School is back in session. For many, this means more than gathering school supplies and class schedules. It also signifies a return to the daily routines that summer helped us forget. From early morning drop-offs to late-night study sessions, a new school year brings change to our daily lives, and the right vehicle can help things run a little smoother.
Maybe you’re the neighborhood carpool MVP or a college freshman heading off to campus for the first time. Whatever the new school year looks like for you, the right set of wheels can set the tone for a great year ahead.
If you’re searching for a vehicle that can handle the hustle of a new school year, these rides are sure to pass the test.
GMC Acadia
From pick-up lines to after-school practice and everything in between, the GMC Acadia has everything one needs to navigate their family’s busy schedule. On the larger side of midsize SUVs, the three-row Acadia accommodates seven or eight passengers, depending on the choice of second-row bench seat or captain’s chairs. The Acadia offers 97.5 cubic feet of max cargo space, but what’s really impressive is the 23 cubic feet available behind the third row. So, even when all seats are in use, there’s plenty of room for backpacks, science projects, and other schoolhouse essentials.
Inside, the spacious Acadia features a range of premium technology features. A customizable 15-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless smartphone connectivity, voice-activated Google built-in software, a wireless charging pad, and a 12-speaker Bose stereo system will make those trips to and from school more enjoyable.
For families and individuals alike, safety on the road is paramount. With a Five-Star Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick, the Acadia excels. Add over 15 available camera views and a full suite of driver assistance technologies, and the Acadia is a great choice for anyone who values peace of mind.
Kia Sorento
Another three-row midsize SUV striking a balance of comfort, efficiency, and practicality is the Kia Sorento. With a flexible interior that seats seven passengers, it’s ideal for families juggling busy schedules.
The Sorento features a thoughtfully designed interior optimized for family use. High-quality stitched surfaces and ambient lighting create a refined look and feel throughout the cabin. Second-row seats slide forward at the touch of a button for easy access to a 50-50 split-folding third row. So, as the number of passengers and what they’re carrying changes, the Sorento can easily adapt.
Modern features in the Sorento make every drive easier. A curved panoramic display integrates the driver instrument cluster and infotainment system into one eye-catching, easy-to-use interface. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ come standard, while higher trims feature a premium sound system, rear-seat entertainment, and other technology upgrades.
Safety-wise, a NHTSA Five-Star Safety Rating is bolstered by nine strategically placed airbags, LED projector headlights, and an array of driver assistance features. Plus, with fuel economy ratings over 20 MPG city and 30 MPG highway, it’s a smart pick for anyone who’s always on the go.
Toyota RAV4
In 2024, the Toyota RAV4 became America’s best-selling new vehicle, and it’s easy to see why. This compact SUV combines efficiency, comfort, and everyday usability, making it a trusted option for everyone from families to first-time drivers.
Available in traditional gas-powered, hybrid (HEV), and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models, efficiency shines across the entire RAV4 lineup.
- RAV4: 27 MPG city, 35 MPG highway
- RAV4 HEV: 41 MPG city, 38 MPG highway
- RAV4 PHEV: 94 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent)
The RAV4’s interior cabin is practical and intuitive, yet it doesn’t lack modern features. An 8-inch or 10.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system includes 4G LTE Hotspot connection and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. Need extra room? Second-row seats fold completely flat to free up nearly 70 cubic feet of cargo space.
With multiple trim and powertrain combinations available, the RAV4 gives you the freedom to choose the features that matter most.
Honda Accord
Some assume that space and comfort can only be found in an SUV and up, but the Honda Accord proves otherwise. This standout midsize sedan offers style, comfort, and surprising performance to redefine what a family sedan can be.
The Accord is available with two lively engine options, a 192-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder or a 204-horsepower electric hybrid system. Honda’s Motion-Management System integrates steering, powertrain, and brake controls for responsive, sport-like handling in all driving situations. Plus, with impressive fuel economy, 29 MPG city and 37 MPG highway (gas model), and 51 MPG city and 48 MPG highway (hybrid), the Accord is both efficient and fun to drive.
The Accord maintains its sleek design inside with thoughtful details such as body-stabilizing front seats, cloth and leather upholstery, and cleverly hidden air vents. A class-leading 40 inches of rear legroom creates a comfortable, sophisticated atmosphere for everyone onboard.
Safety is another key strength. Every Accord comes with Honda Sensing®, a full package of safety and driver-assist technologies that enhance awareness, detect road hazards, and mitigate the risk of collisions. Pair that with a Five-Star Safety Rating from the NHTSA, and the Accord is built to protect what matters most.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
This iconic two-row midsize SUV continues to set the standard for blending performance and luxury.
With a refined interior, advanced safety features, cutting-edge technology, and a remarkably smooth ride, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is an excellent family vehicle. Throw in a 293-horsepower V6 engine with rear-wheel drive or a variety of innovative 4x4 systems, and you’ll discover the any-condition performance that Jeep is known for.
Enter the Grand Cherokee, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by premium materials and modern tech. The Overland and Summit models feature quilted leather seating, wood accents, and a 10.1-inch infotainment system. Additional amenities include a 10-inch heads-up display, digital rear-view mirror, class-exclusive front passenger touchscreen display, and a premium entertainment system with 19 speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer.
Safety is also top-tier. With a Five-Star NHTSA Safety Rating, IIHS Top Safety Pick, and more standard safety and security features than any vehicle in its class, the Grand Cherokee is a vehicle you can count on.
Need more room? The Grand Cherokee L adds a third row of seating to accommodate up to seven passengers, making it a great choice for growing families or anyone who values extra flexibility and cargo space. If you’re seeking fuel efficiency, the Grand Cherokee 4xe is a PHEV offering 25 miles of all-electric range before transitioning to hybrid operation.
It’s clear to see why the Jeep Grand Cherokee remains such a popular SUV. It caters to anyone who values performance, luxury, and the freedom to do more.
Smart Rides and Big Savings
The school year doesn’t slow down, and you shouldn’t have to either. The right vehicle can’t solve math homework or pack lunches, but it can certainly get everyone where they need to go. From spacious SUVs that fit the whole crew to fuel-efficient campus commuters, there are plenty of options to meet your needs.
Back to school looks better behind the wheel of a new ride, and now is the perfect time to find yours! Take advantage of $0 down payment options and no payments for 120 days, available for a limited time at HendrickCars.com. With over 30,000 new and pre-owned vehicles available in our nationwide inventory, we can help you find the perfect match.
From first days to final exams, Hendrick Automotive Group is here to help you navigate this school year, one mile at a time!
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