How to Choose the Best Car for Your Family

Last updated on January 7th, 2023 at 03:31 am

Wondering how to choose the best car for your family? It’s not an easy task, but we have a few pointers to guide you in the decision-making process. Keep reading to learn more.

Choosing the right family car can be confusing, and no wonder—it’s a big purchase, and there’s so much to consider. From safety features, to gas mileage, to comfort, cargo room, and more, there’s a lot to think about. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of vehicle options to accommodate every kind of family.

As you think about how to choose the best car for your family, here are some things to keep in mind. 

Your family size:

A family with just one child versus a family of five or six will have different needs when it comes to space. And, if you have pets who travel with you, keep that in mind too.

Do you frequently drive a carpool or play chauffeur to your children and their friends? Do you need cargo space for sports equipment or work-related gear? These are also things to take under consideration.

Your budget:

When car shopping, it’s important to consider the upfront cost of the vehicle. This includes things like the price of the car itself, taxes, and any fees associated with the purchase. Be sure to budget for insurance and maintenance costs too. 

Insurance Costs

The cost of insuring a vehicle can vary significantly depending on the make, model, and age of the car, as well as factors like your location and driving history.

Before committing to a vehicle, it’s a good idea to get quotes from multiple insurance companies to get an idea of the cost of coverage.

Maintenance Costs

Owning a car always involves ongoing maintenance costs, like oil changes, tire rotations, and regular check-ups.

Some vehicles may have higher maintenance costs than others, so do a little research to get an idea of what to expect for the make and model you having in mind.

Reliability:

Reliability is paramount when it comes to choosing the best car for your family. Luckily, there are lots of options when it comes to well-built, reliable vehicles. 

To check the reviews and safety ratings for any car you’re considering, consult a trustworthy source, like KBB, Edmunds, J.D. Power, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Fuel efficiency:

It’s always smart to think about fuel efficiency. Anyone who’s driven for more than a few years knows that gas prices fluctuate. So, even if you’re not too concerned about the cost of gas right now, you never know what the future holds.

And, remember, fuel efficiency matters even more if you have a long commute to school or work or take long road trips frequently. In these instances, filling the tank more often means a bigger bite out of your budget unless you drive a fuel-efficient vehicle.

There are a variety of resources available, including the Environmental Protection Agency’s fuel economy website, that can help you compare the fuel efficiency of different vehicles.

How you’ll use your car:

Do you need a car for running back and forth to school and activities? Will you use your new car for long road trips and family vacations? Will you typically have several passengers, or will you be driving alone? Your answer may determine the amount of space and the features you need.

You might not want to pay extra for all the latest bells and whistles (like the latest tech or a great sound system) if you mostly just use your car to run errands. However, if you’ll be spending lots of time on the road, you may want to reconsider.

Safety:

As you think about how to choose the best car for your family, its safety rating should be a factor. When it comes to determining the safety of a vehicle, you can’t simply rely on its appearance or reputation. There are several important factors to take into account when looking for a safe car, truck, or SUV.

Crashworthiness

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) both provide crash-test ratings to help consumers make informed decisions.

The NHTSA uses a 5-star system, while the IIHS has stricter standards and offers a “Top Safety Pick” rating. It’s important to consult both sets of ratings before making a purchase, as a vehicle may perform well on one set of evaluations but poorly on the other.

Vehicle Weight

In a collision, a heavier vehicle is typically better at protecting its occupants. When comparing vehicles, it’s important to consider their size and weight.

The IIHS conducted a series of crash tests that demonstrated how the laws of physics impact vehicle safety. They crashed small cars with top crash-test ratings into midsize cars from the same manufacturer and found that the larger cars provided better protection for their occupants in every test.

Vehicle Age

Newer vehicles typically have more advanced safety features and better-engineered vehicle architecture, making them generally safer than older models. These features can help you avoid an accident in the first place, and newer vehicles also tend to have higher crash-test ratings.

Safety Equipment

When shopping for a vehicle, consider the safety equipment it comes with. Features like airbags, stability control, and lane departure warning can all improve the safety of a vehicle.

The IIHS also rates vehicles for their accessibility to Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) and headlight effectiveness.

Maintenance and Driving Habits

Even after you’ve purchased a safe vehicle, it’s important to maintain it properly and practice safe driving habits to ensure its continued safety on the road. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and avoid distractions while driving.

Making a final decision:

Test drive the vehicles you’re considering, and read online reviews. You might also want to talk to friends, family, and neighbors about their experiences with various makes and models of cars.

Whether you’re looking to buy your first family sedan, upgrade your second-hand SUV, or replace your existing minivan, these tips can help you find best car for your family!

Also read:
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