There are a number of things to look for when choosing any car, but the primary of which (unless you’re seriously rich and can have a car in each cateogory) tends to be that it does everything you need with little in the way of compromise. The family car can be a particularly difficult model to choose. The market is huge – everything from superminis all the way up to huge SUVs and everything in between – and so making sure you come to the right decision is crucial. Here are some pointers that may just help you if you’re looking at a particular family car:
- Does it have sufficient number of doors for you?
- Do the doors open wide enough for ease of access?
- Is the boot big enough for everyday essentials and more for weekends away?
- Are ISOFIX points available in the seat(s) of your choice?
- Is towing an issue and is so can is pull enough weight?
- Is there enough space in the back for the likely seat layout (e.g. adults and children?)?
- Is four or five seats enough or are seven required?
- Does it have central locking making getting in with a small child easier?
- Is there enough light in the back to satisfy the children?
- Is the boot easy opening and closing?
- Are the Euro NCAP safety results as good as you would like?
- Is the interior fuss and mess proof?
If you have considered all these points and the car you’re thinking of making the leap to fits the bill, then it’s more than likely the right choice for you. Just don’t forget to carry out the all important test drive. You could always take along the kids, the buggy and the other half to make sure everything fits as it should! Look out for our sister article in a few days covering which family cars of the moment we recommend.
Leave a Reply