One of the most important and often stressful decisions for parents is deciding on a family vehicle. Don’t worry; we can help! Below, we’ll explain the key things parents need to consider when buying a family car, from vehicle size to cargo capacity.
Vehicle Size
When buying a car for family transport, parents want to ensure that the car has enough space to fit the whole family. Parents shouldn’t just consider if it can fit their current family but also the family in the next five or ten years. If you think you’ll welcome more to the family in the coming years, it’s best to plan for that in your car selection rather than trade it in for something bigger later. Parents should also remember that the bigger the car is, the more difficult it will be to keep the car clean with kids.
Safety Features
With family, safety is always the priority, and that’s especially true for the family car. No parent wants to compromise regarding safety for their family’s primary transportation, so every parent should thoughtfully review the car’s safety ratings beforehand. Parents should also compare the advanced safety features and driver-assist technology available in the models they’re considering to find one that keeps their family safe on the road. Some technologies and features to look for include:
- Blind spot warning
- Adaptive cruise control
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Pedestrian detection
- Steering assist and lane centering
Family Functionality
When buying a family car, parents also need to consider its functionality and how they’ll use it. Will it primarily be for dropping the kids off at school and practice, or will it also be the road trip vehicle for family vacations? If you plan on taking it for long-distance road trips, you’ll also have to consider its fuel efficiency and ways to protect the car when traveling with kids.
Cargo Capacity
Last but certainly not least, parents need to think of the cargo capacity of their potential family car. Every parent knows that the family car is often like a second home—carrying and storing everything from school supplies and sports equipment to art supplies and more. If that sounds like your family car, you’ll want to ensure enough cargo space to hold all of your family’s belongings. Consider vehicles with versatile cargo accommodations like under-floor storage bins and compartments.
We hope our guide helps your family find the ideal vehicle. If you keep these core considerations at the front of your mind while car shopping, we’re sure you’ll find a car that perfectly suits your family.
Mom on the go in Holy Toledo 