When you’ve only got one or two kids, the world is your oyster when purchasing a new car. However, if you’re planning on expanding, modifying your mode of transport from a stylish two door coupe to a vehicle that fits everything but the kitchen sink is a necessity. As you begin your journey to search for the perfect family car, remember that there’s more to it than just the number of passengers it holds. Here are some tips to consider when finding your dream family ride.
Work within Your Budget
I know, I know, no one likes to hear that icky word, but your budget is a key component when purchasing a set of wheels. The big question here is what can I afford? Take a look at your current finances and determine what you can comfortably afford. Are you going to paying for the car outright and require savings? Or will you simply put a deposit down and make monthly payments? If so, can you afford those monthly payments? By calculating the exact number, it will help you decide whether you can invest in a new car, lease one or buy second hand. If you get lost in a flurry of numbers and bills, it may be beneficial to take to a financial planner or your bank lender. Keep in mind, if you are paying off a car loan, you need to factor in the insurance costs and the variations on your interest rates.
Make Safety Your Number One Priority
Throughout out life, we naturally try to protect our children from harm, that’s why it’s important to reduce the risk when toting precious cargo in our cars. While all new cars are pretty well-equipped with new fandangle safety features, there are a few that you need to keep in mind if you are purchasing a second hand vehicle. This includes, front, knee and side-curtain airbags, strong crash-test ratings, both of which is an absolute must. More desirable features contain stability and traction control, antilock brakes, a strong frame (none of this thin steel commonly used on Hyndai i20’s, one fender bender and you’ll be sending that car straight to the tip,) reverse parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, child locks and sturdy three point seat belts.
Features to Consider
Have you ever tried to squeeze a pram into a hatchback? Yeah? Me too, it’s not fun. Even if you manage to get it into the boot, there’s not much room left for your groceries, kids sporting gear and all the other 50 million bags every parent carts around with them. A large boot like a Land Rover compact SUV is great, but remember you can never have too many spots to put extra things. Whether its side pockets to store extra nappies/wipes, books and games or multiple compartments that provide easy access. One final feature that is easily forgotten about is how many baby chairs you can fit in the car. Can it comfortably fit three? Is there room for a normal sized person once the chair is in position? Don’t be afraid to test this out when you are taking it for a test drive.
Just because you are expanding your brood doesn’t mean you have to settle for a mom-mobile that lacks all the high end technological features. With a little bit of research and some careful planning, you’ll be on the road in a car that’s right for you and your family in no time.
