows, and the cabin’s upscale design and premium options make this sedan a compelling choice for a family car. 

Also see: These are your best bets for used midsize luxury SUVs under $40k

7. 2021 Toyota Camry

The Toyota Camry has been a popular choice for decades, thanks in no small part to its practical design, time-proven reliability, and excellent resale value. The Camry has 38 inches of legroom in the second row, which is more space than in some full-size luxury sedans. The current generation of the Camry has a ride that’s compliant without feeling mushy. In addition, this Toyota has a large trunk, freeing up space in the cabin where people can stretch out. 

8. 2021 Nissan Altima

You may have heard that Nissan’s NSANY, +5.20% seats were inspired by NASA design. That development has paid off, and the Zero Gravity seats in the Nissan Altima are arguably the most comfortable seats in any midsize sedan. Paying attention to that one crucial detail makes the Altima one of the most comfortable sedans on the market. This midsize sedan also has Active Ride Control, which smooths out the ride over bumps, as well as a nicely upscale interior. 

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9. 2021 Hyundai Sonata

The looks may not be for everyone, but driver and passengers alike will appreciate the smooth, roomy, refined Hyundai HYMTF, -1.02% Sonata. After many hours on the road, we didn’t feel any fatigue from the seats, and the cabin is open and airy, making the drive pleasant. Add in standard and optional features that include seat heaters and coolers, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and smartphone connectivity, and each person can optimize their environment. The Sonata also offers Highway Drive Assist, a semi-autonomous system that can reduce the driver’s stress. One final touch that keeps things relaxed is Remote Smart Parking Assist. This lets you park this Hyundai in tight spaces, without needing to angle around the next car’s side mirror to get in or out of the car. 

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10. 2021 Kia K5

All-new for 2021, the Kia K5 is Kia’s replacement for the Optima. It follows many of the same principles as that previous model did, such as premium quality at a reasonable price. Even though the ride is slightly firmer than that of the Optima, the K5’s seats are plenty supportive. In addition, the K5 has a fastback roof, but clever cutouts in the headliner ensure there’s plenty of headroom. Keeping things comfortable at a value price is easy, as you can get features such as heated and ventilated seats, Bose audio, and a 10.25-inch navigation screen and still see Fair Purchase Pricing that’s below $30,000. 

This story originally ran on Autotrader.com.