When the family grows, it is necessary to adopt a new car corresponding to your lifestyle. However, you might be confused by the many models available on the market. So to be sure to choose your used family car, do not hesitate to define your needs. We take stock in this article!
The criteria to take into account to find the best used family car
It is true that the choice of a used family vehicle is not always easy given the variety of models on the car market. But to guide your search, focus on important criteria, this will allow you to have the car that perfectly meets the needs of your family.
Pay attention to the number of places
First and foremost, a family car is defined by the number of seats. Indeed, if you are moving towards this type of vehicle, it is certainly because you need additional space compared to your current car. A used 7-seater car will be perfect if you have at least four children or if you already have three children and feel that you are running out of space when you go on vacation.
In general, a family car has at least five seats. If you are a large family, this is a criterion on which you cannot ignore.
And the dimensions of the vehicle
Before buying a used family car, take a closer look at its dimensions. Indeed, some vehicles are more imposing than others with a wheelbase that should not be overlooked. As a result, you have a spacious interior and more space when you go with your whole family.
The other side of the coin would be that you are less comfortable, especially in the various maneuvers to park or to circulate in an urban environment.
The dimension also takes into account the volume of your trunk. Having a large family implies a larger volume, essential for your departures on vacation or for your outings of all kinds. It will be necessary to consider a trunk of at least 400 liters, but be aware that the best rated vehicles can easily reach 800 l!
Don’t neglect ride comfort
When it comes to transporting the family, it shouldn’t come at the expense of ride comfort. A handy model is preferable, even if in general the car is heavier than a simple city car. Before purchasing it, do not hesitate to take a test drive to make sure you are comfortable behind the wheel.
Also check the available equipment, because some additional accessories will be particularly valuable. Finally, the motorization should not be neglected either. Make sure you have a sufficiently powerful engine block, especially when you have a car of a certain size and you plan to cover many kilometres.
The essential options on a used family car
In a family car, the presence of leather seats will probably not be your priority. Indeed, you should instead focus on specific options such as the modularity of the seats. Some are foldable, exchangeable or sliding and can even form a flat floor. Enough to have even more loading space!
Vigilance also on the integrated storage solutions, to avoid ending up with countless objects on the back seat. Finally, the side sliding doors are also appreciable if you have a large family, this will allow your children to get in and out of the vehicle easily.
Now that you know the features that should grab your attention, which family car should you choose?
What are the most popular family models?
SUVs
Undoubtedly, SUVs are on the rise. It is a vehicle that perfectly combines driving comfort with spaciousness. Moreover, it is an aesthetic vehicle, capable of carrying the latest high-tech equipment. Likewise, you will have enough space for the whole family, without losing comfort.
But this is not the only advantage of this type of vehicle. You will adopt an elevated driving position, undeniably giving you a feeling of safety on the road. On the market, you will find many SUVs on the market, but among the most popular used family cars, you will find the Peugeot 3008, the Toyota CH-R or the Citroën C5 Aircross, available in 5 seats.
If, on the other hand, you want to favor a 7-seater family car, choose between the Peugeot 5008, the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace or the Mercedes GLB, for a more premium model.
MPVs
This type of vehicle offers a comfortable and spacious interior, while having a reasonable size at your disposal. The majority of MPVs are available with 5 seats, but it is also possible to find them in a 7-seater configuration.
The MPV is a very practical vehicle to drive, and you will have no trouble parking. However, the rear axle often remains firm and aesthetics is not the most worked element either, unlike SUVs, for example. Regarding the popular models, choose between the Citroën Berlingo, the Peugeot Rifter or the Volkswagen Caddy.
Minivans
For a long time, the minivan was the range of vehicles favored by families. With its raised ceiling height, you can transport bulky loads without any problem. In addition, these vehicles are able to offer a third row of seats allowing then to have 7 places.
Even if they are no longer as popular as SUVs, some models are still very attractive like the Volkswagen Touran or the Renault Scénic.
sedans
In another era, this range was the queen of 5-door family cars. However, its hood is now considered too imposing and the installation of a baby seat is not always the most convenient. Yet the range ensures an excellent level of comfort and you will have no trouble executing long journeys in comfort. So if you are looking for a family sedan model, stop at the Mercedes C-Class or the Skoda Octavia.
station wagons
The station wagon takes up the characteristics of the sedan, but with a greatly increased trunk volume and roominess. This is an alternative and again you choose in relation to your tastes and your budget. But in this regard, it is difficult to do better than the Peugeot 508 SW or the Ford Mondeo SW!
Conclusion
As you can see, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing a used family car. Do not hesitate to base yourself on your needs and your aesthetic preferences.