WASHINGTON - U.S. News & World Report has announced its 2016 list of Best Cars for Families. The organization evaluated the safety and reliability rating, reviews, high-tech features, and cargo space of 256 vehicles and announced winners in 21 different categories.

Mercedes-Benz and Honda brands each earned four awards, the most won by individual brands. Mercedes-Benz won half of the awards in the eight luxury categories, while Honda's models were among the top picks because of its vehicles' large cargo spaces.

"Finding the best family car can be a time-intensive process," said Jamie Page Deaton, managing editor of U.S. News Best Cars. "Whether you need extra room for car seats or want to monitor your new teen driver, the Best Cars for Families have options for every type of family."

A couple of the winners were:

• Compact Cars: 2016 Kia Soul

• Upscale Small Cars: 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

• Midsize Cars: 2016 Chevrolet Malibu

• 2-Row SUVs: 2016 Nissan Murano

• 3-Row SUVs: 2016 Honda Pilot

• Minivans: 2016 Honda Odyssey

For the full list, visit usnews.com/cars-families.