Selecting the perfect vehicle for your family can be a daunting task. As one of the biggest investments you make, you want to make sure you’re picking a vehicle that gives everyone enough room, has features to keep everyone happy and, most importantly, doesn’t leave you stranded. However, there are so many options to consider! If you’re feeling overwhelmed, here are some fabulous family cars that will have your whole family smiling.
Chrysler 300
With a standard 2.7L V6 or 3.6L V-6 loaded with power and the option to upgrade to a roaring 5.7L Hemi V-8, the Chrysler 300 has all the power you’ll need, plenty of space for the family. The 300 offers an astounding array of standard features and options, giving you the feel of a true luxury vehicle. Available all-wheel drive with an active transfer case automatically disconnects AWD for a mile per gallon increase in fuel economy on the highway, automatically reconnecting if there is a certain amount of windshield wiper passes, low temperatures or loss of traction. The 8-speed transmission provides exceptional fuel economy for a larger engine and the luxury ride smoothes every bump, keeping your little ones asleep in the back seat instead of asking, “Are we there yet?”
Read a review from RepairPal.com for this vehicle.
Ford Fusion
Does your family love to road trip? The Ford Fusion is an exceptional choice with lots of power points to keep everyone entertained (including three 12-volt accessory sockets standard and has a 110-volt power point as an option). A number of options to keep you connected and safe whether running errands across town or going over the river and through the woods to grandma’s. The exceptional fuel economy of the hybrid version gets you everywhere you need to go comfortably and in style. The Fusion is offered in both 4- and 6-cylinder engines. With standard traction control and optional stability control, this midsize sedan takes on bad weather and keeps you moving, while satellite radio and Sync connectivity keeps you entertained and in touch.
Read a review from theCarConnection.com for this vehicle.
Toyota Camry
If you’re looking to make a long-term investment in a reliable car, don’t look any farther than the highest-selling family car in the U.S., the Toyota Camry. With 2.5L I-4 and 3.5L V-6 engines available, this sedan will give you between 30-35 mpg highway for exceptional fuel economy while giving you great acceleration at the same time. A higher seat makes it easy to see what’s happening in traffic while the hybrid model from the company who started the concept gives you even more exceptional fuel economy. An improved roomy passenger compartment gives everyone plenty of room, key to stopping those, “He’s on my seat!” arguments.
Read a review from CarAndDriver.com for this vehicle.
Honda Accord
A classic sedan, the Honda Accord has a long history of reliability and higher than average reliability and safety ratings. Coming standard with an I-4 engines, the Accord gives you good power, but if you’re looking for performance and a fun drive, the V-6 option takes you up to speed faster while the sporty suspension gives you an awesome ride. With the highest passenger space in its class, this mid-size sedan provides ample room for longer trips as well as optional iPod and USB interfaces, driver memory functions, shift paddles and a rearview camera. An optional navigation system can be accessed using voice controls.
Read a review from RankingsAndReviews.com for this vehicle.
Subaru Outback
(Pictured above) If you like to go farther afield than most family cars will take you, the Outback may be the vehicle for you. Providing cargo capacity and off-road performance, the Outback gives you the handling, manoeuvrability and fuel economy of a family car. The 2.5L four-cylinder engine provides an average of 29 MPG highway, which is exceptional for a vehicle with this much storage space. The higher clearance is more forgiving of potholes and curbs, and also results in a higher vehicle, giving you excellent visibility. High safety scores and ample cargo room makes this perfect for a family on the go.
Read a review from Edmunds.com for this vehicle.
Now that you’ve had a chance to look over some of the available options, why not go test drive a few of these vehicles? Take the family with you and see what everyone thinks of the different vehicles. After all, what one person considers the perfect car may be very different from what works well for your family.
About the Author: Rachel works at RepairPal, an auto repair shop in the US, and she loves to write automotive articles. In her spare time, she enjoys checking out new vehicles and test driving.
Earnest Parenting: help for parents considering suitable vehicles.
My aim i am buy a new car for my family.
Running your vehicle’s air conditioning is no worse for your gas mileage than driving with your windows down. As your vehicle speeds up, air flow creates a drag against the vehicle, making the engine work harder and hurting gas mileage. In fact, air conditioning can be a more efficient option at higher speeds.