8 Factors to Consider When Buying a Family Car

Choosing the right family car involves considering everyone's needs. It's a big decision because you have to think about safety, comfort, practicality, and how much you can spend. There are plenty of options out there, so it might feel overwhelming to find the perfect one. 

Here are some tips to help you find the best car for your family.

 

8 Factors to consider while buying a family car:

 

1. Safety    

First and foremost, let's talk about safety, which is the most critical aspect when choosing a family car. Start by checking the vehicle's crash test ratings. Besides these ratings, pay attention to the safety features the car offers. Extras like electronic stability control, and forward collision avoidance can be incredibly beneficial, especially in harsh Canadian winters. 

Additionally, features designed for children, such as child safety locks and anchors for car seats, are essential. Look out for advanced airbag systems, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warnings as must-have safety features.

 

Read: Top Safety Features to Look For in a Car

 

2. Space

Families often switch cars as they grow because more family members mean more stuff to carry. Parents have to lug around essentials for babies and toddlers, while older kids need space for sports gear or instruments. 

Different families have different needs - some need extra seats, while others just need a big trunk. Many new cars have seats that can fold down to make room for cargo, but it's important to test how easy they are to use. 

 

3. Size

Determine what size vehicle suits your needs. SUVs are a popular choice for families because they're versatile and offer higher ground clearance, meaning you sit higher off the road compared to regular cars. SUVs come in various sizes, from small ones with four seats to large ones that can fit eight passengers.

Consider the future needs of your family. Will the vehicle accommodate your growing children as they transition to different car seats and booster seats? Will it still be suitable when they become big teenagers?

 

Read: Sedans Vs. SUVs - Which is Right for You?

 

4. Fuel efficiency

When choosing a family car, it's important to think about fuel efficiency, especially if your family travels a lot. Cars that use less fuel can save you money in the long term and are better for the environment. Hybrid or electric cars are good options to think about because they produce fewer emissions and you might get tax incentives for choosing them.

 

5. Entertainment 

Entertainment options can make car rides more enjoyable for everyone, especially during long journeys. Look for vehicles with modern infotainment systems, rear-seat entertainment screens, Wi-Fi capability, and multiple USB charging ports. Features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and built-in navigation systems also enhance connectivity and entertainment choices.

 

6. Keyless entry

Keyless entry and power doors might not seem like a big deal, especially if you don't have kids yet. But once you bring your first child home, you'll quickly realize how helpful they are. When you're carrying a car seat and diaper bag, or later on, toys, backpacks, and sports equipment, you'll appreciate not having to fumble for your keys every time you need to load up the car. Keyless entry is becoming more common in new cars, but it's still worth checking for. Power doors can also be a lifesaver. Being able to close your backseat doors with the push of a button can make a big difference on busy days.

 

7. Budget

Set a budget that makes sense for you, taking into account both the initial cost and ongoing expenses like insurance, maintenance, and fuel. Look into different leasing and car loan options available, and be aware of the total cost of ownership over time. Sometimes, it might be worth spending a bit more upfront if it means saving money in the long term because of better fuel efficiency and reliability.

 

8. Resale value

Consider the resale value and how long the car is likely to last. Some brands and models hold their value better and tend to last longer. Do some research on the car's history to check for reliability. A durable car means fewer problems and expenses in the future.

 

Read: 10 Factors That Influence Your Car’s Resale Value

 

By taking all the above factors into account and conducting thorough research, you can find the perfect family car that provides comfort, convenience, and peace of mind for your journeys ahead.