Finding the right family car is all about choosing the right features, with safety being the most important aspect. If you’re in the market for the next vehicle, consider the following seven features.
Storage Space
A family car should have enough space for everyone. From your grandparents to your children – you should be able to provide adequate seating space to anyone who wants to travel with you. As a rule, the ideal family car should provide seating space for eight people.
Make sure to also check at the boot space to help you carry more cargo for those longer family trips. Try to fit equipment bags into the car to see if it works well for your storage needs.
Rear Window Shades
Direct sun on your little ones’ can be damaging and could increase their risk of cancer later on in life. And it can be tough to nap in the car with the sun constantly shining on your face. This is why most family friendly cars have built-in window shades in the rear windows. They can be raised and lowered with the touch of a button, so you’re not stuck with shades if you don’t want to use them.
Power Doors
A family car should have at least four doors durable enough to protect kids. This is where a power door comes in. It can slide on its own and won’t close if an object is in the way. This makes the car much safer for your family. Some family cars also have rear doors and trunks that can be operated remotely.
Built-in Technology
Those long trips can feel boring and today’s children need technological gadgets to stay entertained. Features, such as Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth, touchscreen displays, and DVD players, are a definite bonus. Before purchasing the new car, make sure it contains the essential tech.
Safety
Car safety should be at the top of your list. According to our Kia Cerato review, the car has received exemplary safety ratings, including a 5 star ANCAP safety rating – which makes it a great choice as a family car.
The most common safety features include:
- Slip prevention system
- Airbags
- Blind spot warning
- ABS
- Electronic stability control
- Collision avoidance system
The goal is to keep your children as safe as possible at all times in the car and minimise the impact of a possible accident. You’ll be less likely to have sustained an injury due to an abrupt stop, for example.
Reliability
Cars that break down frequently are not the best option for families. The constant repair will require money and will disrupt your plans for the day. Family cars are supposed to be more reliable and give you value for money. Newer cars will be more reliable since they have had fewer previous owners and less wear and tear.
Built-in GPS
Don’t have a clue where you’re going? A GPS (global positioning system) is a must-have feature that can help you navigate your way around the road. This way, even if you’re stranded or in an unfamiliar area, getting back on track will be easy. Most family cars come with built-in GPS so you don’t have to fork out the extra cash on a costly add on.
If you think these features are useful in a family car, you might consider the Kia Cerato.