As your family expands, you may find your current car is no longer suitable for transporting kids, buggies, toys, sports equipment, and everything else that comes with having children. Choosing the right family vehicle can be tricky. Here are some tips on selecting the best option for your growing brood.
Consider Your Current and Future Needs
Take stock of your family’s current requirements. How many children do you have now and plan to have in the future? Do they require bulky gear for sports and activities? Will you regularly transport other kids for playdates or carpools? All of these factors impact how much passenger and cargo space you need.
Also, think about where and how often you drive. If you primarily stay local, something compact could work. Frequent motorway trips may demand more power and comfort. Envision your family’s needs not just today, but 2-3 years down the road.
Evaluate Different Vehicle Types
With your practical needs in mind, weigh the pros and cons of different vehicle styles.
- Estates: Estates provide copious cargo room without sacrificing seating capacity. The boot space is extremely versatile for prams, luggage, pets and more. However, the elongated shape can make parking tricky.
- SUVs: Modern SUVs combine car-like handling with SUV height and space. Mid-size SUVs can seat 5-7 passengers comfortably. Larger models offer even more room but reduced fuel efficiency.
- MPVs: Multi-Purpose Vehicles like the Toyota Verso prioritise cabin space and seating flexibility over styling. MPVs boast lots of room for passengers and gear, with sliding rear doors for easy access.
- Minivans: Minivans are the epitome of family-friendly vehicles. They offer cavernous, flexible interiors to handle any combination of children, cargo and pets. Just beware the “school run” associations.
Analyse Your Options
Once you’ve narrowed down the field, dig into the details of specific makes and models. Key factors to examine include:
- Seating configuration – Does it fit 3 kids in car seats? Do the seats fold/slide/recline easily?
- Boot capacity – Is there space for a pushchair, luggage and shopping?
- Accessibility – How easy is it to secure kids in car seats and access the boot? Do the rear doors open wide?
- Safety ratings – Check Euro NCAP crash test results. How does it perform on occupant and child protection?
- Fuel efficiency – What are the mpg ratings? How much will you spend on petrol?
- Technology – Touchscreens and other tech features can help entertain kids on trips.
- Costs – Consider purchase price, insurance, tax, maintenance and resale value.
Take Test Drives
No amount of research beats actually test-driving vehicles. Visit dealerships specialising in used car sales in Cardiff or wherever you are based and take the whole family along. Let the kids trial the car seats and climb in and out. Test fold-flat seats, boot space and anything else that’s important. Take your car seat(s) to check the fit. Testing drives can confirm or dispel your first impressions.
Consider Practical Add-Ons
You can accessorise your new family vehicle with extras that boost convenience and functionality:
- Rubber floor mats – Contain mud, spills and debris.
- Boot organiser – Keeps gear from shifting during drives.
- Sun blinds – Protect kids from harsh rays.
- Tablet holders – Mount tablets to entertain kids.
- Additional USB ports – Keep devices charged on the go.
Buying a family-friendly car is a big investment. Assess your family’s current and future transportation needs, evaluate different vehicle styles, and take test drives to find the perfect fit. With the right set of wheels, you’ll be equipped for parenting adventures on the road ahead.