Buying a car is one of those big decisions that require careful thought, especially for moms who balance many priorities to keep the family running smoothly. If you’re in the market for a new family car, this Mom’s car guide is designed to help you think through some of the most important details that will make your car-buying decision a lot easier.
1. Determine What Your Needs Are
Start by considering the size and unique needs of your family. How many people do you need to accommodate daily? If you have multiple kids in car seats, that changes the setup you’ll need. The ages of your children can also affect your choice. Little ones require easy access to car seats and a setup with doors that are easy to open and close. For older kids, you’ll want legroom and storage for sports gear, musical instruments, or the extra cargo that seems to multiply as they grow!
Consider your lifestyle, too. Do you spend a lot of time on the road with your family? Do you travel with pets? All these factors can help you determine what type of car will best suit your family’s needs.
2. Define Your Non-Negotiables
Make a list of your “must-have” features and consider them carefully, as these will be the most important factors in your decision. Some features moms tend to find helpful include:
- Safety: Look for advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and rearview cameras. These features can be especially helpful when navigating with a car full of passengers.
- Space: If you have a larger family or often carpool, a third-row option can be a lifesaver. Consider whether it’s easy to access and if the third-row folds down for extra storage. A third-row when not in use can be used for sports equipment, baggage when traveling, and extra bags from a big shopping trip.
- Storage: If you’re constantly running errands or going to kids’ activities, trunk space will be essential. Some models offer under-seat storage, hidden compartments, and flexible cargo space that makes it easy to bring everything along.
- Comfort Features: Does your family enjoy road trips? Then comfortable seating, quality climate control, and entertainment options might be non-negotiable. Consider built-in Wi-Fi, DVD players, and USB ports. Heated seats are especially nice if you live in or travel to cold weather climates.
- Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance: For families on a budget, a car with good gas mileage and low maintenance costs can be essential. Look into warranties, EV’s, hybrid options, and cars known for durability.
3. Test Drive Your Top Three Picks
Once you’ve narrowed your options, schedule test drives for your top three choices. This step is essential because it allows you to see how the car handles on the road and how well it fits your family’s needs in real time. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Ease of Loading: Try getting in and out of the car with any gear or car seats you typically use. Are the doors easy to open and close? Are the seats comfortable and easy to access? You may consider bringing your kids along to see how well they can get in/out of the vehicle.
- Tech and Safety Features: Test the safety features and see if they meet your expectations. If the car has navigation or infotainment features, make sure they’re intuitive. Cars have lots of tech features, so ask your salesperson to explain all the tech features available in the cars you are interested in.
- Driving Experience: Check if the car has the power and handling that you feel comfortable with, especially if you drive in different environments, from highways to suburban streets. Nothing is more important than feeling safe in your car, especially when your kiddos are making lots of noise in the backseat.
- Noise and Comfort: If you have a sleeping baby or loud toddlers, you’ll want to see how much noise the car allows inside and how smooth the ride is. Look for a car that keeps everyone comfortable and minimizes road noise.
4. SUV or Minivan? The Great Debate!
This is a common decision point for families. Both have their pros and cons, so let’s break it down:
- SUVs: SUVs are popular with families who want style, versatility, and often, four-wheel drive for rugged terrains or snowy winters. They tend to handle more like cars and have higher ground clearance, which is helpful in various weather conditions. Most SUVs today offer third-row seating, though space in the back row can vary.
- Minivans: Minivans are designed with families in mind and some claim them to be the ultimate “mom car”. They often have sliding doors (perfect for parking in tight spaces), ample cargo space, and roomier third-row seating compared to many SUVs. Most minivans include advanced safety and entertainment features, making them excellent for family road trips and busy carpool schedules.
Ultimately, your choice between an SUV and a minivan will depend on what best aligns with your family’s lifestyle. Each has its advantages, but the best vehicle is the one that makes your life easier, safer, and more comfortable.
The Choice is Yours!
Choosing the right family car can feel overwhelming, but taking the time to prioritize your needs, features, and budget will make the process smoother. Whether you end up with an SUV or minivan, remember that a great family car supports your family’s adventures and keeps everyone comfortable and safe along the way. Good luck mommas!
