Searching for a Vehicle to Suit Your Family’s Needs

When an individual is shopping for a vehicle for themselves, they only need to think about their needs, but when it is for the entire family, there is a whole lot more to think about. Today the auto market caters specifically to vehicles design with the family in mind; there are more convenience, entertainment, and organizational features available than you could ever imagine.  There are also many variables that come in to play when trying to decide which vehicle will be just right.  Some important ones are how the vehicle will be used, amount of cargo needed, how needs will change over the years, safety features, reliability, and economy.  The size and makeup of the family and the types of activities in which they participate in will be an obvious influence.  A family with just one or two children could get by with a small, economical sedan, while many with larger groups or more space needed opt for a mini-van or SUV.

Factors to Consider

Drivetrain

If you live in an area with a lot of ice, or snow, four wheel drive may be a preferable element to have.  Front-wheel drive with traction control is another option, as is all-wheel drive.

Cargo

Knowing how much cargo space you need is an important question. For some families, the trunk of a sedan is adequate. A vehicle with more cargo space may be a better choice for larger families or those involved in sports, outdoor activities, or traveling.  There is a very wide range of cargo space in vehicles, so there are many options.

Fuel Economy

For some good fuel economy is a high priority, for others it is towards the bottom of the list.   Small, lightweight sedans usually get the best economy, while large, heavy SUVs get the worst. A wagon may be a good option for additional cargo space, yet good mileage. If you need a seven-passenger vehicle, minivans also typically get better mileage than seven-passenger SUVs.

Types of Vehicles

SUVs

Sport-utility vehicles are popular for families because many have big, roomy interiors and four- or all-wheel-drive systems to better handle bad weather and unpaved roads. Many SUVs today have a third row seat, which means room for seven passengers.  The downsides are that SUVs have a higher center of gravity, which makes them more top-heavy and more susceptible to rolling over than lower vehicles. And of course, their poor fuel economy.  If an SUV is a must, but mileage is important, there is a growing number of SUV hybrids available, such as the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

Minivans

Minivans are the top choice for many families because they have easy access for passengers through big sliding doors, cargo areas that are easy to reach, and a low step in height for smaller passengers.  All minivans seat seven passengers.  It includes a third-row seat that can be removed or folded down when not needed for passengers, thus creating more cargo space.  And, just about every new minivan includes an extensive list of convenience and organizational features

Cars

Most cars are equipped to accommodate five people, yet the center rear position is often uncomfortable for an older child or adult.  Some wagons have a third seat the faces rearward and is small and suitable only for children.  Cars usually get much better miles to the gallon, and have low rollover rates.  But their cargo area can be small, and do not always accommodate a growing family.