How to make sure you get the right family car

WHEN it comes to picking your perfect new family car, you’ll first have to decide what you’ll need from it. How much space do you require? How long do you intend to keep it for and therefore will your children grow significantly or will you be taking more luggage with you in the near future?

How long you intend to keep the car might determine whether you buy on a lease deal, using PCP finance or outright with cash. Keep an eye out for the deals we found through Leasing.com, too.

Budget is a key consideration, of course, so once you’ve decided on how much you’re comfortable spending – outright or monthly – narrow down your contenders to a shortlist and take a test drive.

This is more difficult at the current time, but when things return to normal, visit your local dealerships to get a go in your favoured cars. This might tell you what it is you like or don’t like about factors such as driving position and ergonomics.

If you need to, take your child’s seat with you, to make sure it’s compatible and not too hard to install. A dealer should be willing to accommodate this test if they want your business.

Given that family cars cover so many bases, draw up a checklist to help remind you what you’re looking for. Boot space, rear passenger room, storage, ride comfort, refinement, quality – all these points could influence your decision, so make some notes if it helps when comparing cars back to back. It’s also worthwhile jotting down a list any options fitted that you think might be useful to you.

However it works for you, do your research and try before you buy so you’re fully satisfied with any potential purchase you make. It’s a consumer’s market, so make this work to your advantage.

“When it comes to picking your perfect new family car, you’ll first have to decide what you’ll need from it.”