LOS ANGELES, June 4 — From budget buys to minivans and SUVs, the annual top 10 list compiled by Parents Magazine and car advice and shopping platform Edmunds.com is largely composed of Asian car brands.

Now in its ninth year, the list’s aim is to help families of any size or income find the vehicle that best meets their needs without breaking the bank. But rather than just look at luggage space and ticket price, each vehicle that makes the cut has been put through its paces by a team of parenting and automotive experts. And for 2016 it is a list dominated by Japanese and Korean manufacturers.

“The car is an extension of home for families — the place where we rehash our days, eat on-the-go meals, and spend quality time together,” said Parents editor-in-chief Dana Points. “It’s important that parents feel supported by their car’s extensive range of safety functions so they stay confident on the road. This year’s top picks also highlight features that keep the ride fun and relaxing for every passenger.”

The 2016 list, which will be published in full in the July edition of Parents Magazine, ranks the diminutive US$15,800 (RM64,272) Kia Soul as 2016’s best budget vehicle. At the other end of the scale and costing twice as much is the Honda Pilot, this year’s best family SUV.

Honda’s latest-generation Civic was also declared the best small sedan but lost out to the Mazda 3 in the best hatchback category.

The Chevrolet Volt, the only car from a US manufacturer on the 2016 list, cited for its green credentials. GM pic via AFP

The Subaru Outback is this year’s best wagon and the Toyota Sienna the best minivan. In all, Japanese carmakers scooped six awards including for best crossover — the Nissan Murano — which this year has to share the spoils with the Hyundai Tucson due to a split decision. The Kia Optima was named the best full-size sedan leaving just one award — best green car — which went to a home-grown car company, namely GM, for its Chevrolet Volt.

“When it comes to a family car, there are usually a lot of boxes to check. And we know that it can be daunting for busy parents to research hundreds of vehicles,” said Edmunds’ lead consumer advice editor, Carroll Lachnit. “We’re happy to have counted the cupholders and spotted the cars that have that little bit of je ne sais quoi so that parents can buy a car with confidence and even have a little fun while they’re doing it.”

The list in full:

Best Budget Vehicle: Kia Soul

Best Green Car: Chevrolet Volt

Best Hatchback: Mazda 3

Best Small Sedan: Honda Civic

Best Sedan: Kia Optima

Best Wagon: Subaru Outback

Best Crossovers: Hyundai Tucson; Nissan Murano

Best Minivan: Toyota Sienna

Best SUV: Honda Pilot — AFP-Relaxnews