All posts tagged family car

Dreams in Driveways: How to Find the Perfect Family Car

by Carsurfer Admin on 2016/11/05 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off on Dreams in Driveways: How to Find the Perfect Family Car

One of the most important steps when having a family is choosing the right car to use to ensure that everyone fits comfortably while spending time on the road. From minivans to SUVs, there are several cars to consider to have a reliable form of transportation for several years to come. To make the process easier and more efficient, there are a few important tips to follow to find the perfect family car that suits everyone’s needs.

Bring the Family Along

Although it may be a challenge to go car shopping with your entire family, you can find the right vehicle to use by determining how much each person enjoys riding in the car. Test drive different vehicles and record how quickly everyone can get in and out of the car. You’ll get to ask the kids how comfortable the back seats are and if they have enough legroom. You will also want to consider today’s technology in the car as well. Will it be enough to keep the kids entertained on a long road trip? Will the car be comfortable enough for a long road trip, and will it be able to hold all of your luggage as well. You will never be able to answer some of the questions by yourself. So it is very important that you bring the family along to get their input to make sure you purchase the right vehicle for the whole family.

Shop Online

Look online at dealers like Rebel Ford to find used models that are reliable and are gently used. This will allow you to search through a larger inventory for more options that you can choose from. You’ll get the chance to shop for the perfect vehicle in the comfort of your home before test driving the car, making it easier to car shop.

Consider the Different Features

There are several features that you’ll need to have in your car to accommodate each member of the family, which may include plenty of cup holders or an automated door that slides open on vans. Discuss features that are musts with your new car, which can make it easier to travel together and move up from the current vehicle that you own.

Evaluate the Ratings

Read critics’ ratings on the different makes and models that you’re considering purchasing to weigh the pros and cons of each vehicle. You don’t want to invest your money in a car that where everyone is seemingly having problems with it. Your car is something you should be comfortable with. You also want to look at the safety features that are available to ensure that you can protect your family while spending time on the road. Getting a second opinion on the cars that you like will allow you to consider other factors that may not be on your radar.

When it’s time to purchase a new family car, there are several different factors to consider. By taking the time to car shop in person and online, you’ll increase your chances of finding the right fit and purchasing a model that you can enjoy long-term with your children.

Five Things to Consider When Buying Your Family Car

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/03/11 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off on Five Things to Consider When Buying Your Family Car

For most people, purchasing a vehicle is one of their most important financial investments. If you have children, purchasing a family-friendly vehicle should remain a top priority. Due to the fact that not every family is the same, it is very important to choose the best vehicle that suits the needs of your household. Here are five things to consider when buying your family car.

Cost

Family sedans range in cost from $14,000 to upwards of $100,000 or more. Ideally, the expense of owning the vehicle should not exceed 20 percent of your monthly income. Although the price tag on a particular vehicle may be seem affordable, it is very important to factor in all of the other costs associated with car ownership. Some of the additional costs include fuel, insurance, maintenance, and taxes.

Size

Family vehicles vary greatly in size. If you choose to purchase a small family sedan, make sure that your children will not outgrow the rear seating anytime soon. Do not forget to also consider the total cargo capacity. Items such as strollers and sporting equipment can take up a great deal of space. Some sedans actually have more interior room than a SUV.

Extra features

Although creature comforts add to the total cost of a vehicle, they may prove to be very valuable in the long run. The children will certainly benefit from features such as a built-in entertainment system and rear-seat air conditioning. A USB port will come in handy for hooking up various electronic devices. Some of the available safety features include blind-spot monitoring, a rear-view camera, and lane departure warning.

Fuel efficiency

Most big, powerful SUVs usually have a relatively poor fuel economy rating. There are several family vehicles on the market that deliver over 30 miles-per-gallon on the highway. Diesel-powered cars and hybrid vehicles usually get better fuel mileage than a traditional gas engine.

Safety rating

While some vehicles are very safe, there are others that have distinct weak points. Before selecting a new ride, always check the safety data that is collected by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Purchasing vehicles that have been nominated as a “Top Safety Pick” will give you an extra sense of security.

Although a racy sports car may sound exciting, it will never make the best family vehicle. If you use sound judgment, you will be able to find the perfect ride for your household to enjoy.

Information credit to Diamond Honda of Puente Hills, a Los Angeles used car dealerships

Image source: By imagerymajestic, at www.freedigitalphotos.net