Choosing a new family car is a major decision, often involving hours of research into safety ratings and specifications.
Yet for many parents, the frustration comes not from the big features, but the small, daily realities that a brochure can never capture.
In fact, experts at Vertu have spotted that searches for ‘family car reviews’ and ‘family car specifications’ have increased by 29% and 24% in the last year.
However, a car that is technically perfect can still be impractical if it creates daily struggles, such as difficulty installing a child seat or fitting essential items like a pushchair in the boot.
So, to help, the experts at Vertu have shared six essential checks every parent should make before buying their next family car.
1. Look beyond today’s needs
It’s natural to focus on your current family size, but this can lead to choosing a car that you’ll outgrow quickly. A vehicle that perfectly fits two small children today may not accommodate the legroom for teenagers or the extra space needed for a third child in the future.
Before you start looking, project forwards. Consider not just your children’s current ages, but their needs in three to five years. Think about boot space for double buggies, holiday luggage, or even the family dog to ensure your new car is a long-term investment, not a short-term fix.
2. Do the pushchair and luggage test
A boot that looks big on paper can be an awkward shape, making it a struggle to fit a pushchair alongside shopping or luggage.
The only way to be sure is to bring your own pushchair to the viewing. Test how easily it fits, how much usable space is left, and whether the boot lip is low enough to make lifting heavy items in and out manageable.
3. Don’t just find the ISOFIX, fit the seat
Knowing a car has ISOFIX points is one thing, but being able to use them easily is another. In some car designs, the anchor points are buried deep within the seat cushions, turning the simple task of installing a child seat into a frustrating and unsafe battle.
When you inspect the car, bring your own child seat to physically install it. The anchor points should be clearly marked and allow the seat to clip in and out without a struggle. This check ensures you can fit the seat correctly and safely every single time.
4. Check the rear door opening angle
A car that looks spacious in the showroom can be surprisingly impractical in a real-world parking space. Rear doors that don’t open wide enough can make it a daily struggle to get a child in and out of their seat without bumping their head or straining your back.
During a test drive, park the car next to another vehicle to simulate a real car park. Check if the rear doors open wide enough (ideally to almost 90 degrees) to give you comfortable access to the back seats.
5. Count the interior storage cubbies
Family life comes with a lot of small items that need a home, from drinks bottles and snacks to wet wipes and toys. A lack of practical interior storage can quickly lead to a cluttered and chaotic cabin.
Sit inside the car and actively count the number of useful storage spots. Are the door bins wide enough for a water bottle? Is there a convenient place to put your phone and keys? Check for seat-back pockets and other cubbies that are essential for keeping the car tidy.
6. Calculate the true family running costs
Focusing solely on the sticker price is a major pitfall, as the ongoing expenses can dramatically affect a household budget. The official MPG figures often don’t reflect the reality of family driving, which involves heavier loads and frequent short journeys.
Before buying, calculate the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Factor in the insurance group, road tax, and typical servicing costs. Crucially, consider how the average fuel consumption will be impacted by the extra weight of children and luggage on school runs and family trips, as this will be a significant, recurring expense.
