A good family car is a crucial part of modern life. Cars are necessary to get the family to and from work, school, sports practice, family outings, road trips, and more. So, picking the right one is an important decision that deserves due consideration. Here, we’ll give insights into the essential features to consider when searching for the perfect family car.
*This is a collaborative post
Table of Contents
Safety FirstÂ
Safety is the non-negotiable element of a family car. Look for cars with a five-star safety rating from the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP). Global NCAP ratings or the US equivalent, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), are also valid reference points. Advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking, rear and front cameras, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist are favourable additions to ensure your family’s safety on the road. Don’t take vendor words as gospel regarding safety, either, especially if they’re selling a car online and you haven’t been able to view it in person. Insist on having all the relevant safety documentation, and take the car for a test drive before committing if you can.
Space and Comfort
When choosing a family vehicle, spaciousness and comfort are primary considerations. Sufficient leg and headroom can make family journeys much more comfortable (and then less likely to incur distracting fidgeting and grumbling). Opt for vehicles with ample boot space to accommodate essentials such as pushchairs, sports equipment or shopping bags. Think about space in the backseat for travel toys and entertainment for long drives – you don’t want to have to stop and open the boot every time your kids want to play a new car game! If you have a large family or often carry extra passengers, consider a seven-seater car to make sure everyone can travel comfortably.Â
Fuel Economy
Another significant consideration is running costs, especially with rising fuel prices. So, research the fuel economy of prospective vehicles before you buy. Diesel cars often boast better fuel economy, but don’t forget to weigh against the possible higher servicing costs and tax. Alternatively, hybrids and electric cars are relatively energy efficient compared to their petrol and diesel counterparts, with hybrid cars offering impressive fuel economy per mile.
ReliabilityÂ
Most families need a car that can be ready for action at any given time, and isn’t going to fail in the middle of a busy day or long family road trip. Research the reputation of the brands and specific models you’re considering for their reliability.
Access and ConvenienceÂ
Sliding doors, easy-to-fold seats, built-in sunshades, and backseat climate control might seem like luxury features, but they can provide huge practical benefits when used daily. Look out for additional features that can make your day-to-day parenting duties on the road more manageable.
Purchasing a family car is a big decision. It’s not something to rush into on a whim. Keep your family’s needs and safety at the front of your mind when sizing up potential new vehicles, and don’t be seduced by a beautiful but impractical model. By keeping the tips we’ve provided here in mind, you’ll save yourself a lot of travel stress and discomfort in the long run.
