5 tips for choosing a car for a large family
Choosing the right car for a family with many offspring can be quite a challenge. Now, there are many factors to consider, from adequate seating and luggage space to safety and fuel efficiency. To help you make this important decision, we’ve listed some tips that specifically address the needs of larger families.
1. Choose a car with 7 seats
One of the most important things to look out for is the number of seats. Most cars have five seats, but for a large family it is obviously more convenient if the car has seven seats. In fact, these cars offer the space you need to get everyone from A to B in comfort. These extra seats can also often fold down to create more luggage space when needed. This makes a 7-seater a versatile choice for families that need to carry both many passengers and luggage.
2. Pay attention to luggage space
The latter also brings us immediately to the second tip, because in addition to adequate seating, adequate luggage space is also a crucial factor. The more people you transport, the more stuff you need to transport. School bags, sports equipment, strollers and groceries: the car soon becomes jam-packed. A car with a spacious trunk makes life a lot easier. Some models also offer smart storage solutions, such as hidden compartments and flexible cargo areas, which can help make the best use of available space.
3. Choose a safe car
Safety is always a top priority, especially when transporting children. Modern cars are equipped with a wide range of advanced safety systems that can give you peace of mind. Think automatic emergency braking, blind spot detection and lane-keeping assist. These systems can help prevent accidents and ensure the safety of you and your family. In turn, having Isofix anchorage points is very important if you are taking young children with you. This is invariably the case with modern cars, but older used cars do not always have it. Be sure to look at the vehicle’s crash test results to make sure it is a safe choice.
4. Check fuel efficiency
Generally, a larger car is more expensive and consumes more, but this is not necessarily the case. They are also increasingly available in fuel-efficient electric versions. An example of this is the electric Volkswagen ID. buzz which comes with 5 or 7 seats, depending on the wheelbase. Either way, a fuel-efficient (electric) car can save significantly on fuel costs, which can be a big difference in the wallet in the long run.
5. Focus on driver and passenger comfort
For a large family, it is important that everyone can sit comfortably, especially on longer trips. When choosing a car, check that the back seat offers adequate legroom and seating comfort. Some cars offer reclining rear seats, which can provide additional flexibility and comfort. Also note additional features, such as rear-seat climate control and USB ports. These are things that can make travel more enjoyable for passengers. Passenger comfort is best judged by sitting in the back of the car yourself. In turn, you judge ride comfort during a test drive. The latter is a must when buying any car.