What to look for when buying a family car
Ababy on the way often prompts people to upgrade their car – something bigger, safer, more practical. Whether your budget means you are looking at a brandnew or a second-hand car, there are some things to consider to make parenting easier.
A large boot, legroom in front of child seats and flexibility to accommodate enough child seats for your planned family – not to mention friends, cousins, and so on – are all important factors.
Along with whether it's easy to install child seats, consider whether you need a five-seat or seven-seat vehicle. Do you have pets that need to travel with you, as well as a bub? Do you plan to have more children?
Comfort for all passengers is important: ceiling height, airconditioning vents in the rear (preferably controlled from the front), as well as convenient storage in the cabin for all passengers and a boot big enough for prams and bassinets now and scooters and bikes as the family grows.
Is there somewhere convenient for school bags and the weekly shop, even with all seats occupied?
Don't underestimate the value of doors that open wide to allow easy access when getting kids in and out and loading bulky child seats.
Of course, safety is of utmost importance, so look at the car's ANCAP safety rating and its performance for child occupant protection, the presence of thirdrow airbags if choosing a sevenseater and what driver-assist systems are fitted.
Other safety features that are helpful for families are window and door child locks in the driver's door control panel. Sometimes they are together in one button, so you can easily stop kids fiddling with them while driving along.
So, when looking to buy your first family car, the key criteria are:
• Safety – ANCAP rating, child door/window locks, airbags for every row of seating.
• Rear-seat accommodation – roominess, comfort, seating arrangements, child seat provisions.
• Boot area – cargo space, flexibility, convenience features.
• Cabin comfort – climate control, amenities, ride comfort and refinement.