How to Choose the Perfect Car for your Family
Buying a car for a family can be a daunting process. There are so many factors to consider, ranging from safety and space to fuel economy and budget constraints. The process is even more challenging for families who need a reliable and practical vehicle for everyday use. Fortunately, with the right knowledge, you can navigate the car buying process with ease. This guide is designed to provide you with helpful tips and recommendations for buying the perfect family car.
Consider Your Family's Needs
Before purchasing a family car, it is essential to assess your family's needs. What features does your car need to have to accommodate your family's lifestyle? For example, if you have young children, you'll need a car with plenty of space to install car seats and offer enough storage for all the necessities. Therefore, you should consider the number of seats, boot size, and additional storage space before making a decision.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount when it comes to buying a car for your family. You should prioritize vehicles with an excellent safety rating, including front and side airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. Additionally, researching safety ratings and checking for car recalls can provide useful insights into the car's safety features.
What is your Budget?
Budget is a crucial factor when buying a car. You should consider the initial cost of the car, maintenance, and the overall running costs before making any purchases. If you're on a tight budget, consider buying a pre-owned car instead of a brand new one. Used cars are often more affordable and you may be able to buy a larger, more practical car for a lot less then the original price.
Is the car functional?
When choosing a family car, functionality is vital. Look for cars with comfortable seats, enough headroom and legroom for everyone in the family, and plenty of storage space, especially in the boot. You should also consider the design features that make everyday tasks easier, such as automatic doors and rearview cameras.
Type of Car
Finally, you should consider the type of car that you need for your family. There are many options on the market, ranging from SUVs and hatchbacks to estates and compact cars.
Depending on your family's needs, you may require a car with a spacious seating area or significant storage space.
An SUV would provide a higher ride height making it easier to load children into the car, whilst Estates often have a large boot space which is lower to the ground. A hatchback can also be a great affordable choice as they can provide enough space for the whole family whilst being compact on the roads.
Which Family Cars do we Recommend?
SEAT Leon
The SEAT Leon was crowned the best family car of 2021, and it's easy to see why. With an outstanding safety record, scoring 88% for child occupant protection and 92% for adult occupant protection from Euro NCAP, you can trust that your loved ones are in good hands.
But it's not just safety that sets the SEAT Leon apart. This car is designed with the whole family in mind. It boasts spacious footwells and ample headroom in the rear, making it perfect for both adults and kids. Plus, you'll find ISOFIX seating available on the passenger and rear seats, ensuring the little ones are securely strapped in.
Technology enthusiasts will also appreciate the standard features of the SEAT Leon. With Android Auto and Apple CarPlay included across the range, you can seamlessly connect your smartphone and enjoy all your favorite apps and music on the go.
PEUGEOT 408
If you're looking for a family car that stands out from the crowd, the PEUGEOT 408 is a must-see. This sleek and stylish vehicle blends the functionalities of a fastback and a coupe-SUV, adding a unique touch to the French brand's range. Despite its head-turning design, the PEUGEOT 408 offers much more than meets the eye.
Under the bonnet, you'll find a non-hybrid turbocharged petrol engine that offers excellent value for money compared to the plug-in hybrid models. While the plug-in versions impress with their electric power and range of up to 40 miles, the non-hybrid engine provides a cost-effective option that doesn't compromise on performance.
Step inside the Peugeot 408 and prepare to be impressed. The interior exudes elegance and offers surprising spaciousness. With ample screens and a generous 536-litre boot capacity, you'll have all the room you need for passengers and cargo. There are plenty of family friendly features and we are sure the impressive octagonal steering wheel, which wouldn’t look out of place on a spaceship, will be a hit with the kids!
Volkswagen Multivan
When it comes to family vehicles, the Volkswagen Multivan reigns supreme in terms of flexibility. This van-based MPV provides unparalleled interior space that can be configured in multiple ways to suit your needs. The Multivan is available with upto seven seats which can slide on rails. There are also fold-out tables and the ability to remove seats creating endless possibilities for customization.
While the size of the Volkswagen Multivan can be intimidating in busy traffic or crowded parking lots, the convenient side sliding doors ensure that your children's exuberance doesn't result in dings on other cars.
Audi Q3
The Audi Q3 is the ultimate crossover SUV for families on the move. Based on the popular A3 hatchback, this compact vehicle offers the perfect blend of style and functionality. With a range of powerful engines to choose from, including an impressive plug-in hybrid, you'll have plenty of options to suit your driving preferences.
Despite its chunky appearance, the Audi Q3 is no larger than its competitors in the segment, making maneuvering through busy streets a breeze. And with three ISOFIX mounting points and ample storage throughout the car, you can rest assured that your family and all their belongings will be well taken care of. For those seeking a little more adventure, four wheel drive versions are also available, perfect for off-road excursions and sports clubs.
Buying a family car can be a daunting process, but it doesn't have to be. With the right knowledge and guidance, you can easily navigate the car buying process and purchase the perfect vehicle for your family. Always consider your family's needs, prioritize safety features, and stay within budget when choosing a car. Additionally, research car recommendations and functionalities that will make your daily car use much more comfortable. By doing so, you can ensure that your family can travel safely, comfortably, and in style every time you hit the road.