Becoming a parent changes absolutely every aspect of your life, from your daily routine and work life to your relationship with your other-half – and these are always the things that tend to spring to mind during any discussion of new parenthood.
However, there are so many other elements to consider when it comes to adapting your life after welcoming a little one – and investing in a new car is one of the most important ones. After all, these days you’re more inclined to wonder about whether or not the boot will have enough room for your buggy, than if matte or gloss is the best paint option!
With so much to consider when investing in a new family car, it’s always helpful to have some pointers – and here, we are providing seven essential factors to keep on reference.
1. Safety
The safety of your family is paramount, and so you want a reliable car with top-of-the-range safety features, to provide optimum security and peace of mind for the entire family.
The very first thing you need to do is research testing statistics, in order to find the safest model within your price range. Consult the crash test and rollover statistics, and check that the model includes side-impact protection, airbags, adequate safety belts, and ABS which helps to prevent your brakes from locking.
These basics aside, extra safety feature will give parents peace of mind. For example, the Skoda Kodiaq features an electric child safety locking system, giving every parent total peace of mind from their position in the front seat. In addition, the Kodiaq includes mount preparation for two child car seats with EU-regulation Isofix safety fittings.
2. Budget
OK, so this is pretty much a given, but you’re going to need to shop around and really consider your options when it comes to price. Remember that you need a car that will tick all of the boxes when it comes to necessities, and it must also fall in line with your broader financial plan, which includes insurance as well as mileage and repair costs. Always be aware of those ‘hidden costs’ that will affect your price plan.
3. Comfort
This is an absolute essential, especially if you have young children and/or will be doing long journeys with the family. Opt for a vehicle with a spacious backseat area and comfortable seats, to make the journey that little bit easier for the entire family. A large boot will also ensure that luggage and shopping don't need to spill out onto the back seats and cramp the kiddies' space.
4. Car seat compatibility
If you’re travelling with an infant or a small child, the chances are that you spent quite a lot of time selecting the right car seat for your little one. It follows, then, that you need to find a car that is compatible with your car seat. Check that there is enough room in the back for the seat, and that it has the EU-recommended Isofix car seat fittings.
5. Space
There’s nothing worse than pulling out of the driveway to the grumbles of your children in the backseat, as they poke and prod each other, and complain about the distinct lack of room they have – especially if you’re facing into a long journey! This is why it’s imperative that you invest in a car with enough room for your family and their needs.
The Skoda Kodiaq can seat up to seven people, and features an optional third row of seating, to accommodate the entire family. Storage isn’t a concern, either, due to the Simply Clever features of this SUV. Not only does the vehicle have a double-floor feature in the back that provides extra storage space, it also has a Jumbo Box for your travel essentials as well as special compartments for those knick-knacks that always seem to get lost: sunglasses, water bottles and your umbrella.
6. Child-friendliness
Extra features of convenience can make all the difference with your family car, especially for the little ones travelling in the back seat. This is why it’s important to ensure that your car is ‘child-friendly’. An online entertainment system will become your best friend during those long journeys, along with extra features like multimedia holders (perfect for keeping the kids' tablets in place), extra storage pockets, and fold-down tables.
7. Usage
Before signing off on that cheque, you need to consider the conditions you're going to be driving in. If you’re the type of family to take to the mountain trails of a weekend, then you’ll need a car that can take on tough conditions. In this case, off-road capability could be just as important as seat capacity.
