Family is everything. So it only makes sense that you want the best family car. A good family car is safe, spacious, versatile, and loaded with creature comforts via technology.
When you’re looking for the best car for your family, take the following suggestions into consideration before making your final selection.
Safety
Safety is everyone’s top concern when it comes to finding a good family car. And the best way to ensure you find a safe car is to do a bit of research. Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website where you can find data and ratings on every car out there.
Value
Value is another important consideration when looking for the perfect family car. But the purchase price of a vehicle is not the only thing you should consider. Insurance, fuel, maintenance costs, and even a vehicle’s resale value are all things you need to think about.
In addition, often spending a little more on the right car can save you thousands in the long run rather than going for a big rebate on another car. Take a look at the big picture before you make your final decision.
Comfort and Convenience
While comfort is a big part of what makes a good family car, convenience features are also important. With all that a family car is used for, the benefits that small convenient features provide can really add up over the years.
For example, doors that open with a wave of your foot really come in handy when your hands are full. Second-row seats that fold and slide forward with the push of a button, make getting the kids in and out a breeze.
Think about the features you need and the features you’d like to have, and use that towards making your final decision.
Driving and Handling
You’re dealing with enough stress as is, so make sure you choose a vehicle that drives and responds smoothly. A car that starts, moves, turns, and stops easily is much more satisfying to drive than one that doesn’t. Qualities such as great outward visisibility (no blind spots) and finesse in tight spots can also contribute to a less stressful experience for the driver.
Cargo Versatility
While the size of the passenger compartment is important for families, don’t forget to look at the size and versatility of the cargo area as well. Larger families will need a lot of room for groceries, luggage, after-school activity equipment, and more.
You may also want to consider features such as low load floors that make loading and unloading easier.
Child Car Seats
Child car safety seats are an extremely important consideration for car shoppers that have infants, toddlers, or both. And while most modern vehicles come with LATCH, there’s much more to consider.
For example, is there enough room to fit all of the car seats you need to use? How about the distance between the front seat and the back seat to accommodate both the seat and the child? Do the car’s seat height and door opening make it easy to buckle the child in and get them out? Are the LATCH access points easy to access?
I definitely recommend taking your child’s car seat along with you when shopping for a good family vehicle.
Technology
A vehicle’s available technology is a significant factor for many buyers. Bluetooth phone connectivity, USB ports, keyless entry, push-button startt, and capable and easy-to-use infotainment systems are just some of the features to consider.
Safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, backup cameras/sensors, and rear cross-traffic alert not only enhance the driving experience but can also lower insurance rates.
Finding the Right Dealership
Once you have a better idea of what your wants and needs are, do some comparison shopping between dealerships before you head out to look in person.
While finding the best price on a vehicle is always important, how a car dealership treats you and the services they offer should also be a big part of your decision.
Do some online research and ask friends and family who they have used and what their experience was like.
Final Thoughts on What Makes a Good Family Car
When it comes to what makes a good family car, safety, reliability, value, comfort, convenience features, and technology are just a few of the things you should consider. With a bit of research and knowledge, finding the perfect family car will be much easier.